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Admiral Group

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Employees 10,000+
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FY2014 Annual Report · Admiral Group
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 People who like 
what they do, 
do it better

Admiral Group plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ABOUT ADMIRAL GROUP

Admiral Group is one of the UK’s 
largest and most profitable car 
insurance providers, with over 11% 
market share and market-leading 
financial results.

The history of the Admiral Group is one of growth, 
profitability and innovation. Admiral launched 
in 1993 with just one brand, zero customers and 
57 members of staff. The Group now has operations 
in Spain, Italy, France and the US, and has over four 
million customers. 

Admiral’s strategy is simple: To continue to progress 
in the UK Car Insurance market whilst taking what 
we do well to new markets and products: keep doing 
what we’re doing and do it better year after year. 

Admiral is one of the largest employers in South Wales 
and has over 7,000 people worldwide.

Find out more about how people make  
our businesses work from page 12

Chairman’s Statement
Alastair Lyons, CBE
From page 04

Admiral’s businesses  
and operations
From page 06

Chief Executive’s Statement
Henry Engelhardt, CBE
From page 08

Stacey
Advanced MOJ handler

Introduction
IFC  About Admiral Group
02 
04  Chairman’s Statement

Introduction

Strategic report
06  Admiral’s businesses and operations
08  Chief Executive’s Statement
10  10 years from float
12  Admiral’s business model
14  Admiral’s strategy
16  Questions and Answers
18  Group Financial Review
22  UK Insurance Review
28 
32  Price Comparison Review
35  Other Group Items
36  Principal risks and uncertainties

International Car Insurance Review

Corporate governance
40  Chairman’s introduction
41  Admiral’s governance framework
42  Board of Directors
44  Governance Report
49  Report of the Audit Committee
53  Report of the Group Risk Committee
56  Report of the Nomination Committee
58  Report of the Remuneration Committee
60  Directors’ Remuneration Report
73  Directors’ Report

Financial statements
76 
Independent Auditor’s Report 
78  Consolidated Income Statement 
79  Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income 
80  Consolidated Statement of Financial Position 
81  Consolidated Cash Flow Statement 
82  Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
83  Notes to the financial statements
111 Parent Company financial statements
112 Notes to the Parent Company financial statements
114 Consolidated financial summary

Other information
115 Glossary
116 Directors and advisors
117 Further information

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

01

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION

Another good year

2014 was another good year for the Admiral Group. The current 
year result included an increase in profit from the UK Car Insurance 
business and, encouragingly, a profit*1 from ConTe in Italy, which 
brings to three (out of seven) the number of businesses outside 
the UK that contribute positively to the Group’s result.”

Geraint Jones
Chief Financial Officer

Group highlights
 @ Group profit before tax*2 4% lower at £356.5 million 

Turnover (£million)

£1,971m

-3%

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Customers (million)

4.1m

+9%

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Profit before tax*1 (£million)

Return on equity (%)

£356.5m

-4%

52%

-10%

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(2013: £370.7 million)

 @ Earnings per share 2% lower at 103.0 pence 

(2013: 104.6 pence)

 @ Final dividend of 49.0 pence per share, bringing 
the 2014 total dividend to 98.4 pence per share 
down 1% (2013: 99.5 pence per share)

 @ Return on equity of 52% (2013: 58%)

 @ Group turnover*3 down 3% at £1.97 billion 

(2013: £2.03 billion)

 @ Group customers up 9% to 4.05 million 

(2013: 3.70 million)

 @ International car insurance turnover up 10% to 
£206 million, with customers up 15% to 592,600 
(2013: £188 million and 515,300 customers)

 @ Over 7,000 staff to receive free shares worth 
£3,000 in the employee share scheme

*1   Segment result, excludes share scheme charges. These charges are included 

in the ‘Other’ segment

*2  Represents Group’s share of profit before tax after excluding Minority Interests

*3   Turnover is defined as total premiums written (including co-insurers’ share) 

and Other Revenue (excluding vehicle commission)

Another busy year
Important moments in 2014:

June

July

Admiral named third best 
workplace in Europe 

Admiral announced a successful 
inaugural bond offering of £200 million

02

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

A Great Place to Work!
We pride ourselves on being a great place to work, and this is 
reflected in the many awards we win. We are particularly proud 
of these awards as they are voted for by staff. 

Read more about our people on page 15

Earnings per share (pence)

103.0p

-2%

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Full year dividend per share 
(pence)

98.4p

-1%

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Staff satisfaction: 
‘I am happy at Admiral’ (%)

‘Following a claim, I would 
renew with Admiral’ (%)

78%

95%

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Chelsea
Customer Consultant

Best
Workplaces
Europe

Read more about what 
we’ve achieved over the 
last ten years from page 10

August

September

November

Admiral announced Geraint Jones as 
new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and 
Executive Director

Admiral celebrates 10 years 
since flotation on the London 
Stock Exchange

Admiral was named the Best Car 
Insurance Provider at the Personal Finance 
Awards for the second year running

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

03

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONCHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT

Straightforward and  
highly focused strategy

The Admiral team has set about building 
private motor businesses in five countries, 
price comparison businesses in four, 
and a household insurance business 
in the UK.”

Alastair Lyons, CBE
Chairman

2014 in summary
 @ The UK motor insurance market 
was again characterised by 
falling prices

 @ Italy is the Group’s largest business 
outside the UK with almost half 
of our overseas customers

 @ An assessment of the French 
market suggests the potential 
for accelerated growth of direct 
motor insurance, benefiting both 
LeLynx and L’olivier Assurances

 @ In the US and Spain, growth 
came from expanding the 
accessible market

 @ Rastreator and LeLynx hold 
leading positions in their 
respective markets in Spain 
and France

 @ Confused.com faces very 
strong competition that 
has impacted conversion 
and hence profitability

 @ Compare.com is making 

progress and we are planning 
a material increase next year 
in promotional support

Our strategy
In my statement last year I listed what I regarded 
to be the top ten attributes that had contributed 
in great measure to Admiral’s success over the 
last ten years that it has been a listed company. 
I spoke of management; our culture; our 
employees; focus; pricing; claims management; 
controlled test and learn; low cost; low capital 
employed; and low risk.

Admiral has applied these consistently to deliver 
against a straightforward highly focused strategy 
– to make the most of the market-leading 
positions we have developed in the UK in direct 
motor insurance and price comparison and 
apply our learning in these sectors in overseas 
markets of appropriate scale, structure and 
stage of development. Applying the tenets 
of controlled test and learn, low capital 
employed and low risk, the Admiral team has 
set about building private motor businesses 
in five countries, price comparison businesses 
in four, and a household insurance business 
in the UK. We have then sought to embed 
in these new businesses our management 
capability, our culture and the quality of 
our employees. 

Organic growth, whilst slower, requires much 
less capital than growth by acquisition and 
avoids the significant risk associated with 
buying where one has little or no knowledge. 
By taking incremental steps one is able to 
construct, in all important respects, the 
platform one wants for the future, taking 
advantage to the degree relevant to each 
specific market of our differentiation in areas 
such as pricing and claims management. 

Notwithstanding this step-by-step approach 
of test and learn, whilst each of our overseas 
businesses began life as a business plan 
Admiral now has nearly 600,000 customers 
outside the UK. It will, however, still be some 
years before these businesses, all at varying 
stages in their growth and required investment, 
make the material contribution to Group 
profits of which we believe they are capable. 
As now the second largest insurer of private 
cars in the UK Admiral’s fortunes will, therefore, 
be driven for the foreseeable future by the 
UK motor insurance cycle. 

2014 in overview 
We recognise that in a cyclical business 
there are periods for growth, and periods 
for consolidation, seeking purely to maintain 
one’s existing market position and focus on 
building capability to support growth when 
conditions render that both profitable and 
sustainable. 2014 was such a period of 
consolidation for three out of our five motor 
insurance businesses. 

As a consequence our pre-tax profits, before 
reflecting our first material investment in our 
new US comparison business, were broadly 
flat on the previous year and our overall Group 
profits were £14 million lower at £357 million. 

The UK motor insurance market was again 
characterised by falling prices, albeit that the 
sustained reduction since the market turned in 
2010 now appears to be running out of steam.

04

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

Our aim through this period has been to 
maximise value rather than volume, maintaining 
our book at around three million customers 
and focusing on a major systems upgrade that 
is scheduled to complete in 2015. When delivered, 
this will enable us to retain our flexibility and 
responsiveness when it is right to resume the 
growth of our UK business. As we test, we 
learn how to improve our effectiveness across 
all aspects of our operations whether it be 
marketing; pricing; sales; customer service; 
or claims handling. Then we institutionalise 
what we have learned by building this learning 
into the systems that support the processes 
we operate. Through processes, systems and 
detailed timely management information we 
can be confident that all our people undertake 
their activities in a controlled, efficient way. 
We can also assess what it is relevant to seek to 
export alongside our culture to other markets.

We have also had major systems development 
taking place in our operations in Italy and France 
as these businesses prepare for the next stage 
in their growth. Italy is our largest business 
outside the UK with almost half of our overseas 
customers. As in the UK, with growth of the 
book unattractive in an environment of falling 
prices, the Italian business has focused on 
building its learning into a new operating 
platform that we believe will provide competitive 
advantage when the market turns. In France, 
the youngest of our overseas insurance 
operations, we had adopted a different 
outsourced start-up model to get into the 
market quickly, cost-effectively and at low risk. 
Four years on from launch our initial assessment 
of the French market suggests the potential 
for accelerated growth of direct motor insurance 
supported both by the growth of price 
comparison, in part reflecting the success 
of our own market-leading business LeLynx, 
and by the recently implemented change 
in the law making it easier for customers to 
switch insurance providers. Hence our move 
to bring all our functions in-house onto our 
own platform now that we understand what 
the French market needs. 

In the US and Spain growth came from 
expanding the accessible market – in the 
case of Elephant Auto in the US by building 
on the entry into Texas in 2013, and for 
Admiral Seguros in Spain through the addition 
of a second brand, Qualitas Auto. 

In price comparison we have continued to 
achieve strong growth outside the UK, with 
both Rastreator and Le Lynx holding leading 
positions in their respective markets in Spain 
and France. By contrast, price comparison in 
the UK has continued to be challenging, with 
Confused.com facing very strong competition 
that has impacted conversion and hence 
profitability. In the US, compare.com launched 
in 2013 as the first truly European-style 
aggregator as distinct from lead generators.

We believe it is for our 
investors rather than 
Admiral to determine 
how they wish to invest 
funds surplus to the 
requirements of 
our business.”

Whilst early days, it is making encouraging 
progress both with consumers and insurer 
partners and we are planning a material 
increase next year in the commitment of 
promotional support, following our same 
philosophy of test and learn. 

Our capital structure
Our low risk approach to our business with 
significant use of reinsurance has made it possible 
to maintain low levels of capital employed. 
However in 2014 we recognised that favourable 
capital markets and very reasonable rates of 
interest created the opportunity to strengthen 
and diversify our capital resources as we make 
a prudent transition into Solvency II in 2016, 
with the attendant regulatory capital 
requirement and buffers. Raising £200 million 
of additional capital in the form of ten-year 
tier two subordinated notes also sets us up 
well for the growth we expect from all our 
businesses in the coming years whilst being 
consistent with our existing dividend policy. 

Dividends
Our dividend policy has been clear since 
flotation – we believe it is for our investors 
rather than Admiral to determine how they 
wish to invest funds surplus to the requirements 
of our business. We, therefore, distribute each 
year the available surplus over and above what 
we retain to meet regulatory requirements, 
the future development of our business and 
appropriate buffers, in particular, the buffer 
required during a period of transition between 
two different capital regimes. We also believe 
that the year-on-year progression of our dividend 
should largely mirror the movement in after-tax 
profits, subject to any abnormal demands on 
our capital resources. 

Our final dividend for 2014 is therefore proposed 
at 49.0 pence per share, resulting in a full year 
dividend of 98.4 pence per share, within 1% of 
the 2013 full year dividend, against a backdrop 
of after-tax profits themselves 2% lower than 
last year. This comprises a normal dividend of 
22.5 pence per share and a special dividend of 
26.5 pence per share, bringing to £915 million 
the total of special dividends paid to shareholders 
since flotation, in addition to our £839 million 
normal dividends paid over this period.

Board changes
With its distinctive culture and focus on making 
Admiral a great place to work the Company 
enjoys strong levels of retention amongst 
employees, management and Directors alike.

Senior Executives in the Group have either 
been with Admiral since the Company listed 
ten years ago or since their respective overseas 
business was formed. To encourage retention 
of our people, and therefore of their skills and 
experience, we seek to provide management 
with development opportunities that allow us to 
promote from within. I was, therefore, delighted 
to welcome Geraint Jones to the Board at 
the time of our interim results, succeeding 
Kevin Chidwick as CFO, who will now focus 
solely on his role as CEO of Elephant Auto 
in the US. Geraint has been with Admiral’s 
finance team since 2002, having been our 
Deputy CFO since 2012. 

Roger Abravanel will not be seeking re-election 
at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting 
and I would like to thank him for his contribution 
to the Board, in particular the insight he has 
provided us into the Italian market. Balancing 
the loss of Roger we are delighted to welcome 
Penny James to the Board as a Non-Executive 
Director and member of the Audit Committee. 
Penny has been Director of Group Finance at 
Prudential plc since March 2011 and brings a 
wealth of commercial and financial experience 
to her role with Admiral. 

Thank you
To our employees for their commitment and 
enthusiasm; to our management for their 
leadership and inspiration; to our shareholders 
for their support and confidence; but most of 
all to our customers for their business and choice 
of Admiral in preference to others in the highly 
competitive markets in which we operate. 

Alastair Lyons, CBE
Chairman 
4 March 2015

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

05

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONADMIRAL’S BUSINESSES AND OPERATIONS

Admiral’s brands  
and markets

In the UK, Admiral is one of the largest and most recognised car insurance 
providers, and the Admiral Group includes Confused.com, one of the 
leading price comparison websites, as well as a budding household 
insurance business. Outside the UK, the Group has exported the 
knowledge and experience gained from its UK businesses and 
owns four insurance and three price comparison businesses.

Our presence

An international presence 
spanning seven countries:

A  UK

Admiral
Bell
Confused.com
elephant.co.uk
Diamond
Gladiator
Admiral Household
BDE Law
Admiral Law

B  France

LeLynx
L’olivier Assurances

C  Italy

ConTe

D  Spain

Balumba
Qualitas Auto
Rastreator

E  USA

Elephant Auto
compare.com

F  Canada

Admiral

G  India

Admiral Solutions
Admiral Technologies

F

E

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D

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G

Our people

David Stevens
Admiral, UK

Cristina Nestares
Admiral Seguros, 
Spain

Milena Mondini
ConTe, Italy

Kevin Chidwick
Elephant Auto, USA

06

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

UK Car Insurance
Read the review from page 22

1

Admiral is one of the largest 
and most profitable private 
car insurers in the UK

Turnover

£1,603 million

2013: £1,699 million (-6%)

Pre-tax profit*1

£398 million

2013: £394 million (+1%)

Customers

3.2 million

2013: 3.0 million (+7%)

2

International  
Car Insurance
Read the review from page 28

Growing car insurance businesses 
in Spain, Italy, the US and France

Turnover

£206 million

2013: £188 million (+10%)

Pre-tax loss*1

£20 million

2013: £22 million (-9%)

Customers

592,600

2013: 515,300 (+15%)

Price Comparison
Read the review from page 32

3

Confused.com, one of the UK’s 
leading price comparison websites, 
profitable operations in Spain and 
France and a new business in the US

Turnover

£108 million

2013: £113 million (-4%)

Pre-tax profit*1,2

£4 million

2013: £21 million (-81%)

Customer quotes

18.4 million

2013: 18.7 million (-2%)

Other Group Items
Read the review on page 35

4

UK Household Insurance, commercial 
vehicle insurance broking and other 
central costs (including share scheme 
charges and finance costs)

Household

Turnover

£55 million

2013: £31 million (+77%)

Pre-tax loss

£25 million

2013: £22 million (+14%)

Gladiator customers

143,900

2013: 117,900 (+22%)

*1  All segment results exclude share scheme charges. These charges are included in the ‘Other’ segment

*2  Price Comparison pre-tax profit excluding Minority Interests

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

07

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORTCHIEF EXECUTIVE’S STATEMENT

A hot and cold year

Admiral Group’s 2014 was the year 
of the Baked Alaska – hot and cold 
in a single bite.”

Henry Engelhardt, CBE
Chief Executive Officer

In summary
 @ We’re investing in many different 
markets, all with great potential, 
all with different competitive 
landscapes and timetables 
to success

 @ UK profits in the future are 

likely to be far more cyclically 
influenced than before

 @ Longer term there will be greater 
balance as reliance on the UK 
Car Insurance portfolio reduces

2014 goes down as the year  
of the Baked Alaska

Admiral Group’s 2014 was the year of the 
Baked Alaska – hot and cold in a single bite. 

The cold? For the first time since we went public 
and the first time this century, Admiral Group 
did not post a record profit. We still made a 
lot of money and had an enviable 52% return 
on equity, but, alas, the 2014 result is being 
dragged down by cyclicality and everything 
else, in sum, still required investment. 

The hot? Profits emerging from some of those 
businesses outside the UK, including profit from 
ConTe, our Italian insurance business (in its 
sixth full year of operation) and record profits 
at Rastreator and LeLynx, our price comparison 
businesses in Spain and France, respectively. 

My impression is that CEO statements are 
supposed to present a veneer of progress 
against a backdrop of challenging conditions: 
“the mountain was a tricky climb, the climate 
inhospitable, but we a) did it, b) are doing it 
or c) will soon do it”. 

This statement is not going to follow that 
common pattern.

What I will do is try to put you in my chair. What 
do I worry about? What do I look forward to? 
I will not be going over each business one at 
a time as Alastair has already provided a quick 
review of the businesses and further on in this 
report is a commentary from each of the business 
CEOs and plenty of numbers that will give you 
a lot of detail about those operations. 

Let me start by reiterating our strategy: 
continue prosperous growth in the UK Car 
Insurance market while developing growing, 
profitable, sustainable businesses outside the 
UK and in the UK beyond car insurance. 

So with that strategy in mind, what do I worry 
about? Here we go then, in David Letterman 
style, my Top Ten Worries for 2015 (as written 
in January) from least worrying worry to most 
worrying worry:

10.   We don’t get our mobile phone access 

strategy right in ConTe (Italy).

9.    That we won’t be able to stretch far enough 
to take advantage of new opportunities 
put in front of us. 

8.    An upward move in Baremo, which governs 
the costs of bodily injury claims in Spain, 
fails to materialise so price hikes in the 
market also fail to materialise and therefore 
there is a lot less shopping for car insurance.

7.    French consumers refuse to believe they 
can now easily leave their insurer, which, 
due to the new law, Loi Hamon, is now the 
case. Allez les Français réveillez-vous!

6. 

5. 

4. 

3. 

2. 

 Confused’s Get a Free Brian Toy campaign 
does not resonate with consumers and my 
house ends up decorated in Brian Toys.

 My wife telling me she’s pregnant. 

 Solvency II brings higher capital requirements 
than we’re currently expecting and reduces 
the efficiency of our business model.

 Compare.com can’t reduce its cost per 
quote or cost per sale to a profitable level. 

 Guidewire, our new computer system 
currently being built and tested, doesn’t 
work efficiently in the UK or in France (it is 
currently running successfully in the US). 

08

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

Customers (million)

4.1m

+9%

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Return on equity (%)

52%

-10%

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Profit before tax*1 (£million)

£356.5m

-4%

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*1   Represents Group’s share of 

profit before tax after excluding 
Minority Interests

Full year dividend per share 
(pence)

98.4p

-1%

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Read more about our 
financial performance 
on pages 18 to 21

All of the above worries, cumulatively, 
just about total my number one worry. 
The number one worry in this hit parade 
of worries is always number one on my 
worry list: irrational competitors. 

These are competitors who either don’t mind 
if they lose lots of money (perhaps it’s even 
in their plans) or fool themselves in believing 
they won’t lose lots of money (but eventually 
they do) or don’t realise they are actually losing 
lots of money (and, again, eventually they do). 
So they act irrationally and buy business and 
in the world of car insurance irrational they 
may be, but they’re unlikely to pay the price 
for that irrationality for several years. 

So things can look jolly nice for them for 
quite a period of time (growth is good, right?). 
And the rest of the world is left with a choice: 
be rational in response, which means you 
lose a lot of business, or join the ranks of 
the irrational and sacrifice profits. That’s the 
position we found ourselves in, in the UK during 
2014 as we tried to slalom our way through 
the poorest part of the UK cycle. Our growth 
in vehicles insured, achieved in the first half of 
the year, was a modest 4%. Our rates went up 
during the year across all customer segments. 
As our rates went up, our competitiveness 
declined. However, due to these rate increases, 
we feel we are in a better place starting 2015, 
and there are signs that the market is now 
raising rates which, given our superior expense 
ratio in particular, would give us the choice 
of continuing to raise rates or growing our 
customer count. 

But I must admit, I don’t lose a lot of sleep over 
the UK in particular because the CEO of our 
UK business is David Stevens, one of the founders 
of Admiral. As one of our Non-Executive 
Directors recently put it: there is no one more 
qualified to run the UK business. The ‘no one’ 
did not mean ‘no one in Admiral’, or ‘no one 
in the UK’ or even ‘no one in Europe’, it was 
a very clear: no one. And I couldn’t agree more. 
To find out if David’s sleeping well or not you’ll 
have to turn a few pages to read his report. 

As David takes responsibility for the UK, I spend 
a lot of time with our businesses outside the UK. 
In particular, I spent a couple of weeks towards 
the end of 2014 with our insurance business in 
Seville, Admiral Seguros (brands: Qualitas Auto 
and Balumba), and the desire for success from 
every person I met, in every part of the business, 
was contagious. I always leave Seville more 
energised than when I arrive. I don’t usually 
talk about specific goals for the year ahead in 
this report, but I’ll share this one with you: the 
goal for Admiral Seguros in 2015 is break-even 
on a written premium basis. I’m going to go out 
on a limb now and say that I am very confident 
the team will succeed in reaching this goal.

So here’s my Top Ten Things I’m Looking 
Forward To in 2015:

10.   Successful use of mobile phones for 

consumers, particularly in ConTe (Italy).

9.    Continued, efficient growth in Elephant Auto 

(US), particularly in Texas.

8. 

 Continued sector dominance for 
Rastreator and growth, particularly 
in telephony comparison.

7. 

 Big quote volumes for LeLynx (France) 
due to the introduction of the Loi Hamon.

6.  Watching the Cubs win the World Series.

5. 

4. 

3. 

 Seeing Group revenue climb back above 
£2 billion.

 We can’t get Brian Toys made fast enough 
to meet demand.

 Success of the new compare.com TV 
campaign coupled with lots of word 
of mouth.

2.  Break-even in Admiral Seguros (Spain).

And the number one thing I’m looking 
forward to: David taking the odd afternoon 
off because he has nothing to worry about 
because results from the UK are so good.

Let me conclude by saying that we’re investing 
in many different markets, all with great potential, 
all with different competitive landscapes and 
timetables to success. I could spin a bit of veneer 
about the value we’re creating even without 
profits, but the truth of the matter is that in the 
past these investments were overshadowed by 
ever-growing profitability in the UK; in the past 
the UK business seemed immune to market 
cyclicality. But now we are just too big to be 
immune. And I think it’s very fair to say too that 
the competition is improving, which, besides 
being very annoying, demands that we improve 
too and I can assure you that we are working 
flat out to do so. The upshot is that UK profits 
in the future are likely to be far more cyclically 
influenced than before and so for the next 
few years the Group result is likely to follow 
this cyclical pattern. Longer term, in our view, 
there will be less UK cyclicality in the result 
as our reliance on the UK Car Insurance 
portfolio reduces. 

I’m sad to see the consecutive profit record 
go, it was a source of great pride. But, like the 
hot versus cold of Baked Alaska, I’m also glad 
to see it go, because it means we’re investing 
in our future and not afraid to sacrifice some 
of the present to do so. 

Henry Engelhardt
Chief Executive Officer
4 March 2015

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

09

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORT10 YEAR HIGHLIGHTS

Celebrating 10 years  
since flotation

Since Admiral listed on the London Stock Exchange in 2004, 
it has transformed from a company based solely in the UK, 
to a company that today has insurance and price comparison 
businesses in five countries in Europe and the US. 
All its growth has been based on an approach of 
test and learn and applying Admiral’s expertise 
to new products and markets.

2005
Admiral launches Multicar, 
enabling UK customers to 
insure two or more cars on 
the same policy, with all 
cars eligible for a discount.

2007
AdmiralDirekt.de launches 
in Cologne, selling car 
insurance in Germany.

2009
Rastreator.com, a price 
comparison website, 
launches in Madrid, Spain.

Elephant Auto Insurance 
launches in Richmond, 
Virginia selling car 
insurance in the US. 

2004
On 23 September, Admiral floats on the London 
Stock Exchange with a share price of £2.75 and 
market capitalisation of £711 million.

2006
Balumba.es launches in 
Seville, selling car 
insurance in Spain.

2008
ConTe.it launches 
in Rome, selling car 
insurance in Italy.

3 OFFICES
IN THE UK 

1,500 STAFF

EMPLOYED DIRECTLY BY ADMIRAL 

1 MILLION 
CUSTOMERS
IN THE UK

High shareholder returns
Over the past ten years, Admiral’s Total Shareholder 
Returns are in excess of 750% 

75%

17%

10

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

2004

2005

2006

341%

2010
LeLynx, a price comparison website, 
launches in Paris, France.

Chiarezza.it, a car insurance price 
comparison website, launches in 
Milan, Italy.

L’olivier Assurances launches in Paris 
selling car insurance in France. 

2012
Admiral launches UK 
household insurance.

Chiarezza.it, the Group’s 
Italian price comparison 
website, is sold.

2014
As of 31 December, the closing share price is 
£13.23 and Admiral has a market capitalisation 
of £3.6 billion. 

Admiral has distributed over £1.6 billion 
to shareholders since float.

18 OFFICES
IN 9 COUNTRIES 

OVER 7,000 STAFF
EMPLOYED DIRECTLY BY ADMIRAL 

OVER 4 MILLION 
CUSTOMERS
ACROSS 5 COUNTRIES

2011
AdmiralDirekt.de is sold.

2013
Compare.com*1, a price 
comparison website, 
launches in the US. 

Qualitas Auto launches in 
Seville, selling car insurance 
in Spain.

*1   Compare.com (formerly 

comparenow.com) simplified its 
name in February 2015 to better 
align with its services

793%

715%

658%

564%

467%

363%

308%

351%

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

11

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORTADMIRAL’S BUSINESS MODEL

Maximising our potential

Our track record of strong growth is based on a low risk 
business model that places great emphasis on customer 
satisfaction and staff wellbeing. 

A great place to work
We go out of our way to 
make this a GREAT place to 
work. There are four pillars to 
our culture: communication, 
equality, reward and fun. It is 
upon these pillars that the 
performance of our staff rests. 

Profitability
Admiral continues to focus 
on profitability both in the 
short, medium and long 
term, and will continue to do 
what is right for the long 
term success of the business.

A great place 
to work

Low capital 
employment

Satisfied  
customers

Profitability

Shareholder 
returns

Low capital employed
Sharing risk with co- and 
reinsurance partners is an 
important part of Admiral’s 
business. Our model is based 
on reinsurance relationships 
underpinned by strong 
underwriting results, with 
Admiral itself only providing 
the capital backing for a 
minority of its business.

Shareholder returns
We believe that keeping 
management hungry for cash 
keeps them focused on the 
most important aspects of 
the business. We don’t starve 
our businesses, but neither 
do we allow them the luxury 
of excess capital.

Putting customers at the heart 
of our business model

We value our customers above everything else 
and believe that good service and customer 
satisfaction are crucial for success. Our staff and 
departments are rewarded through incentive 
schemes that place emphasis on the quality 
of service provided to our customers.

Every day revolves around attracting, keeping 
and satisfying customers and the Group strives 
to design products that customers want and 
that represent value for money. 

In 2014 consumers voted Admiral the Best 
Motor Insurance Provider at the Personal 
Finance Awards for the second year in a row.

Awards  2014/15

WINN E R
Best Car Insurance

WHO ARE
OUR CUSTOMERS?

Admiral tends not to focus on particular 
market segments, but aims to offer 
great value products and services 
to all customers in its markets.

12

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STRATEGIC REPORT

OUR STRENGTHS
Culture
Many companies document their culture at length but 
the best way to understand Admiral’s culture is to spend 
a day in one of our offices to appreciate the depth of staff 
engagement with a business of which they all own a part; 
the vibrancy of the working environment; the commitment 
to the customer; and the engrained desire to produce a 
quality output and continuously improve that quality.

People
We believe that if people enjoy what they do, they do a 
better job – in 2014 Admiral was voted the 2nd Best Large 
Workplace in the UK by the Great Place to Work Institute 
and was awarded the FTSE Female Pipeline Award, which 
recognises Admiral for the success of women in its workplace. 
Admiral has been in The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies 
to Work For in the UK every year the list has been compiled 
and was 2nd in this year’s list. We also win numerous awards 
in our overseas businesses reflecting the successful export 
of the Admiral culture to those newer businesses. 

Focus
Admiral has spent more than 20 years refining how best to 
provide the service people look for from their car insurer, 
and the last 13 years developing Price Comparison. It is 
only since the advent of Admiral Household Insurance in 
2012 that the Group has dedicated any material effort 
outside private motor insurance and price comparison.

OUR APPROACH
Risk aversion
Admiral has always sought to protect its downside and this 
is characterised by: the reinsurance model; a very conservative 
approach to claims reserving; an organic growth strategy; 
a test and learn approach of taking measured steps 
before investing further; and a conservative approach 
to investment management.

Profit focus
Admiral is focused on bottom line profitability in the short, 
medium and long term across all its business operations. 
We don’t spend too much time thinking about things like 
market share, size and target customers; these factors are 
all by-products, not drivers, of the decisions that we make 
that are focused on generating profits.

Controlled test and learn
Admiral Group has been built from the ground up, taking 
measured steps to test how well we understand the challenge 
ahead and the effectiveness of our solutions, and then to learn 
from that experience and from the experience of those who 
have tried other strategies. That is how the Admiral team 
has set about building private motor businesses in five 
countries, price comparison businesses in four, and a 
household insurance business in the UK.

Customers who 
would renew 
following a claim (%)

95%

5
9

0
9

1
9

>85%

Customer Services, New 
Business and Renewals 
call answer rates*1 (%)

95%

5
9

2
9

>90%

1
*
a
/
n

Claims call 
answer rate (%) 

98%

8
9

4
9

5
9

>90%

Complaints per 
1,000 vehicles 

1.0

<1.4

2
.
1

2
.
01
.
1

12

13

14

12

13

14

12

13

14

12

13

14

*1  2012 data is unavailable due to changes in reporting

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

13

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORTADMIRAL’S STRATEGY

Doing what we do, and doing 
it even better than last year

Our strategy is simple: we aim  
to build on our existing strengths.

1  

 Maintain strong 
performance of our 
UK Car Insurance business

2   

 Exploit opportunities 
presented by the US 
car insurance market

What this means
Stay ahead of the competition – in particular 
maintaining a material combined ratio advantage. 
This means underwriting profitable business 
and pricing effectively for risk, providing great 
customer service and maintaining a cost 
conscious culture.

What this means
Learn from our experiences in the UK and Europe 
and export those learnings (including 
sophisticated pricing techniques) to the US. 
Understand the US consumer: what insurance 
cover and products they want and how they 
want to buy them. Educate the US consumer: 
shopping for car insurance online is a good thing!

3  

  Further grow our 
presence in Europe

What this means
Develop profitable, growing, sustainable 
businesses in insurance and price comparison 
that mirror the UK model. This means building 
on the market profiles developed by our 
strong management teams.

4   

 Establish new products 
which use our 
existing expertise

What this means
Test and learn approach to utilising our 
existing skills and expertise to develop 
products that customers want and that 
represent value for money.

Our focus for 2015
Respond to UK market conditions; implement 
price increases, control claims and expenses.

Our focus for 2015
Grow the customer base in the states in which 
we operate and raise the profile of Elephant Auto. 
This will be supported by the separate 
development of our price comparison website, 
compare.com, and focused marketing in 
important states to spread the understanding 
of price comparison and increase the number 
of visitors to both our compare.com and 
Elephant Auto websites.

Our focus for 2015
Capitalise on ConTe’s performance in 2014 and 
grow the premium base. Generate further growth 
from Rastreator and LeLynx’s market-leading 
positions in the Spanish and French price 
comparison markets. Admiral Seguros to 
follow ConTe to break-even. 

L’olivier Assurances to capitalise on its new 
infrastructure and grow following the introduction 
of the Hamon Law, which allows consumers 
to switch insurers any time after one year 
without penalty. 

Our focus for 2015
Continue to focus on household as more 
people embrace price comparison shopping 
for household cover. Control household costs 
to support a below market average expense 
ratio whilst maintaining control over pricing 
and claims to produce a good loss ratio. 

Our success has been based on having 
the right people with the right skills.
We believe that good service and customer satisfaction 
is crucial for success. Our strategy is delivered through 
our people; they are crucial to our success.

14

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Gary
IT support

Sav
Claims correspondent

Expanding internationally
In recent years Admiral Group has expanded across 
Europe and to the US. An important attribute to 
success in these markets is our staff. We have created 
office environments to help motivate staff, combining 
the best of what’s been learned over time in the 
UK with local habits and traditions.

Martin
CEO of confused.com

Aligned interests
Admiral staff across all locations are awarded 
a stake in the Group shortly after they join.

Claire
Trainer

Brian
Liability correspondent

A quality service
Everyone in the organisation 
has a part to play in ensuring 
quality, so departments within 
the Group are measured against 
sets of quality measures, which 
are meant to be a challenge; 
people have to work hard to 
achieve them, but they are 
still achievable. 

To learn about our diversity, ethics and 
human rights, please turn to the 
Directors’ Report on page 73

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

15

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORTQ&A

Questions and answers
with Henry Engelhardt, David Stevens and Geraint Jones

In the last 12 months we have had a lot of questions 
from investors and analysts alike. Here we try to 
answer some of them. 

Henry

Alastair’s statement indicates that the 
downturn in the Group result is due 
to the investment in compare.com. 
How long do you see the investment 
continuing and when will you know 
if the model works in the US?
With price comparison operations, the 
amount of investment in the early years 
roughly equates to the loss, as the earnings 
profile is very much driven by marketing 
spend. Both Rastreator and LeLynx were 
profitable within three years of launch.

Compare.com continues to make good 
progress in the US which justifies the 
ongoing investment we have outlined for 
2015. We have focused marketing spend on 
the larger US states of California, Illinois, Texas 
and Virginia. We continue to view the internet 
as an irresistible force and believe more and 
more consumers will turn to the internet for 
more and more shopping opportunities. 
Feedback from US consumers is positive and, 
as you will see from Andrew Rose’s (compare.com 
CEO) report, with more than 40 auto insurance 
carriers under contract, it’s an attractive choice 
for insurers as well.

Quick questions

What is your most memorable 

Admiral moment? 
The day we floated on the Stock Exchange 

and next day when we went around the 

offices offering (little) bottles of champagne 

to every member of staff. That was a very 

happy group! 

David Stevens
Chief Operating Officer

Geraint Jones
Chief Financial Officer

Henry Engelhardt
Chief Executive Officer

16

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

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It’s great that ConTe has made a 
profit and you are optimistic that 
Admiral Seguros will follow suit. 
Is this a watershed year for the 
international businesses?
We have always said that insurance businesses 
will take between six to ten years to break-even, 
due mainly to the start-up costs and the high 
expense ratio in the early years when premiums 
and customers are low. It is very encouraging 
that ConTe has produced its first profits at the 
lower end of this target period, in year six, albeit 
those profits came from back year releases 
rather than current year results. I’m confident 
Admiral Seguros will break even in 2015. 
This is in spite of very challenging economic 
conditions in Europe which have particularly 
affected both ConTe and Admiral Seguros.

Admiral is in the business of building profitable, 
sustainable and growing businesses and we 
expect the European operations to build on 
their performance to date and to match growth 
aspirations to local market conditions. 

We would expect Elephant Auto to follow this 
six to ten year profile and, given the size of the 
US market, probably to be at the outer end of 
this target period, but we are already in year five, 
so halfway there! We have already achieved 
so much in establishing Elephant Auto as a 
direct insurer in an agent driven market. The 
development of an active price comparison 
market, led by compare.com, can only 
accelerate change.

