Fidelity National Financial Inc

Previous wording

Declines in the level of real estate activity or the average price of real estate sales are likely to adversely affect our title insurance revenues. The Mortgage Bankers Association's ("MBA") Mortgage Finance Forecast as of February 20, 2024, calculates an approximate $1.6 trillion mortgage origination market for 2023, which would be a decrease from 2022 resulting from decreases in both purchase and refinance activity. The MBA predicts overall mortgage originations in 2024 will increase when compared to 2023 as a result of increases in both purchase and refinance activity. Our revenues in future periods will continue to be subject to these and other factors that are beyond our control and, as a result, are likely to fluctuate. See discussion under "Business Trends and Conditions" within Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in Item 7 of Part II of this Annual Report for further discussion of current market trends.

Current wording

Declines in the level of real estate activity or the average price of real estate sales are likely to adversely affect our title insurance revenues. The Mortgage Bankers Association's ("MBA") Mortgage Finance Forecast as of February 19, 2025, reported an approximate $1.8 trillion mortgage origination market for 2024, which would be a modest increase from 2023 resulting from an increase in refinance activity. The MBA predicts overall mortgage originations in 2025 will increase when compared to 2024 as a result of increases in both purchase and refinance activity. Our revenues in future periods will continue to be subject to these and other factors that are beyond our control and, as a result, are likely to fluctuate. See discussion under "Business Trends and Conditions" within Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in Item 7 of Part II of this Annual Report for further discussion of current market trends.

Previous wording

Interest rate risk is a significant market risk for us, as our F&G business involves issuing interest rate sensitive obligations backed primarily by investments in fixed income assets. F&G also maintains a portion of the assets in its investment portfolio in floating rate instruments and has executed variable interest rate credit agreements and floating rate funding agreements, which are subject to an element of market risk from changes in interest rates.

Current wording

Interest rate risk is a significant market risk for us, as our F&G segment involves issuing interest rate sensitive obligations backed primarily by investments in fixed income assets. F&G also maintains a portion of the assets in its investment portfolio in floating rate instruments and has executed variable interest rate credit agreements and floating rate funding agreements, which are subject to an element of market risk from changes in interest rates.

Previous wording

During periods of increasing interest rates, we may offer higher crediting rates on interest-sensitive products, such as universal life insurance and fixed rate annuities, and we may increase crediting rates on in-force products to keep these products competitive. We may be required to accept lower spread income (the difference between the returns we earn on our investments and the amounts we credit to contract holders), thus reducing our profitability, as returns on our portfolio of invested assets may not increase as quickly as current interest rates. Rapidly rising interest rates may also expose us to the risk of financial disintermediation, which is an increase in policy surrenders, withdrawals and requests for policy loans as customers seek to achieve higher returns elsewhere, requiring us to liquidate assets in an unrealized loss position. If we experience unexpected withdrawal activity, we could exhaust our liquid assets and be forced to liquidate other less liquid assets such as limited partnership investments. We may have difficulty selling these investments in a timely manner and/or be forced to sell them for less than we otherwise would have been able to realize, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or operating results. We have developed and maintain asset liability management programs and procedures that are, we believe, designed to mitigate interest rate risk by matching asset cash flows to expected liability cash flows. In addition, we assess surrender charges on withdrawals in excess of allowable penalty-free amounts that occur during the surrender charge period. There can be no assurance that actual withdrawals, contract benefits, and maturities will match our estimates. Despite our efforts to reduce the impact of rising interest rates, we may be required to sell assets to raise the cash necessary to respond to an increase in surrenders, withdrawals and loans, thereby realizing capital losses on the assets sold.

Current wording

During periods of increasing interest rates, we may offer higher crediting rates on interest-sensitive products, such as universal life insurance and fixed rate annuities, and we may increase crediting rates on in-force products to keep these products competitive. We may be required to accept lower spread income (the difference between the returns we earn on our investments and the amounts we credit to contractholders), thus reducing our profitability, as returns on our portfolio of invested assets may not increase as quickly as current interest rates. Rapidly rising interest rates may also expose us to the risk of financial disintermediation, which is an increase in policy surrenders, withdrawals and requests for policy loans as customers seek to achieve higher returns elsewhere, requiring us to liquidate assets in an unrealized loss position. If we experience unexpected withdrawal activity, we could exhaust our liquid assets and be forced to liquidate other less liquid assets such as limited partnership investments. We may have difficulty selling these investments in a timely manner and/or be forced to sell them for less than we otherwise would have been able to realize, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or operating results. We have developed and maintain asset liability management programs and procedures that are, we believe, designed to mitigate interest rate risk by matching asset cash flows to expected liability cash flows. In addition, we assess surrender charges on withdrawals in excess of allowable penalty-free amounts that occur during the surrender charge period. There can be no assurance that actual withdrawals, contract benefits and maturities will match our estimates. Despite our efforts to reduce the impact of rising interest rates, we may be required to sell assets to raise the cash necessary to respond to an increase in surrenders, withdrawals and loans, thereby realizing capital losses on the assets sold.