You (and the team) have built 
a fantastic business over the last 
21 years. What would you like to see 
your eventual successor aim for?
There’s definitely success in succession at 
Admiral. I am fully convinced that the group 
of young senior managers we’ve got in our 
Group are brighter and more inventive then 
those of us moving on over the next few 
years. These managers have already spent 
a number of years in the Group and so we’ve 
also been able to brainwash them with the 
way we do things. Not only are these people 
interesting and talented, but they are also 
hungry to succeed. 

If we cannot find our future leaders from this 
group then I will have done my job very poorly. 
And we certainly don’t want that to be the 
case, do we?!

David

Henry’s statement indicates that 
Admiral is now too big to be immune 
to the cyclicality in the UK market. 
What does that mean for Admiral’s 
UK loss ratio, reserves and 
reserve releases?
The underwriting margin we earn per policy 
rises and falls as the insurance cycle drives 
prices up and down. Historically, when we had 
a small market share we had the opportunity 
to offset falling margin per policy through a 
rapid growth in policies. Now we have roughly 
12% of the market it’s neither possible nor 
advisable to grow strongly during periods of 
falling margin – especially now that the price 
comparison market has largely reached maturity.

We attempt to soften the profit impact of the 
cycle by raising rates earlier than our competitors 
in bad times and ceasing to raise them earlier 
in the good times.

In terms of dividends, we continue to believe 
firmly in not holding excess capital in the Group 
and will again distribute 95% of earnings in 
2014 – the same level as 2013.

Our reserving philosophy has always been and 
remains conservative and consistent across time 
– we claim to take full credit for an underwriting 
profit only when it has a very high degree of 
certainty, which typically involves waiting a 
couple of years.

Quick questions

What are you most likely to be 

caught doing outside of work? 
Sneaking a taramasalata on Digestives.

Alastair’s statement makes reference 
to ‘a major systems upgrade’ in the 
UK, so what have you been up to and 
how will this impact the UK business? 
Henry has also made reference in his statement 
to Guidewire being implemented in the UK 
and France. We already use Guidewire in our 
US operation. 

We’ve been going for 20 years now and the 
time has come for an overhaul of our insurance 
administration system. We expect to be able 
to deliver better service at a somewhat lower 
cost with our new systems.

Although it’s a big and complex project, I am 
confident that we are dedicating the right 
level of internal and external expertise to 
ensure a successful implementation.

Admiral has always prided itself on 
being a low-cost operation, but you 
are investing in systems, facilities and 
staff. How will this affect your 
historical expense ratio advantage?
Our expense ratio advantage over our 
competitors runs at over ten percentage points 
and has done for years. We see the investments 
we are making as important to maintaining 
that advantage.

Geraint

Admiral is a cash generative business 
with a high dividend payout. If you 
needed capital, why not just reduce 
the dividend? Why did you issue debt? 
As Alastair mentioned in his statement, we 
recognised that favourable capital markets 
offered an opportunity to strengthen and 
diversify the capital base. The bond counts 
towards capital in the current and future solvency 
regimes and we believe it was a prudent course 
of action as we make the transition into the 
new Solvency II regime in 2016.

The increased level of capital will also support 
our growth aspirations for all Admiral’s businesses 
in the coming years.

How does the level of reserve 
conservatism compare to previous 
years and will Solvency II change your 
approach to reserving?
Admiral has always reserved cautiously – 
initially setting provisions well above the 
projected ultimate outcomes. This tends to 
lead to higher than industry-average releases 
and you’ll see from the results that we have 
seen an increase in releases in 2014, which was 
due to some very positive development on 
the back years. However, despite the large 
releases there has been no deterioration in 
the level of conservatism in the reserves. 

Solvency II will bring numerous changes to the 
Group, from the way capital requirements are 
calculated to our structure of risk management 
and the way Admiral’s results and business are 
reported to regulators and to the public. 
Despite this, I don’t see Admiral’s cautious 
approach to reserving changing under the 
new regime.

Quick questions

What is your favourite album?
It’s almost impossible to pick one, but if 

I absolutely had to it would be Appetite for 

Destruction, Guns n’ Roses.... shaped my 

musical tastes for good.

There has been a lot of talk about 
the potential impact of Solvency II 
on capital and dividends. So what 
will be the impact on capital and 
how might this affect Admiral’s 
dividend policy?
As I mention in my statement, whilst some 
uncertainty still remains, based on what we 
know today, we expect the level of capital 
requirement for the Group in 2016 to be not 
too dissimilar from that agreed by the PRA 
under the UK ICAS rules for 2015. 

I don’t foresee any change to Admiral’s 
philosophy on dividends and expect the 
Group to continue distributing to shareholders 
capital we don’t need to keep within the 
Group for solvency, growth or for contingencies. 
Based on what we know today, I don’t expect 
material changes for the foreseeable future in 
the level of dividends in terms of the percentage 
of earnings distributed.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

17

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORT 
 
GROUP FINANCIAL REVIEW

2014 was another strong year
for the Admiral Group

The final dividend proposed for 2014 is 
49.0 pence per share – bringing the total 
dividend to 98.4 pence per share, within 
1% of the total 2013 dividend. That 
represents a payout ratio of 95% and 
brings to £271 million the full year 
dividend (£271 million last year).”

Geraint Jones
Chief Financial Officer

In summary
 @ The Group’s UK Car Insurance 
business accounts for 81% of 
Group turnover (2013: 84%) and 
78% of customers (2013: 82%)

 @ ConTe, our Italian car insurance 
business, joined our French 
and Spanish price comparison 
businesses in now contributing 
positively to the Group’s result

 @ Our insurance operations in 
France, Spain and the US 
continue to require investment, 
though we remain encouraged 
by the progress made and have 
confidence in the operations 
and their future profitability

 @ The UK Household Insurance 
business enjoyed another 
year of strong growth in policy 
numbers and again achieved 
break-even

2014 was another strong year for Admiral, with 
good financial results and lots of encouraging 
progress in businesses across the Group. Earnings 
per share at 103.0 pence was slightly lower 
than 2013 (104.6 pence), though the 2014 
result included a further, small increase in 
profit from the UK Car Insurance business 
and, encouragingly, a small profit from ConTe, 
Admiral’s Italian insurance business. Taken 
together with Rastreator and LeLynx, this brings 
to three (out of seven) the number of businesses 
outside the UK that contribute positively to 
the Group’s result.

As noted earlier in this report, the main reason for 
the fall in 2014’s result was the investment made 
in the US comparison business compare.com 
(Admiral’s share of the loss was £15 million 
pre-tax). We believe this new business has 
developed well and has great potential. We will 
continue to invest in attracting customers to 
the website and growing the business, to the 
extent that compare.com is expected to post 
a loss in the region of £20 million to £30 million 
in 2015 (based on Admiral’s 68% ownership). 

Our insurance operations in France, Spain 
and the US are still loss-making, although the 
combined loss for all international operations 
has reduced to £19.9 million from £22.1 million. 
We continue to be encouraged by progress 
made and have confidence in the operations 
and their future profitability. Admiral’s UK 
Household Insurance business enjoyed another 
year of very strong growth in policy numbers 
and another broadly break-even financial 
result. Much more detail on the performance 
of each of the businesses is set out on the 
following pages.

Alastair has articulated Admiral’s dividend 
policy in his statement and I won’t repeat it 
here. The final dividend proposed for 2014 is 
49.0 pence per share – a 3% reduction compared 
to the final 2013 payment. The full year dividend 
for 2014 is £271 million (2013: £271 million) 
equating to a payout ratio of 95% of earnings.

Consistent with our approach to the calculation 
of the interim 2014 dividend, we have, at year 
end, retained a significant margin over current 
economic capital requirements to ensure a 
smooth transition to the new Solvency II 
regulatory regime coming into effect in 
January 2016. We are making very good 
progress towards full compliance with the 
various requirements of the regulation and 
expect clarity in the coming months on the level 
of capital requirement that will apply next year. 
Acknowledging that some uncertainty remains, 
based on what we know today, we expect the 
level of capital requirement in 2016 to be not 
too dissimilar to the current ICAS requirements.

And finally, we were pleased to complete 
successfully the issue of Admiral’s first public 
bond in July 2014, which both strengthened 
and diversified the capital available to the Group. 
The net annual cost of the £200 million ten-year 
subordinated notes (lower tier two capital under 
the current regime and expected to qualify 
as tier two under Solvency II) is approximately 
£4.5 million per year: we welcome this new set 
of investors in the Admiral Group.

Geraint Jones
Chief Financial Officer
4 March 2015

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Turnover (£million)

£1,971m

-3%

5
8
5
,
1

0
9
1
,
2

5
1
2
,
2

0
3
0
,
2

1
7
9
,
1

10

11

12

13

14

Profit before tax*1 (£million)

£356.5m

-4%

.

5
4
4
3

.

7
0
7
3

5
.
6
5
3

.

0
9
9
2

.

8
5
6
2

10

11

12

13

14

*1   Represents Group’s share of 

profit before tax after excluding 
Minority Interests

Earnings per share (pence)

103.0p

-2%

.

1
5
9

.

6
4
0
1

0
.
3
0
1

.

9
1
8

.

3
2
7

10

11

12

13

14

Full year dividend per share 
(pence)

98.4p

-1%

6
.
0
9

6
.
5
7

1
.
8
6

5
.
9
9

.

4
8
9

10

11

12

13

14

Group results and dividend
 @ Admiral Group’s share of pre-tax profits decreased in 2014 by 4% to £356.5 million 

(2013: £370.7 million).

 @ UK Car Insurance profit increased by 1% to £398.0 million (2013: £393.9 million).

 @ International Car Insurance losses totalled £19.9 million (2013: £22.1 million).

 @ Admiral Group’s share of Price Comparison profit totalled £3.6 million (2013: £21.1 million) 

reflecting the investment in compare.com.

 @ Other Group Items, including employee share schemes and net debt financing charges, 

amounted to a cost of £24.6 million (2013: £22.0 million).

Note:  Segment and business results also exclude share scheme charges which are accounted 

for in Other Group Items

Further details by segment are set out below.

The decrease in Group profit was predominantly 
due to the increased investment made in 
compare.com – the Group’s US comparison 
business (Admiral’s share of the loss was 
£15.0 million in 2014).

Group turnover of £1,971.0 million decreased 
by 3% compared to 2013 (£2,030.2 million). 
This was mainly due to reductions in average 
premiums in the UK Car Insurance business. 
During 2014, the Group increased its customer 
base to 4.05 million from 3.70 million at 
31 December 2013, year-on-year growth 
of just under 355,000.

Earnings per share decreased by 2% to 
103.0 pence (2013: 104.6 pence). The decrease 
is lower than the 5% decrease in pre-tax profit 
due to the lower effective rate of corporation 
tax in 2014. 

Total dividends paid and proposed for the 
financial year amount to 98.4 pence per share 
(£271 million), a decrease of 1% on the previous 
year (2013: 99.5 pence, £271 million). This is equal 
to 95% of post-tax profits. The final dividend 
proposed is 49.0 pence per share (3% lower 
than the final 2013 dividend of 50.6 pence). 

The final dividend is made up of a 22.5 pence 
normal element, based on the stated dividend 
policy of distributing 45% of post-tax profits, 
and a further special element of 26.5 pence. 
The special dividend is calculated by reference 
to distributable reserves after taking into 
account solvency requirements and a margin 
for contingencies.

The payment date is 29 May 2015, the 
ex-dividend date is 7 May and the record 
date is 8 May.

Divisional performance highlights
The Group’s UK Car Insurance business accounts 
for 81% of Group turnover (2013: 84%) and 
78% of customers (2013: 82%). The relative 
decreases are due to the continued growth 
and development of the Group’s other 
businesses, leading to lower concentration 
of the core business.

In 2014, the UK business continued to focus 
on margin rather than volume, in the face of 
very strong competition in the UK market and 

continued pressure on rates, but increased 
marginally the number of vehicles insured to 
3.2 million (2013: 3.0 million). Supported by 
strong releases from prior year claims reserves 
on the back of continued positive development 
in projected claims costs, and an improved 
expense ratio, the combined ratio improved 
to 79.5% (2013: 81.0%) and profit before tax 
was £398.0 million – up 1% on 2013’s result 
of £393.9 million.

Lower average premiums in the competitive 
UK market, in part offset by success in 
increasing the number of renewal customers, 
contributed to a reduction in UK turnover of 
6% to £1,602.7 million (2013: £1,698.9 million).

Outside of the UK, Admiral’s International 
Car Insurance businesses continue to develop, 
with combined turnover rising 10% to 
£206.2 million (2013: £187.8 million) and 
customer numbers almost reaching 600,000 – 
an increase of 15% on a year earlier. The 2014 
Group results include a small profit generated 
by ConTe. The combined loss from the 
international insurance operations was lower 
in 2014 at £19.9 million (2013: £22.1 million), 
primarily due to improved claims experience 
and the impact of the ConTe profit.

In a very competitive UK comparison market, 
Confused.com, the Group’s UK Price Comparison 
business, reported a pre-tax profit of £15.8 million 
– £5.9 million lower than 2013’s result. Outside 
the UK, the European Price Comparison 
businesses (Rastreator in Spain and LeLynx 
in France) contributed a combined profit of 
£2.8 million (2013: £1.9 million) to the Group’s 
profits. During the year, the Group invested 
in growing compare.com, its US comparison 
business, and the Group’s share of the pre-tax 
loss was £15.0 million.

Other Group key performance indicators include:

 @ Group loss ratio 69.0% (2013: 69.2%) – 

a marginal reduction in the UK loss ratio 
resulting from higher reserve releases 
together with a significant improvement 
in the international loss ratio.

 @ Group expense ratio 19.7% (2013: 19.9%) – 
a slight decrease in the UK ratio offset by 
an increased international ratio. 

 @ Group combined ratio 88.7% (2013: 89.1%).

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

19

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORTThe Group continues 
to generate substantial 
amounts of cash and 
its capital-efficient 
business model 
enables the distribution 
of the majority of 
post-tax profits 
as dividends.”

GROUP FINANCIAL REVIEW CONTINUED

Investments and cash
Investment strategy
Admiral maintained a low risk investment strategy throughout the year and continued to invest 
in the same broad asset classes as previous years.

The main focus of the Group’s investment strategy is capital preservation, with additional priorities 
including low volatility of returns and high levels of liquidity. All objectives continue to be met. 

The Group’s Investment Committee performs regular reviews of the strategy to ensure it 
remains appropriate. 

Cash and investments analysis

UK Car
Insurance
£m

822.7

808.6

261.0

101.8

31 December 2014

International
Car
Insurance
£m

Price
Comparison
£m

—

96.5

2.1

38.6

—

—

—

49.0

49.0

1,994.1

137.2

31 December 2013

International
Car
Insurance
£m

Price
Comparison
£m

—

98.4

2.4

35.7

136.5

—

—

—

38.7

38.7

UK Car
Insurance
£m

202.4

1,278.2

286.0

101.6

1,868.2

Other
£m

Total
£m

199.1

1,021.8

4.1

—

66.5

269.7

909.2

263.1

255.9

2,450.0

Other
£m

—

29.5

—

11.9

41.4

Total
£m

202.4

1,406.1

288.4

187.9

2,084.8

Fixed income and 
debt securities

Money market funds

Cash deposits

Cash 

Total

Fixed income and 
debt securities

Money market funds

Cash deposits

Cash 

Total

There has been a change in the allocation of funds during 2014, with a greater proportion invested 
in fixed income and other short dated securities (and less in money market funds and deposits). 
This change has been made in order to increase yield without materially increasing risk. This change 
has not resulted in a material change in credit quality and only a moderate increase in average 
duration, due to the features of the underlying investments.

Money market funds, fixed income and debt securities comprise the majority of the total; 79% 
at 31 December 2014, up from 77% at 31 December 2013.

Investment and interest income in 2014 was £15.4 million, up 8% on 2013 (£14.3 million). The increase 
was due to higher average balances along with the increased allocation of funds to fixed income 
and other short dated securities that took place across 2014. The increase would have been greater 
but was partially offset by an adjustment (of approximately £8 million) relating to notional 
investment income on quota share reinsurance funds withheld arrangements. If the combined 
ratio on the 2014 underwriting year (for the UK Car Insurance business) reduces to profitable 
levels, this adjustment will reverse.

The Group continues to generate significant amounts of cash and its capital-efficient business 
model enables the distribution of the majority of post-tax profits as dividends.

Operating cash flow, before transfers to investments

Transfers to financial investments

Operating cash flow

Tax and interest payments

Investing cash flows (capital expenditure)

Financing cash flows (dividends offset by proceeds 
of debt issue)

Foreign currency translation impact

Net cash movement

Movement in investment valuation reserve

Net increase in cash and financial investments 

2012
£m 

742.0

(441.9)

300.1

(79.7)

(10.9)

(214.8)

(2.7)

(8.0)

—

434.5

2013
£m

616.8

(295.3)

321.5

(88.5)

(10.1)

(250.3)

(1.3)

(28.7)

—

266.6

2014
£m

540.2

(286.3)

253.9

(77.0)

(47.5)

(64.4)

3.0

68.0

10.9

365.2

20

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

 
The main items contributing to the significant operating cash inflow are as follows:

Profit after tax

Change in net insurance liabilities 

Net change in trade receivables and liabilities 

Non-cash income statement items

Tax and net interest expense

Operating cash flow, before transfers to investments

2012
£m 

258.4

200.0

163.0

34.4

86.2

742.0

2013
£m

286.9

186.2

22.3

38.1

83.3

616.8

2014
£m

281.6

187.5

(34.7)

36.7

69.1

540.2

Total cash plus investments increased by £365 million or 18% (2013: £267 million, 15%). The net 
change in actual cash balances was less significant, as funds were transferred into investments.

Capital structure and financial position
Admiral’s capital-efficient and profitable business model led to a return on equity of 52% (2013: 58%). 
A key feature of the business model is the extensive use of co- and reinsurance across the Group. 
During 2013 and in early 2014 Admiral announced extensions to its UK co- and reinsurance 
arrangements with capacity fully allocated until at least the end of 2016 and Munich Re committed 
to underwriting 40% of our UK motor business until at least the end of 2018. Similar long term 
arrangements are in place in the Group’s international insurance operations and UK Household 
Insurance business.

The Group continues to manage its capital to ensure that all entities within the Group are able 
to continue as going concerns and that regulated entities comfortably meet regulatory capital 
requirements. Surplus capital within subsidiaries is paid up to the Group holding company in 
the form of dividends.

In July 2014, the Group completed the issue of £200 million of ten-year dated subordinated bonds. 
The rate of interest is fixed at 5.5% and the bonds mature in July 2024. The bonds qualify as lower 
tier two capital under the current regulatory capital regime and are expected to qualify as tier two 
capital under Solvency II.

The majority of the Group’s capital requirement is derived from its European insurance operations, 
Admiral Insurance (Gibraltar) Limited (AIGL) and Admiral Insurance Company Limited (AICL) under 
their respective local regulations. The minimum capital requirements and surplus position at the 
end of 2014 for those companies, along with the overall Group position, were as follows:

Capital*1
Minimum regulatory capital requirement

Surplus over minimum requirement
Actual capital requirement*2
Surplus over regulatory capital requirement

AIGL
£m

187

77

110

AICL
£m

77

27

50

Group
£m

705

120

585

289

416

*1  Before accounting for the 2014 final dividend of £136 million. Comprises tangible equity plus debt 

*2  Based on the sum of the individual capital requirements of Group subsidiaries at 31 December 2014

During 2015, the Group’s capital requirement will be assessed under the ICAS regime in the 
UK with Individual Capital Guidance (ICG) applied by the Prudential Regulatory Authority (PRA) 
as appropriate. The Group expects to hold a significant buffer above ICG throughout 2015.

Solvency II
During 2014 further requirements and guidance 
continued to be issued on implementing the 
Solvency II regulatory regime in the EU ahead 
of the effective date of 1 January 2016. 
Solvency II aims to provide an EU-wide set 
of capital requirement and risk management 
standards. Principal themes include risk-based 
capital, market-consistent balance sheets and 
Own Risk and Solvency Assessments (ORSA). 
The Directors do not believe, based on 
guidance issued to date, that there will be 
a material change in the level of the Group’s 
capital surplus as a result of the new regime 
compared to the surplus expected during 
2015. The Group is making good progress 
towards full compliance with the various 
requirements of the regulation and expects 
clarity in the coming months on the level of 
capital requirement that will apply from 2016. 

Taxation
The tax charge reported in the Consolidated 
Income Statement is £69.1 million (2013: 
£83.3 million), which equates to 19.7% 
(2013: 22.5%) of profit before tax. The lower 
effective rate of taxation compared to 2013 
predominantly results from reductions in the 
rate of UK corporation tax in 2013 and 2014, 
but is also impacted by deferred tax movements 
relating to losses in the Group’s US businesses. 
The average rate of UK corporation tax in 2014 
was 21.50% (2013: 23.25%). The average rate 
will fall to 20.25% in 2015 and 20.00% in 2016.

Quick questions

What is your most memorable 
Admiral moment?
They mainly involve singing… either with 

the band at the floor 22 Christmas party 

in 2011, or in front of 5,000 Germans 

at the Oktoberfest in Munich.

The Group’s results are presented in three 
segments – UK Car Insurance, International 
Car Insurance and Price Comparison. Other 
Group Items are summarised in a fourth section.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

21

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORT 
 
 
UK INSURANCE REVIEW

UK Car Insurance remains 
a key part of the business

UK Insurance strategy
The strategy for Admiral’s UK business 
is unchanged and remains simple:
 @ The Group aims to grow profitably its share 

of the UK private motor insurance market whilst 
maintaining a capital-efficient structure.

 @ At the same time, Admiral endeavours always 
to give excellent service to customers, whilst 
providing a positive environment in which 
staff can work and develop.

David Stevens
Chief Operating Officer

The avid readers (or possibly reader) of my UK 
review will have noted its subtle rebranding 
from UK Car Insurance Review to UK Insurance 
Review – a nod to Admiral’s entry into the 
second biggest non-life market in the UK – 
household insurance.

Maybe the rebranding’s premature. Car insurance 
still accounts for the vast majority of our turnover 
and almost all our profits. So I’ll write about 
that first.

After over two years of almost unprecedented 
premium deflation, premiums across the car 
insurance market stabilised in the second half 
of 2014, and even began to drift up. This is partly 
simply a normal, cyclical point of inflection, and 
partly a response to the return to ‘business 
as usual’ in terms of claims inflation, following 
the largely one-off benefits in 2013 of changes 
in the rules around small bodily injury claims. 
This probably means that the point of lowest 
profitability was around the end of 2014 (in terms 
of ultimate profitability of newly written business, 
though not necessarily in terms of currently 
reported profitability). 

Within an overall cycle there are often mini-cycles 
that make subsets of the market relatively 
more or less attractive. A combination of 
factors has made the younger driver segment 
more challenging than the market as a whole 
at this particular juncture. This has partly been 
an equal and opposite reaction to the panic 
premium hikes and withdrawals of 2010/11, 

with a number of important competitors 
re-embracing the segment in 2013/14. It’s also 
partly a dislocation caused by the impact of 
telematics. Telematics, though largely irrelevant 
for the market as a whole, is important in the 
younger driver segment. Whatever the potential 
in the long run, in the short term, because 
of the extra expenses involved and the size 
of the discounts required to overcome customer 
resistance, it has reduced the profitability of the 
young driver segment. This segment is, and 
is likely to remain, a significant minority of 
our business, but its importance to us shrank 
somewhat during 2014 through relatively 
higher price increases, as we responded 
to these pressures.

Across all segments, we started increasing 
our new business prices in May and renewal 
prices in July, and by year end had implemented 
a series of price increases cumulatively, in 
percentage terms, in the high single digits. 
We anticipate further price increases during 2015, 
reversing some of the margin reduction of the 
last two to three years. However, longer term 
followers of our Company will appreciate 
that price increases today are a case of ‘jam 
tomorrow’ in profit terms – any year’s actual 
profitability is essentially reflected in reported 
profitability over the following two to three years, 
due to our cautious approach to recognising 
underwriting profit. Still, it’s good to be heading 
in the right direction.

After over two 
years of almost 
unprecedented 
premium deflation, 
premiums across the 
car insurance market 
stabilised in the 
second half of 2014, 
and even began to 
drift up.”

Quick questions

TV or radio – Radio
Home or abroad – Abroad
Trainers or shoes – Shoes
Tea or coffee – Tea
Bus or walk – Bus
Call or text – Call
Chips or mash – Mash

22

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

Achievements and goals

UK Insurance achievements in 2014
 @ Profit before tax increased 1% to £398 million (2013: £394 million).

 @ 2nd Best Large Workplace in the UK, Great Place to Work Institute.

 @ Best Car Insurance Provider in the Personal Finance Awards 

 @ Combined ratio remained broadly flat in 2014 at 80% (2013: 81%). 

for the second year in a row.

 @ Profit generated from the portfolio of insurance products that 
complement the core car insurance product of £182 million 
(2013: £173 million).

 @ Britain’s Most Admired Company in the Life Assurance and 

Insurance sector.

 @ FTSE Female Pipeline Award. This award recognises Admiral 

 @ Strong growth in Household with a break-even result.

for the success of women in its workplace. 

 @ 95% of customers who have submitted a claim would renew with 

Admiral, based on their claims experience (2013: 91%).

UK Insurance goals for 2015
 @ Appropriate rate increases in response to claims trends and 

 @ 94% of staff say that Admiral is a friendly place to work according 

market conditions.

to the Best Workplaces survey.

 @ 2nd Best Big Company to Work For, The Sunday Times 100 Best 

Companies to Work For. 

 @ Continued reserve releases if back years develop as expected.

 @ Successful transition to new IT system (Guidewire).

Kerry
Claims 
Accounts Clerk

And what about our Household business?

Two years on and we insure more households 
than we did cars two years from our launch as 
a motor insurer, and we’re growing fast as more 
and more people embrace price comparison 
shopping for household cover. Results are 
encouraging. Our strategic bet is that we can 
materially undercut the 40%+ expense ratios 
of many of the established players, while also 
delivering a decent loss ratio outcome. Our 
expense ratio, on a written basis, is already 
actually below market average and our loss ratio 
is also encouraging. We have, of course, (and 
here’s a hostage to fortune, given the time lag 
from written to read) benefited, along with 
other players, from unusually benign weather, 
notwithstanding increasing tabloid ‘weather 
bomb’ hysteria. So, it’s ‘so far, so good’, but it 
is early days.

David Stevens
Chief Operating Officer
4 March 2015

Service with a smile
The customer is the centre of everything we do, and our most 
important stakeholder. I feel a sense of pride in the work I do, 
by ensuring I do my utmost to leave each customer I speak 
to with a smile on their face.

Read more about our people on page 15

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

23

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORTProfit from UK Car 
Insurance increased 
1% to £398.0 million 
(2013: £393.9 million). 
Profit from underwriting 
and profit commission 
increased marginally 
to £234.7 million 
(2013: £233.4 million), 
resulting from 
an improved 
combined ratio.”

UK INSURANCE REVIEW CONTINUED

UK Car Insurance financial review
Non-GAAP*1 format income statement

Turnover*2
Total premiums written*3
Net insurance premium revenue

Investment income

Net insurance claims

Net insurance expenses

Underwriting profit

Profit commission 

Underwriting profit plus profit commission

Net other income

Instalment income
UK Car Insurance profit before tax*4

*1  GAAP – Generally Accepted Accounting Practice

2012
£m

1,936.2

1,748.7

455.6

13.9

(355.1)

(50.0)

64.4

108.4

172.8

170.9

29.1

372.8

2013
£m

1,698.9

1,553.0

425.1

12.4

(251.3)

(52.1)

134.1

99.3

233.4

136.8

23.7

393.9

2014
£m

1,602.7

1,453.1

394.3

11.5

(198.3)

(44.6)

162.9

71.8

234.7

140.7

22.6

398.0

*2   Turnover (a non-GAAP measure) comprises total premiums written and Other Revenue. Refer to note 12  

for a reconciliation to financial statement line items

*3   Total premiums written (non-GAAP) includes premium underwritten by co-insurers

*4   UK Car Insurance profit before tax includes Minority Interests. The Minority Interests’ share of profit before tax 

is insignificant

Split of underwriting profit

Motor

Additional products

Underwriting profit

Key performance indicators 

Reported motor loss ratio*1
Reported motor expense ratio*2
Reported motor combined ratio

Written basis motor expense ratio
Reported total combined ratio*3 
Claims reserve releases – original net share*4
Claims reserve releases – commuted reinsurance*5
Total claims reserve releases

Vehicles insured at year end

Other Revenue per vehicle

2012
£m

59.6

4.8

64.4

2012

76.4%

13.6%

90.0%

13.0%

89.1%

£16.3m

£1.3m

£17.6m

3.02m

£79

2013
£m

121.8

12.3

134.1

2013

68.0%

15.0%

83.0%

14.5%

81.0%

£53.3m

£40.9m

£94.2m

3.02m

£67

2014
£m

144.2

18.7

162.9

2014

68.6%

14.4%

83.0%

16.0%

79.5%

£66.8m

£70.6m

£137.4m

3.15m

£67

*1   Motor loss ratio adjusted to exclude impact of reserve releases on commuted reinsurance contracts.  

Reconciliation in note 12b

*2   Motor expense ratio is calculated by including claims handling expenses that are reported within claims 

costs in the income statement. Reconciliation in note 12c

*3   Reported total combined ratio includes additional products underwritten by Admiral 

*4   Original net share shows reserve releases on the proportion of the portfolio that Admiral wrote on a net 

basis at the start of the underwriting year in question

*5   Commuted reinsurance shows releases on the proportion of the account that was originally ceded under 

quota share reinsurance contracts but has since been commuted and hence reported through underwriting and 
not profit commission

24

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

 
 
UK Car Insurance financial performance
2014 was the third successive year of premium 
reductions in the UK Car Insurance market. 
Admiral’s response has been to prioritise margin 
protection rather than attempting to grow 
market share materially. As a consequence, 
although strong renewal retention figures led 
to a 4% increase in vehicles insured, turnover 
fell to £1.6 billion from £1.7 billion. In the latter 
part of 2014, some evidence emerged of prices 
in the market increasing, though not yet in a 
material way.

Profit
Profit from UK Car Insurance increased 1% to 
£398.0 million (2013: £393.9 million). Profit from 
underwriting and profit commission increased 
marginally to £234.7 million (2013: £233.4 million), 
resulting from an improved combined ratio 
offsetting a reduction in net insurance premium 
revenue. The combined ratio improvement was 
largely due to higher reserve releases that 
resulted from positive claims development, in 
particular from the 2011, 2012 and 2013 years. Net 
other income and instalment income increased 
by 2% to £163.3 million (2013: £160.5 million).

Turnover and premiums
UK turnover of £1,602.7 million decreased by 
6% (2013: £1,698.9 million) primarily due to 
reductions in average premiums which also 
led to a 6% reduction in total premiums written 
to £1,453.1 million (2013: £1,553.0 million). The 
closing vehicle count increased to 3.15 million 
(2013: 3.02 million). Average written premium 
for the year was around £453 down 10% on 
2013 (2013: £505), largely a result of rate cuts 
made in 2013 along with portfolio mix changes 
(notably a shift in the balance of the portfolio 
towards renewal business).

UK Car Insurance – co-insurance and reinsurance

Admiral (in the UK and internationally) 
makes significant use of proportional 
risk sharing agreements, where insurers 
outside the Group underwrite a majority 
of the risk generated, either through 
co-insurance or quota share reinsurance 
contracts. These arrangements include 
profit commission terms which allow 
Admiral to retain a significant portion 
of the profit generated.

The two principal advantages of the 
arrangements are:

 @ Capital efficiency: a significant proportion 
of the capital supporting the underwriting 
is held outside the Group. As Admiral 
is typically able to retain much of the 
profit generated via profit commission 
(refer below for further details), the return 
on Group capital is higher than in an 
insurance company with a standard 
business model.

 @ Risk mitigation: co- and reinsurers bear 
their proportional shares of claims 
expenses and hence provide protection 
should results worsen substantially.

Arrangements for 2014 to 2016
In early 2014 the Group was pleased to announce extensions to its arrangements 
such that capacity is fully placed until the end of 2016. The underwriting splits can 
be summarised as follows:

Admiral

Great Lakes (Munich Re)

New Re

Swiss Re

Hannover Re

Mapfre Re

Total

The proportion underwritten by Great Lakes 
(a UK subsidiary of Munich Re) is on a 
co-insurance basis, such that 40% of all 
motor premium and claims for the 2014 
year accrues directly to Great Lakes and 
does not appear in the Group’s income 
statement. Similarly, Great Lakes reimburses 
the Group for its proportional share of 
expenses incurred in acquiring and 
administering the motor business.

Great Lakes will underwrite 40% of the 
UK business until at least the end of 2018.

All other agreements are quota 
share reinsurance.

Admiral has options to commute quota 
share reinsurance contracts and typically 
does so after two or three years of an 
underwriting year’s development when 
there is a reasonably certain view on the 
year’s outcome. There is little or no impact 
of commutation on profit or the timing of 
profit recognition.

2014 

25.00%

40.00%

13.25%

9.00%

8.75%

4.00%

2015

25.00%

40.00%

12.25%

9.00%

8.75%

5.00%

2016

25.00%

40.00%

12.25%

9.00%

8.75%

5.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

After commutation, movements in booked 
loss ratios result in reduced or increased net 
claims costs (and not profit commission).

At 31 December 2014, all material UK quota 
share reinsurance contracts for underwriting 
years up to and including 2012 have been 
commuted. All reinsurance for the 2013 
and 2014 years remained in effect. 

Co-insurance and reinsurance arrangements 
expose Admiral to two principal risks:

 @ The risk of reduced availability 

of co-insurance and reinsurance 
arrangements.

 @ Credit risk of significant counterparties 

through default of a reinsurer.

Details of the potential impact and 
mitigating factors the Group has in 
place are available on pages 36 to 38.

The European and US arrangements 
are explained in the International 
Car Insurance section and the UK 
Household arrangements are explained 
in the Other Group Items section.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

25

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORTUK INSURANCE REVIEW CONTINUED

Underwriting result and profit commission
The UK Car Insurance motor combined ratio remained stable in 2014 as follows:

UK Car Insurance Motor combined ratio

2013 

2014 

Loss ratio excluding reserve releases from original net share 
and commuted reinsurance

Reserve releases – original net share
Loss ratio net of releases – original net share*1
Expense ratio
Combined ratio – original net share*1

81.2%

13.2%

68.0%

15.0%

83.0%

86.9%

18.3%

68.6%

14.4%

83.0%

*1   Ratios calculated on original net share uses the proportion of the portfolio that Admiral wrote on a net basis 

at the start of the underwriting year in question

The reported motor combined ratio remained 
stable at 83.0% (2013: 83.0%) (both figures 
exclude the impact of reserve releases from 
commuted reinsurance contracts). This reflects 
a marginally increased reported loss ratio of 
68.6% (2013: 68.0%), which was due to the 
impact of falling premiums offset by higher 
reserve releases (£66.8 million vs. £53.3 million). 

These higher releases were possible due 
to positive claims development during 2014 
that resulted in improvements in the projected 
ultimate loss ratios, especially for the 2011 
to 2013 underwriting years.

Excluding reserve releases, the loss ratio 
increased to 86.9% (2013: 81.2%), largely 
due to the impact of falling premiums.

Claims reserving
Admiral’s reserving policy (both within the claims function and in the financial statements) 
is initially to reserve conservatively, above internal and independent projections of ultimate 
loss ratios. This is designed to create a margin held in reserves to allow for unforeseen 
adverse development in open claims and typically results in Admiral making above industry 
average reserve releases. Admiral’s booked claims reserves continue to include a significant 
margin above projected best estimates of ultimate claims costs. 

As profit commission income is recognised in the income statement in line with loss ratios 
accounted for on Admiral’s own claims reserves, the reserving policy also results in profit 
commission income being deferred and released over time.

The earned motor expense ratio decreased 
to 14.4% from 15.0% due to the current year 
benefiting from a one-off adjustment to levy 
costs as a result of a change in accounting 
standards. Excluding the adjustment the earned 
motor expense ratio would have increased to 
16.3%, the increase being due to lower average 
premiums (which also led to an increase in the 
written basis expense ratio to around 16% 
from 15%).

The projected ultimate loss ratio for Admiral 
for the 2014 accident year is 82% (2013 accident 
year: 68%). The increase between years is due 
to a combination of lower average premiums 
and increases in average claims costs.

The projected ultimate combined ratio (ultimate 
loss ratio plus written expense ratio) for Admiral 
for the 2014 accident year is 97%, compared 
to 85% for 2013, resulting from the increased 
loss ratio. The reported combined ratio for the 
whole UK market (excluding Admiral) for 2013, 
excluding reserve releases, was 108%.

Johnny
Senior Customer Representative

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The reported 
motor combined 
ratio remained 
stable at 83.0% 
(2013: 83.0%).”

Helping drive 
my career!
Each department in Admiral 
has their own training teams. 
The customer service team 
have recently launched a new 
training plan with programmes 
designed to help staff develop 
in their own roles, as well as 
climb up the ladder. 

Read more about our people 
on page 15

Profit commission
Admiral is potentially able to earn material amounts of profit commission revenue from 
co- and reinsurance partners, depending on the profitability of the business. Revenue 
is recognised in the income statement in line with the booked loss ratios on Admiral’s 
retained underwriting.

In 2014 Admiral recognised profit commission revenue of £71.8 million (2013: £99.3 million) 
and reserve releases from business that was originally ceded under quota share reinsurance 
contracts that have since been commuted of £70.6 million (2013: £40.9 million). Total income 
from both of the above therefore increased marginally to £142.4 million (2013: £140.2 million) 
due to improvements in prior year claims costs. Note 5c to the financial statements analyses 
profit commission income by underwriting year.

When a quota share reinsurance contract is commuted (typically after two or three years 
from the start of an underwriting year), further improvement or deterioration in claims 
costs are reported within net claims. If the contracts were not commuted, the movement 
would be reported in profit commission.

Total profit (excluding investment income) from car insurance underwriting of £144.2 million 
and profit commission of £71.8 million decreased, by 2% to £216.0 million from £221.1 million 
in 2013. 

Other Revenue
Admiral generates Other Revenue from a portfolio of insurance products that complement 
the core car insurance product, and also fees generated over the life of the policy. 

The most material contributors to net Other Revenue are:

 @ Profit earned from motor policy upgrade products underwritten by Admiral, including 

breakdown, car hire and personal injury covers.

 @ Profit from other insurance products, not underwritten by Admiral.

 @ Vehicle commission.

 @ Fees – administration fees and referral income.

 @ Instalment income – interest charged to customers paying for cover in instalments.

Other Revenue (net of costs and including contribution from additional products underwritten 
by Admiral) increased by 5% to £182.0 million (2013: £172.8 million). This was equivalent to 
£67 per vehicle (gross of costs) – consistent with 2013. Net Other Revenue (after deducting 
costs) per vehicle was £58 (2013: £57).

UK Car Insurance Other Revenue – analysis of contribution:

Contribution from additional products and fees

Contribution from additional products underwritten 
by Admiral*1 
Instalment income

Other Revenue

Internal costs

Net Other Revenue
Other Revenue per vehicle*2
Other Revenue per vehicle net of internal costs

2012
£m

205.2

4.8

29.1

239.1

(34.3)

204.8

£79

£68

2013
£m

170.4

12.3

23.7

206.4

(33.6)

172.8

£67

£57

2014
£m

177.8

18.7

22.6

219.1

(37.1)

182.0

£67

£58

*1  Included in underwriting profit in income statement but re-allocated to Other Revenue for purpose of KPIs

*2  Other Revenue (before internal costs) divided by average active vehicles, rolling 12 month basis

Instalment income
Instalment income is interest charged to 
customers paying for their insurance in 
instalments. During 2014 Admiral earned 
£22.6 million from instalment income, down 
5% on the prior period (2013: £23.7 million). 
Instalment charges are calculated as 
a percentage of premium and therefore 
a reduction in average premium leads 
to a reduction in instalment income.

Additional products underwritten by Admiral
There are a number of products that are core 
to providing car insurance to customers (including 
personal injury insurance, breakdown cover 
and car hire cover). Contribution from these 
products underwritten by Admiral during 
2014 was £18.7 million and this is included 
in underwriting profit in the income statement, 
but reallocated to Other Revenue for the purpose 
of management key performance indicators. 

Regulatory environment
The UK Car Insurance business operates 
predominantly under the regulation of the 
UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and 
Prudential Regulatory Authority (PRA), and 
through a Gibraltar-based insurance company, 
under the Financial Services Commission 
(FSC) in that territory.

The FCA and PRA regulate the Group’s UK 
registered subsidiaries including EUI Limited 
(an insurance intermediary) and Admiral 
Insurance Company Limited (AICL; an insurer), 
whilst the FSC regulates Admiral Insurance 
(Gibraltar) Limited (AIGL; also an insurer).

All three companies are required to maintain 
capital at levels prescribed by their regulator, 
and all three maintain surpluses above those 
required levels at all times. 

FCA review into insurance add-on products
In September 2014, the FCA released the 
outcomes of its investigations into insurance 
‘add-ons’, i.e. those insurance products that 
are sold alongside the core car insurance product, 
resulting in the introduction of a small number 
of reforms, including greater disclosures on 
these products. The impact of these reforms 
on Admiral’s longer term profitability is not 
currently considered to be material.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

27

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORT 
INTERNATIONAL CAR INSURANCE REVIEW

Investing to build profitable, sustainable 
and growing businesses

International Car Insurance strategy 
Admiral’s strategy is to exploit the knowledge, skills and resources 
attached to the established UK businesses to promote expansion 
overseas in private car insurance. Admiral’s objective is to create 
profitable, sustainable and growing businesses.

Admiral has four direct car insurance businesses operating outside the UK:

Spain
Admiral Seguros (Seville, Spain)
The most mature of the Group’s 
international businesses, having 
traded since October 2006. The 
business trades via two brands: 
Balumba and Qualitas Auto

Italy
ConTe (Rome, Italy)
Launched in May 2008, ConTe is 
the largest of the non-UK insurers 
within the Group

Cristina Nestares
CEO, Admiral Seguros

Milena Mondini
CEO, ConTe

The Spanish market has continued with the same trends of the past 
few years: profitable but shrinking. In 2014, gross written premium 
decreased by a further 1.5%, a modest decrease compared to the 
previous years. The market combined ratio looks set to remain 
below 100% – it finished 2013 at 99% and we expect a similar result 
for 2014 with H1 finishing at 98%. This makes it below 100% for more 
than 10 years in succession. 

The 2013 Italian insurance market reported a combined ratio of 88%! 
As a result, and not unsurprisingly, 2014 was characterised by strong price 
reductions and aggressive competition. With an average premium decrease 
of c.6%, almost stable claims cost and a modest frequency decrease 
(c.3%), the insurance cycle finally turned. The combined ratio increased 
and it is expected to increase further in 2015, also reflecting higher fuel 
consumption driven by fuel price reductions. 

During 2014 there were some modest positive signs in the economy 
including a 20% increase in car sales, a shift in the declining trend of 
fuel consumption and signs of an increase in claims frequency. This 
trend coupled with an expected change in Baremo (BI costs) may 
result in price increases in the market. The aggregator market grew 
by only 4%, despite the launch of a new aggregator, with Rastreator 
continuing to lead the market growth.

Despite the difficult economic conditions, Admiral Seguros enjoyed 
another year of growth. Turnover grew by 8% and policy count by 
20%, finishing the year with 164,000 customers on our books. This 
growth is mainly due to the continued success of our second brand, 
Qualitas Auto, launched in 2013. In addition, we have continued 
working to improve the offering to our customers and at the end of 
the year we launched our motorbike insurance product and started 
testing a telematics product.

As Henry has mentioned, we hope that 2015 will be an important 
year for Admiral Seguros as our challenge is to break-even on an 
underwriting year basis. Given the small size of our book this is a 
challenging task!

During 2014, whilst price comparison continued its unstoppable growth 
and the number of customers using their mobile phones to access insurance 
sites doubled, the voice of the major traditional groups was also very 
prominent, with innovative propositions and aggressive media investments. 

Despite this competitive context, ConTe’s policy base grew slightly 
(+2%) and with a lower acquisition cost. Whilst defending the top line 
has been a major challenge, ConTe has focused primarily on increasing 
the profitability of the existing book, optimising the cost structure, improving 
portfolio quality and continued investments in underwriting and anti-fraud 
processes and product innovation. We believe that we now have a much 
stronger foundation to scale up the business when the market conditions 
become more favourable.

Highlight of the year? An extremely positive development of the back 
years, leading ConTe to report a profit for the first time in its life!

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Achievements

Goals

International Car Insurance achievements in 2014
 @ Admiral insured 592,600 customers across its Spanish, Italian, 

International Car Insurance goals for 2015
 @ Admiral Seguros targeting break-even on written basis.

American and French operations (2013: 515,300).

 @ 3rd Best Multinational Place to Work in Europe, 

awarded by Great Place to Work.

 @ ConTe to leverage the expected cycle turn and grow customers 

and revenue.

 @ Elephant Auto to focus on continued growth and improving 

 @ Admiral Seguros increased turnover by 8% and policy count 

its combined ratio.

 @ L’olivier Assurances to grow customers and revenue.

by 20%.

 @ Admiral Seguros launched motorbike insurance.

 @ Admiral Seguros voted 8th Best Company to Work for in Spain, 

awarded by Great Place to Work.

 @ ConTe reported its first profit.

 @ ConTe voted 9th Best Company to Work for in Italy, awarded 

by Great Place to Work.

 @ Elephant Auto grew its customer base by more than 50%.

 @ Elephant Auto voted 4th Top Work Places 2014 (Medium), 

awarded by Richmond Times-Dispatch.

 @ L’olivier Assurances – conversion from out-sourced 

to in-sourced operation completed.

USA
Elephant Auto (Virginia, US)
Launched in October 2009 and 
provides car insurance in four US 
states (Virginia, Maryland, Illinois 
and Texas) with a combined 
market size larger than the UK

France
L’olivier Assurances (Paris, France)
The Group’s youngest (and 
smallest) international car 
insurance business, launched 
in December 2010

Kevin Chidwick
CEO, Elephant Auto

Pascal Gonzalvez
CEO, L’olivier Assurances

The US market is represented by 200 million vehicles and $180 
billion of premium. It is the biggest car insurance market in the world 
and each year it moves a little bit more towards the direct 
distribution model that is so familiar to UK readers. Direct, which is 
what Elephant does, is about 25% of the market, but is estimated to 
be roughly 40% of new business. The US has a nascent online price 
comparison market and compare.com is a significant contributor to 
that emerging channel.

In terms of pricing, there is no excitement to report from the US. 
Collective data for 2014 is not available, but industry analysis would 
suggest that claims inflation continued its long term trend of benign 
but persistent increases and prices seem to have followed suit. So price 
inflation of around 3–5% was once again the direction in which the 
industry moved in, in the year.

2014 was a good year for Elephant. Our business grew its customer 
base by more than 50% in 2014 whilst once again delivering good 
acquisition economics in its core markets. The business also made a 
number of significant infrastructure improvements in the year and 
grew its renewal book substantially, both of which augur well for the 
future. 

We continue to sell insurance in four states – Virginia, Maryland, 
Texas and Illinois. At some point we will look to expand beyond 
these states, but it is true to say that there is plenty of opportunity to 
grow within these existing four markets. Those states have 34 million 
vehicles in them – making them larger in aggregate than the UK 
market. With 109,000 customers at year end, Elephant still has 
plenty of market share left to go for.

In 2014, the French motor insurance market continued to grow modestly. 
After many years of improvement, the claims frequency pattern increased, 
especially for bodily injury. This increasing frequency together with higher 
claim costs and limited price increases led to a worsening market 
combined ratio. 

For L’olivier Assurances, 2014 was a special year devoted to the full 
in-sourcing of its operations with controlled growth. We successfully 
completed the development of a modern infrastructure, with a new 
cutting-edge IT system and in-house operations, opening a new office 
in the north of France. With the right infrastructure and control of our 
own operations, we’re convinced L’olivier Assurances now has all the 
levers to make the most of its competitive advantage going forward.

The main objective for 2015 is to gain market share. The new regulatory 
environment (from 1st January 2015) which reinforces rights for consumers 
should support this objective. Motorists can now switch insurance providers 
anytime after one year without penalty and that should make the motor 
insurance market more fluid. In this context, L’olivier Assurances is planning 
to invest more in its brand and grow faster in 2015.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

29

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTERNATIONAL CAR INSURANCE REVIEW CONTINUED

International Car Insurance financial performance
Non-GAAP format income statement

Turnover

Total premiums written

Net insurance premium revenue

Investment income

Net insurance claims

Net insurance expenses

Underwriting result

Net other income

Other Revenue and charges

International Car Insurance result 

Key performance indicators 

Adjusted loss ratio*1
Adjusted expense ratio*1
Adjusted combined ratio*2
Adjusted Reported combined ratio, net of 
Other Revenue*3
Vehicles insured at period end

2012
£m

162.9

148.5

43.3

0.1

(49.4)

(27.4)

(33.4)

8.9

—

(24.5)

2012

114%

54%

168%

2013
£m

187.8

168.3

54.1

—

(49.1)

(32.9)

(27.9)

5.8

—

(22.1)

2013

91%

49%

140%

2014
£m

206.2

185.4

58.1

0.2

(50.5)

(34.0)

(26.2)

6.3

—

(19.9)

2014

77%

50%

127%

147%

436,000

129%

116%

515,300

592,600

*1   Loss ratios and expense ratios have been adjusted to remove the impact of reinsurer caps so the underlying 

performance of the business is transparent

*2   Adjusted combined ratio is calculated on Admiral’s net share of premiums and excludes Other Revenue. 
It excludes the impact of reinsurer caps. Including the impact of reinsurer caps the reported combined 
ratio would be 2014: 145%; 2013: 152%; 2012: 177%

*3   Adjusted combined ratio, net of Other Revenue is calculated on Admiral’s net share of premiums and 

includes Other Revenue. Including the impact of reinsurer caps the reported combined ratio, net of Other 
Revenue would be 2014: 134%; 2013: 141%; 2012: 157%

Geographical analysis

2014

Vehicles insured 
at period end
Turnover (£m)*1
2013

Vehicles insured 
at period end
Turnover (£m)*1

Spain

Italy

France

USA

Total

164,400

285,100

34,200

108,900

592,600

43.8

81.9

14.2

66.3

206.2

136,500

279,900

40.6

93.4

28,600

13.0

70,300

40.8

515,300

187.8

*1   Turnover includes total premium written and income generated by the sale of additional products and services 

and fees

International Car Insurance co-insurance and reinsurance 
As noted earlier, Admiral makes significant use of proportional risk sharing agreements, 
where insurers outside the Group underwrite a majority of the risk generated, either 
through co-insurance or quota share reinsurance contracts.

For the 2014 year Admiral retained 35% (Italy), 30% (France and Spain) and 33% (USA) 
of the underwriting risk respectively. The arrangements for 2015 will remain the same.

All contracts are subject to certain caps on the reinsurers’ exposures and all contracts have 
profit commission terms that allow Admiral to receive a proportion of the profit earned on 
the underwriting once the business reaches cumulative profitability. The contracts include 
proportional sharing of Other Revenue.

International Car Insurance 
financial performance
Admiral’s international insurance businesses 
(in aggregate and individually) continued to 
grow, adding over 77,000 customers and 
ending 2014 15% larger than a year earlier. 
Turnover grew by 10% to £206.2 million 
(2013: £187.8 million). Vehicles and turnover 
from these businesses represent 15% and 
10% of the Group totals respectively, up 
from 14% and 9% in 2013.

Improved prior year claims development, 
especially in ConTe in Italy, led to an improvement 
in the adjusted combined ratio, which decreased 
from 140% to 127%. This improvement, in 
conjunction with higher net insurance premium 
revenue, led to a lower loss of £19.9 million 
in 2014, down from £22.1 million in 2013. 

As noted, the lower combined ratio was a 
result of an improvement in the loss ratio to 
77% (2013: 91%), whilst the expense ratio was 
broadly flat at 50% (2013: 49%). The expense 
ratio is high in comparison to Admiral’s UK 
business because all of the international 
operations need to continue to grow to achieve 
economies of scale. In addition, there are market 
specific reasons why the expense ratios are 
higher, for example higher acquisition costs 
in the US.

As the Group’s international insurance operations 
grow, it is expected that they will make losses 
until appropriate scale has been achieved. The 
Group is satisfied with the progress each business 
continues to make towards the goal of becoming 
a sustainable, growing, profitable operation.

Admiral Seguros (Spain) was launched in 2006 
and is the oldest of Admiral’s international 
operations. In 2013, Admiral Seguros launched 
a second brand (Qualitas Auto) to complement 
its original Balumba brand. The business insured 
164,400 customers at the end of 2014, 20% 
more than a year earlier.

The Group’s largest international operation is 
ConTe in Italy, which insured 285,100 vehicles 
at the end of 2014, up 2% year-on-year. ConTe 
was launched in 2008 and has benefited from 
a period of generally favourable market 
conditions, which has recently come to an 
end. ConTe enjoyed positive development 
of projected ultimate claims outcomes on 
its back years during 2014 and was able to 
record its first profit on the back of strong 
reserve releases. Despite the releases, the 
level of conservatism in the booked reserves 
at year end increased compared to the 
position at the end of 2013.

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People who like what they do, do it better!
Admiral puts a lot of effort into making sure staff enjoy their 
job. Each month a different department is elected ministry 
of fun, and is responsible for coordinating competitions, 
and fun activities.

Read more about our people on page 15

Richard  
Renewals Consultant

Admiral’s youngest and smallest international 
insurance business is L’olivier Assurances, 
launched in 2010 in France. L’olivier Assurances 
insured 34,200 vehicles at the end of 2014, up 
almost 20% on the prior year. L’olivier Assurances 
was initially established with a different start-up 
model to Admiral’s other operations, with certain 
functions outsourced to keep expenses low in 
the initial phases of development. During 2014 
L’olivier Assurances has brought a number of 
these functions in-house and vehicle count 
growth was intentionally lower. 

The consolidated result of Admiral’s insurance 
operations in Spain, Italy and France was a 
loss of £10.4 million (2013: £11.7 million). The 
combined ratio*1 improved to 136% from 138% 
primarily due to improved claims experience.

In the US, Admiral operates in four states 
(Virginia, Maryland, Illinois and Texas) through 
its Elephant Auto business, which launched at 
the end of 2009. At the end of 2014 Elephant 
Auto insured almost 109,000 vehicles, up by 
55% year-on-year. Elephant Auto’s expense 
ratio is currently high as the business is spending 
significant amounts on advertising to develop 
the Elephant Auto brand and grow the portfolio. 
Elephant Auto’s written combined ratio*1 
improved from 152% in 2013 to 141% in 2014 
primarily resulting from an improved expense 
ratio due to vehicle count growth. 

*1   European combined ratio is calculated on the earned 

basis, and Elephant Auto combined ratio is 
calculated on the written basis due to market 
claims patterns. Both combined ratios are 
calculated on 100% of underwritten premium 
(including co- and reinsurers’ share) and include the 
results from the sale of additional products and 
services and fees

Regulatory environment
Admiral’s European insurance operations are 
generally subject to the same regulation as the 
UK Car Insurance business, details of which 
are summarised on page 27, but also comply 
with local requirements as appropriate.

The Group’s US insurer, Elephant Insurance 
Company, is regulated by the Virginia State 
Corporation Commission’s Bureau of Insurance. 
The Company is required to maintain capital 
at levels prescribed by the regulator and holds 
a surplus above these requirements at all times.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

31

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORTPRICE COMPARISON REVIEW

Taking what  
we do well, overseas

Price Comparison strategy 
Admiral’s strategy is to develop websites that 
allow consumers to compare a range of general 
insurance and financial services products across 
price and policy benefits. The international 
strategy is to exploit the UK expertise in price 
comparison and export it overseas.

UK
Confused.com (Cardiff, UK)
The most mature of the Group’s 
price comparison businesses, 
having traded since 2002 and 
one of the UK’s leading price 
comparison websites.

Spain
Rastreator (Madrid, Spain)
Launched in March 2009, offers 
comparison on motor, home, 
motorcycle and life insurance, 
and now the leading price 
comparison site in Spain.

Martin Coriat 
CEO, Confused.com

Elena Betes 
CEO, Rastreator

The UK Car Insurance price comparison market is characterised by 
three aspects: 

Five and a half years after Rastreator´s launch, we maintain our leading 
position in Spain’s rising price comparison world.

 @ It is one of, if not the, most mature in Europe, with almost 70% 

of new business sales in the market originating via price comparison. A 
consequence of this high level of adoption, together with a reduction of 
car insurance premiums in 2014 for the third year in a row, is that the price 
comparison market as a whole did not grow as much as in previous years. 

During 2014, we implemented our strategic goals, firstly developing 
not just the leading brand but also a preferred brand, and secondly 
becoming a portal that is recognised as a source of transparency on 
insurance, telephony, finance and energy costs, helping all users to 
simplify their lives.

 @ It remains a highly competitive market of four principal players, 

with persistently high levels of marketing spend.

 @ The market is also on the verge of commoditisation with less and 
less differentiation between the different players in customer minds. 

Overall the context in which Confused operates has changed over the 
last 12 months and this makes the market more challenging for incumbents. 

As a result of this highly competitive environment, Confused had a 
challenging year in 2014 and reported a reduced profit of £16 million. 
This reduction in profit is driven by the limited growth in the market 
and the impact of changes made by Google to its natural search 
algorithms impacting Confused’s search engine optimisation (SEO) 
position early in the year, but also reflects our relative media spend 
and advertising effectiveness. 

Beyond the comparison of car insurance, Confused.com continues to find 
success in other products such as the comparison of home and life insurance. 

During the year the price comparison sector has come under further 
scrutiny from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Competition 
and Market Authority (CMA). Both the CMA and the FCA released 
remedies that Confused welcomed, as their main focus is on the need to 
provide sufficient, clear and consistent product information to consumers.

Focusing on insurance, Rastreator´s panel now represents 85% of the 
Spanish market, the strongest panel in Spain. In 2014 we offered the first 
Spanish car insurance price index, Rastreator-Deloitte, which indicated 
that price reductions have slowed and that we may see increases during 
2015. Our leadership puts us in the right place to benefit from this, as 
price increases will always produce an increase in customer shopping 
for car insurance.

During 2014 Rastreator agreed to acquire seguros.es, a broker competitor. 
Once the acquisition is completed in 2015, we believe this will allow us 
to increase market share and broaden our platform.

Our brand recognition of 91% has allowed us to successfully expand 
our comparison lines and all have grown substantially, as demonstrated 
by a 24% increase in our quotes.

Finally, Rastreator received awards for the Best Website of the Year 
and the Most Popular Website during the year.

32

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Achievements

Goals

UK Price Comparison achievements in 2014
 @ Confused.com continued success in non-motor products 

such as comparison of home and life insurance.

UK Price Comparison goals for 2015 
 @ Leverage Confused.com’s brand icon to build preference and loyalty 

and strengthen market position.

 @ Brand development of Brian, the Confused.com robot.

 @ Develop and promote new products and offers in order to have 

International Price Comparison achievements in 2014
 @ Quote volumes: combined 6.6 million (2013: 5.1 million).

 @ Rastreator won Best Website of the Year in Spain, 

awarded by eAwards Barcelona 2014.

 @ Rastreator agreed to acquire seguros.es.

 @ LeLynx strengthened its leading position in the insurance 

price comparison market in France.

 @ Compare.com TV advertising launched in January 2014.

 @ Compare.com has more than 40 auto insurance companies, 

including eight of the top 20, under contract.

 @ Compare.com returned rates in 49 of the 51 US markets.

more diversified revenue sources.

International Price Comparison goals in 2015
 @ Rastreator – continued defence of market-leading position 
in car insurance comparison and further development of 
other comparison services.

 @ LeLynx – exploitation of the new Hamon law in France.

 @ Compare.com – continued lowering of acquisition cost while increasing 

the number of carriers and rates presented to consumers.

France
LeLynx (Paris, France)
Launched in January 2010 and 
offers comparison on a range 
of products: the leading price 
comparison site in France.

USA
Compare.com (Virginia, USA)
Launched in March 2013 and offers 
comparison on motor insurance: 
the first European-style price 
comparison site in the US.

Diane Larramendy 
CEO, LeLynx

Andrew Rose 
CEO, compare.com

In 2014, LeLynx strengthened its leading position in the insurance 
price comparison market in France. With solid incumbent 
competitors when we launched back in 2010, LeLynx is proud to 
have achieved this leadership in such a short time.

All players are now looking forward to the new Hamon law, which 
should bring flexibility to the insurance sector. This law, which was 
published at the very end of the year, will enable customers to switch 
insurers at any time after one year easily and without financial penalties. 

LeLynx is now a well recognised brand with an experienced team, 
hence the business is very well positioned to make the most of the 
legislative changes.

The US market is clearly divided between those insurers that advertise 
and those that don’t. With nearly $3 billion of the $6 billion insurance 
advertising dollars concentrated in the top four insurers, the remaining 
c.300 players look for ways to compete for a greater share of the third 
of consumers that shop for insurance annually. Comparison sites, like 
compare.com, provide them with an easy route to do that. With more 
than 40 auto insurance companies, including eight of the top 20, now 
under contract with compare.com, it makes it an attractive choice for 
consumers too.

In 2014, compare.com returned rates in 49 of the 51 US markets (sorry 
Alaska and Hawaii!), but we focused effort on California, Illinois, Texas 
and Virginia, where the number of potential rates returned to consumers 
was maximized. Compare.com accelerated its advertising, yielding 
more than a million rates to interested consumers. 

In May 2014 insurance industry guru Brian Sullivan claimed that comparison 
sites were one of the biggest trends of the year. We think his prognostication 
was good, as compare.com was joined by an array of new entrants and 
re-energized existing players in the broader aggregator space.

We hope Brian will be proven right as consumers are ultimately undefeated 
in pursuit of simplicity and transparency – something compare.com 
delivers in spades.

As optimistic as our future may look, we caution that success is not 
guaranteed. Pitfalls remain on numerous sides. Will companies continue 
to join and then return rates for a money saving experience for consumers? 
Will consumers follow through and actually switch insurers? Will competitors 
join too quickly and depress the revenue per sale earned?

All that said, we remain positive and intend to continue to invest in what 
we believe will be a transformative force in the market.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

33

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORTPRICE COMPARISON REVIEW CONTINUED

Price Comparison financial performance
Non-GAAP format income statement

Revenue

Car insurance price comparison

Other

Total Revenue

Operating expenses

Operating profit/(loss)

Confused.com profit
International Price Comparison result*1

Group share of operating profit/(loss)*2
Confused.com profit
International Price Comparison result*1

2012
£m 

82.5

21.0

103.5

(85.5)

18.0

18.2

(0.2)

18.0

18.2

(0.6)

17.6

2013
£m

87.2

25.5

112.7

(92.3)

20.4

21.7

(1.3)

20.4

21.7

(0.6)

21.1

2014
£m

81.0

26.5

107.5

(110.3)

(2.8)

15.8

(18.6)

(2.8)

15.8

(12.2)

3.6

Revenue from 
non-car insurance 
comparison sources 
increased in actual 
terms and now 
represents over 
a quarter of 
total revenue.”

*1   Excludes pre-launch costs. 2012 figures include results of Chiarezza.it, which was sold in April 2012. 

The disposal did not have material impact on the income statement

*2  Represents the Group’s share of Price Comparison profit/(loss) and excludes the impact of Minority Interests

UK Price Comparison – Confused.com
Confused.com produced a reduced result, 
with revenue 8% lower at £80.8 million 
(2013: £87.7 million) and profit down 27% 
to £15.8 million (2013: £21.7 million). 

Revenue from non-car insurance comparison 
sources increased in actual terms and now 
represents over a quarter of total revenue. 
Confused.com’s operating margin reduced 
to 20% (2013: 25%).

International Price Comparison
Following the sale of the Italian Price Comparison 
operation (Chiarezza.it) during H1 2012 and the 
launch in Q1 2013 of a new operation in the US, 
Admiral now operates three Price Comparison 
businesses outside the UK: in Spain (Rastreator), 
France (LeLynx) and the US (compare.com).

The combined revenue from the European 
operations in 2014 remained stable despite 
a weakening Euro at £25.3 million (2013: 
£25.0 million), with 20% more quotes provided. 
Both Rastreator and LeLynx have market-leading 
positions and strong brand recognition in their 
respective markets. The Group’s share of the 
combined result for Rastreator and LeLynx was 
a record profit of £2.8 million (2013: £1.9 million) 
reflecting increased quote volumes and improved 
conversion rates. The acquisition of seguros.es 
by Rastreator will allow Rastreator to increase 
its market share, but it is not expected to have 

a material impact on the Group financial 
statements when completed in 2015. Admiral 
Group owns 75% of Rastreator, with the 
remaining 25% owned by Mapfre.

Following the launch in March 2013 of 
compare.com, a US comparison operation 
based in Virginia, the Group has continued to 
invest in the operation. During 2014 Admiral’s 
share of compare.com’s loss was £15 million 
before tax.

The combined result for International Price 
Comparison was therefore a loss of £12.2 million 
(2013: £0.6 million) – the profit from Rastreator 
and LeLynx offset by investment in compare.com.

Regulatory environment
Confused.com is regulated by the Financial 
Conduct Authority (FCA) as an insurance 
intermediary and is subject to all relevant 
intermediation rules, including those on 
solvency capital. 

The European operations are all structured 
as branches of UK companies, with the UK 
insurance intermediary permission passported 
into Europe.

Compare.com is a regulated insurance agency 
domiciled in Virginia, US, and licensed in all 
other US states.

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OTHER GROUP ITEMS

The UK household 
insurance business 
enjoyed another 
year of strong 
growth.”

UK Household Insurance result

UK Commercial Vehicle operating profit

Other interest and investment income

Share scheme charges

Business development costs

Other central overhead

Finance charges

2012
£m 

—

2.5

1.9

(20.6)

(2.1)

(3.4)

—

2013
£m

(0.1)

2.5

1.9

(22.5)

(0.3)

(3.5)

—

2014
£m

(0.1)

2.2

3.7

(21.2)

(0.7)

(3.9)

(4.6)

UK Household Insurance
UK Household Insurance was launched in 
December 2012 under the Admiral brand. 
The product is underwritten within the Group 
and in common with other businesses it is 
supported by proportional reinsurance covering 
70% of the risk (shared between Munich Re, 40%, 
and Swiss Re, 30%). The business enjoyed 
another year of strong growth in policy 
numbers and another broadly break-even 
financial result.

UK Commercial Vehicle
The Group operates a Commercial Vehicle 
insurance broker (Gladiator) offering van 
insurance and associated products, typically 
to small businesses. Distribution is via 
telephone and internet (including price 
comparison websites).

UK Commercial Vehicle operating profit in the 
year decreased to £2.2 million from £2.5 million, 
although customer numbers increased from 
117,900 at the end of 2013 to 143,900 at the 
end of 2014.

Interest income
Interest income in 2014 was £3.7 million 
(2013: £1.9 million). The increase is materially 
due to the gilt holdings purchased with the 
proceeds of the debt issue.

Share scheme charges
These costs relate to the Group’s two employee 
share schemes, further detail on which is set 
out in the notes to the financial statements. The 
decrease in the charge is due to a combination 
of a lower share price at the end of 2014 
compared to 2013 offset by an increase in the 
number of awards across the Group resulting 
from headcount growth.

Other central overheads
Other central overheads include Group Directors’ 
remuneration and other Group central costs.

Finance charges
Finance charges of £4.6 million (2013: £nil) 
represent interest on the £200 million 
subordinated notes (refer to note 6 to the 
financial statements for further details).

Dan
Trainer

Celebrating excellent 
performance
We host a series of annual 
award ceremonies to reward 
and recognise our people, 
both for their own individual 
achievements and for the 
collective performance of 
their team, department or site.

Read more about our people 
on page 15

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

35

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORT 
PRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

The table below sets out the principal risks Admiral has identified through its Enterprise 
Risk Management Framework (ERMF) as having the potential for a material adverse affect 
on Admiral’s profitability and solvency. The report on Corporate Governance on pages 44 
to 48 describes the ERMF in place throughout the Group.

RISK

IMPACT

MITIGATING FACTORS

Insurance risk

Reserving risk in UK and International Car Insurance

Admiral is exposed to reserving risk 
through its underwriting of motor 
and household insurance policies. 
Claims reserves in the financial 
statements may prove inadequate 
to cover the ultimate cost of earned 
claims which are by nature uncertain. 

Adverse run-off leading to higher 
claims costs in the financial statements. 
Also, resultant loss of profit commission 
from proportional co-insurance and 
reinsurance arrangements.

Underwriting risk in UK and International Car Insurance

The Group is exposed to the risk 
that claims costs on business written 
and earned in the future is higher 
than expected. 

This might arise due to very large or 
catastrophic man-made or natural 
individual or multiple claims. 

Higher claims costs and loss 
ratios, reducing profitability or 
resulting in underwriting losses. 
Also, resultant loss of profit 
commission from proportional 
co-insurance and 
reinsurance arrangements. 

Admiral has a conservative reserving policy and continues to hold a material 
margin in its financial statement claims reserves above actuarially determined 
best estimates. 

Best estimate reserves are estimated both internally and externally by an 
independent actuary. 

Many of the potential causes of claims shocks are outside the control of 
Admiral (for example legislative changes or changes in the Ogden discount 
rate) and the focus is, therefore, on how to prepare for and react to the 
occurrence of such events. 

Admiral holds a margin in booked reserves to cover significant legislative 
changes impacting earned claims. Furthermore, Admiral continues to hold an 
additional margin in its reserves in excess of the projected ultimate outcomes 
to cover other potential claim shocks. 

The Group continues to make material investments in staff and systems to 
work on the identification and prevention of claims fraud. 

For very large claims Admiral purchases excess of loss reinsurance, which 
mitigates the loss to the selected deductible amount. 

There are a number of aspects which contribute to Admiral’s strong UK 
underwriting results, including: 

 @ Experienced and focused senior management and teams in key business areas 

including pricing and claims management.

 @ Highly data-driven and analytical approach to regular monitoring of claims  

and underwriting performance.

 @ Capability to identify and resolve underperformance promptly through 

changes to key performance drivers, particularly pricing.

 @ Continuous appraisal of and investment in staff, systems and processes. 

Admiral purchases excess of loss reinsurance, designed to mitigate the impact 
of very large individual or catastrophe event claims. 

The Group continues to work to establish similar capability and expertise in its 
newer UK and international businesses. 

Reduced availability of co-insurance and reinsurance arrangements 

Admiral uses proportional 
co-insurance and reinsurance 
across its insurance businesses 
to reduce its own capital needs 
(and increase return on the capital 
it does hold) and to mitigate the 
cost and risk of establishing 
new operations. 

There is a risk that support will 
not be available in the future if the 
results and/or future prospects 
of either the UK business or (more 
realistically) one or more of the 
newer operations are not satisfactory 
for the co- and/or reinsurers.

A potential need to raise additional 
capital to support underwriting.  
This could be in the form of equity  
or debt. 

Admiral mitigates the risk to its reinsurance arrangements by ensuring that 
it has a diverse range of financially secure partners. Admiral has enjoyed a long 
term relationship with one of the world’s largest reinsurers, Munich Re, which 
has supported Admiral since 2000. 

Return on equity might reduce 
compared to current levels. 

Admiral also has relationships with a number of other reinsurers, including 
Amlin Re, Hannover Re, XL Re, Mapfre Re, New Re and Swiss Re. 

In the UK, reinsurance arrangements have been agreed until at least the 
end of 2016, reflecting confidence in the Admiral UK Car Insurance business. 
The long term co-insurance agreement with Munich Re (covering 40% of the  
UK Car Insurance business) will remain in place until at least the end of 2018. 

Long term arrangements are also in place for international and 
household businesses. 

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RISK

IMPACT

MITIGATING FACTORS

Strategic risk

Erosion of competitive advantage in UK Car Insurance

Admiral typically maintains a 
significant combined ratio advantage 
over the UK market. 

This advantage and/or the level of 
underwriting profit (and associated 
profit commission) could be eroded. 

This risk could be exacerbated by 
irrational competitors. 

A worse UK Car Insurance result and 
lower return on equity. 

A sustained and uncorrected erosion 
of competitive advantage could 
affect the ability of Admiral to extend 
its reinsurance arrangements, which 
might in turn require Admiral to hold 
more capital. 

Failure of geographic and/or product expansion

Admiral continues to develop and 
support the UK household and 
overseas operations. 

Higher than planned losses (and 
potentially closure costs) and 
distraction of key management. 

One or more of the operations 
could fail to become a sustainable, 
profitable long term business. 

A collective failure of these businesses 
would threaten Admiral’s objective 
to diversify its earnings by expanding 
into new markets and products. 

Admiral’s focus remains on the wide range of factors that contribute to Admiral’s 
combined ratio outperformance of the UK market. Some are set out on page 36, 
but in addition: 

 @ Track record of innovation and ability to react quickly to market conditions and 

developments.

 @ Keen focus on maintaining a low-cost infrastructure and efficient acquisition costs. 

Admiral’s approach to expansion remains conservative, applying the ‘test 
and learn’ philosophy that has proven successful for previous operations. 
International insurance businesses have executed cautious launch strategies 
and are all backed by proportional reinsurance support which provides 
substantial mitigation against start-up losses in the early years. 