Previous wording

Liabilities that are held on our balance sheet at fair value, including embedded derivatives on our FIA and IUL business and MRBs on our FIA and fixed rate annuity business, are sensitive to fluctuations in interest rates. Decreases in interest rates generally would have the impact of increasing the value of these liabilities, which will result in a reduction in our net income. Liabilities for future policyholder benefits are valued using locked-in discount rates, and any changes in interest rates since the inception of those contracts are reflected in OCI. Decreases in interest rates would result in a reduction in our OCI. In addition, certain statutory capital and reserve requirements are based on formulas or models that consider interest rates and a prolonged period of low interest rates may increase the statutory capital we are required to hold as well as the amount of assets we must maintain to support statutory reserves.

Current wording

Liabilities that are held on our balance sheet at fair value, including embedded derivatives on our indexed annuities and IUL business and MRBs on our indexed annuity and fixed rate annuity business, are sensitive to fluctuations in interest rates. Decreases in interest rates generally would have the impact of increasing the value of these liabilities, which will result in a reduction in our net income. Liabilities for future policyholder benefits are valued using locked-in discount rates, and any changes in interest rates since the inception of those contracts are reflected in Other comprehensive earnings (loss) ("OCI"). Decreases in interest rates would result in a reduction in our OCI. In addition, certain statutory capital and reserve requirements are based on formulas or models that consider interest rates and a prolonged period of low interest rates may increase the statutory capital we are required to hold as well as the amount of assets we must maintain to support statutory reserves.

Previous wording

Goodwill aggregated approximately $4,830 million, or 6.0% of our total assets, as of December 31, 2023. Current accounting rules require that goodwill be assessed for impairment at least annually or whenever changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable from estimated future cash flows. Factors that may be considered a change in circumstance indicating the carrying value of our intangible assets, including goodwill, may not be recoverable include, but are not limited to, significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results, a significant decline in our stock price and market capitalization, and negative industry or economic trends. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, no goodwill impairment charge was recorded. However, if economic conditions deteriorate, the carrying amount of our goodwill may no longer be recoverable, and we may be required to record an impairment charge, which would have a negative impact on our results of operations and financial condition. We will continue to monitor our market capitalization and the impact of the economy to determine if there is an impairment of goodwill in future periods.

Current wording

Goodwill aggregated approximately $5,271 million, or 5.5% of our total assets, as of December 31, 2024. Current accounting rules require that goodwill be assessed for impairment at least annually or whenever changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable from estimated future cash flows. Factors that may be considered a change in circumstance indicating the carrying value of our intangible assets, including goodwill, may not be recoverable include, but are not limited to, significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results, a significant decline in our stock price and market capitalization, and negative industry or economic trends. For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, no goodwill impairment charge was recorded. However, if economic conditions deteriorate, the carrying amount of our goodwill may no longer be recoverable, and we may be required to record an impairment charge, which would have a negative impact on our results of operations and financial condition. We will continue to monitor our market capitalization and the impact of the economy to determine if there is an impairment of goodwill in future periods.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, our outstanding debt was $3,887 million. Our high degree of leverage could have important consequences, including the following: (i) a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations is dedicated to the payment of principal and interest on indebtedness, thereby reducing the funds available for operations, future business opportunities and capital expenditures; (ii) our ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, acquisitions and general corporate purposes in the future may be limited; (iii) we may be unable to adjust rapidly to changing market conditions; (iv) the debt service requirements of our other indebtedness could make it more difficult for us to satisfy our financial obligations; and (v) we may be vulnerable in a downturn in general economic conditions or in our business and we may be unable to carry out activities that are important to our growth.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, our outstanding debt was $4,321 million. Our high degree of leverage could have important consequences, including the following: (i) a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations is dedicated to the payment of principal and interest on indebtedness, thereby reducing the funds available for operations, future business opportunities and capital expenditures; (ii) our ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, acquisitions and general corporate purposes in the future may be limited; (iii) we may be unable to adjust rapidly to changing market conditions; (iv) the debt service requirements of our other indebtedness could make it more difficult for us to satisfy our financial obligations; and (v) we may be vulnerable in a downturn in general economic conditions or in our business and we may be unable to carry out activities that are important to our growth.

Previous wording

Our title insurance subsidiaries must comply with state laws, which require them to maintain minimum amounts of working capital, surplus and reserves, and place restrictions on the amount of dividends that they can distribute to us. Compliance with these laws will limit the amounts our regulated subsidiaries can dividend to us. During 2024, our title insurers may pay dividends or make distributions to us of approxim ately $471 million; however, insurance regulators have the authority to prohibit the payment of ordinary dividends or other payments by our title insurers to us if they determine that such payment could be adverse to our policyholders.