New price comparison businesses have aligned their marketing investment 
with the extent of improvement in key performance indicators such as average 
cost per quote and conversion ratio. The Group also accepts partial disposals 
of equity to share start-up losses with partners. 

The Directors are mindful of management stretch and regularly assess the 
suitability of the management structure in place for Admiral’s new UK and 
international operations. 

The new UK Household Insurance business is backed by proportional 
reinsurance support which provides mitigation against start-up losses 
and excess of loss reinsurance which mitigates potential losses from 
catastrophe events. 

Group risk

Potential diminution of Other Revenue 

Admiral earns Other Revenue 
from a portfolio of products 
and other sources. 

The level of this revenue could 
diminish due to regulatory or legal 
changes, customer behaviour or 
market forces. 

Lower profits from insurance operations 
and lower return on equity. 

Admiral continuously assesses the value to its customers of the products it offers, 
and makes changes to ensure the products continue to meet customer needs and 
offer good value. 

Admiral seeks to minimise reliance on any single source by earning revenue 
from a range of products. This mitigates the impact of a regulatory change 
which might affect a particular product or income stream. 

Competition in UK Price Comparison 

Admiral is dependent on the 
four main UK price comparison 
websites as an important source 
of new business and growth. 

Growth in this distribution channel 
could slow, cease or reverse, or 
Admiral could lose one or more 
of the websites as a source 
of customers. 

A potentially material reduction in UK 
Car Insurance new business volumes. 

The impact on Confused.com of 
higher levels of competition in the 
price comparison market, either 
through the aggressive activities 
of existing players or the entry of 
significant new participants, would 
be to lower profits. 

However, a more competitive 
market might benefit the UK Car 
Insurance business through 
lower acquisition costs. 

Admiral’s ownership of Confused.com (one of the leading UK price comparison 
websites which operates independently of the UK Car Insurance business) helps 
to mitigate the risk of over-reliance on this distribution channel. 

Admiral also contributes materially to the revenues of other price comparison 
businesses and therefore it is not considered probable that a material source  
of new business would be lost. 

The management of Confused.com maintain a very keen awareness of the 
risks of continued competition. 

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

37

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORTPRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES CONTINUED

RISK

IMPACT

MITIGATING FACTORS

Credit risk

Credit risk of significant counterparties 

Admiral is primarily exposed to 
credit risk in the form of a) default 
of reinsurer and b) failure of banking 
or investment counterparty. 

Additional capital may need to be 
raised as a result of a major credit event, 
dependent on its nature and severity. 

Admiral would also need to ensure 
that it had sufficient liquid assets to 
meet its claims and other liabilities 
as they fell due. 

Admiral only conducts business with reinsurers of appropriate financial 
strength. In addition, most reinsurance contracts are operated on a funds 
withheld basis, which substantially reduces credit risk, as Admiral holds the 
cash received as collateral. 

With respect to investment counterparties, there are no specific concentrations 
of credit risk due to the structure of the liquidity funds which invest in a wide 
range of short duration, high quality securities. Cash balances and deposits 
are placed only with highly rated credit institutions. Some long term investments 
are held in Government bonds to further mitigate the exposure to credit risk. 

Admiral considers counterparty exposure frequently and in significant 
detail, and has in place appropriate triggers and limits, to mitigate exposure 
to individual investment counterparties. 

Conduct risk

Failure of products, processes or 
service to meet customer and 
regulator expectations and failure 
to address customer complaints 
promptly or appropriately. Further 
detail on how Admiral interacts 
with its customers is set out on 
page 12 and in the Corporate 
Social Responsibility (CSR) Report 
available online. 

Operational risk

People risk

Failure to recruit, develop and retain 
suitable talent. Further detail on how 
Admiral interacts with its employees 
is set out on page 13 and in the CSR 
Report available online. 

In addition, the risk of project 
failure. More specifically, projects 
relating to system upgrades and 
Solvency II. 

IT risk 

Failure to invest in, and successfully 
implement, appropriate technology 
(particularly Guidewire 
implementation in the UK) to 
support the Group’s future business 
development, mitigated by regular 
review of the effectiveness of the 
Group’s IT capability by Executive 
management and the Board. In 
addition, the emerging risk relating 
to IT security and cyber risk are areas 
of growing focus for the Group.

Regulatory risk

Failure to comply with regulatory 
requirements and/or changes. In 
particular, the risk of non-compliance 
with Solvency II requirements 
ahead of 1st January 2016. 

Potential customer detriment and/or 
potential regulatory censure/
enforcement and/or reputational 
damage as a result of Admiral’s action. 

Admiral operates the three lines of defence model for overseeing its products, 
processes and service. At each stage of the customer journey customer 
outcomes are monitored, managed and reported in order to mitigate 
customer detriment. 

Unable to successfully carry out Admiral 
Group strategy and achieve goals. 

Strong Company culture underpinned by communication, equality, reward, 
recognition and fun. 

Failure of projects would most likely 
result in additional costs for the Group. 

 @ Objectives and personal development plans.

 @ Understanding gained through staff surveys and team meetings.

 @ Succession and graduate plans.

 @ Sponsorship programme designed to give staff benefits and develop pride 

in brand(s).

 @ Employee share ownership scheme.

Unable to support the required 
growth and development essential 
for future business success, maintaining 
competitor advantage and developing 
the Group’s business model. 

 @ Regular review of the effectiveness of the Group’s IT capability by Executive 

management and the Board. 

 @ Strong governance and oversight of major systems developments.

Exposure to regulatory intervention 
and/or censure and/or enforcement 
action through fines and other tools 
available to the regulator. 

Mitigated by regular review of the Group’s compliance with current and proposed 
requirements and interaction with regulators by Executive management and 
the Board. 

Solvency II progress has primarily been mitigated through significant investment 
in resources for the Solvency II Project, with regular communication with both 
the Board and the regulators on progress against the agreed project plan. 

This Strategic Report was approved by the Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by:

Henry Engelhardt
Chief Executive Officer
4 March 2015

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Admiral serves a 
real social purpose
Our business is to protect 
people, as much as we can, 
from the adverse consequences 
of car accidents, or from 
damage to their home. 
In addition to providing 
protection for our customers, 
we aim to contribute positively 
to the wider communities in 
which we operate. 

We centre our business 
on four of our significant 
stakeholders
These four stakeholders also drive the core 
focus of our corporate social responsibility 
strategy: our customers, our people, our 
community and our environment. 

To read more about our corporate 
social responsibility strategy visit 
www.admiralgroup.co.uk

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

39

OTHER INFORMATIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCEINTRODUCTIONSTRATEGIC REPORTCHAIRMAN’S INTRODUCTION

The Board remains committed to 
maintaining the highest standards 
of corporate governance.”

Alastair Lyons, CBE
Chairman

Dear Shareholder,
On behalf of the Board I am pleased to present the Corporate Governance Report for the financial 
year ended 31 December 2014. The Board remains committed to maintaining the highest standards 
of corporate governance. This Report sets out the Admiral framework of governance and the 
approach the Board has taken during 2014 to achieve the standards of good corporate governance 
for which it is accountable to the Group’s shareholders. 

We also confirm the Group’s compliance, with the principles and provisions set out in the UK 
Corporate Governance Code (the Code), which was revised by the Financial Reporting Council in 
September 2012 and is applicable to the year under review. The Group is mindful that a new version 
of the Code was issued in September 2014 and applies to accounting periods beginning on or after 
1 October 2014. The Group has considered the provisions contained in the revised Code and intends 
to report compliance against the revised code in the 2015 Annual Report.

We believe that having a sound corporate governance framework enables effective and efficient 
decision making and ensures that there is the right balance of skills and experience to assess and 
manage the risks in the markets in which the Group operates and inherent in the Group’s activities. 
However, we also believe that good governance should be proportionate and that individual 
responsibility and accountability should not be lost within a multi-layered committee structure 
that distances senior management from the day-to-day reality of operational activity.

As the Group undertook in 2013 an external Board evaluation facilitated by an independent external 
consultant, the evaluation process this year consisted of each Board member completing a questionnaire 
detailing the extent to which the Board had achieved each of the recommendations identified in the 
2013 external evaluation together with Board members identifying areas where further review was 
required to ensure that the Board continued to operate effectively. The results of the evaluation 
and areas for development are set out in more detail on page 46 of this report

This Corporate Governance Report is structured in order to demonstrate to shareholders that 
the Board has complied during 2014 in all respects with each section of the Code – Leadership; 
Effectiveness; Accountability; and Relations with Shareholders. Remuneration is dealt with in 
the separate Directors’ Remuneration Report.

Alastair Lyons, CBE
Chairman 
4 March 2015

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ADMIRAL’S GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK

We believe that having a sound corporate governance framework 
enables effective and efficient decision making and ensures that there 
is the right balance of skills and experience to assess and manage the 
risks in the markets in which the Group operates and inherent in the 
Group’s activities.
However, we also believe that good governance should be proportionate 
and that individual responsibility and accountability should not be 
lost within a multi-layered committee structure that distances senior 
management from the day to day reality of operational activity.”

Alastair Lyons, CBE
Chairman

 Board composition

Corporate structure

The Board of Directors

Executive/Non-Executive
as at 4 March 2015

Board Committees

Remuneration Committee

Audit Committee

Membership at 31 December 2014:

Membership at 31 December 2014*2:

 Chairman (1) 

 Executive (3) 

 Non-Executive (8) 

8%

25%

67%

 @ Annette Court (Chair)

 @ Margaret Johnson

 @ Roger Abravanel*1

 @ Jean Park

 @ Colin Holmes (Chair)

 @ Margaret Johnson

 @ Annette Court

Meetings during 2014:

Meetings during 2014:

8

Read more on 
pages 58 to 72

6

Read more on 
pages 49 to 52

Gender diversity
as at 4 March 2015

 Male (7) 

 Female (5) 

58%

42%

Read more about gender 
diversity within the 
Company on page 73

Nomination Committee

Group Risk Committee

Membership at 31 December 2014:

Membership at 31 December 2014:

 @ Alastair Lyons (Chair)

 @ Lucy Kellaway

 @ Colin Holmes

 @ Jean Park (Chair)

 @ Annette Court

 @ Lucy Kellaway

 @ David Stevens

Meetings during 2014:

Meetings during 2014:

1

Read more on 
pages 56 to 57

5

Read more on 
pages 53 to 55

*1   Roger Abravanel will not be seeking re-election at Admiral Group plc’s forthcoming Annual General 

Meeting on 29 April 2015 and will be stepping down as a Non-Executive Director of Admiral Group plc 
effective from that date

*2   Penny James was appointed to the Board on 1 January 2015 and joined the Audit Committee with effect 

from that date

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

41

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONBOARD OF DIRECTORS

NC

Alastair Lyons, CBE (61)
Non-Executive Chairman,  
appointed in July 2000

Henry Engelhardt, CBE (57)
Chief Executive Officer,  
appointed in October 1999

Geraint Jones (38)
Chief Financial Officer,  
appointed in August 2014

 @ Non-Executive Chairman of the Towergate 

 @ Trustee of the Wales Millennium Centre (WMC)

 @ Trustee of the Moondance Foundation

Henry is a founder Director of Admiral and was 
recruited by the Brockbank Group in 1991 to set 
up the Admiral business. Henry has an MBA from 
INSEAD, a BA from the University of Michigan and 
was awarded an honorary CBE in 2008 for services 
to business in Wales.

Insurance Group

 @ Non-Executive Chairman of Serco Group plc

 @ Group Deputy Chairman of Bovis Homes Group plc

In his executive career Alastair has been Chief 
Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Provident 
Institution and of the National & Provincial Building 
Society, Managing Director of the Insurance Division 
of Abbey National plc and Director of Corporate 
Projects at National Westminster Bank plc. He has 
also been a Non-Executive Director of both the 
Department for Transport (DfT) and the Department 
for Work and Pensions (DWP), as well as of its 
predecessor, the Department of Health and Social 
Security (DHSS). 

A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, 
he was awarded a CBE in the 2001 Birthday Honours 
for services to social security.

Geraint is responsible for finance, actuarial, compliance 
and investments. He joined Admiral in 2002 and 
has since held a number of senior finance positions, 
including Head of Finance, before being promoted 
to Deputy Chief Financial Officer in January 2012. 
A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants 
in England and Wales, Geraint has also worked 
as an external auditor at Ernst & Young and KPMG.

GRC

RC

David Stevens, CBE (53)
Chief Operating Officer,  
appointed in October 1999

 @ Trustee of the Waterloo Foundation

David is a founder Director of Admiral and was recruited 
in 1991 to set up the Admiral business. Prior to joining 
Admiral David worked at McKinsey & Co, in the 
Financial Interest Group, and Cadbury Schweppes 
in the UK and the US. David has an MBA from 
INSEAD and he was awarded a CBE in 2010 for 
services to business and the community in Wales.

Roger Abravanel* (68)
Non-Executive Director,  
appointed in March 2012

Manfred Aldag (64)
Non-Executive Director,  
appointed in March 2003

 @ Chief Executive Manager of Munich Re, 
responsible for UK, Ireland, Netherlands, 
Nordics, Baltics and Russia

Manfred graduated from University of Essen with 
a degree in economics and business management. 
Since 1981, Manfred has been working for Munich Re.

 @ Non-Executive Director serving on, amongst 
others, the Boards of: Teva Pharmaceutical 
Industries Ltd, Banca Nazionale del Lavoro S.p.A. 
and COFIDE S.p.A.

 @ Board member of the Italian Institute of Technology

 @ Chairman of the INSEAD Advisory Group in Italy

Roger has significant international consulting experience 
having been with McKinsey and Co. from 1972 until his 
retirement, as Director Emeritus, in 2006. Roger holds an 
MBA from INSEAD. Roger has authored several books 
and currently writes for an Italian daily newspaper.

*  Roger Abravanel will not be seeking re-election 

at Admiral Group plc’s forthcoming Annual 
General Meeting on 29 April 2015 and will be 
stepping down as a Non-Executive Director of 
Admiral Group plc effective from that date.

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RC

AC

GRC

SID

AC

NC

AC

Annette Court (52)
Non-Executive Director,  
appointed in March 2012

Colin Holmes (49)
Non-Executive Director,  
appointed in December 2010

Penny James (45)
Non-Executive Director,  
appointed in January 2015

 @ Non-Executive Director of Jardine Lloyd 

 @ Chairman of GO Outdoors Ltd

 @ Director of Group Finance at Prudential plc

Thompson Group plc

 @ Non-Executive Director of Foxtons plc

 @ Non-Executive Director of Workshare

Between 2007 and 2010 Annette was CEO of Europe 
General Insurance for Zurich Financial Services and a 
member of the Group Executive Committee. Annette 
is former CEO of the Direct Line Group (formerly known 
as RBS Insurance). In this role Annette was also a 
member of the RBS Group Executive Management 
Committee. Annette has previously served as a member 
on the Board of the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Colin was formerly a member of the Executive 
Committee of Tesco plc and during his 22 year career 
at Tesco held a wide range of positions, including 
UK Finance Director and CEO of Tesco Express. 
Previously, Colin was a Non-Executive Director 
of Bovis Homes Group plc, where he chaired the 
Remuneration Committee. Colin is a Chartered 
Management Accountant and a member of the 
Institute’s Advisory Panel.

Between 2007 and 2011 Penny was Group Chief 
Financial Officer of Omega Insurance Holdings. 
Prior to this, Penny spent 12 years with Zurich 
Financial Services where she held a number of 
senior finance roles including Chief Financial 
Officer of the UK General Insurance division 
and a Director of Eagle Star Insurance. Penny 
is a Member of the Institute of Chartered 
Accountants in England and Wales. 

AC

RC

GRC

NC

GRC

RC

Margaret Johnson, OBE (56)
Non-Executive Director,  
appointed in September 2006

Lucy Kellaway (55)
Non-Executive Director,  
appointed in September 2006

Jean Park (60)
Non-Executive Director,  
appointed in January 2014

 @ Group Chief Executive Officer of Leagas Delaney

 @ Lucy is a management columnist 

 @ Non-Executive Director of Murray Income Trust plc

Margaret has worked for the international advertising 
agency Leagas Delaney for the past 16 years. Margaret 
was awarded an OBE in 2013 in recognition of her 
services to the creative industries and her voluntary 
work for charities.

on the Financial Times

In her 21 years at the Financial Times Lucy has been 
an oil correspondent, a Lex columnist and Brussels 
correspondent. Lucy has authored various books.

 @ Non-Executive Director of the National House 

Building Council

Jean was Group Chief Risk Officer at the Phoenix Group 
from 2009 until June 2013, during which time she held 
responsibility for the Group’s relationship with the 
regulator and founded the Board Risk Committee. 
Previously, she was Risk Management Director of 
the Insurance and Investments division of Lloyds TSB 
and, before that, Head of Compliance and Audit 
at Scottish Widows. Jean is a Member of the 
Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland.

Committee key

RC  Remuneration Committee member

NC  Nomination Committee member

Committee Chairman

AC  Audit Committee member

GRC  Group Risk Committee member

SID  Senior Independent Director

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

43

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTION 
 
 
The Board is accountable 
to shareholders for 
setting and achieving 
the Group’s strategic 
objectives; for the 
creation and delivery 
of strong sustainable 
financial and operational 
performance; for 
ensuring that in carrying 
out its duties the Group’s 
legal and regulatory 
obligations are being 
met; and for ensuring 
that it operates within 
appropriately established 
risk parameters.”

GOVERNANCE REPORT

Leadership

The role of the Board
The Board is the principal decision-making 
forum for the Group providing entrepreneurial 
leadership, both directly and through its 
Committees, and delegating authority to the 
Executive team. The Board is responsible for 
organising and directing the affairs of the Group 
in a manner that is most likely to promote its 
success for the benefit of its members as a whole. 
The Board is accountable to shareholders for 
setting and achieving the Group’s strategic 
objectives; for the creation and delivery of 
strong sustainable financial and operational 
performance; for ensuring that in carrying 
out its duties the Group’s legal and regulatory 
obligations are being met; and for ensuring 
that it operates within appropriately established 
risk parameters. The Group’s UK regulated 
entities are responsible to the Financial Conduct 
Authority (FCA) and the Prudential Regulatory 
Authority (PRA) for ensuring compliance with 
the Group’s UK regulatory obligations and that 
dealings with the FCA and PRA are handled 
in a constructive, co-operative and transparent 
manner. Similar provisions apply in respect of 
the Group’s international businesses with regard 
to the relevant regulatory authorities in those 
overseas jurisdictions in which the Group 
also operates.

The Board has adopted a formal schedule of 
matters reserved for the Board’s consideration. 
This is monitored by the Company Secretary 
and reviewed by the Board on an annual basis. 
Specific matters reserved for the Board 
include the approval of:

 @ The Group’s long term objectives and 

corporate strategy.

 @ Operating and capital budgets, financial 
results, and any significant changes to 
accounting practices or policies.

 @ The Group’s capital structure.

 @ Results and financial reporting.

 @ The system of internal control and 

risk management.

 @ The Group’s overall risk appetite.

 @ Changes to the structure, size and 

composition of the Board, including 
new appointments.

 @ Succession plans for the Board and 

senior management.

 @ Dividend policy and proposals for 

dividend payments.

 @ Major acquisitions, disposals and other 
transactions outside delegated limits.

 @ The annual review of its own performance 

and that of its Board Committees.

 @ Annual review of the Group’s Board policies.

 @ The review of the Group’s overall corporate 

governance arrangements.

Board activity during 2014
At each scheduled meeting the Board receives 
updates from the Chief Executive, Chief 
Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer 
on the financial and operational performance 
of the Group and any specific developments 
in the areas of the business for which they are 
directly responsible and of which the Board 
should be aware. Items that are considered 
on an annual basis are included in an annual 
schedule of rolling agenda items to ensure 
that they are considered at the appropriate 
point in the financial and regulatory cycle. 
Meetings are structured so as to allow for 
consideration and debate of all matters. 
Mindful of the need to ensure effective Director 
succession through senior managers below 
Board level having exposure to and gaining 
experience of the operation of the Board, the 
heads of the Group’s US, Italian and Spanish 
direct insurance businesses (respectively 
Kevin Chidwick, Milena Mondini and Cristina 
Nestares) are invited to attend every Board 
meeting and Board dinner, as was the Group’s 
Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Geraint Jones, 
until his appointment as Chief Financial Officer 
in August 2014.

The Board met on seven occasions in 2014 with 
six of these meetings being held over two days. 
The Board also held an additional telephone 
meeting to consider and respond to the formal 
notification of the PRA’s Individual Capital 
Guidance (ICG) with respect to the Group. 
Unfortunately, given prior commitments, Manfred 
Aldag and Roger Abravanel were unable to join 
this telephone meeting. 

In addition to the regular consideration of 
financial and operating performance and risk 
management and compliance, the Board 
considered each of the Group’s businesses in 
depth once during the year, receiving detailed 
presentations from the businesses’ management 
teams on their strategy, plans and performance. 
The Board also considered specific presentations 
on a variety of topics associated with the Group’s 
strategy and development 

The Chairman seeks to visit each of the 
Group’s overseas operations every year and 
Non-Executive Directors are invited to join either 
him or the Chief Executive on one or more of 
their overseas visits each year. In addition, the 
Non-Executive Directors and the Chairman 
met during the year without the Executive 
Directors being present. In order to increase 
their understanding of the operation of the 
Group below Board level, the Non-Executive 
Directors and the Chairman also attended a 
dinner with members of the Group’s senior 
management team without the Executive 
Directors being present. 

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Meetings and attendance
Directors are expected to attend all meetings of the Board and the Committees on which they 
serve and to devote sufficient time to the Group to perform their duties. Where Directors are 
unable to attend meetings they receive papers for that meeting giving them the opportunity to 
raise any issues with the Chairman in advance of the meeting. The number of scheduled Board 
meetings and Committee meetings of which they are a member attended by each Director 
during 2014 is provided in the table below.

Total meetings held

Alastair Lyons 
(Chairman)

Henry Engelhardt  
(Chief Executive Officer)

Kevin Chidwick  
(Chief Financial Officer)

Geraint Jones  
(Chief Financial Officer)

David Stevens  
(Chief Operating Officer)

Roger Abravanel 

Manfred Aldag

Annette Court 

Colin Holmes 

Martin Jackson 

Margaret Johnson

Lucy Kellaway

Jean Park

John Sussens

Audit 
Committee
 meetings

6

6

6

6

Scheduled 
Board 
meetings

7

7

7

5/5

2/2

7

6

6

7

7

3/3

7

7

7

3/3

Group Risk 
 Committee
 meetings

Nomination 
Committee 
meetings

Remuneration 
Committee 
meetings

5

5

5

2/2

3/3

4/4

2/2

1

1

1

1

8

6

5/5

3/3

8

7

3/3

John Sussens and Martin Jackson stepped down 
from the Board with effect from 9 April 2014.

Jean Park joined the Group Risk Committee 
on appointment from 17 January 2014 and 
attended all Group Risk Committee meetings 
held after this time.

Lucy Kellaway joined the Group Risk Committee 
from April 2014 and attended all Group Risk 
Committee meetings after this time.

Annette Court took over as Chair of the 
Remuneration Committee from April 2014 
and attended all Remuneration Committee 
meetings held after this time.

Kevin Chidwick stepped down as Group 
Chief Financial Officer and was succeeded by 
Geraint Jones with effect from 13 August 2014. 
Both Kevin and Geraint attended all Board 
meetings as required in their roles as CFO.

The Nomination Committee met formally 
on one occasion in 2014 although members 
of the Committee corresponded and met 
informally on a number of occasions to 
consider and meet with individuals that 
the Committee had identified as possible 
candidates to join the Board.

Agendas and papers are circulated to the Board 
electronically in a timely and secure manner in 
preparation for Board and Committee meetings. 
The Board agenda is carefully structured by the 
Chairman in consultation with the Company 
Secretary and Chief Executive. These papers 
are supplemented by information specifically 
requested by the Directors from time to time. 
All Board and Committee meetings during the 
year were held in an open atmosphere conducive 
to robust and constructive challenge and debate. 
All Directors have, therefore, been able to bring 
independent judgement to bear on issues such 
as strategy, risk management, performance 
and resources. Additional meetings are called 
when required and there is contact between 
meetings, where necessary, to progress the 
Group’s business.

The Company Secretary
All the Directors have access to the advice 
and services of the Company Secretary. He has 
responsibility for ensuring that Board procedures 
are followed and for advising the Board, through 
the Chairman, on governance matters. The 
Company Secretary provides updates to the 
Board on regulatory and corporate governance 
issues, new legislation and Directors’ duties 
and obligations. The appointment and removal 
of the Company Secretary is one of the matters 
reserved for the Board.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

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Effectiveness

Our Board evaluation process

One-to-one meetings

Directors

Board attendees

Chairman

Review previous 
recommendations

Assess progress 
made

Raise new issues

Results of review

Board effectiveness
As the Board carried out an externally facilitated 
evaluation of the Board last year, led by an 
independent external consultant, this year 
the Chairman led an internal Board evaluation 
process. As well as considering the effectiveness 
and performance of the Board, the objective 
of the evaluation was to assess progress made 
against the recommendations from the last 
evaluation in order to continue the development 
of the collective contribution of the Board 
as a whole and also the effectiveness of each 
individual Director. When considering the 
evaluation process, the Chairman considered 
feedback received from Directors after 
one-to-one meetings held with him during 
the year as to areas of focus to improve 
Board effectiveness.

The evaluation process involved the Chairman 
circulating to all Directors and Board attendees, 
the recommendations from the 2013 Board 
effectiveness review and inviting respondents 
to assess progress made and comment on each 
recommendation. Respondents were also 
invited to raise any new issues of significance 
that they felt had developed since the last 
review a year ago and on which they believed 
the Board should focus in the coming year. 

The results of the review were presented by 
the Chairman to the Board in January 2015. 
Overall the review found that good progress 
had been made against most recommendations, 
that the Board continued to work effectively and 
that each Director contributes and demonstrates 
full commitment to his/her duties.

The particular areas identified by the Board 
during the 2014 review where further progress 
was required included:

 @ Although good progress had been made by 
the Chair of Risk to develop the appropriate 
strategy to achieve the requisite balance and 
focus between procedural and substantive 
aspects of risk and to create the most 
efficient and effective reporting materials, 
it was felt that further work was needed 
to embed fully the Group’s risk framework 
within the organisation.

 @ Focus on finding the right balance to ensure 
that gaps in international experience were 
addressed through greater competitive 
analysis or contributions from external 
experts such that the collective knowledge 
of the Board does not become ‘UK centric’.

 @ Reinforcement of the approach to create 
a clear structure in presentation materials 
that show the original forecast, the agreed 
approach and any assumptions made at 
the time and the bridge to the current 
position showing changes to current 
forecast and suggested approach.

 @ Inviting external experts to present on 
customers, competitors and/or societal 
trends every one–two years to provoke 
thinking and debate in advance of likely 
changes in customer preferences or 
competitor practices. It was felt that 
although some progress had been made 
there was still the opportunity through 
external presentations to lift the perspective 
of the Board, spending more time on the 
strategic context for the business and less 
on its routine operating activity.

The Chief Executive, to whom they report, 
appraises annually the performance of the 
individual Executive Directors. The Chairman, 
taking into account the views of the other 
Directors, reviews the performance of the 
Chief Executive (who is also appraised by 
an internal 360-degree feedback process). 
The performance of the Chairman is reviewed 
by the Board led by the Senior Independent 
Director (SID). Following the latest review, 
the SID considered and discussed with the 
Chairman the comments and feedback that 
had been received from the Directors as part 
of the Chairman’s evaluation questionnaire, 
and was able to confirm that the performance 
of the Chairman continues to be effective and 
that he continues to demonstrate appropriate 
commitment to his role.

The roles of the Chairman 
and Chief Executive
The Board has approved a statement that sets 
out the clear division of responsibilities between 
the Chairman and the Chief Executive. The 
Chairman is primarily responsible for the 
leadership and workings of the Board, setting 
its agenda and monitoring its effectiveness. 
The Chairman is not involved in the day-to-day 
management of the business. Save for matters 
reserved for decision by the Board, the Chief 
Executive, with the support of the other 
Executive Directors, is responsible for proposing 
the strategy to be adopted by the Group; running 
the business in accordance with the strategy 
agreed by the Board; and implementing 
specific Board decisions relating to the 
operation of the Group. The statements 
of division of responsibilities and matters 
reserved for decision by the Board are 
reviewed annually.

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Board balance and independence
The composition of the Board evolved during 
the year as John Sussens and Martin Jackson 
stepped down from the Board after nine years’ 
service. Careful consideration continues to be 
given to Board structure and balance particularly 
given another two Directors will reach nine years’ 
service in the next two years. In this context the 
Group continues to monitor the need to refresh 
Board and Committee membership in an orderly 
manner so as to maintain the continuity of 
Board process and the strength of personal 
interaction which underlies the effectiveness 
of the Board as a team. The Board remains 
satisfied that it has the appropriate balance 
of skills, experience, independence and 
knowledge of the Group to enable it and 
its Committees to discharge their duties 
and responsibilities effectively, as required 
by the Code.

The Board currently comprises 12 Directors, 
the Chairman (who was independent on 
appointment), three Executive Directors, 
seven independent Non-Executive Directors, 
and one Non-Executive Director, Manfred Aldag, 
who is employed by a significant shareholder 
and is not, therefore, considered independent. 
There is no requirement that the significant 
shareholder has representation on the Board 
and, accordingly, Mr Aldag’s appointment is 
subject to the same appointment and removal 
process as the other Board Directors. As can 
be seen from the Directors’ biographies on 
pages 42 to 43, the Directors have a broad 
range of skills and experience and can bring 
independent judgement to bear on issues of 
strategy, performance, resources and standards 
of conduct which are integral to the success 
of the Group.

In the context of two of the Non-Executive 
Directors reaching their maximum term over 
the next two years, the Nomination Committee 
initiated the process of recruiting a Non-Executive 
Director to ensure that the balance and 
composition of the Board was maintained. 
Appointments to the Board are the responsibility 
of the Board as a whole, acting on the advice 
and recommendations of the Nomination 
Committee. Appointments are made on merit 
and against objective criteria, having due regard 
to the benefits of diversity, including gender. 
Following a formal, rigorous and transparent 
process implemented and led by the Nomination 
Committee, the Board was delighted to appoint 
Penny James as an independent Non-Executive 
Director with effect from 1 January 2015. Penny 
joined as a member of the Audit Committee 
on appointment and will be subject to election 
by shareholders at the forthcoming AGM. 

The Board, having given thorough consideration 
to the matter, considers seven of the 
Non-Executive Directors to be independent 
and is not aware of any relationships or 
circumstances which are likely to affect, 
or could appear to affect, the judgement 
of any of them. It is the view of the Board that 
the independent Non-Executive Directors 
are of sufficient calibre and number that their 
views carry significant weight in the Board’s 
decision making. 

Independent Non-Executive Directors are 
currently appointed for fixed periods of three 
years, subject to election by shareholders. 
The initial three-year period may be extended 
for two further three-year periods subject to 
re-election by shareholders. Their letters of 
appointment may be inspected at the Company’s 
registered office or can be obtained on request 
from the Company Secretary. 

Although the Chairman has served in that role 
since July 2000 the Board remains of the view 
that he should continue in office. The Chairman, 
along with all the Directors, seeks election by 
shareholders annually. 

The Chairman performs a number of other 
non-executive roles outside the Group and 
details of these are included in the Chairman’s 
biography. The Board continues to be satisfied 
that these other commitments are not such as 
to interfere with the performance of his duties 
within the Group and will not impact on his 
ability to allocate sufficient time to discharge 
effectively his responsibilities to the Group. 

John Sussens stepped down as the Senior 
Independent Non-Executive Director (SID) 
in April 2014 and was succeeded by Colin 
Holmes, who has the requisite knowledge and 
experience gained through his Board tenure 
and Chairmanship of the Audit Committee. 
He is available to shareholders if they have 
concerns that contact through the normal 
channels of Chairman, Chief Executive or 
Chief Financial Officer has failed to resolve 
or for which such contact is inappropriate. 
He is also responsible for leading the Board’s 
discussion on the Chairman’s performance 
and the appointment of a new Chairman, 
as and when appropriate. From April 2014, 
Annette Court replaced John Sussens as 
Chair of the Remuneration Committee 
and Jean Park replaced Martin Jackson 
as Chair of the Group Risk Committee.

Roger Abravanel will not be seeking re-election 
at the forthcoming AGM and will step down 
from the Board on 29 April 2015. 

In accordance with the requirement under 
the Code for annual election of Directors, 
all Directors, except for Roger Abravanel, 
will be submitting themselves for re-election 
by shareholders at the forthcoming AGM. 
The Board is satisfied that all are properly 
qualified for their reappointment by virtue of 
their skills and experience and their contribution 
to the Board and its Committees.

The Directors are given access to independent 
professional advice at the Group’s expense, 
should they deem it necessary to carry out 
their responsibilities.

Current length of service as a Non-Executive Director at 31 December 2014
The table below details the length of service of the Chairman and each of the Non-Executive Directors and illustrates the balance of experience 
and fresh perspectives.

Director

Date of appointment

Current length of service as a Non-Executive Director at 31 December 2014

Alastair Lyons (Chairman)

1 July 2000

Manfred Aldag

Margaret Johnson

Lucy Kellaway

Colin Holmes

Roger Abravanel

Annette Court

Jean Park

Penny James

13 March 2003

4 September 2006

4 September 2006

3 December 2010

6 March 2012

21 March 2012

17 January 2014

4 yrs 1 mth

2 yrs 10 mths

2 yrs 9 mths

11 mths

1 January 2015

n/a

14 yrs 6 mths

11 yrs 9 mths

8 yrs 4 mths

8 yrs 4 mths

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Effectiveness continued

Professional development
On appointment, Directors take part in 
a comprehensive induction programme 
whereby they receive financial and operational 
information about the Group; details concerning 
their responsibilities and duties; as well as 
an introduction to the Group’s governance, 
regulatory and control environment.

This induction is supplemented by visits to 
the Group’s head office in Cardiff and overseas 
offices, and meetings with members of the senior 
management team and their departments. 
Development and training of Directors is an 
ongoing process. Throughout their period 
in office the Directors are regularly updated 
on the Group’s business; legal matters 
concerning their role and duties; the competitive 
environments in which the Group operates; 
and any other significant changes affecting 
the Group and the industry of which it is a 
part. All Board members are also encouraged 
to attend relevant training courses at the 
Company’s expense.

The Board receives presentations from senior 
managers within the Group on a regular basis 
and Non-Executive Directors are encouraged 
to make informal visits to different parts of the 
Group to meet with local management.

Engagement with shareholders
The Company attaches considerable importance 
to communications with shareholders and 
engages with them regularly. Open and 
frequent dialogue with investors enables 
them to understand fully the Group’s strategy, 
objectives and governance. The Investor 
Relations team has day-to-day primary 
responsibility for managing communications 
with institutional shareholders through a 
combination of briefings to analysts and 
institutional shareholders, both at the half year 
and full year results. A number of analysts 
and investors visited the Group’s Cardiff office 
during the year to meet with the Executive 
Directors and senior management in order 
to get a better understanding of how the 
Group operates and how it intends to achieve 
its strategic and operational objectives. Senior 
Executives from the Group’s overseas businesses 
also visit the UK in order to present to, and 
meet with, analysts and investors. Site visits 
and individual discussions with the Executive 
Directors are also arranged throughout the 
year with individual shareholders. 

In addition the Chairman had individual meetings 
during the year with major shareholders and 
reported to the Board on issues raised with him. 

This is supplemented by feedback to the 
Board on meetings between management and 
investors. In addition, the Investor Relations 
team produces a quarterly Investor Relations 

Report that is circulated to the Board for their 
consideration. The Report contains an analysis 
of share price performance; a summary of analyst 
reports received during the month and of 
meetings that have been held with investors 
and analysts; together with details of any 
significant changes to the shareholders’ register.

The Senior Independent Director has specific 
responsibility to be available to investors who 
have any issues or concerns, and in cases where 
contact with the Chairman, Chief Executive 
and Chief Financial Officer has either failed 
to resolve their concerns, or for where such 
contact is inappropriate. No such concerns 
have been raised in the year under review.

All shareholders are invited to attend the 
Company’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). 
The Chairs of the Audit, Remuneration, 
Nomination and Group Risk Committees attend 
the AGM along with the other Directors and are 
available to answer shareholders’ questions 
on the activities of the Committees they chair. 
Shareholders are also invited to ask questions 
during the meeting and have an opportunity 
to meet with Directors after the formal business 
of the meeting has been concluded. Details of 
proxy voting by shareholders, including votes 
withheld, are made available on request and 
are placed on the Company’s website following 
the meeting.

The Group maintains a corporate 
website (www.admiralgroup.co.uk)
containing a wide range of information 
of interest to institutional and private 
investors. The major shareholders of 
the Company are listed on page 74.

Conflicts of interest
In compliance with the requirements of the 
Companies Act 2006 regarding Directors’ duties 
in relation to conflicts of interest, the Group’s 
Articles of Association allow the Board to 
authorise potential conflicts of interest that may 
arise and to impose such limits as it thinks fit. 
The Company has put in place procedures to 
deal with conflicts of interest. These procedures 
include each Board member completing, 
annually, a conflict of interest questionnaire 
that sets out any situation in which they, 
or their connected persons have, or could 
have, a direct or indirect interest that could 
conflict with the interests of the Company. 
Any current directorships that they, or their 
connected persons hold, any advisory roles 
or trusteeships held, together with any 
companies in which they hold more than 1% 
of the issued share capital are also disclosed. 
These procedures were reviewed by the Board 
in November 2014 and it was concluded that 
they continued to operate effectively.

The Company attaches 
considerable importance 
to communications 
with shareholders and 
engages with them 
regularly. Open and 
frequent dialogue 
with investors enables 
them to understand 
fully the Group’s 
strategy, objectives 
and governance.”

Board Committees
The Board has delegated authority to a number 
of permanent Committees to deal with matters 
in accordance with written Terms of Reference. 
The principal Committees of the Board – Audit, 
Remuneration, Group Risk and Nomination 
– all comply fully with the requirements of 
the Code. 

All Committees are chaired by an independent 
Director, except the Nomination Committee 
which is chaired by the Chairman of the Board, 
and comprise a majority of independent 
Directors. Appointments to the Committees 
are made on the recommendation of the 
Nomination Committee and are for a period 
of up to three years, which may be extended 
for two further three-year periods, provided 
the Director remains independent. The 
Committees are constituted with written 
Terms of Reference that are reviewed annually 
to ensure that they remain appropriate and 
reflect any changes in good practice and 
governance. These Terms of Reference are 
available on request from the Company 
Secretary and can also be found on the 
Company’s website: www.admiralgroup.co.uk. 
Directors are fully informed of all Committee 
matters by the Committee Chairs reporting 
on the proceedings of their Committee at 
the subsequent Board meeting. Copies of 
Committee minutes are also distributed to 
the Board. Committees are authorised to 
obtain outside legal or other independent 
professional advice if they consider it 
necessary. The Chair of each Committee 
attends the Annual General Meeting to 
respond to any shareholder questions that 
might be raised on the Committee’s activities.

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INTRODUCTION

STRATEGIC REPORT
STRATEGIC REPORT

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

OTHER INFORMATION
OTHER INFORMATION

REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE

Statement from Colin Holmes

The key areas of focus have been to provide support 
to the Board in its oversight of financial reporting 
and the control environment across the Group.”

Colin Holmes
Chairman of the Audit Committee

Dear Shareholder,
I’m pleased to provide an update on the main activities of Admiral’s Audit 
Committee during 2014.

The key areas of focus for the Committee during the year have been to provide 
support to the Board in its oversight of financial reporting and the control 
environment across the Group. The setting of insurance claims reserves continues 
to be a key accounting judgement in the Group’s financial statements, and the 
Committee placed considerable focus on reviewing the recommendations of 
management and discussing the key reserving judgements with the Group’s 
independent actuaries and external auditor. In addition, the Committee continued 
to monitor the appropriateness of the Group’s system of risk management and 
internal controls as well as the robustness of the Internal and External Audit processes. 

The Committee studied a number of key control issues, highlighted through 
a range of different sources including the risk register, Internal Audit and the 
Committee’s previous work. In each case the Committee found the responses 
and action plans from management appropriate to the issues raised. With the 
planned implementation in 2015 of a new IT system in the UK business the 
Committee received regular updates from the project’s manager, ensuring that 
the impact of implementation issues were being fully considered and mitigated 
against. The Committee also reviewed with the Head of IT the plans of the 
business to ensure that IT security issues are being appropriately managed.

The growing materiality of the Group’s international businesses has been a key 
focus of the Committee, with presentations from the key CEOs and an improved 
oversight of the businesses’ audit activities. Also during the year the Group 
issued its first public bond, with the Committee reviewing the accuracy and 
completeness of the financial information being provided as part of the prospectus.

Finally as previously communicated the Group plans to tender the External 
Audit of the Group to coincide with the rotation of the current KPMG audit 
partner. In preparation for the tender process the Committee has spent time 
considering how it will manage this process to ensure the Group continues 
to have a strong External Audit team into the future. 

The Committee continues to provide strong oversight of the Group and I would 
like to thank all those who have made this possible. In particular I would like to 
thank my two colleagues, Margaret Johnson and Annette Court, for their invaluable 
contribution over the last year, and equally to welcome Penny James to the 
Committee following her appointment to the Board in January. 

I hope you find the above summary, and the more detailed report, both useful 
and informative.

The Audit Committee’s primary 
responsibilities are to:
 @ Monitor the integrity of the Group’s 
financial statements and any formal 
announcement relating to the Group’s 
financial performance, reviewing any 
significant financial reporting 
judgements that they contain.

 @ Keep under review the effectiveness 
of the Group’s internal financial 
controls, internal control and risk 
management systems.

 @ Review the Group’s procedures 
for handling allegations from 
whistleblowers and for detecting fraud.

 @ Monitor and assess the role 

and effectiveness of the Group’s 
Internal Audit functions in the 
context of the Group’s overall 
internal control and risk 
management systems.

 @ Consider and make recommendations 
to the Board, to be put to shareholders 
for their approval at the AGM, 
in relation to the appointment, 
reappointment and removal of 
the Group’s external auditor.

 @ Review the external auditor’s 

independence and objectivity 
and the effectiveness of the 
audit process.

 @ Review the policy on the engagement 
of the external auditor to provide 
non-audit services, considering 
the relevant regulatory guidance 
regarding the provision of non-audit 
services by the external auditor.

Colin Holmes
Chairman of the Audit Committee
4 March 2015

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ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

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INTRODUCTIONREPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE CONTINUED

Summary of key activities during 2014
During the year the Committee reviewed the following:
 @ The Annual Report and interim results.

 @ Reports from the Internal Audit departments within the Group on the effectiveness of the Group’s risk management 
and internal control procedures, details of key audit findings and actions taken by management to manage and 
reduce the impact of the risks identified.

 @ Reports from the external auditor on the principal findings from its review of the Group’s systems and controls, and 

on the key accounting and audit issues and conclusions on the half and full year reporting.

 @ Reports from the Chair of the Group Risk Committee on the principal risks faced by the Group and the work 

undertaken by the Committee to ensure risk is appropriately managed.

 @ Presentations from independent actuaries to assist the Committee in concluding on the adequacy of the 

Group’s reserves.

 @ Reports from the external auditor on the proposed audit scope, fees, audit findings, and auditor independence.

 @ The proposed Internal Audit plans for both the UK and international businesses.

 @ Performance and effectiveness of the Internal Audit departments including review of the results of the external 

effectiveness review of Internal Audit.

 @ Significant findings from Internal Audit including management responses to the conclusions set out in the reports.

 @ Reports from the CEO and Internal Auditors of the significant international businesses.

 @ The effectiveness of the Group’s Whistleblowing Policy, which sets out the arrangements for raising and handling 

allegations from whistleblowers.

 @ The effectiveness of the procedures for detecting fraud.

 @ The Committee also received presentations and discussions on a range of important issues including: IT Security; 
the Group’s Excess of Loss arrangements; Periodic Payment Order (PPO) identification; reserving and the impact 
on the Group of the introduction of the Gender Directive in the context of considering whether any portfolio 
shifts could lead to material changes in claims development patterns and impact the appropriateness of claims 
estimation at the year end.

 @ The plans and governance of the project to implement a new IT system for the UK business in 2015.

 @ The accuracy and completeness of the financial information contained within the prospectus for the Group’s public 

bond issue.

 @ The pre-planning work to facilitate a smooth and effective tender of the External Audit work.

 @ Its own Terms of Reference.

 @ Its own effectiveness.

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Membership

Audit Committee attendance (6 meetings)

Colin Holmes

Margaret Johnson

Annette Court

 Chairman 

 Member 

 Did not attend 

Membership of the Committee at the end of 
the year was: Colin Holmes (Chair), Margaret 
Johnson and Annette Court, with Penny James 
joining the Committee with effect from her 
appointment as a Non-Executive Director on 
1 January 2015. Composition of the Committee 
is well balanced, with Committee members 
having a broad range of financial and business 
experience such that they are able to effectively 
analyse, challenge and debate the issues that 
fall within the Committee’s remit.

The Company Secretary acts as Secretary to the 
Committee. The Committee meets at least four 
times per year and has an agenda linked to 
events in the Group’s financial calendar and 
other important issues that arise throughout 
the year which fall for consideration by the 
Committee under its remit.

The Board considers that the members of the 
Committee have the appropriate competence 
and experience necessary to contribute 
meaningfully to the Committee’s deliberations 
and further considers that Colin Holmes (Chair), 
as a Chartered Management Accountant, 
has appropriate recent and relevant financial 
experience having previously been the UK 
Finance Director for Tesco plc. Penny James 
is currently Director of Group Finance at 
Prudential plc.

The Committee is kept up to date with 
changes to Accounting Standards and relevant 
developments in financial reporting, company 
law and the various regulatory frameworks 
through presentations from the Group’s 
external auditor, Chief Financial Officer and 
Company Secretary. In addition, members 
attend relevant seminars and conferences 
provided by external bodies. The Terms of 
Reference of the Audit Committee include 
all the matters required under the Code.

Other individuals such as the Chief Financial 
Officer, the Chief Operating Officer, the Chief 
Executive Officer, the Chairman of the Board, 
the Director of Risk, Compliance and Internal 
Audit, and representatives of different parts of 
the Group may be invited to attend all or part 
of any meeting as and when appropriate. The 
external auditor was invited to attend all of the 
Committee’s meetings held in 2014, excepting 
those agenda items when its own performance 
was to be reviewed and provision of non-audit 
services discussed. In addition, a number of 
private meetings were held between members 
of the Committee and the auditor.

Significant issues considered 
by the Committee
After discussion with both management and 
the external auditor, the Audit Committee 
determined that the key risks of misstatement 
of the Group’s financial statements related to: 
insurance liabilities; profit commissions; and 
both co-insurance and reinsurance contracts.

These issues were discussed with management 
during the year and with the auditor at the 
time the Committee reviewed and agreed the 
auditor’s Group audit plan, when the auditor 
reviewed the interim financial statements in 
August 2014 and also at the conclusion of the 
audit of these full year financial statements.

Insurance liabilities
The Audit Committee considered the provision 
for claims outstanding comprising provisions 
for the estimated cost of settling all claims 
incurred but unpaid as at the balance sheet 
date, whether reported or not. The Board 
has approved a Reserving Policy that sets 
out the methodology by which management 
sets reserves in the financial statements. The 
approach is to ensure that an appropriate margin 
is provided above actuarial best estimates 
to allow for uncertainty and volatility.

The Committee held separate meetings with 
the Group’s external actuaries at which there 
was challenge and debate of the methodology 
used and best estimates developed by the 
external actuaries and recommended for 
adoption by management. At these meetings 
management provided further information 
on the reserving levels proposed and were 
challenged by the Committee as to their 
adequacy and level of prudency. In particular, 
the Committee reviewed the process for 
identifying and grading cases which potentially 
would settle as Payment Protection Orders 
(PPO). The Committee was satisfied that PPOs 
were being appropriately identified and 
reserved for.

The Committee also discussed the Reserving 
Letter sent to insurance CEOs by the Prudential 
Regulatory Authority (PRA) which set out the 
PRA’s reserving expectations for firms; their 
approach to reviewing firms’ reserving processes 
and reserve levels; and forthcoming Solvency II 
requirements. The Committee discussed and 
approved a response with management that 
reiterated the Group’s strong reserving processes 
and methodology set out in the Group’s 
Reserving Policy and the clear process by 
which the matters raised in the PRA’s letter 
could be addressed.

Whilst acknowledging that the setting of 
reserves to cover future claims is a complex 
and judgemental area and having had the 
opportunity at the separate meetings referred 
to above to consider and question the 
recommended best estimates, the Committee 
is satisfied that an appropriate process has 
been followed and that there has been scrutiny, 
challenge and debate to give confidence that 
the reserving levels set provide an appropriate 
margin above best estimates and allowed for 
a level of prudency. 

The Committee also received an update from 
the auditor regarding the procedures used to 
test management’s methodology in setting 
best estimates and considered the auditor’s 
assertion that they had challenged the reserving 
approach taken by management and considered 
compliance with current accounting standards. 
Based on this and the reserving process, the 
Committee was satisfied with the Group’s 
approach to setting reserves.

Profit commission
The Committee considered the impact on profit 
commission income of future changes in claims 
reserves as the recognition of this income is 
dependent on the loss ratio booked in the 
financial statements and cash receivable is 
dependent on actuarial projections of ultimate 
loss ratios. The Committee remained satisfied 
that profit commission was correctly accounted 
for by the Group and was in accordance with the 
contractual arrangements that were in place.

Co-insurance and reinsurance
The Group has in place a number of proportional 
risk sharing agreements, where insurers outside 
the Group underwrite a majority of the risk 
generated, either through co-insurance or 
reinsurance contracts. There is judgement 
involved in the assessment of whether significant 
risk has transferred which impacts on the 
appropriate accounting.

In particular, the Committee considered the 
accounting treatment of the caps contained in 
the Group’s international quota share reinsurance 
contracts that limited the losses of the reinsurer 
when certain combined ratio and/or expense 
ratio limits had been breached. The Committee 
discussed the accounting options available 
to account for these cap accruals and had 
challenged management as to the merit of the 
accounting options available. The Committee 
accepted the view of management that the 
most appropriate presentation was to allocate 
the impact of expense ratio caps to insurance 
expenses and to split the impact of combined 
ratio caps between insurance expenses and 
insurance claims. 

The Committee considered key accounting 
judgements as part of its review and approval 
of Group financial statements at interim and 
year end meetings. The Committee received 
reporting from the Group Finance team that 
supported key accounting estimates and 
judgements and this formed the basis for the 
Committee’s discussion. Risk transfer was 
considered on a periodic basis or more 
frequently in the case of changes to contractual 
arrangements. In the light of the information 
received by the Committee, the Committee 
considered that the appropriate risk transfer 
had taken place.

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51

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONREPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE CONTINUED

Recognition of intra-group trading
The Committee considered and reviewed an 
unadjusted difference, reported by the external 
auditor, relating to intra-group trading which had 
not been eliminated on consolidation. 

Management confirmed to the Committee that 
the auditor continued to report an unadjusted 
difference in relation to intra-group trading 
between the Group’s insurance and price 
comparison operations. Management had 
opted not to make the elimination adjustments 
as the effect would have a misleading impact 
on the key ratios for the business as typically 
used by the industry and also to maintain 
consistency with prior years. KPMG confirmed 
that although this was an unadjusted difference, 
it was both immaterial and consistent with 
prior years.

The Committee fully considered and challenged 
management on the approach they had 
taken not to make elimination adjustments 
on the grounds of immateriality. Following 
comprehensive review, the Committee 
confirmed its acceptance of management’s 
position on the basis that accounting for 
intra-group trading in this way was acceptable 
given the immateriality of the sums involved 
and resulted in a better overall presentation 
of the financial statements.

IFRIC 21 levies
The impact of IFRIC 21 on levies was considered 
by management and the Group’s auditor, with 
the implication to Admiral being on the amounts 
it pays to the Motor Insurers Bureau and the 
Financial Services Compensation Scheme. The 
standard is not mandatory until 2015 but the 
Committee agreed with management that in 
the interest of transparency it was appropriate 
for the Group to early adopt, with full disclosure 
of its implications being provided in the Report 
and Accounts.

Deferred tax assets
The Group’s two US operations – Elephant 
Auto and compare.com, are both loss-making, 
reflecting the stage of development of each 
business. The Committee discussed the potential 
deferred tax assets (DTA) recommended by 
management in relation to the accumulated 
losses carried forward at the balance sheet date 
for both operations. The Committee concluded 
that the proposed assets were consistent with 
the accounting standard.

Misstatements
The Committee considered all misstatements 
reported by the auditor and were satisfied 
that no material amounts remain unadjusted. 
The Committee confirms that it is satisfied 
that the auditor has fulfilled its responsibilities 
with diligence and professional scepticism.

After reviewing the presentations and reports 
from management and consulting where 
necessary with the auditor, the Committee 
is satisfied that the financial statements 
appropriately address the critical judgements 
and key estimates (both in respect to the amounts 
reported and the disclosures). The Committee 

is also satisfied that the significant assumptions 
used for determining the value of assets and 
liabilities have been appropriately scrutinised, 
challenged and are sufficiently robust. 

Non-audit fees
During the year the Committee reviewed its 
policy on non-audit services that sets out the 
procedure for approval, by the Committee, 
of expenditure with the Group’s auditor 
of over £30,000, including the process where 
it is necessary for approval of such work to 
be given outside of the normal Committee 
meeting timetable. Such circumstances will 
require the approval of the Audit Committee 
Chair, who will consider and approve such fees 
on behalf of the Committee and will ensure 
that auditor independence and objectivity 
are not compromised. Such approval of fees 
in excess of £30,000 will then be notified by 
the Committee Chair to the next Committee 
meeting following approval. 

The Group’s auditor, KPMG LLP, provides 
some non-audit services, the majority of which 
comprise compliance and advisory services 
related to various taxation issues within the 
Group, and which are not considered by the 
Committee to compromise their independence 
and objectivity as auditor. This decision is 
typically based on the merit of using KPMG’s 
existing knowledge of the Group’s business; 
their particular expertise in relation to the 
advice sought on each relevant transaction 
and the consequent value added and inherent 
saving of fees. The level of non-audit fees is 
reviewed at each Committee meeting and 
details are included in the Annual Report.

The Committee also considered the implications 
of both the forthcoming tender of the External 
Audit and the potential adoption by the UK 
of EU legislation that prohibits auditors from 
carrying out certain non-audit services including 
tax and other consultancy. The Committee 
will continue to track developments to ensure 
the Group will be able to comply with future 
legislation and guidance in this area.

Effectiveness of the External Audit process
The Committee undertakes an annual review 
to assess the independence and objectivity 
of the external auditor and the effectiveness 
of the audit process, taking into consideration 
relevant professional and regulatory 
requirements, the progress achieved against 
the agreed audit plan, and the competence 
with which the auditor handles the key accounting 
and audit judgements. Following this review 
the Committee concluded that the auditor, 
KPMG LLP, remained independent and provided 
a service that was robust and fit for purpose. 

Audit tender
The Committee confirmed in last year’s Annual 
Report that it was the Group’s intention to put 
the External Audit services contract out to tender 
at the end of the five-year rotation of the 
current audit engagement partner. Although 
the transitional rules under the EU legislation 
give the Group the option to delay the tender 
process until 2022, the Committee remains of 

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the view that the audit for the year ending 
31 December 2016 will be put out to tender 
in 2015. 

In view of the high quality of service received 
by the Group from the current external auditor, 
and the above intention to undertake a full 
tender of the audit for the 2016 financial year, 
the Committee recommends the reappointment 
of KPMG for the next financial year. A resolution 
for the reappointment of KPMG as auditor will, 
therefore, be proposed at the forthcoming AGM. 
There are no contractual obligations that restrict 
the Group’s choice of external auditor.

Internal Audit 
The Group Head of Internal Audit attends all 
Audit Committee meetings and provides a 
range of presentations and papers to the 
Committee, through which the Committee 
monitors the effectiveness of the Group’s 
internal controls. The Committee reviewed 
and approved the Group Internal Audit Terms 
of Reference which set out the role; objectives; 
reporting lines and accountability; authority; 
independence; and objectivity of the Internal 
Audit function. The role and competence of 
each Internal Audit function across the Group 
was also assessed and considered by the 
Committee. It was agreed that the Group 
Head of Internal Audit would have increased 
responsibility over the Internal Audit activities 
in the Group’s overseas locations. 

Members of the Committee also receive 
all issued audit reports, enabling them to 
challenge the reports’ content and related 
recommendations. The Committee approves 
the Internal Audit programmes at the start of 
each calendar year whilst the effectiveness 
and workload of the Internal Audit functions 
and the adequacy of available resources are 
monitored throughout the year. 

In accordance with agreed parameters, the 
overseas businesses of ConTe, Admiral Seguros 
and Elephant have their own locally based 
internal auditors, who report to their respective 
CEOs. All reports are evaluated by the Group 
Head of Internal Audit to ensure the quality 
and effectiveness of the reported findings. 
In addition, the UK Internal Audit department 
carries out high level governance reviews of 
all foreign operations, assessing the internal 
control frameworks and system of risk 
management. The overseas internal auditors 
attend Committee meetings periodically. 

Committee effectiveness review
As part of the Committee’s detailed annual review 
of its performance and processes, each 
Committee member completed a comprehensive 
questionnaire designed to provide objective 
assessment of the Committee’s performance, 
including its effectiveness in monitoring Internal 
and External Audit. The Committee discussed 
the results of the review and it was concluded 
that the Committee and the audit process 
were effective; that the Committee had full 
access to all the information it required; that 
the Committee had appropriate Terms of 
Reference; and that it was adequately 
discharging its responsibilities.

INTRODUCTION

STRATEGIC REPORT
STRATEGIC REPORT

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

OTHER INFORMATION
OTHER INFORMATION

REPORT OF THE GROUP RISK COMMITTEE

Statement from Jean Park

The Committee has focused on 
developing the Board’s approved risk 
strategy and risk appetite.”

Jean Park
Chair of the Group Risk Committee

Dear Shareholder,
As you are aware, I took over the Chair of the Group Risk Committee 
in April 2014. At a similar time we appointed a new Director of Risk, 
James Armstrong, and subsequently we have spent significant time 
building on the risk management activities undertaken by the Group.

During the year the Committee has focused on developing the Board’s 
approved risk strategy and risk appetite to a more granular level. This 
has been developed as part of the Group’s Enterprise Risk Management 
Framework (ERMF). A significant amount of time has been dedicated 
to Solvency II work. In particular, the GRC signed off the annual Own Risk 
and Solvency Assessment (ORSA) report towards the end of the year as 
well as approving a number of new policies required as part of the overall 
systems of governance.

I look forward to continuing the good work of 2014 this year as we move 
towards the implementation of Solvency II.

Jean Park
Chair of the Group Risk Committee
4 March 2015

The Group Risk Committee’s 
responsibilities can be 
summarised as:
 @ Agreeing the Group’s risk 

management framework, including 
the remits of Risk Management 
Committees that are established 
within each of the Group’s operational 
entities and overseeing the risk 
management functions.

 @ Monitoring the Group’s prudential 

risk exposure, which includes 
ensuring that the Group’s capital 
resources and liquidity profile are 
appropriate to its needs whilst 
meeting minimum regulatory 
requirements, including overseeing 
and challenging the design and 
execution of the Group’s stress and 
scenario testing.

 @ Monitoring the Group’s current 
and future conduct risk exposure.

 @ Ensuring the adequacy and 

effectiveness of the Group’s systems 
and controls for the prevention of 
financial crime, including prevention 
of bribery and adequacy of anti-money 
laundering and data protection 
systems and controls.

 @ Monitoring the adequacy and 
effectiveness of the Group’s 
Compliance functions.

 @ Reviewing the Group’s progress 
towards achieving Solvency II 
compliance.

 @ Reviewing compliance with Group 
policies, including the established 
Reserving Policy and process.

 @ Considering and recommending to 
the Board for approval the Group’s 
risk appetite, including any changes 
to the appetite for each material 
type of risk faced by the Group.

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INTRODUCTIONREPORT OF THE GROUP RISK COMMITTEE CONTINUED

Summary of key activities in 2014
During the year the Committee:
 @ Reviewed the Group’s updated risk strategy in the context of the Group’s agreed strategic objectives.

 @ Reviewed the Group’s updated risk appetite including an updated suite of Key Risk Indicators (KRIs) with associated 

triggers and limits.

 @ Reviewed the Group’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework in preparation for Solvency II implementation.

 @ Considered the adequacy of risk mitigation measures and contingency plans.

 @ Oversaw the development of customer outcome risks and the aggregation of these risks into tier one categories 

that will be used for reporting purposes in 2015. This included the establishment of a Conduct Risk Committee that 
manages the Conduct Risk MI on behalf of the business.

 @ Monitored the Group’s progress towards implementation of Solvency II and plans for compliance with the EIOPA 

interim guidelines.

 @ Reviewed the Group’s proposed dividend level in line with the capital policy.

 @ Approved the 2014 ORSA policy.

 @ Recommended to the Board approval of the 2014 ORSA Report prior to submission to the UK and Gibraltar regulators.

 @ Reviewed in-depth analysis of a number of the Group’s most significant risk areas, including insurance risk in the UK 

Car Insurance operation.

 @ Monitored KRIs within the overall risk management framework.

 @ Provided quarterly written reports to the Group Board on conduct risk and complaints.

 @ Reviewed its own Terms of Reference.

 @ Approved the Terms of Reference for the Group Asset and Liability Committee (GALCO).

 @ Approved the new Terms of Reference for the UK Risk Management Committee following the creation of the GALCO.

 @ Approved a number of new/revised key risk management policies in preparation for Solvency II.

 @ Received internal presentations on a number of key risk areas including ORSA and capital modelling.

 @ Reviewed the progress and risks associated with the IT project responsible for the implementation of a new policy 

administration system and data warehouse.

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Membership
Membership at the end of the year was: Annette Court, Lucy Kellaway, Jean Park (Chair) and 
David Stevens.

The Company Secretary acts as Secretary to the Committee. The Committee met five times 
during the year. 

Group Risk Committee attendance (5 meetings)

Jean Park

David Stevens

Martin Jackson

Lucy Kellaway

John Sussens

Annette Court

 Chairman 

 Member 

 Did not attend 

Duties and responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities of the Committee 
are set out in Terms of Reference that were 
approved by the Board in January 2013 and 
updated and approved in January 2015. The 
responsibilities of the Committee can be 
summarised on page 53.

included the development of the Conduct 
Risk MI Framework, with the introduction 
of a new suite of metrics for monitoring 
the key risks in this area. These updates have 
improved the effectiveness of the Committee 
by enabling greater focus on the main risks 
affecting the business.

The work of the Committee is supported by 
more detailed work undertaken by executive 
Risk Management Committees in each of the 
Group’s operational entities. The membership 
of the UK Risk Management Committee includes 
the Group Chief Operating Officer, Group 
Chief Financial Officer and Group Director of 
Risk. Membership of the other UK and overseas 
Committees includes the Managing Director 
of the operation. At each meeting, the Risk 
Management Committees consider significant 
movements in the operation’s risk profile, any 
risks that have arisen and any emerging risks. 
Risk Management Committees also assess 
and monitor any regulatory issues, ensuring 
that their resolution and the action taken are 
appropriately recorded. In the UK, the Risk 
Management Committee receives regular 
information on Conduct Risk, such as complaint 
handling reports and other related 
management information.

The Committee Chair reports formally to the 
Board on its proceedings after each meeting 
on all matters within its duties and responsibilities, 
as set out in previously circulated minutes to 
the Board. The Committee Chair also reports 
on the activities of the Committee in a formal 
written report that is submitted to and discussed 
by the Board every six months.

Following a review of the Committee 
effectiveness in December 2013, the Committee 
has overseen development of an Enterprise 
Risk Management Framework. The aim of the 
framework is to improve the understanding of 
risks at a Group level to help evaluate strategic 
opportunities and support the preparation for 
Solvency II implementation in 2016. The new 
framework includes an updated Risk Strategy 
alongside a refreshed suite of KRIs with 
associated triggers and limits. This has also 

Internal control and risk management 
The Board is ultimately responsible for the 
Group’s system of internal control and, through 
the Audit Committee, has reviewed the 
effectiveness of these systems. The systems 
of internal control over business, operational, 
financial, and compliance risks are designed 
to manage rather than eliminate the risk of 
failure to achieve business objectives and 
can only provide reasonable and not absolute 
assurance against material misstatement or loss. 

The Board is of the view that there is an ongoing 
process for identifying, evaluating and managing 
the Group’s internal controls; that it has been 
in place for the year ended 31 December 2014; 
and that, up to the date of approval of the 
Annual Report and Accounts, it is regularly 
reviewed by the Board and accords with the 
internal control guidance for Directors provided 
in the Code. 

A key element of the control system is that the 
Board meets regularly with a formal schedule 
of matters reserved to it for decision and has put 
in place an organisational structure with clearly 
defined lines of responsibility. As described 
above, in order to ensure these responsibilities 
are properly discharged, the Board has delegated 
the task of supervision of risk management to 
the Group Risk Committee (GRC) and of internal 
control to the Group Audit Committee. 

There are several key elements to the risk 
management environment throughout the 
Group. These include the setting of risk 
management strategy, risk appetite and risk 
policy, and the oversight of the activities of the 
Group Risk function by the GRC; dissemination 
of that policy by the Chief Executive; delivery 
of the policy by the UK Risk Management 
Committee and the Group’s other UK and 

overseas entities through the application 
of the Group’s systems of internal control and 
risk management; and the overall assurance 
provided to the Audit Committee by Internal 
Audit that the systems operate effectively.

The Board recognises that the day-to-day 
responsibility for implementing these policies 
must lie with the senior management whose 
operational decisions must take into account 
risk and how this can be controlled effectively. 
The GRC reports on its activities to the Audit 
Committee in support of the overall assurance 
provided by the Audit Committee that the 
Group’s risk management and compliance 
systems operate effectively. 

The Group Risk function defines and prescribes 
the financial and operational risk assessment 
processes for the business; performs second 
line reviews, including reserving and capital 
modelling processes; maintains the risk registers; 
undertakes regular reviews of these risks in 
conjunction with line management; delivers 
the Own Risk and Solvency Assessment (ORSA); 
and records any actual losses or near misses 
that occur as a consequence of the realisation 
of risk. The Director of Risk has responsibility 
for ensuring that managers are aware of their 
risk management obligations, providing them 
with support and advice, and ensuring that 
the risk management strategy is properly 
communicated. Reports are produced showing 
the most significant risks identified and the 
controls in place. Internal Audit uses the risk 
registers to plan and inform their programme 
of audits around the most significant risks to 
the Group to ensure that the prescribed controls 
are in place and are operating effectively. 

The GRC receives reports setting out key 
performance and risk indicators and considers 
possible control issues brought to its attention 
by early warning mechanisms that are embedded 
within the operational units. It, together with 
the Audit Committee, also receives regular 
reports from the relevant Internal Audit functions, 
which include recommendations for improvement 
of the control and operational environment. 
Twice a year the Chair of the Group Risk 
Committee provides a comprehensive written 
report to the Board on the Group’s risk appetite, 
risk strategy and risk management policy 
considering the principal assessed exposures 
and the effectiveness of the mitigation 
strategies adopted. 

The Audit Committee reports to the Board 
on the appropriateness and effectiveness 
of the risk management systems and internal 
controls (including financial controls). Where 
appropriate, the Committee provides a 
high-level challenge to the steps being taken 
by the GRC to implement the risk management 
strategy. The Internal Audit functions undertake 
regular reviews of internal control systems 
and business processes, identifying control 
weaknesses and making recommendations 
to management on improvements where 
necessary. Internal Audit also reviews the 
effectiveness of the Group Risk function. 

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The Nomination Committee’s 
primary responsibilities are to:
 @ Lead the process for making 
appointments to the Board.

 @ Ensure there is a formal, rigorous 
and transparent procedure for the 
appointment of new Directors to 
the Board.

 @ Ensure plans are in place for orderly 
succession for appointments to the 
Board and for other senior 
management positions. 

REPORT OF THE NOMINATION COMMITTEE

Statement from Alastair Lyons

The Committee continued the development 
of a clear structured succession plan.”

Alastair Lyons
Chairman of the Nomination Committee

Dear Shareholder,
In accordance with its remit to review regularly the composition and 
experience of the Board, the focus and attention of the Committee during the 
year was on succession planning. The Committee led the process of Executive 
and Non-Executive Board appointments given Kevin Chidwick’s move to 
devote himself full-time to the role of CEO of Elephant Auto, the Group’s US 
insurance business, entailing his stepping down from the role of CFO and from 
membership of the Board, and John Sussens and Martin Jackson stepped 
down from their Non-Executive roles on the Board during the year after their 
allotted nine years. The Committee assessed the appropriateness of Geraint 
Jones, the Deputy CFO, to succeed Kevin Chidwick as CFO and carried out a 
robust and comprehensive Non-Executive recruitment process resulting in the 
appointment of Penny James. This appointment further enhanced the range 
of skills, breadth of experience and diversity around the Board table.

In the context of several Directors retiring from the Board over the next 
two years, the Committee continued the development of a clear structured 
succession plan that would ensure appropriate action was taken well ahead 
of the dates on which individuals would be retiring in order to achieve their 
replacement, if appropriate, with individuals of the appropriate skills, 
experience and fit to the Board. 

Given that Roger Abravanel will not be seeking re-election at the forthcoming 
AGM, the Nomination Committee will consider the appropriate size and 
composition of the Board going forward.

Alastair Lyons
Chairman of the Nomination Committee
4 March 2015

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Membership
The membership of the Committee at the year 
end was Alastair Lyons (Chairman), Colin 
Holmes and Lucy Kellaway. The Company 
Secretary acts as Secretary to the Committee. 
The Committee invites the Chief Executive to 
attend meetings when it deems appropriate. 
The Nomination Committee met formally on 
one occasion in 2014 although members of the 
Committee corresponded and met informally 
on a number of occasions to consider and 
meet with individuals that the Committee 
had identified as possible candidates to join 
the Board. 

Appointments
Following this process, the Committee identified 
Penny James, who has extensive insurance 
experience in particular in her current role as 
Director of Group Finance at Prudential plc 
since March 2011 and her previous appointments 
as Chief Finance Officer of Omega Insurance 
Holdings and UK General Insurance CFO 
of Zurich Financial Services. Given Penny’s 
background, experience and competence, 
and the external references that were obtained, 
the Committee did not consider it either 
necessary or appropriate to undertake a full 
search led by an external recruitment consultancy.

Nomination Committee attendance (1 meeting)

Alastair Lyons

Lucy Kellaway

Colin Holmes

 Chairman 

 Member 

 Did not attend 

Duties and responsibilities
The Committee leads the process for making 
appointments to the Board or where the 
appointee is likely to become a Board member. 
The Committee ensures there is a formal, 
rigorous and transparent procedure for the 
appointment of new Directors to the Board 
through a full evaluation of the skills, knowledge 
and experience required of Directors. The 
Committee also ensures plans are in place 
for orderly succession for appointments to 
the Board and reviews the succession plans 
for other senior management positions. 
Responsibility for making senior management 
appointments rests with the Chief Executive. 

During the year
During 2014, having regard to the length of 
service of some of the existing Board members, 
the Board decided to initiate a search for a 
new Non-Executive Director to join the Board 
and to ensure continuity across the process of 
succession that will ensue over the next couple 
of years. The Group has in place a policy of 
recruiting well ahead of impending retirements 
in order to ensure continuity of knowledge and 
Board dynamics. 

The Nomination Committee led this process 
and assessed the balance of skills, knowledge, 
independence, diversity and experience on 
the Board. The Committee developed an 
appropriate specification for this role identifying 
the need for the successful candidate to have 
insurance experience and a technical accounting 
qualification, with preferably experience in a 
senior finance role within the insurance sector.

Each Committee member met separately 
with Penny and agreed that she would bring 
invaluable insurance experience to the Board 
given her current role with Prudential plc. 
The Board approved the Committee’s 
recommendation and following regulatory 
approval Penny was formally appointed to 
the Board with effect from 1 January 2015.

In August 2014 the Committee recommended 
for approval by the Board the appointment of 
Geraint Jones as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). 
Geraint took over from Kevin Chidwick, who 
was handing over his CFO duties to focus on 
his role in the US as CEO of the Group’s rapidly 
growing Elephant Auto Insurance business. 
Despite stepping off the Board, Kevin continues 
to be involved in Group matters and to attend 
and contribute to all Group Board meetings. 
Geraint joined Admiral in 2002 and has since 
then held a number of senior finance positions 
including Head of Finance, before being 
promoted to Deputy Chief Financial Officer 
in January 2012. A Fellow of the Institute of 
Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, 
Geraint has also worked as an external auditor 
at Ernst & Young and KPMG. Geraint’s 
appointment demonstrates the depth of talent 
that exists within Admiral’s senior management 
team and his deep understanding of Admiral’s 
business and culture, coupled with strong 
leadership and financial skills, made him the 
natural choice to succeed Kevin as CFO.