Current wording

Our title insurance subsidiaries must comply with state laws, which require them to maintain minimum amounts of working capital, surplus and reserves, and place restrictions on the amount of dividends that they can distribute to us. Compliance with these laws will limit the amounts our regulated subsidiaries can dividend to us. During 2025, our title insurers may pay dividends or make distributions to us of approxim ately $498 million; however, insurance regulators have the authority to prohibit the payment of ordinary dividends or other payments by our title insurers to us if they determine that such payment could be adverse to our policyholders.

Previous wording

If we do not maintain an effective outsourcing strategy or third-party providers do not perform as contracted, we may experience operational difficulties, increased costs and a loss of business that could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. If there is a delay in our third-party providers’ introduction of our new products or if our third-party providers are unable to service our customers appropriately, we may experience a loss of business that could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. In addition, our reliance on third-party service providers that we do not control does not relieve us of our responsibilities and requirements. Any failure or negligence by such third-party service providers in carrying out their contractual duties may result in us becoming subjected to liability to parties who are harmed and ensuing litigation. Any litigation relating to such matters could be costly, expensive and time-consuming, and the outcome of any such litigation may be uncertain. Moreover, any adverse publicity arising from such litigation, even if the litigation is not successful, could adversely affect our reputation and sales of our products.

Current wording

In addition, our reliance on third-party service providers that we do not control does not relieve us of our responsibilities and contractual, legal and other requirements. Any failure or negligence by such third-party service providers in carrying out their contractual duties may result in us becoming subjected to liability to parties who are harmed and ensuing litigation. Any litigation relating to such matters could be costly and time-consuming, and the outcome of any such litigation may be uncertain. Moreover, any adverse publicity arising from such litigation, even if the litigation is not successful, could adversely affect our reputation and sales of our products.

Previous wording

On December 1, 2022, we completed the F&G Distribution. The F&G Distribution is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to: diversion of management’s attention and the potential impact of the F&G Distribution on relationships, including with employees, suppliers, customers and competitors; our ability to successfully realize the anticipated benefits of the F&G Distribution; the terms and conditions of agreements and arrangements between FNF and F&G following the distribution, such as the Corporate Services Agreement, dated as of November 30, 2022, between FNF and F&G (the “Corporate Services Agreement”), which provides for, among other things, the provision of certain services by FNF to F&G following the F&G Distribution; and the nature and amount of indebtedness incurred by F&G. In addition, our F&G segment contributes to a significant portion of our earnings and the F&G Distribution could adversely affect our earnings.

Current wording

On December 1, 2022, we completed the F&G Distribution. The F&G Distribution is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to: diversion of management’s attention; our ability to successfully realize the anticipated benefits of the F&G Distribution; the terms and conditions of agreements and arrangements between FNF and F&G following the distribution, such as the Corporate Services Agreement, dated as of November 30, 2022, between FNF and F&G (the “Corporate Services Agreement”), which provides for, among other things, the provision of certain services by FNF to F&G following the F&G Distribution; and the nature and amount of indebtedness incurred by F&G. In addition, our F&G segment contributes to a significant portion of our earnings and the F&G Distribution could adversely affect our earnings.

Previous wording

Because we are dependent upon California and Texas for approximately 13.0% and 14.3% of our title insurance premiums, respectively, our Title segment may be adversely affected by regulatory conditions in California and/or Texas.

Current wording

Because we are dependent upon California and Texas for approximately 12.9% and 13.8% of our title insurance premiums, respectively, our Title segment may be adversely affected by regulatory conditions in California and/or Texas.

Previous wording

California and Texas are the two largest sources of revenue for our Title segment. In 2023, California-based premiums accounted for approximately 27.4% of premiums earned by our direct operations and 0.6% of our agency premium revenues, while Texas-based premiums accounted for 19.5% of premiums earned by our direct operations and 9.8% of our agency premium revenues. In the aggregate, California and Texas accounted for approximately 13.0% and 14.3%, respe ctively, of our total title insurance premiums for 2023. A significant part of our revenues and profitability are therefore subject to our operations in California and Texas and to the prevailing regulatory conditions in these states. Adverse regulatory developments in California and Texas, which could include reductions in the maximum rates permitted to be charged, inadequate rate increases or more fundamental changes in the design or implementation of the California and Texas title insurance regulatory framework, could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