Detailed information of individual 
Directors can be found on  
pages 42 to 43

Succession plan
The Board, at its meeting in March 2014, 
considered the Group’s current Succession 
Plan, which considered the senior roles within 
the Group and identified whether there was 
emergency short term cover in place in the 
event that an individual left the organisation, 
and whether there was a permanent replacement 
available within the organisation, or whether 
the position would need to be filled externally. 
It also identified where there were individuals 
who, with further experience and guidance, 
would be capable of moving into particular 
senior management roles. 

At this meeting the emerging talent across 
the Group was discussed in detail with the 
Executive team identifying key individuals 
within the organisation who had impressed 
in their current roles and who had the 
potential to contribute to the business by 
working on projects in other areas of the 
Group. Such exposure would also assist 
with their development in order that, at the 
appropriate time, they might be in a position 
to succeed to senior management positions.

The Committee remains satisfied that 
succession plans for Directors and senior 
management are in place to ensure the 
continued ability of the Group to implement 
its strategy and compete effectively in the 
markets in which it operates.

Board diversity
The Group remains strongly supportive of 
the principle of boardroom diversity, of which 
gender is an important, but not the only, aspect. 
What is important is diversity of thought, 
experience and approach, and each new 
appointment must complement what already 
exists at the Board table. Accordingly, 
appointments will always be made on merit 
against objective criteria, including diversity, 
and not just to achieve an externally prescribed 
number. Given five of the twelve current 
members of the Group Board are women, 
the Group has already met the target set for 
2015 by Lord Davies in his report: Women 
on Boards. The Group remains committed 
to providing equal opportunities, eliminating 
discrimination and encouraging diversity 
amongst its workforce both in the UK and 
overseas. A breakdown of the gender of 
Company Directors and senior employees 
at the end of the financial year together 
with details of the Group’s Equality, Diversity 
and Dignity at Work Policy are set out in the 
Directors’ Report on pages 73 to 75.

Remuneration Committee
Full details of the membership, responsibilities 
and activities of the Remuneration Committee 
can be found in the Directors’ Remuneration 
Report set out on pages 60 to 72.

Appointments made in the last year

Geraint Jones
Chief Financial 
Officer, appointed 
in August 2014

Penny James
Non-Executive 
Director, appointed 
in January 2015

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Statement from Annette Court

A number of changes are proposed to the 
DFSS to ensure that senior managers remain 
motivated and are appropriately rewarded.”

Annette Court
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

Dear Shareholder,
I am pleased to introduce the Directors’ Remuneration Report (the Report) for the year ended 31 December 2014, which 
has been prepared by the Remuneration Committee (the Committee) and approved by the Board. This is the first report 
I have prepared in my capacity as new Committee Chairman, a role I assumed on 9 April 2014, replacing John Sussens. 

2014 has been another good year for the Admiral Group despite challenging conditions in the cyclical core UK motor 
insurance market. Earnings per share in the year were 103.0 pence (2013: 104.6 pence) with a return on equity of 52% 
(2013: 58%). Total dividends for the financial year (including the proposed final dividend of 49.0 pence per share) will 
be 98.4 pence per share, representing 95% of our earnings. The Group’s strategy remains to continue to maximise our 
position in the UK while taking what we know and do well, which is internet and telephone delivery of car insurance and 
price comparison, to our overseas businesses. 

Two of the three Executive Directors are founding Directors and receive remuneration that comprises salary and modest 
benefits only. The Committee continues to hold the view that this is appropriate, as their significant shareholdings provide 
a sufficient alignment of their interest with those of other shareholders. In order to provide full transparency of pay arrangements 
for our Executive Directors, this Report includes single figure and comparative data for our CFO as well as for our CEO, 
as the pay arrangements for the CFO are more reflective of those for (non-founder) executives. 

My predecessor, John, advised in his letter last year that one of the Group’s share plans – the DFSS (Discretionary Free Share 
Scheme) – is due to expire in 2015, and that the Company would carry out a comprehensive review of the plan in the context 
of the Group’s Remuneration Policy in 2014, with any proposed changes put to shareholders for approval at the Group’s 
AGM in 2015. The review took into account the changes to the business in both size and geography since the last review 
in 2004, shortly after flotation, and recent trends in FTSE incentive design and pay levels particularly in the context of the 
Group maintaining base salary levels for most senior management positions at well below the lower quartile of their peer 
group in the FTSE 350.

As a result of the review, a number of changes are proposed to the DFSS in order to ensure that senior managers remain 
motivated; are appropriately rewarded and that the Group continues to be an attractive employer that talented individuals 
want to join, whilst at the same time providing appropriate incentives, and rewards, for the 2,300 employees that participate 
in the DFSS across the Group. I am confident that the proposed changes will continue to support the view, held by the 
Board, that share ownership drives outstanding performance and promotes the long term success of the business whilst 
remaining in alignment with shareholder interests. 

The key changes that have been proposed to the DFSS are:

 @ Increased maximum DFSS opportunity of £2 million. For awards above £1 million, a maximum of 600% of base salary 
applies. We would only expect to utilise the increased maximum award in certain particular circumstances such as the 
recruitment of a new Executive Director. In this case, we would provide an explanation in our Annual Report on Remuneration.

 @ Introduction of 100% performance related awards to key senior employees where their award exceeds a threshold.

 @ In addition to Earnings per Share (EPS), two additional performance measures in the DFSS: relative Total Shareholder 
Return (TSR) and Return on Equity (ROE). The exact measures for each award may vary to reflect strategic priorities. 
For the 2015 awards, it is intended that vesting will be linked one third to each of EPS, TSR and ROE.

 @ Introduction of malus and clawback provisions to allow the recovery of both vested and unvested awards, for example, 

in the event of gross misconduct or misstatement.

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During the early part of 2015, we consulted with our top shareholders on the proposed revisions to the DFSS. Feedback 
has been positive and we hope to receive your support for both the revised DFSS and the revised Remuneration Policy 
at the upcoming AGM.

In addition to consideration of the proposed DFSS changes set out above, the Committee also considered the following 
matters during the year ended 31 December 2014:

 @ Reviewing the salary arrangements and fee proposals for the Executive Directors, the Chairman and senior management.

 @ Reviewing the appropriateness of the performance conditions for the Free Share Incentive Plan (SIP) awards.

 @ Reviewing the Group’s two key share plans to ensure both are up to date with current legislation.

 @ Reviewing the maximum limit for shares distributed via the SIP.

 @ Reviewing the Company’s performance against the performance conditions applicable to the DFSS and SIP awards 

and where appropriate authorising the vesting of awards.

 @ Reviewing and authorising the grant of awards under both the DFSS and SIP.

 @ Reviewing minimum shareholding requirements for Executive Directors. 

 @ Reviewing the Committee’s Terms of Reference and recommending amendments to the Board for approval.

Annette Court
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee 
4 March 2015

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Directors’ Remuneration Policy

Compliance statement
This Remuneration Report has been prepared 
according to the requirements of the Companies 
Act 2006 (the Act), Regulation 11 and Schedule 8 
of the Large and Medium-Sized Companies and 
Groups (Accounts and Reports) (Amendment) 
Regulations 2013 and other relevant requirements 
of the FCA Listing Rules. In addition, the Board 
has applied the principles of good corporate 
governance set out in the UK Corporate 
Governance Code (the Code) and has 
considered the guidelines issued by its 
leading shareholders and bodies such as 
the Association of British Insurers and the 
National Association of Pension Funds. 

This section of the report sets out the policy 
for Executive Directors which shareholders are 
asked to approve at the 2015 Annual General 
Meeting (AGM). The Committee intends that 
this policy will formally come into effect from 
the date of the 2015 AGM.

Remuneration paid to Executive Directors 
in 2014 and remuneration arrangements 
proposed for 2015 are set out in the Annual 
Report on Remuneration.

Key principles of Admiral 
remuneration arrangements
The Group is committed to the primary objective 
of maximising shareholder value over time 
and ensuring that there is a strong link between 
performance and reward. This is reflected in 
the Group’s stated Remuneration Policy of 
paying competitive, performance-linked and 
shareholder-aligned remuneration packages 
comprising basic salaries coupled with 
participation in performance-based share 
schemes to generate competitive total reward 
packages for superior performance. The Board 
is satisfied that the adoption of this policy 
continues to meet the objectives of attracting 
and retaining executives of the highest quality 
across the Group.

The Committee reviews the framework and 
remuneration packages of the Executive 
Directors and the most senior managers and 
recognises the need to ensure that the 
Remuneration Policy is firmly linked to the 
Group’s strategy, including its risk management 
approach. In setting the policy and making 
remuneration decisions, the Committee takes 
into account pay and conditions elsewhere in 
the Group. 

The main principles underlying the Remuneration 
Policy are:

 @ Competitive – the Group aims to combine 
salaries with attractive performance-related 
incentives which provide the potential for 
competitive total reward packages for the 
achievement of superior performance. 
Base salaries reflect the role, job size and 
responsibility together with individual 
performance and effectiveness. Prevailing 
market and economic conditions and 
developments in governance are also 
considered, as are general salary levels 
throughout the organisation. In considering 
total remuneration for the Executive 
Directors, the Committee takes into 
account remuneration in companies of a 
similar size in the Financial Services sector.

 @ Performance-linked – a significant part 

of the Executive Directors’ (excluding the 
founding Directors) and senior managers’ 
reward remains performance-linked and 
shareholder-aligned.

 @ Transparent – all aspects of the remuneration 

structure are clear to employees and 
openly communicated. 

Remuneration policy table
This table describes the key components of the remuneration arrangements for Executive Directors for 2015 and beyond.

Purpose and link to strategy

Operation 

Opportunity and performance metrics

Base salary
To attract and retain talent by setting base 
salaries at levels appropriate for the business.

Salaries are reviewed annually or following a 
significant change in responsibilities.

Any salary increases are applied in line with 
the outcome of the review.

Salary levels/increases take account of:

 @  Scope and responsibility of the position.

 @ Individual performance and effectiveness, 
and experience of the individual in the role.

 @ Average increase awarded across the Group.

In respect of existing Executive Directors,  
it is anticipated that salary increases will 
normally be in line with the increase for 
the general employee population over 
the term of this policy. More significant 
increases may be awarded in certain 
circumstances including, but not limited to: 
where there has been a significant increase 
in role size or complexity, to apply salary 
progression for a newly appointed 
Executive Director, or where the Executive 
Director’s salary has fallen significantly 
behind market.

Where increases are awarded in excess of 
that for the general employee population, 
the Committee will provide the rationale 
in the relevant year’s Annual Report 
on Remuneration.

Pension
To provide retirement benefits.

The Group operates a Personal Pension Plan, 
a Defined Contribution Scheme.

This is available to all employees following 
completion of their probationary period.

The Group matches employee contributions 
up to a maximum of 6% of base salary subject 
to an overall maximum employer contribution 
of £9,000. Salary is the only element of 
remuneration that is pensionable.

Henry Engelhardt has declined to be 
included in the plan.

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Purpose and link to strategy

Operation 

Opportunity and performance metrics

Other benefits
To provide competitive benefits.

Discretionary Free Share Scheme (DFSS)
To motivate and reward longer term 
performance, aid long term retention of key 
executive talent, use capital efficiently, grow 
profits sustainably and further strengthen 
the alignment of the interests of 
shareholders and staff.

DFSS bonus
To further align incentive structures with 
shareholder interests through the delivery 
of dividend equivalents.

Includes (but not limited to):

 @ Death in service scheme.

 @ Private medical cover.

 @ Permanent health insurance.

 @ Relocation, at the Committee’s discretion.

All benefits are non-pensionable.

Benefits may vary by role. 

None of the existing Executive Directors 
received total taxable benefits exceeding 
5% of salary (excluding relocation) during 
the most recent financial year, and it is not 
anticipated that the cost of benefits 
provided will exceed this level over the 
term of this policy.

The Committee retains the discretion 
to approve a higher cost in exceptional 
circumstances (e.g. relocation), or in 
circumstances driven by factors outside  
the Company’s control (e.g. material 
increases in insurance premiums).

Executive Directors may be granted awards 
annually at the discretion of the Committee. 
Henry Engelhardt and David Stevens have 
declined to participate given their significant 
shareholdings.

Awards are generally made as a specific 
number of shares and vest after a minimum 
of three years subject to Group performance 
and continued employment.

Awards are subject to clawback and malus, 
i.e. forfeiture or reduction of unvested 
awards and recovery of vested awards in 
exceptional circumstances (such as material 
misstatement or gross misconduct).

Maximum opportunity: £2 million. For awards 
above £1 million a maximum of 600% of 
base salary applies. 

Vesting of DFSS awards is subject to the 
Group’s performance over a three-year 
performance period. The performance 
measures and respective weightings 
may vary year-on-year to reflect 
strategic priorities.

Details of the measures, weightings and 
performance targets used for specific DFSS 
grants are included in the Annual Report 
on Remuneration.

Threshold performance will result in vesting 
of up to 25% of the maximum award.

To incentivise shareholder value creation, 
in particular in the form of dividends, 
management participate in a bonus scheme 
which directly links their awards to dividends 
paid to shareholders. Bonus is calculated to 
be equivalent to dividends that would have 
been payable during the year on all outstanding 
DFSS shares awarded but not vested.

DFSS bonus payments are subject to clawback 
in exceptional circumstances (such as material 
misstatement or gross misconduct).

Maximum opportunity: sum equal to 
dividends payable during the year on 
awarded but unvested DFSS shares.

No bonus is payable unless dividends are 
payable on Admiral shares.

Approved Free Share Incentive Plan (SIP)
To encourage share ownership across all 
employees using HMRC approved schemes.

All UK employees participate in the SIP 
(except Henry Engelhardt and David Stevens, 
who have declined to participate). Grants are 
made twice a year based on the results of 
each half year and vest after three years 
subject to continued employment.

The SIP is an all-employee scheme and 
Executive Directors participate on the same 
terms as other employees. The acquisition of 
shares is therefore not subject to the 
satisfaction of a performance target.

Maximum opportunity is in line with 
HMRC limits.

Minimum shareholding requirement
To align interests of Executive Directors  
with shareholders.

Guideline to be met within five years 
of appointment.

Two times salary.

The Committee is satisfied that the above Remuneration Policy is in the best interests of shareholders and does not promote excessive risk-taking. 
The Committee retains discretion to make non-significant changes to the Remuneration Policy without reverting to shareholders.

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Directors’ Remuneration Policy continued

Notes to the remuneration policy table
Payments from existing awards
Executive Directors are eligible to receive payment from any award made prior to the approval and implementation of the Remuneration Policy. 
This includes all outstanding awards under the DFSS, made prior to the approval of the 2015 DFSS, and awards of DFSS shares that vest 50% on 
performance and 50% on continued employment made to the new CFO prior to his appointment to the Board.

Selection of performance measures
EPS vs. LIBOR has been selected as a performance measure for awards under both the existing and 2015 DFSS as the Committee feels it is a strong 
indicator of both long term shareholder return and the underlying financial performance of the business. It is transparent and visible and provides 
good line-of-sight to executives. For awards to be made in 2015, two further measures will be added. The first additional measure is TSR vs. the 
FTSE 350 (excluding investment companies), selected to reflect value creation for Admiral’s shareholders as compared with the general market. 
The second additional measure is ROE, selected as the Committee believes that ROE reinforces the focus on capital efficiency and delivery of strong 
returns for our shareholders, thereby further strengthening the alignment of management’s incentives with Admiral’s strategy. The specific performance 
measures and their respective weightings in respect of each DFSS award may vary to reflect the strategic priorities at the time of the award.

Performance targets are set to be stretching and achievable, taking into account the Company’s strategic priorities and the economic environment 
in which the Company operates. The financial targets are set taking into account a range of reference points including the Group’s strategic plan 
and broker forecasts for both Admiral and its insurance peers. The Committee believes that the performance targets set are stretching, provide 
motivation, and that maximum outcomes are only available for outstanding performance.

Remuneration policy for other employees
The Company’s approach to annual salary reviews is consistent across the Group, with consideration given to the role size, experience required, 
individual performance and pay levels in comparable companies.

In general, the Remuneration Policy which applies to other senior executives is consistent with that for Executive Directors. Remuneration is typically 
linked to Company and individual performance in a way that reinforces shareholder value creation.

Approximately 2,300 employees from across the Group, as well as the CFO, participate in the DFSS. The Committee recommends for approval by 
the Board awards to all participants under the DFSS. For the CFO and around 20 senior managers, all share awards are subject to the performance 
conditions detailed in the policy table. For employees at lower organisational levels, awards are split: 50% of the award is subject to the same performance 
conditions and the other 50% has no performance conditions attached other than the requirement that the recipient remains an employee of the 
Group at the date of vesting. Award sizes vary by organisational level. All holders of DFSS awards receive the DFSS bonus. Overseas employees 
receive an equivalent award to the UK SIP awards under the DFSS. These awards have no performance measures attached.

All employees are eligible to participate in the SIP on the same terms.

Remuneration arrangements for founding Directors
Two of the three Executive Directors (Henry Engelhardt and David Stevens) are founding Directors. They and the Committee continue to hold the 
view that the significant shareholdings held by them provide a sufficient alignment of their interest in the performance of the Group with the interests 
of other shareholders. In light of this, their remuneration packages consist only of a below market rate salary and benefits such as private medical 
cover, permanent health insurance and death in service cover. During the year David Stevens joined the Group’s Personal Pension Plan and from 
October 2014 the Group matched his contributions under the Plan. The Group does not contribute to any pension arrangements on behalf of 
Henry Engelhardt. Henry Engelhardt and David Stevens have not participated, nor is it intended that they participate, in any Group share schemes.

Service contracts and leaver/change of control provisions
The Company’s policy is to limit termination payments on termination to pre-established contractual arrangements. In the event that the employment 
of an Executive Director is terminated, any compensation payable will be determined in accordance with the terms of the service contract between 
the Company and the employee, as well as the rules of any incentive plans. Under normal circumstances, Executive Directors are entitled to receive 
termination payments in lieu of notice based on base salary and compensation for loss of benefits. The Company has the ability to pay such sums 
in instalments, requiring the Executive Director to mitigate loss over the relevant period. The notice period for all Executive Directors is one year.

There is no provision in the Executive Directors’ contracts for compensation to be payable on early termination of their contract over and above 
the notice period element. Executive Director service contracts are available to view at the Company’s registered office.

Executive Director

Henry Engelhardt

David Stevens

Geraint Jones

Date of appointment

22 October 1999

22 October 1999

13 August 2014

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When considering termination payments, the Committee reviews all potential incentive outcomes to ensure they are fair to both shareholders and 
participants. The table below summarises how the awards under the DFSS and DFSS bonus scheme are typically treated in specific circumstances, 
with the final treatment remaining subject to the Committee’s discretion:

Plan

DFSS

Scenario

Resignation

Timing of vesting

Awards lapse

Treatment of awards

n/a

Death, injury or disability, redundancy, retirement or 
any other reasons the Committee may determine

Normal vesting date

Any outstanding award will be pro-rated for time  
and performance.

Change of control

Immediately

Any outstanding award will be pro-rated for time and 
extent to which the Committee determines that the 
performance conditions have been met or are likely 
to be met at the point of change of control.

DFSS bonus

Resignation

Death, injury or disability, redundancy, retirement or 
any other reasons the Committee may determine

Change of control

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

Not payable after the event.

Not payable after the event.

Non-Executive Directors
The Company has entered into letters of appointment with its Non-Executive Directors (NEDs). Summary details of terms and notice periods are 
included below. 

NED

Alastair Lyons

Roger Abravanel

Manfred Aldag

Annette Court

Colin Holmes

Penny James

Margaret Johnson

Lucy Kellaway

Jean Park

Term

3 years

3 years

Indefinite

3 years

3 years

3 years

3 years

3 years

3 years

Commencement date

Notice period

1 July 2013

6 March 2012

n/a

21 March 2015

3 December 2013

1 January 2015

4 September 2012

4 September 2012

17 January 2014

Three months

One month

One month – automatically terminates should 
he cease employment with Munich Re

One month

One month

One month

One month

One month

One month

The NEDs are not eligible to participate in the DFSS or DFSS bonus scheme and do not receive any pension contributions.

Details of the policy on NED fees are set out in the table below:

Purpose and link to strategy

Operation

Opportunity and performance metrics

To attract and retain NEDs of the 
highest calibre with experience 
relevant to the Company

Fees are reviewed annually.

The Group Chairman fee is determined by the 
Committee after consultation with the Executive 
Directors. The NED fees are determined by 
the Group Chairman together with the 
Executive Directors.

Additional fees are payable for acting as Senior 
Independent Director or as Chair or member 
of a Board Committee as appropriate, and may be 
payable as appropriate in relation to other additional 
responsibilities (e.g. attending meetings overseas).

Fee levels are reviewed by reference to time 
commitment and responsibility.

Fees are currently paid entirely in cash, but the Board 
retains discretion to part-pay fees in Company shares.

Any fee increases are applied in line with the 
outcome of the review.

The current Group Chairman, as with the founding 
Directors, holds a significant shareholding in the 
Group and this is reflected in the size of his fee, 
which is materially below that of Chairs of 
organisations of similar size and complexity.

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Directors’ Remuneration Policy continued

Pay-for-performance: scenario analysis
The following charts provide an estimate of the potential future reward opportunities for the Executive Directors, and the potential split between 
the different elements of pay under three different performance scenarios: ‘Minimum’, ‘On-target’ and ‘Maximum’. As described on page 61, 
Admiral’s DFSS bonus is directly aligned with dividends received by shareholders. As such, there is no ‘threshold’ or ‘target’ performance defined 
for this element of pay. The figures shown in the chart below for the CFO’s DFSS bonus include the value of the actual DFSS bonus paid in 2014. 
Under all scenarios, potential reward opportunities are based on expected awards for 2015 (in accordance with Admiral’s Remuneration Policy), 
applied to salaries as at 31 December 2014. The ‘On-target’ column includes a 20% vesting for DFSS awards which would occur for achieving 
threshold performance targets.

Chief Executive Officer 

Chief Financial Officer 

Chief Operating Officer 

£1,497k

80%

£393k £393k £393k

100%

100%

100%

£537k

45%

£297k
29% 16%

6%

71% 39% 14%

m
u
m
n
M

i

i

t
e
g
r
a
t
-
n
O

m
u
m
x
a
M

i

m
u
m
n
M

i

i

t
e
g
r
a
t
-
n
O

m
u
m
x
a
M

i

£381k £381k £381k

100%

100%

100%

t
e
g
r
a
t
-
n
O

m
u
m
x
a
M

i

Key

   Salary, pension and benefits

   Single-year variable (DFSS bonus)

   Multi-year variable (DFSS)

m
u
m
n
M

i

i

The charts above exclude the effect of any Company share price movement. For this reason, were the CFO’s DFSS shares to vest in full, his actual 
total remuneration may exceed the £ value shown in the chart above.

Component

Base salary

Pension

Benefits

DFSS

DFSS bonus

Minimum

On-target

Maximum

Annual base salary for 2015

£9,000 annual contribution for CFO and COO; no contribution for CEO

Taxable value of annual benefits provided

0% vesting

20% average vesting

100% vesting

Based on DFSS bonus paid in 2014

Approach to remuneration relating to new appointments
External appointments
In the case of appointing a new Executive Director, the Committee may make use of any of the existing components of remuneration, as follows:

Component

Approach

Maximum annual grant value

Base salary

Pension

Benefits

SIP

DFSS

The base salary will be determined by the Committee with reference 
to the scope and responsibility of the position as well as internal 
relativities and their current remuneration.

New appointees will be eligible to participate in the Personal Pension 
Plan with Group contributions in line with the existing policy.

New appointees will be eligible to receive benefits which may include 
(but are not limited to) death in service scheme, private medical cover, 
and permanent health insurance.

New appointees will be eligible to participate in the SIP.

New appointees will be granted awards under the DFSS on the same 
terms as other Executives, as described in the policy table.

£2 million. Awards over £1 million are subject to a 
maximum of 600% of base salary.

DFSS bonus

New appointees will be granted awards under the DFSS bonus scheme 
on the same terms as other Executives, as described in the policy table.

Linked to Admiral dividend.

The Committee may also make an award in respect of a new appointment to ‘buy out’ incentive arrangements forfeited on leaving a previous employer. 
In doing so, the Committee will consider relevant factors including any performance conditions attached to these awards and the likelihood of 
those conditions being met to ensure that the value of the buy-outs are no greater than the fair value of the awards they replace. The Committee 
may also avail itself of Listing Rule 9.4.2 R if appropriate in respect of buy-out incentive arrangements.

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Internal appointments
Remuneration for new Executive Directors appointed by way of internal promotion will similarly be determined in line with the policy for external 
appointees, as detailed on page 64. Where an individual has contractual commitments made prior to their promotion to the Board, the Company 
will continue to honour these arrangements. Incentive opportunities for below Board employees are typically no higher than for Executive Directors, 
but measures may vary if necessary.

NED recruitment
In recruiting a new Non-Executive Director, the Committee will use the policy as set out in the table on page 63. A base fee would be payable for Board 
membership, with additional fees payable for acting as Senior Independent Director or as Chair or member of a Board Committee as appropriate.

Other directorships
Executive Directors are permitted to, although none currently do, accept appointments as Non-Executive Directors of companies with prior approval 
of the Group Chairman. Approval will only be given where the appointment does not present a conflict of interest with the Group’s activities and 
the wider exposure gained will be beneficial to the development of the individual. 

Considerations of conditions elsewhere in the Group 
The Committee considers the pay and employment conditions elsewhere in the Group when determining remuneration for Executive Directors. Whilst 
the Committee does not currently consult specifically with employees on the Executive Remuneration Policy, it consults with and receives updates 
on employee pay arrangements from the Head of People Services and takes this into consideration when reviewing Executive remuneration.

Considerations of shareholder views 
When determining remuneration, the Committee takes into account best practice guidelines issued by institutional shareholder bodies. The Committee 
is open to feedback from shareholders on Remuneration Policy and will continue to monitor trends and developments in corporate governance 
and market practice to ensure the structure of the Executive remuneration remains appropriate.

Further detail on the votes received on the Directors’ Remuneration Policy and Annual Report on Remuneration are provided in the Annual Report 
on Remuneration.

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Annual Report on Remuneration

This section of the report provides details of how Admiral’s Remuneration Policy was implemented in 2014 and the remuneration arrangements 
proposed for 2015.

Remuneration Committee membership in 2014
The Board sets the Group’s Remuneration Policy and, through the authority delegated to it by the Board, the Committee is responsible for making 
recommendations to the Board on the structure and implementation of the Remuneration Policy across the Group with consideration to the prevailing 
economic climate within the economies in which the Group operates. Its remit includes recommending the remuneration of the Group Board Chairman, 
the Executive Directors and the Company Secretary; reviewing the remuneration of senior management; and reviewing the composition of and 
awards made under the performance-related incentive schemes.

At the end of 2014 the Committee consisted of Margaret Johnson, Roger Abravanel and Jean Park under the Chairmanship of Annette Court. 
The Committee met eight times during the year.

The Group Chairman and CEO are invited to meetings where the Committee considers it appropriate to obtain their advice on Group strategy and 
performance and Senior Executive pay strategy. The members of the Committee do not have any personal financial interests (other than shareholdings), or 
any conflicts, that relate to the business of the Committee. The Committee members do not have any day-to-day involvement in the running of the Group.

Advisor to the Committee
During the year, in order to enable the Committee to reach informed decisions on Executive remuneration, advice on market data and trends was 
obtained from independent consultants, Kepler Associates. Kepler reports directly to the Committee Chair and is a signatory to the Code of Conduct 
for Remuneration Consultants (which can be found at www.remunerationconsultantsgroup.com). Kepler does not provide any other services to the 
Group. The fees paid to Kepler in respect of work carried out in 2014 (based on time and materials) totalled £4,135, excluding expenses and VAT.

The Committee undertakes due diligence periodically to ensure that Kepler remains independent of the Company and that the advice provided 
is impartial and objective. The Committee is satisfied that the advice provided by Kepler is independent.

In addition, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC) provided the Committee with advice on the structure of the Group’s share schemes. The fees paid 
to PwC for work during 2014 totalled £8,200, excluding expenses and VAT. The Company Secretary also circulates market survey results as appropriate.

Summary of shareholder voting at the 2014 AGM
The table below shows the results of the binding and advisory votes on the Directors’ Remuneration Policy and Annual Report on Remuneration 
of the 2014 Directors’ Remuneration Report, respectively, at the 2014 AGM.

Directors’ Remuneration Policy

Total number of votes

202,909,688

3,045,740

205,955,428

Annual Report on Remuneration

Total number of votes

207,649,080

% of votes cast

99.6%

% of votes cast

98.5%

1.5%

771,144

0.4%

208,420,224

For

Against

Total votes cast

Abstentions

2,548,073

1.2%

82,528

0.0%

Total single figure of remuneration for Executive Directors (audited)
The table below sets out the total single figure remuneration received by each Executive Director for the year ended 31 December 2014 and the prior year. 

Executive Director

1. Base salary

2. Benefits

3. Pension

5. DFSS

6. DFSS bonus

7. Other

Henry Engelhardt 

2014 

£392,870

Geraint Jones8

2013 

£387,147

2014

2013

£60,263

n/a 

David Stevens

2014 

£371,340

2013 

£364,130

Kevin Chidwick9

2014 

£280,126

2013 

£443,289

£390

£399

£150

n/a 

£390

£399

£240

£399

n/a

n/a

n/a 

£900

n/a

£5,523

£9,000

£3,470

£3,000

£171,228

£87,250

4. SIP

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a 

n/a

n/a

n/a 

n/a

n/a

n/a 

n/a

n/a

£3,000

£459,598

£176,525

£177,104 £1,102,116

£3,000

£675,075

£148,680

£165,000

£1,444,443

Total
 remuneration

£393,260

£387,546

£325,361

n/a

£372,630

£364,529

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a 

n/a

n/a

The figures have been calculated as follows:
1.  Base salary/fee: amount earned for the year.
2.  Benefits: the taxable value of annual benefits received in the year.
3.  Pension: the value of the Company’s contribution during the year.
4.  SIP: the face value at grant.
5.    DFSS: the value at vesting of shares vesting on performance over the three-year periods ending 31 December 2014 and 31 December 2013. For the 2014 

calculations, given that vesting occurs in October 2015, after the Directors’ Remuneration Report is finalised, the figures are based on the average share price 
in the last three months of 2014 (£12.62). The 2013 calculations have been based on the actual share price on vest (£13.50).

6.   DFSS bonus: the value at grant of bonus equivalent to dividends that would have been payable during the year on all outstanding DFSS shares awarded but 

not yet vested.

7.    Kevin Chidwick was paid £177,104 in 2014 (2013: £165,000) to reimburse him for expenses incurred in relation to his being based in the US after taking on CEO 

responsibility for the Group’s US insurer Elephant Auto.

8.   Geraint Jones was appointed to the Board as CFO on 13 August 2014. His 2014 remuneration includes salary, pension and benefits in respect of his service as 

CFO, his full year DFSS and his full year DFSS bonus.

9.   Kevin Chidwick left the Board on 13 August 2014 to focus on his new role as CEO of Elephant Auto. His 2014 remuneration includes salary, pension and 

benefits in respect of his service as CFO, his full year DFSS and his full year DFSS bonus.

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Total single figure of remuneration for Non-Executive Directors (audited)
The table below sets out the total single figure remuneration received by each NED for the year ended 31 December 2014 and the prior year. 

Director

Alastair Lyons

Roger Abravanel

Manfred Aldag

Annette Court

Colin Holmes

Margaret Johnson

Lucy Kellaway
Jean Park*1
Martin Jackson*2
John Sussens*2

Total fees

2014

2013

£228,228

£228,228

£55,000

£6,000

£86,383

£80,295

£67,000

£63,809

£82,103

£20,769

£21,323

£50,000

£6,000

£74,000

£70,000

£62,000

£50,000

—

£70,000

£72,000

*1   Jean Park was appointed to the Board on 17 January 2014. Her total single figure remuneration for 2014 includes amounts relating to the month immediately 
prior to her appointment to the Board when she prepared for and attended, as an observer, a Group Risk Committee meeting and Group Board meeting

*2  Martin Jackson and John Sussens retired from the Board with effect from 9 April 2014

Incentive outcomes for financial year to 31 December 2014
DFSS awards vesting on performance to 31 December 2014
Awards were made under the DFSS to Kevin Chidwick and Geraint Jones on 11 October 2012. Vesting is dependent on the Company’s EPS 
performance in excess of a risk-free return, defined as average three-month LIBOR, over a three-year period commencing on 1 January 2012. 
10% of shares vest for matching LIBOR, full vesting occurs for outperforming LIBOR by 10% p.a., with straight-line vesting in between. No vesting 
occurs for EPS growth below LIBOR. The table below details the Company’s EPS performance against targets and vesting outcomes over the 
performance period ending on 31 December 2014.

Performance period

Executive Director

Interest held

1 Jan 2012 – 31 Dec 2014

Geraint Jones*3
Kevin Chidwick

16,000

52,250

Admiral EPS
index

LIBOR
 index

Out-

performance*1

% vesting

Interest
vesting

Vesting
date

Estimated

value*2

126 points 102 points

24 points

85%

70%

13,568

11 Oct 2015

£171,228

36,418

11 Oct 2015

£459,598

*1  36 points are required for 100% vesting

*2  Calculated based on the average share price in the last three months of 2014 (£12.62)

*3  Only 50% of Geraint Jones’ 2012 DFSS award was subject to performance, as the award was made prior to his appointment to the Board

DFSS bonus in respect of 2014
The Group paid a bonus to all holders of DFSS shares in 2014, which was equivalent to the dividend payable on all outstanding DFSS shares 
awarded but not yet vested. The Committee continues to feel that having a Group-wide bonus equivalent to the dividend flow received by 
investors further aligns the incentive structure with shareholders.

In 2014, Kevin Chidwick and Geraint Jones received DFSS bonuses of £176,525 and £87,250, respectively (2013 – Kevin Chidwick: £148,680).

Scheme interests awarded in 2014
DFSS
In September 2014, Kevin Chidwick was granted an award under the DFSS of 35,000 shares with a value at the date of award of £429,520. 
Following his appointment as CFO, in September 2014 Geraint Jones was granted an award of 35,000 shares with a value at the date of award 
of £429,520. The three-year period over which performance will be measured will be 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2016. The award is eligible 
to vest in its entirety on the third anniversary of the date of grant (i.e. October 2016), subject to performance and to continued employment. 
Henry Engelhardt and David Stevens again declined to be included given their significant shareholdings.

Geraint Jones was also granted an award in April 2014 of 20,000 shares with a value at date of award of £274,800. As this award was made prior 
to his appointment to the Board, only 50% of this award is subject to performance. 

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Annual Report on Remuneration continued

Scheme interests awarded in 2014 continued
DFSS continued
Awards made up to and including 2014 vest based on EPS growth vs. LIBOR, as outlined on page 61.

Type of award

Discretionary Free Share Scheme

Face value of awards granted in 2014

CEO: n/a

CFO (Geraint Jones): 20,000 shares on 15 April 2014 with a value at the date of award of £274,800 
(based on share price of £13.74) (50% of the award is subject to performance); and 35,000 shares 
on 22 September 2014 with a value at the date of award of £429,520 (based on share price of 
£12.272) (100% of the award is subject to performance).

COO: n/a

Previous CFO (Kevin Chidwick): 35,000 shares on 22 September 2014 with a value at the date 
of award of £429,520 (based on share price of £12.272)

Performance period

Performance conditions

Threshold (10% vests)

Maximum (100% vests)

3 years from 1 January 2014

Growth in EPS vs. LIBOR

Growth in line with LIBOR over 3 years

Growth of 10% p.a. in excess of LIBOR over 3 years

SIP
In March and September 2014, Kevin Chidwick and Geraint Jones were granted awards under the SIP of 100 shares in March 2014, with a face value 
of £1,506, and 114 shares in September 2014, with a face value of £1,489. The shares will vest on 14 March and 5 September 2017 respectively 
subject to continued employment only. Henry Engelhardt and David Stevens again declined to be included given their significant shareholdings.

Exit payments and payments to past Directors
No payments were made during the year. Unvested DFSS shares awarded to Kevin Chidwick during the period he was CFO remain subject to 
100% performance.

Implementation of remuneration policy for 2015
Executive Directors
Salary, pension and benefits
Remuneration for the Executive Directors in 2015 will be determined in line with the latest policy. The Committee approved the following base 
salaries for the Executive Directors in 2014:

Director

Henry Engelhardt

Geraint Jones

David Stevens

Latest salary 

2014 salary

% change

£392,870

£200,000

£371,340

£392,870

£156,000

£371,340

—

28%

Effective date

1 July 2014

1 January 2015

— 1 September 2014

Geraint Jones was appointed to the Board on a relatively low salary and the Committee expects to make salary increases that are above general 
inflation in the next few years to reflect his demonstrated development in the CFO role and the performance of the business. The Committee will 
determine the levels of future increases taking into account both his individual and Company performance, and with reference to market pay levels. 
Geraint’s current salary of £200,000 is significantly below the median level for companies of a similar size.