California and Texas are the two largest sources of revenue for our Title segment. In 2024, California-based premiums accounted for approximately 27.8% of premiums earned by our direct operations and 0.5% of our agency premium revenues, while Texas-based premiums accounted for 19.2% of premiums earned by our direct operations and 9.2% of our agency premium revenues. In the aggregate, California and Texas accounted for approximately 12.9% and 13.8%, respe ctively, of our total title insurance premiums for 2024. A significant part of our revenues and profitability are therefore subject to our operations in California and Texas and to the prevailing regulatory conditions in these states. Adverse regulatory developments in California and Texas, which could include reductions in the maximum rates permitted to be charged, inadequate rate increases or more fundamental changes in the design or implementation of the California and Texas title insurance regulatory framework, could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

Our top five states for the distribution of our life insurance and annuity products in our F&G segment are Florida, California, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Texas. Any adverse economic developments or catastrophes in these states could have an adverse impact on our F&G segment.

Current wording

Our top five states for the distribution of our life insurance and annuity products in our F&G segment are Florida, California, Pennsylvania, Texas and Ohio. Any adverse economic developments or catastrophes in these states could have an adverse impact on our F&G segment.

Previous wording

Our subsidiaries must comply with extensive regulations. These regulations may increase our costs or impede or impose burdensome conditions on actions that we might seek to take to increase the revenues of those subsidiaries.

Current wording

Our subsidiaries must comply with federal and state statutes and regulations. These statutes and regulations may increase our costs, impede our provision of certain products or services, or impose burdensome conditions on actions that we might seek to take to increase the revenues of those subsidiaries, resulting in decreased demand for the Company's products and services or otherwise adversely affecting the Company.

Previous wording

Our insurance businesses are subject to extensive regulation by state insurance authorities in each state in which they operate. These agencies have broad administrative and supervisory power relating to the following, among other matters:

Current wording

Additionally, our insurance businesses are subject to extensive regulation by state insurance authorities in each state in which they operate. These agencies have broad administrative and supervisory power relating to the following, among other matters:

Previous wording

Most states also regulate insurance holding companies like us with respect to acquisitions, changes of control and the terms of transactions with our affiliates. State regulations may impede or impose burdensome conditions on our ability to increase or maintain rate levels or on other actions that we may want to take to enhance our operating results. In addition, we may incur significant costs in the course of complying with regulatory requirements. Further, various state legislatures have in the past considered offering a public alternative to the title industry in their states, as a means to increase state government revenues. Although we think this situation is unlikely, if one or more such takeovers were to occur they could adversely affect our business. We cannot be assured that future legislative or regulatory changes will not adversely affect our business operations. See “Item 1. Business — Regulation” for further discussion of the current regulatory environment.

Current wording

Most states also regulate insurance holding companies like us with respect to acquisitions, changes of control and the terms of transactions with our affiliates. State regulations may impede or impose burdensome conditions on our ability to increase or maintain rate levels or on other actions that we may want to take to enhance our operating results. In addition, we may incur significant costs in the course of complying with regulatory requirements. Further, various state legislatures have in the past considered offering a public alternative to the title industry in their states, as a means to increase state government revenues. Although we think this situation is unlikely, if one or more such takeovers were to occur, they could adversely affect our business. We cannot be assured that future legislative or regulatory changes will not adversely affect our business operations. See “Item 1. Business — Regulation” of this Annual Report for further discussion of the current regulatory environment.

Previous wording

Our insurance subsidiaries are subject to extensive rate regulation by the applicable state agencies in the jurisdictions in which they operate. Title insurance rates are regulated differently in various states, with some states requiring the subsidiaries to file and receive approval of rates before such rates become effective and some states promulgating the rates that can be charged. In general, premium rates are determined on the basis of historical data for claim frequency and severity as well as related production costs and other expenses. In all states in which our title subsidiaries operate, our rates must not be excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory. Premium rates are likely to prove insufficient when ultimate claims and expenses exceed historically projected levels. Premium rate inadequacy may not become evident quickly and may take time to correct, and could adversely affect our business operating results and financial conditions.

Current wording

Our insurance subsidiaries are subject to extensive rate regulation by the applicable state agencies in the jurisdictions in which they operate. Title insurance rates are regulated differently in various states, with some states requiring the subsidiaries to file and receive approval of rates before such rates become effective and some states promulgating the rates that can be charged. In general, premium rates are determined on the basis of historical data for claim frequency and severity as well as related production costs and other expenses. In all states in which our title subsidiaries operate, our rates must not be excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory. Premium rates are likely to prove insufficient when ultimate claims and expenses exceed historically projected levels. Premium rate inadequacy may not become evident quickly and may take time to correct, and could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

We cannot predict what form any future changes in these or other areas of regulation affecting the insurance industry might take or what effect, if any, such proposals might have on us if enacted into law. In addition, because our activities are relatively concentrated in a small number of lines of business, any change in law or regulation affecting one of those lines of business could have a disproportionate impact on us as compared to other more diversified insurance companies. See section titled “Regulation” in Item 1. Business for further discussion of the impact of regulations on our business.