Geraint Jones will continue to participate in the Group Personal Pension Plan, where employee contributions are matched up to a maximum 
6% of base salary with maximum employer contribution of £9,000. David Stevens will also continue to participate in the plan, on the same basis 
as in 2014. As in previous years, Henry Engelhardt has declined to be included in the plan for 2014. All Executive Directors will continue to receive 
benefits in line with the policy.

DFSS
The Company held a comprehensive review of the DFSS in 2014, taking into account the changes to the business in both size and geography since 
the last review in 2004, and recent trends in FTSE incentive design and pay levels. As a result of the review, a number of changes to the DFSS have 
been proposed in order to ensure that senior managers remain motivated; are appropriately rewarded; and that the Group continues to be an 
attractive employer that talented individuals want to join whilst at the same time providing appropriate incentives, and rewards, for the 2,300 
employees that participate in the DFSS across the Group. 

The key changes that have been made to the DFSS include:

 @ Increased maximum DFSS opportunity of £2 million. Awards above £1 million are subject to a 600% of salary limit.

 @ Inclusion of 100% performance related awards for approximately 20 of the Group’s most senior managers. 

 @ Two additional performance measures in the DFSS: relative TSR and ROE.

 @ Introduction of malus and clawback provisions.

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In advance of each DFSS cycle, the Committee reviews the appropriateness of the performance measures and corresponding targets. Vesting of 
the 2015 award will be linked to three-year EPS growth vs. LIBOR, TSR vs. FTSE 350 (excluding investment companies), and ROE, weighted equally. 
The Committee intends to make DFSS awards in September 2015 and indicative targets are shown in the table below.

Performance measure

EPS growth vs. LIBOR

TSR vs. FTSE 350  
(excluding investment companies)

ROE

Performance range

Threshold 

Maximum

Vesting

Growth in line  
with LIBOR

Growth of 10% p.a. 
 in excess of LIBOR

10% for reaching threshold with straight line 
relationship to 100% at maximum performance.

Median

Top quartile

25% for median, with straight line  
relationship to 100% for top quartile.

25%

55%

25% for reaching threshold with straight line 
relationship to 100% at maximum performance.

The Committee will determine the precise targets closer to the time of making the awards, later in the year, and will disclose them in the 2015 
Annual Report on Remuneration. 

Chairman and Non-Executive Directors
The fee payable to the Chairman of the Board is £232,793 p.a. with effect from 1 January 2015. The basic fee payable to each NED is £55,000 p.a. 
The fees payable for chairing the Audit, Group, Risk, Remuneration and Nomination Committees are £20,000, £20,000, £10,000 and £5,000 p.a., 
respectively. The additional fee paid for being Senior Independent Director is £10,000 p.a. The fees payable for membership of the Audit and 
Group Risk Committees are £12,000 p.a. each.

Percentage change in CEO remuneration
The table below shows the percentage change in CEO remuneration from 2013 compared to the average percentage change in remuneration 
for all other employees. The analysis is based on a consistent set of employees, i.e. the same individuals appear in the 2013 and 2014 populations. 
As the CEO does not participate in the DFSS bonus scheme, to provide a meaningful comparison, we have also included data for the CFO.

Salary

Taxable benefits
DFSS bonus*3
Total 

CEO

CFO

Other employees

2014

2013

% change

2014 

2013

% change

% change

£392,870

£387,147

£390

—

£399

—

£393,260

£387,546

1%

-2%

—

1%

£340,389*1
£177,494*2
£263,775*4
£781,658

£443,289

£165,399

£148,680

£757,368

-23%

7%

77%

3%

3%

-2%

-1%

3%

*1  Based on the sum of remuneration paid to Kevin Chidwick up to and including 13 August 2014 and to Geraint Jones from 13 August 2014

*2  In January 2014 Kevin Chidwick was provided with a cash reimbursement of 177,104 in relation to expenses incurred in his relocation to the US

*3  DFSS bonus change represents the change in dividends paid, which is the driver of the level of bonus payable to holders of unvested DFSS shares

*4  CFO DFSS bonus includes full DFSS bonus paid to both Geraint Jones (£87,250) and Kevin Chidwick (£176,525) during the year

Relative importance of spend on pay
The table below shows the percentage change in dividends and total employee remuneration spend from the financial year ended 31 December 2013 
to the financial year ended 31 December 2014. 

Distribution to shareholders

Employee remuneration

2014
£m

271

209

2013
£m

271

205

%
change

—

2%

The Directors are proposing a final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2014 of 49.0 pence per share bringing the total dividend for 2014 
to 98.4 pence per share (2013: 99.5 pence per share).

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Annual Report on Remuneration continued

Pay for performance 
The following graph sets out a comparison of Total Shareholder Return (TSR) for Admiral Group plc shares with that of the FTSE 100 Index, of 
which the Company is a constituent, over the six-year period to 31 December 2014. The Directors consider this to be the most appropriate index 
against which the Company should be compared. TSR is defined as the percentage change over the period, assuming reinvestment of income. 

Historical TSR performance
Growth in the value of a hypothetical £100 holding over the six years to 31 December 2014

8
0
0
2

r
e
b
m
e
c
e
D
1
3

t
a
d
e
t
s
e
v
n

i

0
0
1
£
f

o
e
u
a
V

l

220

200

180

160

140

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

Admiral

FTSE100

Source: Thomson Reuters Datastream

31/12/08

31/12/09

31/12/10

31/12/11

31/12/12

31/12/13

31/12/14

CEO

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

CEO single figure of remuneration

£328,027

£343,106

£358,199

£373,759

£387,546

£393,260

DFSS vesting outcome (% of maximum)

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

CFO

Incumbent

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2014

Kevin Chidwick

Kevin Chidwick

Kevin Chidwick

Kevin Chidwick

Kevin Chidwick

Kevin Chidwick

Geraint Jones

CFO single figure of remuneration

£632,312

£1,269,535

£1,048,130

£1,431,218

£1,444,443*1 £1,102,116 *1

£325,361

DFSS vesting outcome (% of maximum) 

98%

100%

100%

100%

100%

70%

85%

*1  These figures include reimbursement of £177,104 and £165,000 in 2014 and 2013, respectively, for expenses incurred in respect of the previous CFO’s relocation

Annual bonus outcome has been excluded as Admiral does not operate any performance-based annual bonus schemes. 

Dilution
The Company has controls in place to ensure that shares awarded under the schemes operated by the Company within any rolling ten-year period 
do not exceed 10% of the number of ordinary shares in the capital of the Company in issue at the time of each award.

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Total shareholdings of Directors (audited)
Executive Directors have agreed to (acquire and) retain a beneficial shareholding equal to at least 200% of base salary, which can be built up over 
a period of five years from the date of appointment.

As at 31 December 2014, the Directors have the following shareholdings:

Director

Henry Engelhardt
Geraint Jones*1

David Stevens

Kevin Chidwick*2
Alastair Lyons

Roger Abravanel

Manfred Aldag

Annette Court

Colin Holmes

Margaret Johnson

Lucy Kellaway
Jean Park*5

Shares held

Beneficially
 owned 
outright

Subject to
performance 
conditions

Shareholding
requirement
 (% of salary)

Current
shareholding
(% of salary/fee)

Requirement
met?

34,005,472 
42,741*3

9,881,950

98,458*3

312,152

n/a
87,000*4

n/a

139,500

200%

200%

200%

>200%

>200%

>200%

Yes

Yes

Yes

—

1,919

—

40,000

—

—

—

*1  Geraint Jones was appointed to the Board on 13 August 2014

*2  Kevin Chidwick left the Board on 13 August 2014

*3  Total includes SIP shares both matured and awarded

*4  Total includes 26,000 unvested DFSS shares, awarded to Geraint Jones before he was appointed CFO, that are not subject to performance conditions

*5  Jean Park was appointed to the Board on 17 January 2014

There have been no changes to Directors’ shareholdings since 31 December 2014.

None of the Directors had an interest in the shares of any subsidiary undertaking of the Company or in any significant contracts of the Group.

Current Chief Financial Officer Geraint Jones’ interests in shares under the DFSS and SIP (audited)

At start 
of year

16,000

16,000

16,000

—

—

90

110

128

126

112

116

—

—

Awarded 
during year

Vested/matured
during year

—

—

—

20,000

35,000

—

—

—

—

—

—

100

114

16,000

—

—

—

—

90

110

—

—

—

—

—

—

At end 
of year

—

16,000

16,000

20,000

35,000

—

—

128

126

112

116

100

114

Price at 
award
(£)

Value at
award date
(£)

Value at 
31/12/14 
or maturity
(£)

Date of 
award

Final 
vesting/
maturity 
date

£16.39

£10.73

£12.09

£13.74

£12.27

£16.78

£13.52

£11.80

£11.82

£13.48

£12.83

£15.06

£13.06

£262,240

£216,024*1

15/04/2011

15/04/2014

£171,680

£193,440

£274,800

£429,520

£211,680

11/10/2012

11/10/2015

£211,680

10/10/2013

10/10/2016

£264,600

15/04/2014

15/04/2017

£463,050

22/09/2014

22/09/2017

£1,510

£1,487

£1,510

£1,489

£1,510

£1,488

£1,506

£1,489

£1,350*1
£1,418*1
£1,693

£1,667

£1,482

£1,535

£1,323

£1,508

08/03/2011

08/03/2014

05/09/2011

05/09/2014

16/03/2012

16/03/2015

03/09/2012

03/09/2015

15/03/2013

15/03/2016

02/09/2013

02/09/2016

14/03/2014

14/03/2017

05/09/2014

05/09/2017

Type

DFSS

DFSS

DFSS

DFSS

DFSS

SIP

SIP

SIP

SIP

SIP

SIP

SIP

SIP

*1  Value at maturity

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

71

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Annual Report on Remuneration continued

Former Chief Financial Officer Kevin Chidwick’s interests in shares under the DFSS and SIP (audited)

Type

DFSS

DFSS

DFSS

DFSS

SIP

SIP

SIP

SIP

SIP

SIP

SIP

SIP

At start 
of year

50,000

52,250

52,250

—

90

110

128

126

112

116

—

—

Awarded 
during year

Vested/matured
during year

—

—

—

35,000

—

—

—

—

—

—

100

114

50,000

—

—

—

90

110

—

—

—

—

—

—

At end 
of year

—

52,250

52,250

35,000

—

—

128

126

112

116

100

114

Price at 
award
(£)

£16.39

£10.73

£12.09

£12.27

£16.78

£13.52

£11.80

£11.82

£13.48

£12.83

£15.06

£13.06

Value at
award date
(£)

£819,500

£560,643

£631,703

£429,520

£1,510

£1,487

£1,510

£1,489

£1,510

£1,488

£1,506

£1,489

Value at 
31/12/14 
or maturity
(£)

£675,075*1
£691,268

Date of 
award

Final 
vesting/
maturity 
date

15/04/2011

15/04/2014

11/10/2012

11/10/2015

£691,268

10/10/2013

10/10/2016

£463,050

22/09/2014

22/09/2017

£1,350*1
£1,418*1
£1,693

£1,667

£1,482

£1,535

£1,323

£1,508

08/03/2011

08/03/2014

05/09/2011

05/09/2014

16/03/2012

16/03/2015

03/09/2012

03/09/2015

15/03/2013

15/03/2016

02/09/2013

02/09/2016

14/03/2014

14/03/2017

05/09/2014

05/09/2017

*1  Value at maturity

The closing price of Admiral shares on 31 December 2014 was £13.23 per share. Performance conditions for DFSS awards made in 2012 and 2013 
are the same as those for awards made in 2014, as detailed in the Remuneration Policy table.

By Order of the Board,

Annette Court
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee
4 March 2015

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

The data has been prepared with reference to 
the WRI/WBCSD Greenhouse Gas Protocol: 
A Corporate Accounting and Reporting 
Standard (Revised Edition) and in accordance 
with the guidance for corporate reporting 
issued by the Department for Environment, 
Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). 

There are no material exclusions from this 
data. Exclusions included figures for gas, air 
conditioning and water because the information 
was not available from the managing agents 
of the Group’s multiple office locations. In 
addition, emissions data from the US, France 
and one of the Indian offices has been excluded 
due to difficulties in collecting complete and 
accurate data. These locations together total 
8% (2013: 7%) of Group headcount and are 
therefore considered immaterial.

Detailed information on the Group’s 
environmental performance and the 
methodology for the measurement 
of greenhouse gas emissions is 
available on the corporate website, 
www.admiralgroup.co.uk.

Going concern
The Directors consider that the Group has 
adequate financial resources to continue 
operating for the foreseeable future and 
that it is therefore appropriate to adopt the 
going concern basis in preparing the financial 
statements. In considering the appropriateness 
of this assumption, the Board has reviewed 
the Group’s projections for the next 12 months 
and beyond, including cash flow forecasts and 
regulatory capital surpluses. 

The Directors present their Annual Report and 
the audited financial statements for the year 
ended 31 December 2014.

Statutory disclosures
Group results and dividends
The profit for the year, after tax but before 
dividends, amounted to £281.6 million 
(2013: £286.9 million).

The Directors declared and paid dividends of 
£273.5 million during 2014 (2013: £255.8 million) 
– refer to note 11b for further details. 

The Directors have proposed a final dividend 
of £136 million (49.0 pence per share) payable 
on 29 May 2015.

Employee policies 
Detailed information on the Group’s employment 
practices is set out in the Strategic Report and 
on the corporate website. The Group purchases 
appropriate liability insurance for all staff 
and Directors.

Diversity, ethics and human rights
Admiral Group respects and values the 
individuality and diversity of every employee. 
The Group’s Equality, Diversity and Dignity at 
Work policy ensures that every employee is 
treated equally and fairly and that all employees 
are aware of their obligations. The Group is 
fully committed to the health and safety and 
the human rights of its employees regardless 
of their background. In addition, the Group 
maintains a number of employee codes of 
conduct regarding appropriate ethical 
standards in the workplace. 

The Group’s principles of respect for human 
rights, diversity, health and safety and workplace 
ethical standards not only apply to staff directly 
employed by Admiral, but also to staff employed 
by the Group’s outsourced partner in Bangalore, 
India. To meet this commitment, Admiral Group 
maintains regular contact with its outsourcer’s 
management team and the Group’s senior 
managers visit the outsourcer on a regular basis, 
whilst the Group also provides training and 
development to ensure that the team uphold 
these principles. In addition, Admiral Group 
has appointed a manager based permanently 
at the outsourced operation, who is responsible 
for ensuring that the Group’s principles are 
adhered to by the outsourced partner, and that 
the wellbeing of outsourced staff is monitored. 

Gender diversity
The table below provides a breakdown of the 
gender of Company Directors and employees 
at the end of the financial year:

Company Directors*1

Other senior managers*2

Male

Female

7

22

4

12

All employees

3,598

3,601

*1   Company Directors consists of the Board 

of Directors, as detailed on pages 42 to 43, 
excluding Penny James who was appointed 
to the Board on 1 January 2015

*2   Other senior managers is as defined in the 
Companies Act 2006 (Strategic Report and 
Directors’ Report) and includes persons 
responsible for planning, directing or controlling 
the activities of the Company, or a strategically 
significant part of the Company, other than 
Company Directors. Any other Directors of 
undertakings included in the consolidated 
accounts that are not considered strategically 
significant have not been included

Contractual arrangements
The Group considers its co-insurance and 
reinsurance contracts, as described in the 
Strategic Report section on page 25 to be 
essential to the running of the Group’s 
business. No other contractual arrangements 
are considered to be essential.

Financial instruments
The objectives and policies for managing 
risks in relation to financial instruments held 
by the Group are set out in note 6 to the 
financial statements.

Directors and their interests
The present Directors of the Company are shown 
on pages 42 to 43 of this Report, whilst Directors’ 
interests in the share capital of the Company 
are set out in the Remuneration Report on 
page 71.

Greenhouse gas emissions
The annual level of greenhouse gas emissions, 
resulting from activities for which the Group 
is responsible, in 2014 was 6,836 CO2e (2013: 
6,383 CO2e), equivalent to 1.19 tonnes (2013: 
1.11 tonnes) per employee*1. Please note that 
the comparative figures have changed since 
the 2013 Annual Report, reflecting a validation 
process and different locations included in 
the measure.

*1   Average employee number excludes employees 

from three offices for which data could not 
be collected.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

73

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONDIRECTORS’ REPORT CONTINUED

Appointments of Directors
The Company’s Articles of Association (the 
Articles) give the Directors power to appoint 
and replace Directors. Under the Terms of 
Reference of the Nomination Committee, any 
appointment must be recommended by the 
Nomination Committee for approval by the 
Board of Directors. The Articles also require 
Directors to retire and submit themselves for 
election at the first Annual General Meeting 
following appointment and all Directors who 
held office at the time of the two preceding 
Annual General Meetings to submit themselves 
for re-election. 

However, in accordance with the requirement 
under the UK Corporate Governance Code 
(the Code) for annual election of Directors, all 
Directors, except for Roger Abravanel, will submit 
themselves for re-election at the Group's 
Annual General Meeting on 29 April 2015. 

Articles of Association
The Articles may only be amended by special 
resolution of the shareholders.

Power of the Directors
The Directors are responsible for managing the 
business of the Company and may exercise all 
powers of the Company subject to the provisions 
of relevant statutes, to any directions given 
by special resolution and to the Company’s 
Memorandum and Articles. The Articles, for 
example, contain specific provisions and 
restrictions concerning the Company’s power 
to borrow money. Powers relating to the 
issuing of new shares are also included in the 
Articles and such authorities are renewed by 
shareholders at the Annual General Meeting 
each year. 

Annual General Meeting (AGM)
It is proposed that the next AGM be held at 
The Old Library, Cardiff CF10 3ND on Wednesday 
29 April 2015 at 2.00pm, notice of which will be 
sent to shareholders with the Annual Report. 

Share capital, AGM and related matters
Major shareholders
Other than as stated below, as far as the Company is aware, there are no persons with significant 
direct or indirect holdings in the Company. Information provided to the Company pursuant to 
the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) Disclosure and Transparency Rules (DTRs) is published 
on a Regulatory Information Service and on the Company’s website.

At 30 January 2015, the Company had received notifications in accordance with the FCA’s DTRs 
of the following notifiable interests in the voting rights in the Company’s issued share capital:

Munich Re

Manning & Napier Advisors

Mackenzie Financial Corporation

The interests of Directors and Officers and 
their connected persons in the issued share 
capital of the Company are given in the 
Remuneration Report.

Additional information for shareholders
Where not provided previously in this Directors' 
Report, the following provides the additional 
information required for shareholders as a result 
of the implementation of the Takeovers 
Directive into UK law.

At 31 December 2014, the Company's issued 
share capital comprised a single class of shares 
referred to as ordinary shares. Details of the 
share capital and shares issued during the year 
can be found in note 11d.

On a poll, every member present in person or 
by proxy and entitled to vote shall have one 
vote for every ordinary share held. The notice 
of the general meeting specifies deadlines for 
exercising voting rights either by proxy notice 
or present in person or by proxy in relation to 
resolutions to be passed at general meeting. 
All proxy votes are counted and the numbers 
for, against or withheld in relation to each 
resolution are announced at the Annual General 
Meeting and published on the Company's 
website after the meeting.

There are no restrictions on the transfer of 
ordinary shares in the Company other than:

 @ Certain restrictions may from time to time 
be imposed by laws and regulations (for 
example, insider trading laws).

 @ Pursuant to the Listing Rules of the FCA 

whereby certain employees of the Company 
require the approval of the Company to 
deal in the Company's securities.

Number of 
shares

28,599,400

13,866,579

11,790,994

%

10.26%

4.98%

4.23%

The Company has not purchased any of its 
own shares during the period. 

There are no agreements between the Company 
and its Directors or employees providing for 
compensation for loss of office or employment 
(whether through resignation, purported 
redundancy or otherwise) that occurs because 
of a takeover bid. 

There are a number of agreements that alter 
or terminate upon a change of control of the 
Company following a takeover bid, such as 
commercial contracts. None are considered 
to be significant in terms of their impact on 
the business of the Group as a whole except 
for the long term co-insurance agreement in 
place with Great Lakes Reinsurance (UK) plc. 
Details relating to this agreement are 
contained in the Strategic Report.

Power to issue shares
At the last Annual General Meeting, held 
on 9 April 2014, authority was given to the 
Directors to allot unissued relevant securities 
in the Company up to a maximum of £91,127, 
equivalent to one third of the issued share 
capital as at 7 March 2014. This authority expires 
on the date of the Annual General Meeting to 
be held on 29 April 2015 and the Directors will 
seek to renew this authority for the following year. 

A further special resolution passed at that 
meeting granted authority to the Directors 
to allot equity securities in the Company 
(up to a maximum of 5% of the issued share 
capital of the Company) for cash, without 
regard to the pre-emption provisions of the 
Companies Act 2006. This authority also 
expires on the date of the Annual General 
Meeting to be held on 29 April 2015 and the 
Directors will seek to renew this authority for 
the following year.

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Reporting, accountability and audit
UK Corporate Governance Code

In preparing each of the Group and Parent 
Company financial statements, the Directors 
are required to: 

Responsibility statement
The Directors confirm that to the best of 
their knowledge:

Admiral is subject to the UK 
Corporate Governance Code, 
published by the Financial Reporting 
Council (FRC) and available on their 
website, www.frc.org.uk.

The FRC issued a revised version of the Code 
in September 2014 which applies to companies 
with a financial year beginning on or after 
1 October 2014. Therefore, the edition of the 
Code published in September 2012 applied 
throughout the financial year ending 
31 December 2014. The Company’s Annual 
Report and Accounts, taken as a whole, 
addresses the requirements of the 2012 Code.

During the year to 31 December 2014, the 
Company has in all respects complied with 
the provisions of the 2012 Code.

The Directors confirm that the Annual 
Report and Accounts, taken as a whole, is fair, 
balanced and understandable and provides 
the information necessary for shareholders to 
assess the Company’s performance, business 
model and strategy.

Directors’ responsibilities 
The Directors are responsible for preparing 
the Annual Report and the Group and Parent 
Company financial statements, in accordance 
with applicable law and regulations. 

Company law requires the Directors to prepare 
Group and Parent Company financial statements 
for each financial year. Under that law they 
are required to prepare the Group financial 
statements in accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted 
by the EU and applicable law and have elected 
to prepare the Parent Company financial 
statements in accordance with UK Accounting 
Standards and applicable law (UK Generally 
Accepted Accounting Practice). 

Under company law the Directors must not 
approve the financial statements unless they are 
satisfied that they give a true and fair view 
of the state of affairs of the Group and Parent 
Company and of their profit or loss for 
that period.

 @ Select suitable accounting policies and 

then apply them consistently.

 @ Make judgements and estimates that are 

reasonable and prudent.

 @ For the Group financial statements, state 
whether they have been prepared in 
accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU. 

 @ For the Parent Company financial 

statements, state whether applicable UK 
Accounting Standards have been followed, 
subject to any material departures 
disclosed and explained in the Parent 
Company financial statements.

 @ Prepare the financial statements on the 

going concern basis unless it is inappropriate 
to presume that the Group and the Parent 
Company will continue in business. 

The Directors are responsible for keeping 
proper accounting records that disclose with 
reasonable accuracy at any time the financial 
position of the Parent Company and enable 
them to ensure that its financial statements 
comply with the Companies Act 2006. They 
have general responsibility for taking such 
steps as are reasonably open to them to 
safeguard the assets of the Group and to prevent 
and detect fraud and other irregularities. 

Under applicable law and regulations, the 
Directors are also responsible for preparing 
a Strategic Report, Directors’ Report, Directors’ 
Remuneration Report and Corporate Governance 
Statement that comply with that law and 
those regulations. 

The Directors are responsible for the 
maintenance and integrity of the corporate 
and financial information included on the 
Company’s website. Legislation in the UK 
governing the preparation and dissemination 
of financial statements may differ from 
legislation in other jurisdictions.

 @ The financial statements, prepared in 
accordance with the applicable set of 
accounting standards, give a true and fair 
view of the assets, liabilities, financial 
position and profit or loss of the Company 
and the undertakings included in the 
consolidation taken as a whole; and

 @ The management report required by DTR 
4.1.8R (contained in the Strategic Report 
and the Directors’ Report) includes a fair 
review of the development and performance 
of the business and the position of the 
Company and the undertakings included 
in the consolidation taken as a whole, 
together with a description of the principal 
risks and uncertainties that they face.

Disclosure of information to auditors
The Directors who held office at the date of 
approval of this Directors’ Report confirm that, 
so far as they are each aware, there is no relevant 
audit information of which the Company’s 
auditor is unaware; and each Director has 
taken all the steps that they ought to have 
taken as a Director to make themselves aware 
of any relevant audit information and to 
establish that the Company’s auditor is aware 
of that information. 

Auditor
The Company’s auditor, KPMG LLP, has 
indicated willingness to continue in office 
and resolutions to reappoint it and to authorise 
the Directors to fix its remuneration will be 
proposed at the Annual General Meeting. 

By Order of the Board,

Mark Waters
Company Secretary
4 March 2015

Geraint Jones
Chief Financial Officer
4 March 2015

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

75

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT 
TO THE MEMBERS OF ADMIRAL GROUP PLC ONLY

 @ Our response – Our audit procedures 
included testing the controls over the 
underwriting and claims process and 
performing substantive analysis over 
the trends in claims frequency and size. 
Using our actuarial specialists to support 
us, we assessed the level of reserves held 
for incurred claims through evaluating 
the competence, capability and objectivity 
of the Group’s external actuary, assessing 
the actuarial methodologies employed, 
including the use of paid and incurred chain 
ladders and the average cost per claim 
method, challenging key judgements, for 
example the extent to which improvements 
in claims trends are taken into account in 
reserve projections, and benchmarking key 
assumptions against KPMG sourced market 
data. In respect of the amounts related to 
large bodily injury claims and actual and 
potential PPOs, we investigated the process 
for identifying and assessing the required 
reserve for large claims and for updating 
this reserve as more information becomes 
available, investigated the process for 
assessing cases that have the potential to 
be settled as PPOs and benchmarked the 
key assumptions made in calculating large 
bodily injury claims reserves, including 
mortality (in the case of PPO cases) and 
discount rates applied. The focus of our 
work is the UK Motor portfolio.

 In respect of the margin held above 
the actuarial best estimate, we assessed 
the rationale for this margin including 
consideration of the level of prudence 
within the margin, the consistency with 
which the underlying judgements have 
been applied in relation to the current 
year and prior periods and the existence 
of any management bias.

 We have also considered the adequacy of 
the Group’s disclosures about the margin 
held above the actuarial best estimate, 
and the degree of estimation and 
sensitivity to key assumptions. 

Co-insurance and reinsurance
Refer to page 51 (Audit Committee 
statement), note 5 (accounting policy 
and financial disclosures).

 @ The risk – The Group has in place a number 
of proportional risk sharing agreements, 
where insurers outside the Group underwrite 
a majority of the risk generated, either 
through co-insurance or quota share 
reinsurance contracts. For reinsurance 
contracts, there is judgement involved 
in the assessment of whether risk has 
been transferred, which impacts on the 
appropriate accounting including whether 
premium income and insurance claims 
are presented gross or net of reinsurance. 
A number of the reinsurance arrangements 
also include reinsurance caps, whereby 
the Group is limited as to the amount it 
can recover against insurance claims and 
operating expenses based on the cap in 
place. This impacts the underlying profit 
of the Group. For co-insurance contracts, 
the accounting is driven by the fact that the 
Group does not retain the underlying risks 
and rewards of the business underwritten. 
The outcome of these judgements affect 
the recognition and timing of revenue 
along with profit recognition and disclosure 
of income and expenses associated with 
these risk sharing agreements. 

 @ Our response – Our audit procedures 

included critically assessing the contract 
terms for these arrangements to ascertain 
whether, taking into account relevant 
accounting standards, the appropriate 
risk transfer has occurred to support 
the treatment of the arrangement as 
co-insurance or quota share reinsurance. 
We reviewed the terms of the reinsurance 
caps, re-calculated the expected total 
cap cost and compared to the actual 
cap cost recognised, and assessed the 
appropriateness of the allocation between 
insurance claims and operating expenses. 
We have also considered the adequacy of 
the Group’s disclosures and appropriateness 
of the presentation of transactions and 
balances relating to these arrangements.

Opinions and conclusions arising 
from our audit
1. Our opinion on the financial 
statements is unmodified
We have audited the financial statements 
of Admiral Group plc for the year ended 
31 December 2014 set out on pages 78 
to 113. In our opinion: 

 @ the financial statements give a true and 
fair view of the state of the Group’s and 
of the Parent Company’s affairs as at 
31 December 2014 and of the Group’s 
profit for the year then ended; 

 @ the Group financial statements have 

been properly prepared in accordance 
with International Financial Reporting 
Standards as adopted by the European 
Union (IFRSs as adopted by the EU); 

 @ the Parent Company financial statements 

have been properly prepared in accordance 
with UK Accounting Standards; and 

 @ the financial statements have been prepared 
in accordance with the requirements of the 
Companies Act 2006 and, as regards the 
Group financial statements, Article 4 of the 
IAS Regulation. 

2. Our assessment of risks 
of material misstatement
In arriving at our audit opinion above on 
the financial statements the risks of material 
misstatement that had the greatest effect 
on our audit were as follows. 

Insurance liabilities (£2,097.4 million)
Refer to page 51 (Audit Committee 
Statement), note 5d (accounting policy 
and financial disclosures).

 @ The risk – The provision for claims 

outstanding comprises the estimated cost 
of settling all claims incurred but unpaid at 
the balance sheet date, whether reported 
or not. This is a judgemental and complex 
area due to the inherent uncertainty of 
estimating claims not yet reported, future 
costs of settling claims, discount rates 
and whether customers will be awarded 
a lump sum claim or a periodic payment. 
The amounts involved are potentially 
significant and the application of 
accounting standards to determine the 
amount, if any, to be provided as a liability, 
is inherently subjective. One of the most 
significant uncertainties relates to the 
reserve held for large bodily injury claims 
and actual and potential Periodic Payment 
Order settlements (PPOs). The UK motor 
portfolio presents the biggest risk of 
material misstatement.

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Profit commission (£71.8 million)
Refer to page 51 (Audit Committee 
statement), note 5c (accounting policy 
and financial disclosures).

 @ The risk – The recognition of profit 

commission income from co-insurers and 
quota share reinsurers is initially in line 
with the loss ratios booked in the financial 
statements and will vary with movements 
in the loss ratios. The recognition of this 
income is therefore subject to the same 
level of estimation as the claims liability 
noted above until, in the case of quota 
share reinsurance, the relevant contracts 
are commuted, at which point no further 
profit commission is recognised. In addition, 
different contractual arrangements are in 
place with the Group’s co-insurance and 
reinsurance partners and there is a risk that 
the differences in arrangements are not 
appropriately accounted for, resulting in 
significant misstatement.

 @ Our response – Our audit procedures 
included, in addition to our procedures 
over insurance liabilities noted above, 
forming an expectation of the profit 
commission income based on loss ratios 
applied and contractual terms of each 
arrangement, comparing this to actual 
profit commission income recognised 
and corroborating any changes to the 
profit commission arrangements during 
the year. We have also considered the 
adequacy of the Group’s disclosures 
about the arrangements in place.

3. Our application of materiality and 
an overview of the scope of our audit
The materiality for the Group financial statements 
as a whole was set at £18.5 million, determined 
with reference to a benchmark of Group profit 
before taxation (of which it represents 5%). 
We report to the Audit Committee any corrected 
or uncorrected identified misstatements 
exceeding £0.9 million, in addition to other 
identified misstatements that warranted 
reporting on qualitative grounds.

Of the Group’s 12 reporting components, we 
subjected four to audits for Group reporting 
purposes, two to specified risk focused audit 
procedures and one to a review of financial 
information (including enquiry). The components 
for which we performed specified risk focused 
procedures and a review of financial information 
were not individually financially significant 
enough to require an audit for Group reporting 
purposes, but did present specific individual 
risks that needed to be addressed. 

The components within the scope of our work 
accounted for 94% of Group net revenue, 97% 
of Group profit before tax and 97% of Group 
total assets.

The remaining 6% of total Group net revenue, 
3% of Group profit before tax and 3% of total 
Group assets is represented by 5 reporting 
components, none of which individually 
represented more than 2% of any of total 
Group net revenue, Group profit before tax 
or total Group assets.

For these remaining components, we 
performed analysis at an aggregated Group 
level to re-examine our assessment that there 
were no significant risks of material 
misstatement within these. 

The Group audit team instructed two component 
auditors as to the significant risk focused audit 
procedures to be performed. The procedures 
on the remaining components were performed 
by the Group audit team. The Group audit 
team approved the component materialities, 
which ranged from £500,000 to £16,500,000, 
having regard to the mix of size and risk profile 
of the Group across the components. 

4. Our opinion on other matters prescribed 
by the Companies Act 2006 is unmodified
In our opinion: 

 @ the part of the Directors’ Remuneration 
Report to be audited has been properly 
prepared in accordance with the 
Companies Act 2006; and 

 @ the information given in the Strategic 
Report and Directors’ Report for the 
financial year for which the financial 
statements are prepared is consistent 
with the financial statements. 

5. We have nothing to report in respect 
of the matters on which we are required 
to report by exception 
Under ISAs (UK and Ireland) we are required to 
report to you if, based on the knowledge we 
acquired during our audit, we have identified 
other information in the annual report that 
contains a material inconsistency with either 
that knowledge or the financial statements, 
a material misstatement of fact, or that is 
otherwise misleading. 

In particular, we are required to report to you if: 

 @ we have identified material inconsistencies 
between the knowledge we acquired during 
our audit and the directors’ statement that 
they consider that the annual report and 
financial statements taken as a whole is fair, 
balanced and understandable and provides 
the information necessary for shareholders 
to assess the Group’s performance, business 
model and strategy; or

 @ the Audit Committee Statement does not 
appropriately address matters communicated 
by us to the Audit Committee.

Under the Companies Act 2006 we are 
required to report to you if, in our opinion: 

 @ adequate accounting records have not been 
kept by the Parent Company, or returns 
adequate for our audit have not been 
received from branches not visited by us; or 

 @ the Parent Company financial statements 

and the part of the Directors’ Remuneration 
Report to be audited are not in agreement 
with the accounting records and returns; or 

 @ certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration 

specified by law are not made; or 

 @ we have not received all the information 

and explanations we require for our audit. 

Under the Listing Rules we are required to review: 

 @ the directors’ statement, set out on page 73, 

in relation to going concern; and

 @ the part of the Corporate Governance 
Statement on page 40 relating to the 
company’s compliance with the ten provisions 
of the 2012 UK Corporate Governance 
Code specified for our review.

We have nothing to report in respect of the 
above responsibilities.

Scope and responsibilities
As explained more fully in the Directors’ 
Responsibilities Statement set out on page 75, 
the directors are responsible for the preparation 
of the financial statements and for being 
satisfied that they give a true and fair view. 
A description of the scope of an audit of 
financial statements is provided on the 
Financial Reporting Council’s website at  
www.frc.org.uk/auditscopeukprivate. This 
report is made solely to the company’s members 
as a body and is subject to important 
explanations and disclaimers regarding our 
responsibilities, published on our website at 
www.kpmg.com/uk/auditscopeukco2014a, 
which are incorporated into this report as if 
set out in full and should be read to provide 
an understanding of the purpose of this 
report, the work we have undertaken and 
the basis of our opinions.