Current wording

We cannot predict what form any future changes in these or other areas of regulation affecting the insurance industry might take or what effect, if any, such proposals might have on us if enacted into law. In addition, because our activities are relatively concentrated in a small number of lines of business, any change in law or regulation affecting one of those lines of business could have a disproportionate impact on us as compared to other more diversified insurance companies. See“Item 1. Business — Regulation” of this Annual Report for further discussion of the impact of regulations on our business.

Previous wording

Our insurance subsidiaries are subject to minimum capitalization requirements based on RBC formulas for life insurance companies that establish capital requirements relating to insurance, business, asset, interest rate and certain other risks. Changes to statutory reserve or risk-based capital requirements may increase the amount of reserves or capital our insurance companies are required to hold and may impact our ability to pay dividends. In addition, changes in statutory reserve or risk-based capital requirements may adversely impact our financial strength ratings. Changes currently under consideration include adding an operational risk component, factors for asset credit risk, and group wide capital calculations.

Current wording

Our insurance subsidiaries are subject to minimum capitalization requirements based on RBC formulas for life insurance companies that establish capital requirements relating to insurance, business, asset, interest rate and certain other risks. Changes to statutory reserve or RBC requirements may increase the amount of reserves or capital our insurance companies are required to hold and may impact our ability to pay dividends. In addition, changes in statutory reserve or risk-based capital requirements may adversely impact our financial strength ratings. Changes currently under consideration include adding an operational risk component, factors for asset credit risk and group wide capital calculations.

Previous wording

The DOL investment advice rule leaves in place PTE 84-24, which is a longstanding class exemption providing prohibited transaction relief for insurance agents selling annuity products provided certain disclosures are made to the plan fiduciary, which is the policyholder in the case of an IRA, and certain other conditions are met. Among other things, these disclosures include the agent’s relationship to the insurer and commissions received in connection with the annuity sale. F&G, along with FGL NY Insurance, designed and launched a compliance program in January 2022 requiring all agents selling IRA products to submit an acknowledgment with each IRA application indicating the agent has satisfied PTE 84-24 requirements on a precautionary basis in case the agent acted or is found to have acted as a fiduciary. Meanwhile the DOL has publicly announced its intention to consider future rulemaking that would revoke or modify PTE 84-24.

Current wording

In December 2020, the DOL issued its final version of an investment advice rule replacing the previous “Fiduciary Rule” that had been challenged by industry participants and vacated in March 2018 by the United States Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. The new investment advice rule reinstates the five-part test for determining whether a person is considered a fiduciary for purposes of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), and sets forth a new exemption, referred to as prohibited transaction class exemption (“PTE”) 2020-02. The rule’s preamble also contains the DOL’s reinterpretation of elements of the five-part test that appears to encompass more insurance agents selling IRA products and withdraws the DOL’s longstanding position that rollover recommendations out of employer plans are not subject to ERISA. The new rule took effect on February 16, 2021. The DOL left in place PTE 84-24, which is a longstanding class exemption providing prohibited transaction relief for insurance agents selling annuity products, provided that certain disclosures are made to the plan fiduciary, which is the policyholder in the case of an IRA, and certain other conditions are met. Among other things, these disclosures include the agent’s relationship to the insurer and commissions received in connection with the annuity sale. We, along with FGL Insurance and FGL NY Insurance, designed and launched a compliance program in January 2022 requiring all agents selling IRA products to submit an acknowledgment with each IRA application indicating the agent has satisfied PTE 84-24 requirements on a precautionary basis in case the agent acted or is found to have acted as a fiduciary. Meanwhile, the DOL has publicly announced its intention to consider future rulemaking that may revoke or modify PTE 84-24.

Previous wording

On November 2, 2023, following previous attempts to expand fiduciary regulation for advisers, the DOL the New Fiduciary Rule to significantly broaden the definition of “fiduciary” under ERISA. Among other requirements, if finalized in its proposed form, the New Fiduciary Rule provides that any person will be an investment advice fiduciary if they provide investment advice or make an investment recommendation to a retirement investor ( i.e., a plan, plan fiduciary, plan participant or beneficiary, IRA, IRA owner or beneficiary, or IRA fiduciary) for a fee or other compensation, and the person provides the advice or makes the recommendation on a regular basis as part of their business and the recommendation is provided under circumstances indicating that the recommendation is based on the particular needs or individual investor circumstances of the retirement investor. Unlike the current ERISA standard, the New Fiduciary Rule would subject non-discretionary investment advice to retirement plans and accounts to the prudent-person “best interest” standard that has historically been reserved for investment advisors with discretionary authority or control over ERISA plan assets. If the New Fiduciary Rule is adopted in its present form, certain of the Company’s agents would likely be considered fiduciaries for purposes of ERISA and the Internal Revenue Code—subjecting the Company, and the insurance industry on the whole, to greater regulatory risk.

Current wording

On April 23, 2024, following previous attempts to expand fiduciary regulation for advisers, the DOL released a new rule, the "New Fiduciary Rule", which significantly broadens the definition of “fiduciary” under ERISA and Section 4975 when advisers provide investment recommendations to plans subject to ERISA and Section 4975 of the Code. Among other requirements, the New Fiduciary Rule provides that any person will be an investment advice fiduciary if such person provides investment advice or makes an investment recommendation to a retirement investor (i.e., a plan, a discretionary plan fiduciary, a plan participant or beneficiary, an IRA, an IRA owner or beneficiary, or an IRA fiduciary) for a fee or other compensation, the person makes professional investment recommendations to investors on a regular basis as part of their business, and the recommendation is provided under circumstances that would indicate to a reasonable investor in like circumstances that the recommendation is based on a review of the particular needs or individual investor circumstances of the retirement investor, reflects the application of professional or expert judgment to the retirement investor’s particular needs or individual circumstances, and may be relied upon by the retirement investor as intended to advance the retirement investor’s best interest. Unlike the current ERISA standard, the New Fiduciary Rule subjects non-discretionary investment advice to retirement plans and accounts under the care and loyalty standards that also apply to investment advisors with discretionary authority or control over such plans and accounts. In addition, on the same date, the DOL issued amended versions of PTE 2020-02 and PTE 84-24, either or both of which provide prohibited transaction exemptive relief to insurance companies and insurance producers who make insurance product recommendations to retirement investors, subject to certain conditions. The New Fiduciary Rule likely means that certain of the Company’s agents will be considered fiduciaries for purposes of ERISA and the Code, subjecting the Company, and the insurance industry on the whole, to greater regulatory risk.

Previous wording

Management believes these current and emerging developments relating to market conduct standards for the financial services industry may over time materially affect the way in which our agents do business, the role of IMOs, sale of IRA products including IRA-to-IRA and employer plan rollovers, how the company supervises its distribution force, compensation practices, and liability exposure and costs. In addition to implementing the compliance procedures described above, management is monitoring further developments closely and will be working with IMOs and distributors to adapt to these evolving regulatory requirements and risks.

Current wording

Management believes these current and emerging developments relating to market conduct standards for the financial services industry may, over time, materially affect the way in which our agents do business, the role of IMOs, sale of IRA products including IRA-to-IRA and employer plan rollovers, how we supervise our distribution force, compensation practices and liability exposure and costs. In addition to implementing the compliance procedures described above, management is monitoring further developments closely and will be working with IMOs and distributors to adapt to these evolving regulatory requirements and risks.

Previous wording

The Secure 2.0 Act of 2022, Division T of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 (“SECURE Act 2.0”), was signed into law on December 29, 2022, and went into effect as early as January 1, 2023, in certain respects. The SECURE Act 2.0 contains provisions that may impact our F&G insurance subsidiaries, and these changes could affect the desirability of IRAs, necessitate changes to our administrative system to implement the Secure Act 2.0, and affect, to some extent, the length of time that IRA assets remain in our annuity products. These provisions include, for example, raising the age for required minimum distributions from IRAs from 72 to 73 (age 74 after 2032); additional exceptions to the 10% penalty tax for distributions before age 59-1/2; reduction of the penalty for failures to take a required distribution amount; directions to the SEC for new registration forms for registered index linked annuities; and directions to the DOL to revisit fiduciary standards relating to choosing an annuity provider in pension risk transfer transactions. While we cannot predict whether, or to what extent, the SECURE Act 2.0 will ultimately impact us, whether positive or negative, it may have implications for our business operations and the markets in which we compete.

Current wording

The Secure 2.0 Act of 2022, Division T of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 (“SECURE Act 2.0”), was signed into law on December 29, 2022, and went into effect as early as January 1, 2023, in certain respects. The SECURE Act 2.0 contains provisions that may impact our F&G insurance subsidiaries, and these changes could affect the desirability of IRAs, necessitate changes to our administrative system to implement the Secure Act 2.0, and affect, to some extent, the length of time that IRA assets remain in our annuity products. These provisions include, for example, raising the age for required minimum distributions from IRAs from 72 to 73 (age 74 after 2032); additional exceptions to the 10% penalty tax for distributions before age 59-1/2; reduction of the penalty for failures to take a required distribution amount; directions to the SEC for new registration forms for RILAs; and directions to the DOL to revisit fiduciary standards relating to choosing an annuity provider in pension risk transfer transactions. While we cannot predict whether, or to what extent, the SECURE Act 2.0 will ultimately impact us, whether positive or negative, it may have implications for our business operations and the markets in which we compete.

Previous wording

We are subject to the credit risk of our counterparties, including companies with whom we have reinsurance agreements or we have purchased call options.

Current wording

We are subject to the credit risk of our counterparties, including companies with whom we have reinsurance agreements or we have purchased equity options.

Previous wording

We cede material amounts of insurance and transfers related assets and certain liabilities to other insurance companies through reinsurance. Accordingly, we bear credit risk with respect to our reinsurers. The failure, insolvency, inability or unwillingness of any reinsurer to pay under the terms of reinsurance agreements with us could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations. We regularly monitor the credit rating and performance of our reinsurance parties. ASPIDA Life Re Ltd. (“Aspida Re”), Wilton Reassurance Company (“Wilton Re”), Somerset Reinsurance Ltd. (“Somerset”) and Everlake Life Insurance Company (“Everlake”) represent our largest third-party reinsurance counterparty exposure. As of December 31, 2023, the net amount recoverable from Aspida Re, Wilton Re, Somerset and Everlake were $6,128 million, $1,092 million, $716 million, and $509 million, respectively. The risk of non-performance is mitigated with various forms of collateral or collateral arrangements, including secured trusts, funds withheld accounts and irrevocable letters of credit.

Current wording

We cede material amounts of insurance and transfers of related assets and certain liabilities to other insurance companies through reinsurance. Accordingly, we bear credit risk with respect to our reinsurers. The failure, insolvency, inability or unwillingness of any reinsurer to pay under the terms of reinsurance agreements with us could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations. We regularly monitor the credit rating and performance of our reinsurance parties. Aspida Re, Wilton Re, Somerset and Everlake represent our largest third-party reinsurance counterparty exposure. As of December 31, 2024, the net amount recoverable from Aspida Re, Wilton Re, Somerset and Everlake were $7,844 million, $2,822 million, $1,168 million, and $1,066 million, respectively. The risk of non-performance is mitigated with various forms of collateral or collateral arrangements, including secured trusts, funds withheld accounts and irrevocable letters of credit.

Previous wording

We hold customers' assets in escrow at various financial institutions, pending completion of real estate transactions. These assets are maintained in segregated bank accounts and have not been included in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. We have a contingent liability relating to proper disposition of these balances for our customers, which amounted to $13.5 billion at December 31, 2023. Failure of one or more of these financial institutions may lead us to become liable for the funds owed to third parties and there is no guarantee that we would recover the funds deposited, whether through Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation coverage or otherwise.

Current wording

We hold customers' assets in escrow at various financial institutions, pending completion of real estate transactions. These assets are maintained in segregated bank accounts and have not been included in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. We have a contingent liability relating to proper disposition of these balances for our customers, which amounted to $14.4 billion at December 31, 2024. Failure of one or more of these financial institutions may lead us to become liable for the funds owed to third parties and there is no guarantee that we would recover the funds deposited, whether through Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation coverage or otherwise.

Previous wording

Natural catastrophes, pandemics, and malicious and terrorist acts present risks that could adversely affect our results of operations. Claims arising from such events could have an adverse effect on our business, operations and financial condition, either directly or as a result of their effect on our reinsurers or other counterparties. Such events could also have an adverse effect on the rate and amount of lapses and surrenders of existing policies, as well as sales of new policies.

Current wording

Natural catastrophes and pandemics present risks that could adversely affect our results of operations. In addition, our business operations may be adversely affected by the increased risk of malicious and terrorist acts, as evidenced by recent incidents such as the New Orleans attack and Las Vegas explosion, which could disrupt our operations or the safety of our employees or customers. Claims arising from such events could have an adverse effect on our business, operations and financial condition, either directly or as a result of their effect on our reinsurers or other counterparties. Such events could also have an adverse effect on the rate and amount of lapses and surrenders of existing policies, as well as sales of new policies.

Previous wording

Our operations are highly dependent upon the effective operation of our computer systems. We use our computer systems to receive, process, store and transmit sensitive personal consumer data (such as names and addresses, social security numbers, driver's license numbers, and bank account information) and important business information of our customers. We also electronically manage substantial cash, investment assets and escrow account balances on behalf of ourselves and our customers, as well as financial information about our businesses generally. The integrity of our computer systems and the protection of the information that resides on such systems are important to our successful operation. If we fail to maintain an adequate security infrastructure, adapt to emerging security threats such as ransomware or follow our internal business processes with respect to security, the information or assets we hold could be compromised. Further, even if we, or third parties to which we outsource certain information technology services, maintain a reasonable, industry-standard information security infrastructure to mitigate these risks, the inherent risk that unauthorized access to information or assets remains. This risk is increased by transmittal of information over the internet and the increased threat and sophistication of cyber criminals. While, to date, we believe that we have not experienced a material breach of our computer systems, the occurrence or scope of such events is not always apparent. Examples of security threats that represent significant inherent risk with little to no warning include the MoveIT security incident affecting F&G, in which F&G activated its crisis management protocols to adequately manage the investigation, impact, and response to this incident. In November 2023, we experienced a cybersecurity incident where an unauthorized third-party accessed certain of our systems, deployed a type of malware that is not self-propagating, and exfiltrated certain data. We promptly commenced an investigation, retained leading experts to assist the Company, notified law enforcement authorities, regulatory authorities and other stakeholders and followed our incident response plans. Although we believe we have remediated the significant exposures related to these incidents, there remains potential for future losses associated with litigation and damage to our reputation. If additional information regarding an event previously considered immaterial is discovered, or a new event were to occur, it could potentially have a material adverse effect on our operations or financial condition. In addition, some laws and certain of our contracts require notification of various parties, including regulators, consumers or customers, in the event that confidential or personal information has or may have been taken or accessed by unauthorized parties. Such notifications can potentially result, among other things, in adverse publicity, diversion of manageme…

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Current wording

Examples of security threats that represent significant inherent risk with little to no warning include the MoveIT security incident affecting F&G, in which F&G activated its crisis management protocols to adequately manage the investigation, impact and response to this incident. In November 2023, we experienced a cybersecurity incident where an unauthorized third-party accessed certain of our systems, deployed a type of malware that is not self-propagating, and exfiltrated certain data. We promptly commenced an investigation, retained leading experts to assist the Company, notified law enforcement authorities, regulatory authorities and other stakeholders and followed our incident response plans. Although we believe we have remediated the significant exposures related to these incidents, there remains potential for future losses associated with litigation and damage to our reputation. If additional information regarding an event previously considered immaterial is discovered, or a new event were to occur, it could potentially have a material adverse effect on our operations or financial condition. In addition, some laws and certain of our contracts require notification of various parties, including regulators, consumers or customers, in the event that confidential or personal information has or may have been taken or accessed by unauthorized parties. Such notifications can potentially result, among other things, in adverse publicity, diversion of management and other resources, the attention of regulatory authorities, the imposition of fines and disruptions in business operations, the effects of which may be material. Any inability to prevent security or privacy breaches, or the perception that such breaches may occur, could inhibit our ability to retain or attract new clients and/or result in financial losses, litigation, increased costs, negative publicity or other adverse consequences to our business.

Previous wording

Our annuity products compete with fixed indexed, fixed rate and variable annuities sold by other insurance companies and also with mutual fund products, traditional bank investments and other retirement funding alternatives offered by asset managers, banks and broker-dealers. The ability of banks and broker dealers to increase their securities-related business or to affiliate with insurance companies may materially and adversely affect sales of all of our products by substantially increasing the number and financial strength of potential competitors. Our insurance products compete with those of other insurance companies, financial intermediaries and other institutions based on a number of factors, including premium rates, policy terms and conditions, service provided to distribution channels and policyholders, ratings by rating agencies, reputation and commission structures.

Current wording

Our annuity products compete with indexed annuities and fixed rate annuities sold by other insurance companies and also with mutual fund products, traditional bank investments and other retirement funding alternatives offered by asset managers, banks and broker-dealers. The ability of banks and broker dealers to increase their securities-related business or to affiliate with insurance companies may materially and adversely affect sales of all of our products by substantially increasing the number and financial strength of potential competitors. Our insurance products compete with those of other insurance companies, financial intermediaries and other institutions based on a number of factors, including premium rates, policy terms and conditions, service provided to distribution channels and policyholders, ratings by rating agencies, reputation and commission structures.

Previous wording

Our ability to compete is dependent upon, among other things, our ability to develop competitive and profitable products, our ability to maintain low unit costs, and our maintenance of adequate financial strength ratings from rating agencies. Our ability to compete is also dependent upon, among other things, our ability to attract and retain distribution channels to market our products, the competition for which is vigorous.

Current wording

Our ability to compete is dependent upon, among other things, our ability to develop competitive and profitable products, our ability to maintain low unit costs and our maintenance of adequate financial strength ratings from rating agencies. Our ability to compete is also dependent upon, among other things, our ability to attract and retain distribution channels to market our products, the competition for which is vigorous. We must anticipate and respond effectively to changes in customer preferences, new industry standards, evolving distribution models, disruptive technology developments and alternate business models. The evolving nature of consumer needs and preferences and improvements in technology could result in a reduction in consumer demand and in the prices of the products and services we offer. Our competitive position may be impacted if we are unable to deploy, in a cost effective and competitive manner, technology such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, or if our competitors collect and use data which we do not have the ability to access or use.