Salim Tharani (Senior Statutory Auditor) 
for and on behalf of KPMG LLP,  
Statutory Auditor 
Chartered Accountants 
3 Assembly Square 
Britannia Quay 
Cardiff 
CF10 4AX
4 March 2015

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

77

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORT 
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT 
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014

Insurance premium revenue

Insurance premium ceded to reinsurers

Net insurance premium revenue

Other revenue

Profit commission

Investment and interest income

Net revenue

Insurance claims and claims handling expenses

Insurance claims and claims handling expenses recoverable from reinsurers

Net insurance claims

Operating expenses and share scheme charges

Operating expenses and share scheme charges recoverable from co- and reinsurers

Net operating expenses and share scheme charges

Total expenses

Operating profit

Finance costs

Profit before tax

Taxation expense

Profit after tax

Profit after tax attributable to:

Equity holders of the parent

Non-controlling interests (NCI)

Earnings per share

Basic 

Diluted

Dividends declared and paid (total)

Dividends declared and paid (per share)

78

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

Year ended

31 December
 2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

Note

1,099.7

1,136.4

(634.8)

(653.4)

5

7

5

6

8

8

6

9

11

11

11

11

464.9

332.5

71.8

15.4

884.6

(794.5)

535.4

(259.1)

(501.8)

231.6

(270.2)

(529.3)

355.3

(4.6)

350.7

(69.1)

281.6

285.2

(3.6)

281.6

103.0p

102.8p

273.5

100.0p

483.0

327.8

99.3

14.3

924.4

(826.7)

523.7

(303.0)

(467.0)

215.8

(251.2)

(554.2)

370.2

—

370.2

(83.3)

286.9

287.0

(0.1)

286.9

104.6p

104.4p

255.8

94.4p

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014

Profit for the period

Other comprehensive income

Items that are or may be reclassified to profit or loss

Movements in fair value reserve

Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations

Other comprehensive income for the period, net of income tax

Total comprehensive income for the period

Total comprehensive income for the period attributable to:

Equity holders of the parent

Non-controlling interests

Year ended

31 December
 2014
£m

 31 December 
2013
£m

281.6

286.9

10.9

3.0

13.9

—

(1.3)

(1.3)

295.5

285.6

298.6

(3.1)

295.5

286.1

(0.5)

285.6

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

79

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTCONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION 
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2014

ASSETS

Property and equipment

Intangible assets

Deferred income tax

Reinsurance assets

Trade and other receivables

Financial assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

EQUITY

Share capital

Share premium account

Other reserves

Retained earnings

Total equity attributable to equity holders of the parent

Non-controlling interests

Total equity

LIABILITIES 

Insurance contracts

Subordinated liabilities

Trade and other payables

Current tax liabilities

Total liabilities

Total equity and total liabilities 

As at

31 December
 2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

Note

10

10

9

5

6, 10

6

6

11

5

6

6, 10

32.3

107.2

22.9

829.8

82.0

12.4

92.8

17.0

821.2

77.5

2,547.4

2,265.0

255.9

187.9

3,877.5

3,473.8

0.3

13.1

13.2

540.6

567.2

13.7

580.9

0.3

13.1

(0.2)

502.6

515.8

8.3

524.1

2,097.4

1,901.3

203.8

965.8

29.6

3,296.6

3,877.5

—

1,013.7

34.7

2,949.7

3,473.8

These financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 4 March 2015 and were signed on its behalf by:

Geraint Jones
Chief Financial Officer
Admiral Group plc

Company Number: 03849958

80

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT 
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014

Profit after tax

Adjustments for non-cash items:

– Depreciation

– Amortisation of software

– Other gains and losses

– Share scheme charges

– Investment income on gilts 

– Finance costs

Change in gross insurance contract liabilities 

Change in reinsurance assets

Change in trade and other receivables, including from policyholders

Change in trade and other payables, including tax and social security

Taxation expense

Cash flows from operating activities, before movements in investments

Net cash flow into investments 

Cash flows from operating activities, net of movements in investments

Taxation payments

Net cash flow from operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities

Purchases of property, equipment and software

Interest and investment income received

Net cash used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities

Non-controlling interest capital contribution

Proceeds on issue of subordinated liabilities

Transaction costs on issue of subordinated liabilities

Repayment of finance lease liabilities 

Equity dividends paid

Net cash used in financing activities

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January

Effects of changes in foreign exchange rates

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

Year ended

31 December
 2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

Note

281.6

286.9

8

7.1

4.6

(0.2)

23.2

(2.6)

4.6

196.1

(8.6)

14.7

(49.4)

69.1

540.2

(286.3)

253.9

(77.0)

176.9

(50.6)

3.1

(47.5)

8.5

200.0

(0.8)

1.4

11

(273.5)

(64.4)

65.0

187.9

3.0

255.9

6

7.3

4.9

0.2

25.7

—

—

204.4

(18.2)

14.3

8.0

83.3

616.8

(295.3)

321.5

(88.5)

233.0

(10.1)

—

(10.1)

6.4

—

—

(0.9)

(255.8)

(250.3)

(27.4)

216.6

(1.3)

187.9

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

81

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTCONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014

At 1 January 2013 

Profit for the period

Other comprehensive income

Currency translation differences

Total comprehensive income for the period

Transactions with equity holders

Dividends

Share scheme credit

Deferred tax charge on share scheme credit

Contributions by NCIs

Changes in ownership interests without 
a change in control

Total transactions with equity holders

As at 31 December 2013

At 1 January 2014

Profit for the period

Other comprehensive income

Movements in fair value reserve

Currency translation differences

Total comprehensive income for the period

Transactions with equity holders

Dividends

Share scheme credit

Deferred tax credit on share scheme credit

Contributions by NCIs

Total transactions with equity holders

Attributable to the owners of the Company

Share 
capital
£m

0.3

—

Share 
premium 
account
£m

13.1

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

0.3

0.3

— 

— 

— 

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

13.1

13.1

— 

— 

— 

— 

—

—

—

—

—

Fair value
 reserve
£m

Foreign 
exchange 
reserve
£m

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

10.9

—

10.9

—

—

—

—

—

0.7

—

(0.9)

(0.9)

—

—

—

—

—

—

(0.2)

(0.2)

— 

— 

2.5

2.5

—

—

—

—

—

Retained 
profit 
and loss
£m

443.0

287.0

Total
£m

457.1

287.0

—

(0.9)

287.0

286.1

(255.8)

(255.8)

25.7

25.7

2.1

0.3

0.3

2.1

0.3

0.3

(227.4)

(227.4)

502.6

502.6

285.2

515.8

515.8

285.2

— 

— 

10.9 

2.5 

Non-
controlling 
interests
£m

Total equity
£m

3.6

(0.1)

(0.4)

(0.5)

—

—

—

5.5

(0.3)

5.2

8.3

8.3

(3.6)

— 

0.5

460.7

286.9

(1.3)

285.6

(255.8)

25.7

2.1

5.8

—

(222.2)

524.1

524.1

281.6

10.9

3.0

285.2 

298.6 

(3.1)

295.5

(273.5)

(273.5)

23.2

3.1

—

23.2

3.1

—

(247.2)

(247.2)

—

—

—

8.5

8.5

(273.5)

23.2

3.1

8.5

(238.7)

As at 31 December 2014

0.3

13.1

10.9

2.3

540.6

567.2

13.7

580.9

82

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014

1. General information
Admiral Group plc is a company incorporated 
in England and Wales. Its registered office 
is at Capital Tower, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, 
CF10 3AZ and its shares are listed on the 
London Stock Exchange. 

The Consolidated financial statements have 
been prepared and approved by the Directors 
in accordance with International Financial 
Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by 
the European Union (EU). The Company has 
elected to prepare its Parent Company financial 
statements in accordance with UK Generally 
Accepted Accounting Practice (GAAP).

Adoption of new and revised standards
The Group has applied all adopted IFRS 
and interpretations endorsed by the EU at 
31 December 2014, including all amendments 
to extant standards that are not effective until 
later accounting periods. This is inclusive of:

 @ IFRIC Interpretation 21 Levies 

IFRIC Interpretation 21 Levies was endorsed 
on 13 June 2014 and subsequently adopted 
by the Group. The IFRIC is effective for 
accounting periods beginning on or 
after 1 January 2014. It clarifies the IFRS 
requirements in relation to the timing of 
recognition of provisions for levies charged 
by public authorities. This is relevant 
to the Group in terms of its obligations 
to pay levies relating to insurance business, 
primarily to the Motor Insurers’ Bureau, 
Financial Services Compensation Scheme 
and other regulatory bodies in the UK.

 The Group has aligned the timing of its 
recognition of provisions for levies to 
that required by the IFRIC. The impact 
of the adjustment in 2014 is a reduction 
in net operating expenses of £6.7 million. 
Whilst this is considered to be a change 
in accounting policy in line with IAS 8, 
no restatement of comparative information 
has been performed on materiality grounds. 

 @ IFRS 10, 11 and 12 (‘the consolidation 

suite of standards’)
Subsidiaries
 As a result of IFRS 10 (2011), the Group has 
changed its accounting policy for determining 
whether it has control over and consequently 
whether it consolidates its investees. 
IFRS 10 introduces a new control model 
that focuses on whether the Group has 
power over an investee, exposure or rights 
to variable returns from its involvement 
with the investee and ability to use its 
power to affect those returns. 

 In accordance with the transitional provisions 
of IFRS 10, the Group reassessed the control 
conclusion for its investees at 1 January 2014. 
No modifications of previous conclusions 
about control regarding the Group’s 
investees were required.

There are a number of standards, amendments 
to standards and interpretations that were 
issued by 31 December 2014 but have either 
yet to be endorsed by the EU, or were endorsed 
shortly after the year end. The following IFRSs 
have been issued but have not been applied 
by the Group in these financial statements:

 @ IFRS 9 Financial Instruments.

 @ IFRS 14 Regulatory Deferral Accounts.

 @ IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts 

with Customers.

 @ Amendments to IFRS 10, 11 and 12 and 

IAS 1, 16, 27, 28, 38 and 41.

In 2014, the IASB issued the full, final version 
of IFRS 9. This version supersedes all previous 
versions. The standard has an effective date of 
1 January 2018 although earlier application is 
permitted. The standard includes requirements 
relating to the recognition, measurement, 
impairment, de-recognition of assets along 
with general hedge accounting.

IFRS 15 was also issued during 2014 and applies 
to annual reporting periods beginning on or 
after 1 January 2017. The standard introduces 
a simple, five step principles-based model to 
be applied to the accounting of all contracts 
with customers. 

The Group is currently assessing the impact of 
both IFRS 9 and IFRS 15 on its results, financial 
position and cash flows, along with any impacts 
of the other standards and amendments which 
have yet to be endorsed.

2. Basis of preparation
The accounts have been prepared on a going 
concern basis. In considering the appropriateness 
of this assumption, the Board has reviewed 
the Group’s projections for the next 12 months 
and beyond, including cash flow forecasts and 
regulatory capital surpluses. During July 2014, 
the Group announced a successful, inaugural 
bond placement of £200 million, ten-year, tier 
two subordinated notes with a fixed interest 
charge of 5.5%.

The Directors have a reasonable expectation 
that the Company has adequate resources 
to continue in operational existence for the 
foreseeable future. Thus they continue to 
adopt the going concern basis in preparing 
the annual financial statements.

Further information regarding the Company’s 
business activities, together with the factors likely 
to affect its future development, performance 
and position, is set out in the Strategic Report 
on pages 6 to 39. Further information regarding 
the financial position of the Company, its cash 
flows, liquidity position and borrowing facilities 
are described in the Strategic Report on 
pages 18 to 21. In addition notes 6 and 11 
to the financial statements 

include the Company’s objectives, policies 
and processes for managing its capital; its 
financial risk management objectives; details 
of its financial instruments; and its exposures 
to credit risk and liquidity risk.

The accounting policies set out in the notes to 
the financial statements have, unless otherwise 
stated, been applied consistently to all periods 
presented in these Group financial statements. 

The financial statements are prepared on the 
historical cost basis, except for the revaluation 
of financial assets classified as at fair value 
through profit or loss or as ‘available for sale’. 
The Group and Company financial statements 
are presented in Pounds sterling, rounded to 
the nearest £0.1 million.

Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the 
Group. The Group controls an entity when it 
is exposed to, or has rights to, variable returns 
from its involvement with the entity and has 
the ability to affect those returns through its 
power over the entity. In assessing control, 
the Group takes into consideration potential 
voting rights that are currently exercisable. 
The acquisition date is the date on which control 
is transferred to the acquirer. The financial 
statements of subsidiaries are included in the 
consolidated financial statements from the 
date that control commences until the date 
that control ceases. Losses applicable to the 
non-controlling interests in a subsidiary are 
allocated to the non-controlling interests 
even if doing so causes the non-controlling 
interests to have a deficit balance.

The preparation of financial statements 
in conformity with adopted IFRS requires 
management to make judgements, estimates 
and assumptions that affect the application of 
policies and reported amounts of assets and 
liabilities, income and expenses. The estimates 
and associated assumptions are based on 
historical experience and various other factors 
that are believed to be reasonable under the 
circumstances, the results of which form the 
basis of making the judgements about carrying 
values of assets and liabilities that are not 
readily apparent from other sources. 

The estimates and underlying assumptions 
are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions 
to accounting estimates are recognised in the 
year in which the estimate is reviewed if this 
revision affects only that year, or in the year 
of the revision and future years if the revision 
affects both current and future years. To the 
extent that a change in an accounting estimate 
gives rise to changes in assets and liabilities, 
it is recognised by adjusting the carrying 
amount of the related asset or liability in 
the period of the change.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

83

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORT 
 
 
 
3. Critical accounting judgements 
and estimates
Judgements
In applying the Group’s accounting policies 
as described in the notes to the financial 
statements, management has primarily applied 
judgement in the following two areas:

 @ Classification of the Group’s contracts with 

reinsurers as reinsurance contracts:

 A contract is required to transfer significant 
insurance risk in order to be classified as 
such. Management reviews all terms and 
conditions of each such contract, and if 
necessary obtains the opinion of an 
independent expert at the negotiation stage 
in order to be able to make this judgement.

 @ Recognition of deferred tax assets relating 

to unused tax losses: 

 Management applies judgement in 
determining the probability of future 
taxable profits of an entity against which 
to utilise accumulated losses in determining 
the recognition of deferred tax assets. 
In applying this judgement, management 
makes an assessment of the reliability of 
approved business plan projections using 
both qualitative and quantitative factors 
including the age and status of the business, 
the Group’s previous experience in similar 
markets, historic performance against 
business plans and the application of 
a number of stress and sensitivity tests 
to the projections. 

Estimation techniques used in calculation 
of claims provisions and profit commission
Estimation techniques are used in the calculation 
of the provisions for claims outstanding, which 
represent a projection of the ultimate cost of 
settling claims that have occurred prior to the 
balance sheet date and remain unsettled at 
the balance sheet date.

The key area where these techniques are used 
relates to the ultimate cost of reported claims. 
A secondary area relates to the emergence of 
claims that occurred prior to the balance sheet 
date, but had not been reported at that date.

The estimates of the ultimate cost of reported 
claims are based on the setting of claim 
provisions on a case-by-case basis, for all 
but the simplest of claims.

The sum of these provisions is compared 
with projected ultimate costs using a variety 
of different projection techniques (including 
incurred and paid chain ladder and an average 
cost of claim approach) to allow an actuarial 
assessment of their potential outcome. They 
include allowance for unreported claims.

The most significant sensitivity in the use of the 
projection techniques arises from any future 
step change in claims costs, which would cause 
future claim cost inflation to deviate from historic 
trends. This is most likely to arise from a change 
in the regulatory or judicial regime that leads 
to an increase in awards or legal costs for bodily 
injury claims that is significantly above or 
below the historical trend.

Foreign currency transactions are translated 
into the functional currency using the exchange 
rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. 
Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting 
from the settlement of such transactions and 
from the translation at year end exchange rates 
of monetary assets and liabilities denominated 
in foreign currencies are recognised in the 
income statement.

The Group’s independent actuarial advisors 
project best estimate claims reserves using 
a variety of recognised actuarial techniques. 

The Group’s reserving policy requires 
management to reserve within a range of 
potential outcomes above the projected best 
estimate outcome, to allow for unforeseen 
adverse claims development. 

For further detail on objectives, policies and 
procedures for managing insurance risk, refer 
to note 5 of the financial statements.

Future changes in claims reserves also impact 
profit commission income, as the measurement 
of this income is dependent on the loss ratio 
booked in the financial statements, and cash 
receivable is dependent on actuarial projections 
of ultimate loss ratios.

4. Group consolidation and 
operating segments
4a. Accounting policies
(i) Group consolidation
The Consolidated financial statements comprise 
the results and balances of the Company and 
its subsidiaries (together referred to as the 
Group) for the year ended 31 December 2014 
and comparative figures for the year ended 
31 December 2013. The financial statements 
of the Company’s subsidiaries are consolidated 
in the Group financial statements. The Company 
controls 100% of the voting share capital of all 
its principal subsidiaries, except Rastreator.com 
Limited, Inspop USA LLC, Admiral Law Limited, 
BDE Law Limited and the indirect holding in 
comparenow.com Insurance Agency LLC. 

The Parent Company financial statements 
present information about the Company 
as a separate entity and not about its Group. 
In accordance with IAS 24, transactions or 
balances between Group companies that have 
been eliminated on consolidation are not 
reported as related party transactions in the 
Consolidated financial statements.

(ii) Foreign currency translation
Items included in the financial statements 
of each of the Group’s entities are measured 
using the currency of the primary economic 
environment in which the entity operates 
(‘the functional currency’). The Consolidated 
financial statements are presented in millions 
of pounds sterling, which is the Group’s 
presentation currency. 

Non-monetary items measured at cost are 
translated at their historic rate and non-monetary 
items held at fair value are translated using the 
foreign exchange rate on the date that the fair 
value was established.

The financial statements of foreign operations 
whose functional currency is not pounds 
sterling are translated into the Group 
presentation currency (sterling) as follows:

 @ Assets and liabilities for each balance sheet 
presented are translated at the closing rate 
at the date of that balance sheet.

 @ Income and expenses for each income 

statement are translated at average exchange 
rates (unless this average is not a reasonable 
approximation of the cumulative effect of 
the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, 
in which case income and expenses are 
translated at the date of the transaction).

 @ All resulting exchange differences are 

recognised in other comprehensive income 
and in a separate component of equity except 
to the extent that the translation differences 
are attributable to non-controlling interests.

On disposal of a foreign operation, the 
cumulative amount recognised in equity 
relating to that particular operation is 
recognised in the income statement.

4b. Segment reporting
The Group has four reportable segments, as 
described below. These segments represent 
the principal split of business that is regularly 
reported to the Group’s Board of Directors, 
which is considered to be the Group’s chief 
operating decision maker in line with IFRS 8 
Operating Segments. 

UK Car Insurance
The segment consists of the underwriting of car 
insurance and other products that supplement 
the car insurance policy. It also includes the 
generation of revenue from additional products 
and fees from underwriting car insurance in the 
UK. The Directors consider the results of these 
activities to be reportable as one segment as the 
activities carried out in generating the revenue 
are not independent of each other and are 
performed as one business. This mirrors the 
approach taken in management reporting.

84

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014 
 
4. Group consolidation and operating segments continued
4b. Segment reporting continued
International Car Insurance
The segment consists of the underwriting of car insurance and the generation of revenue from additional products and fees, from underwriting car 
insurance outside of the UK. It specifically covers the Group operations Admiral Seguros in Spain, ConTe in Italy, L’olivier Assurances in France and 
Elephant Auto in the US. None of these operations are reportable on an individual basis, based on the threshold requirements in IFRS 8.

Price Comparison
The segment relates to the Group’s price comparison websites; Confused.com in the UK, Rastreator in Spain, LeLynx in France and compare.com 
in the US. Each of the Price Comparison businesses are operating in individual geographical segments but are grouped into one reporting 
segment as Rastreator, LeLynx and compare.com do not individually meet the threshold requirements in IFRS 8.

Other
The ‘Other’ segment is designed to be comprised of all other operating segments that do not meet the threshold requirements for individual 
reporting. It includes UK household insurance, the Group’s commercial van insurance broker, Gladiator, and commercial van insurance. 

Taxes are not allocated across the segments and, as with the corporate activities, are included in the reconciliation to the Consolidated Income Statement 
and Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.

An analysis of the Group’s revenue and results for the year ended 31 December 2014, by reportable segment, are shown below. The accounting 
policies of the reportable segments are consistent with those presented in the notes to the financial statements for the Group.

Turnover*1

Net insurance premium revenue

Other Revenue and profit commission

Investment and interest income

Net revenue

Net insurance claims

Expenses

Segment profit/(loss) before tax

Other central revenue and expenses, 
including share scheme charges

Investment and interest income

Finance costs

Consolidated profit before tax

Taxation expense

Consolidated profit after tax

Other segment items:

– Capital expenditure

– Depreciation and amortisation

Year ended 31 December 2014

UK Car 
Insurance
£m

1,602.7

394.3

272.2

11.5

678.0

(198.3)

(81.7)

398.0

International 
Car Insurance
£m

Price 
Comparison
£m

206.2

58.1

7.1

0.2

65.4

(50.5)

(34.8)

(19.9)

107.5

—

107.5

—

107.5

—

(110.3)

(2.8)

Other
£m

54.6

12.5

17.5

—

30.0

(10.3)

(17.6)

2.1

Eliminations
£m

—

— 

— 

—

—

—

—

— 

65.1

30.6

21.3

22.1

1.0

1.5

1.5

0.2

—

—

Total
£m

1,971.0

464.9

404.3

11.7

880.9

(259.1)

(244.4)

377.4

(25.8)

3.7

(4.6)

350.7

(69.1)

281.6

88.9

54.4

*1  Turnover is a non-GAAP measure and consists of total premiums written (including co-insurers’ share) and Other Revenue. Refer to note 12 for further information 

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

85

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORT4. Group consolidation and operating segments continued
4b. Segment reporting continued
Revenue and results for the corresponding reportable segments for the year ended 31 December 2013 are shown below.

Year ended 31 December 2013

Turnover*1

Net insurance premium revenue

Other revenue and profit commission

Investment and interest income

Net revenue

Net insurance claims

Expenses

Finance costs

Segment profit/(loss) before tax

Other central revenue and expenses, 
including share scheme charges

Interest income

Consolidated profit before tax

Taxation expense

Consolidated profit after tax

Other segment items:

– Capital expenditure

– Depreciation and amortisation

UK Car 
Insurance
£m

1,698.9

425.1

293.4

12.4

730.9

(251.3)

(85.7)

—

393.9

International 
Car Insurance
£m

Price 
Comparison
£m

187.8

54.1

6.6

—

60.7

(49.1)

(33.7)

—

(22.1)

112.7

—

112.7

—

112.7

—

(92.3)

—

20.4

Other
£m

30.8

3.8

14.4

—

18.2

(2.6)

(13.2)

—

2.4

25.0

28.5

48.1

50.4

4.0

1.3

0.7

0.8

Eliminations
£m

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

Total
£m

2,030.2

483.0

427.1

12.4

922.5

(303.0)

(224.9)

—

394.6

(26.3)

1.9

370.2

(83.3)

286.9

77.8

81.0

*1  Turnover is a non-GAAP measure and consists of total premiums written (including co-insurers’ share) and Other Revenue. Refer to note 12 for further information 

Segment revenues
The UK and International Car Insurance reportable segments derive all insurance premium income from external policyholders. Revenue within 
these segments is not derived from an individual policyholder that represents 10% or more of the Group’s total revenue.

The total of Price Comparison revenues from transactions with other reportable segments is £9.5 million (2013: £10.8 million). These amounts have 
not been eliminated on consolidation as the Directors consider that not doing so results in a better overall presentation of the financial statements. 
The impact on the financial statements in the current and prior period is not material. There are no other transactions between reportable segments.

Within the UK Car Insurance segment, transactions between the Group’s intermediary and the Group’s insurance companies relating to vehicle 
commission totalling £13.3 million (2013: £18.4 million) have been eliminated (from the insurance expenses and other revenue lines in the income 
statement) on the basis that the non-elimination would have materially distorted the presentation of key performance indicators. 

Revenues from external customers for products and services are consistent with the split of reportable segment revenues as shown on page 85.

Information about geographical locations
All material revenues from external customers, and net assets attributed to a foreign country, are shown within the International Car Insurance 
reportable segment shown on the previous pages. The revenue and results of the three international Price Comparison businesses, Rastreator, 
LeLynx and compare.com are not yet material enough to be presented as a separate segment.

86

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 20144. Group consolidation and operating segments continued
4b. Segment reporting continued
Segment assets and liabilities
The identifiable segment assets and liabilities at 31 December 2014 are as follows: 

As at 31 December 2014

Property and equipment

Intangible assets

Reinsurance assets

Trade and other receivables 

Financial assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Reportable segment assets

Insurance contract liabilities

Trade and other payables

Reportable segment liabilities

Reportable segment net assets

Unallocated assets and liabilities

Consolidated net assets

UK Car 
Insurance
£m

International Car 
Insurance
£m

Price 
Comparison
£m

29.0

89.6

677.5

204.9

2,219.6

101.8

3,322.4

1,839.4

900.7

2,740.1

582.3

2.5

12.2

137.9

(4.2)

124.5

38.6

311.5

228.7

42.4

271.1

40.4

0.7

2.9

—

11.7

—

49.0

64.3

—

7.4

7.4

56.9

Other
£m

0.1

2.5

14.4

3.6

—

16.4

37.0

29.3

15.3

44.6

Eliminations
£m

—

—

—

(134.0)

—

—

(134.0)

—

—

—

(7.6)

(134.0)

Total
£m

32.3

107.2

829.8

82.0

2,344.1

205.8

3,601.2

2,097.4

965.8

3,063.2

538.0

42.9

580.9

Unallocated assets and liabilities consist of other central assets and liabilities, plus deferred and current corporation tax balances. These assets and 
liabilities are not regularly reviewed by the Board of Directors in the reportable segment format.

There is an asymmetrical allocation of assets and income to the reportable segments, in that the interest earned on cash and cash equivalent 
assets deployed in the UK Car Insurance, Price Comparison and International Car Insurance segments is not allocated in arriving at segment 
profits. This is consistent with regular management reporting. 

Eliminations represent inter-segment funding and balances included in trade and other receivables.

The segment assets and liabilities at 31 December 2013 are as follows: 

As at 31 December 2013

Property and equipment

Intangible assets

Reinsurance assets

Trade and other receivables 

Financial assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Reportable segment assets

Insurance contract liabilities

Trade and other payables

Reportable segment liabilities

Reportable segment net assets

Unallocated assets and liabilities

Consolidated net assets

UK Car 
Insurance
£m

International Car 
Insurance
£m

Price 
Comparison
£m

8.2

76.5

705.0

104.1

2,113.4

101.6

3,108.8

1,690.4

959.9

2,650.3

458.5

2.6

13.1

111.4

(11.0)

122.2

35.7

274.0

198.5

36.0

234.5

39.5

1.0

2.6

—

7.1

—

38.7

49.4

—

6.5

6.5

42.9

Other
£m

0.6

0.6

4.8

35.1

—

8.6

49.7

12.4

11.3

23.7

26.0

Eliminations
£m

—

—

—

(57.8)

—

—

(57.8)

—

—

—

(57.8)

Total
£m

12.4

92.8

821.2

77.5

2,235.6

184.6

3,424.1

1,901.3

1,013.7

2,915.0

509.1

15.0

524.1

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

87

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORT5. Premium, claims and profit commissions 
5a. Accounting policies
(i) Revenue – premiums
Premiums relating to insurance contracts are recognised as revenue proportionally over the period of cover. Premiums with an inception date 
after the end of the period are held in the statement of financial position as deferred revenue. Outstanding collections from policyholders are 
recognised within policyholder receivables.

(ii) Revenue – profit commission
Under some of the co-insurance and reinsurance contracts under which motor premiums are shared or ceded, profit commission may be earned 
on a particular year of account, which is usually subject to performance criteria such as loss ratios and expense ratios. The commission is dependent 
on the ultimate outcome of any year, with revenue being recognised when loss and expense ratios used in the preparation of the financial statements 
move below a contractual threshold.

(iii) Insurance contracts and reinsurance assets
Premiums
The proportion of premium receivable on in-force policies relating to unexpired risks is reported in insurance contract liabilities and reinsurance 
assets as the unearned premium provision – gross and reinsurers’ share respectively. 

Claims
Claims and claims handling expenses are charged as incurred, based on the estimated direct and indirect costs of settling all liabilities arising 
on events occurring up to the balance sheet date. 

The provision for claims outstanding comprises provisions for the estimated cost of settling all claims incurred but unpaid at the balance sheet 
date, whether reported or not. Anticipated reinsurance recoveries are disclosed separately as assets.

Whilst the Directors consider that the gross provisions for claims and the related reinsurance recoveries are fairly stated on the basis of the information 
currently available to them, the ultimate liability will vary as a result of subsequent information and events and may result in significant adjustments 
to the amounts provided. 

Adjustments to the amounts of claims provisions established in prior years are reflected in the income statement for the period in which the 
adjustments are made and disclosed separately if material. The methods used, and the estimates made, are reviewed regularly.

Provision for unexpired risks is made where necessary for the estimated amount required over and above unearned premiums (net of deferred 
acquisition costs) to meet future claims and related expenses. 

Co-insurance
The Group has entered into certain co-insurance contracts under which insurance risks are shared on a proportional basis, with the co-insurer taking 
a specific percentage of premium written and being responsible for the same proportion of each claim. As the contractual liability is several and 
not joint, neither the premiums nor claims relating to the co-insurance are included in the income statement. Under the terms of these agreements 
the co-insurers reimburse the Group for the same proportionate share of the costs of acquiring and administering the business.

Reinsurance assets
Contracts entered into by the Group with reinsurers under which the Group is compensated for losses on the insurance contracts issued by the 
Group are classified as reinsurance contracts. A contract is only accounted for as a reinsurance contract where there is significant insurance risk 
transfer between the insured and the insurer. 

Reinsurance assets include balances due from reinsurance companies for ceded insurance liabilities. Amounts recoverable from reinsurers are 
estimated in a consistent manner with the outstanding claims provisions or settled claims associated with the reinsured policies and in accordance 
with the relevant reinsurance contract. 

The Group assesses its reinsurance assets for impairment on a regular basis, and in detail every six months. If there is objective evidence that the 
asset is impaired, then the carrying value will be written down to its recoverable amount.

On the commutation of reinsurance contracts, the reinsurer is discharged from all obligations relating to the contract. Reinsurance assets and 
liabilities relating to the commuted contracts are settled in the period in which the commutation agreement is signed.

5b. Net insurance premium revenue

Total motor insurance premiums written before co-insurance

Group gross premiums written after co-insurance

Outwards reinsurance premiums

Net insurance premiums written

Change in gross unearned premium provision

Change in reinsurers’ share of unearned premium provision 

Net insurance premium revenue 

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

1,675.6

1,102.1

(644.9)

457.2

(2.4)

10.1

464.9

1,737.6

1,088.4

(620.2)

468.2

48.0

(33.2)

483.0

The Group’s share of the car insurance business was underwritten by Admiral Insurance (Gibraltar) Limited, Admiral Insurance Company Limited 
and Elephant Insurance Company. All contracts are short term in duration, lasting for 10 or 12 months. 

88

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 20145. Premium, claims and profit commissions continued
5c. Profit commission

Underwriting year

2009 and prior

2010

2011

2012

Total profit commission 

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

5.3

13.8

27.8

24.9

71.8

3.1

24.9

26.7

44.6

99.3

5d. Reinsurance assets and insurance contract liabilities 
(i) Objectives, policies and procedures for the management of insurance risk
The Group is involved in issuing motor insurance contracts that transfer risk from policyholders to the Group and its underwriting partners. 

Insurance risk involves uncertainty over the occurrence, amount or timing of claims arising on insurance contracts issued. 

Reserving risk is the risk that the value of insurance liabilities established is insufficient to cover the ultimate cost of claims incurred at the balance 
sheet date, whether reported or unreported. Other risks include inadequate pricing and reinsurance policies, and inappropriate claims management 
processes and controls.

The Board of Directors is responsible for the management of insurance risk, although as mentioned in note 6, it has delegated the detailed oversight 
of risk management to the Group Risk Committee.

The Group also has a Reserving Committee which comprises senior managers within the finance, claims, pricing and actuarial functions. The Reserving 
Committee primarily recommends the approach for UK Car Insurance reserving but also reviews the systems and controls in place to support 
accurate reserving and material reserving issues such as Periodic Payment Order (PPO) and claims inflation, which represent the key uncertainties 
in the amount or timing of claims settlements. 

The Board implements certain policies in order to mitigate and control the level of insurance risk accepted by the Group. These include pricing 
policies and claims management and administration processes, in addition to reserving policies and co- and reinsurance arrangements as detailed 
on the following page.

Reserving policies and controls 
Reserving risk is mitigated through a series of processes and controls. The key processes are as follows:

 @ Regular management and internal actuarial review of individual and aggregate case claim reserves, including regular reporting of management 

information and exception reporting of significant movements.

 @ Regular management and internal actuarial review of large claims, including claims settled or potentially settled by PPOs for which the uncertainty 

is increased by factors such as the lifetime of the claimant and movements in the indexation for the cost of future care of the claimant.

 @ Bi-annual external actuarial review of best estimate claims reserves using a variety of recognised actuarial techniques, including reviews of the 

potential ranges around best estimates.

 @ Use of a Reserving policy which informs management’s reserving decisions for the purposes of the Group’s financial statements. As described 

in note 3, critical accounting judgements and estimates, the policy determines that reserves should be set within a range above projected best 
estimate outcomes to allow for unforeseen adverse claims development.

Co-insurance and reinsurance
As noted in the Strategic Report, the Group shares a significant amount of the motor insurance business generated with external underwriters. 
In 2014, 40% of the UK risk was shared under a co-insurance contract, under which the primary risk is borne by the co-insurer. A further 35% 
of the UK risk was ceded under quota share reinsurance contracts. Co-insurance and reinsurance contracts are also used in the International 
Car Insurance businesses. Further detail can be found in the Strategic Report on page 30.

As well as these proportional arrangements, an excess of loss reinsurance programme is also purchased to protect the Group against very large 
individual claims and catastrophe losses.

Concentration of insurance risk
The Directors do not believe there are significant concentrations of insurance risk. This is because, although the Group has historically written only 
one significant line of UK insurance business, the risks are spread across a large number of people and a wide regional base. The introduction of the 
international car insurance businesses in recent years and the launch of UK household business in 2012 will further contribute to the diversification 
of the Group’s insurance risk as these businesses grow.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

89

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORT5. Premium, claims and profit commissions continued
5d. Reinsurance assets and insurance contract liabilities continued
(ii) Sensitivity of recognised amounts to changes in assumptions
The following table sets out the impact on equity and profit or loss at 31 December 2014 that would result from a 1% movement in the UK loss 
ratios used for each underwriting year for which material amounts remain outstanding. 

Booked loss ratio

Impact of 1% change (£m)

Underwriting year

2011

68%

12.0

2012

73%

12.0

2013

82%

3.0

2014

92%

1.6

The impact is stated net of reinsurance and includes the change in net insurance claims along with the associated profit commission movements 
that result from changes in loss ratios. The figures are stated net of tax at the current rate.

(iii) Analysis of recognised amounts

Gross
Claims outstanding*1 
Unearned premium provision

Total gross insurance liabilities 

Recoverable from reinsurers
Claims outstanding*1
Unearned premium provision

Total reinsurers’ share of insurance liabilities 

Net

Claims outstanding 

Unearned premium provision

Total insurance liabilities – net 

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

1,596.0

501.4

2,097.4

538.2

291.6

829.8

1,057.8

209.8

1,267.6

1,400.4

500.9

1,901.3

537.4

283.8

821.2

863.0

217.1

1,080.1

*1   The claims outstanding recoverable from reinsurers at 31 December 2014 includes £21.4 million representing outstanding recoveries from excess of loss 

reinsurance contracts 

The maturity profile of gross insurance liabilities at the end of 2014 is as follows:

Claims outstanding 

Unearned premium provision

Total gross insurance liabilities 

The maturity profile of gross insurance liabilities at the end of 2013 was as follows: 

Claims outstanding 

Unearned premium provision

Total gross insurance liabilities 

< 1 year
£m

542.6

236.2

778.8

< 1 year
£m

419.9

235.4

655.3

1–3 years
£m

547.3

103.3

650.6

1–3 years
£m

478.0

103.1

581.1

> 3 years
£m

506.1

161.9

668.0

> 3 years
£m

502.5

162.4

664.9

90

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 20145. Premium, claims and profit commissions continued
5d. Reinsurance assets and insurance contract liabilities continued
(iv) Analysis of UK car insurance claims incurred
The following tables illustrate the development of gross and net UK Car Insurance claims incurred for the past five financial periods, including the 
impact of re-estimation of claims provisions at the end of each financial year. The first table shows actual gross claims incurred, the second shows 
actual net claims incurred and the third shows the development of UK loss ratios. Figures are presented on an underwriting year basis. 

Analysis of claims incurred (gross amounts)

Underwriting year (UK only)

2010 and prior

2011

2012

2013

2014

UK gross claims incurred (excluding claims handling costs)

International and other gross claims incurred

Claims handling costs 

Total gross claims incurred

Analysis of claims incurred (net amounts)

Underwriting year (UK only)

2010 and prior

2011

2012

2013

2014

UK net claims incurred (excluding claims handling costs)

International and other net claims incurred

Claims handling costs 

Total net claims incurred

UK loss ratio development

Underwriting year (UK only)

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Total
£m

(679.6)

(748.6)

(742.6)

(421.9)

Total
£m

(263.7)

(280.7)

(309.3)

(175.8)

Financial year ended 31 December

2010
£m

2011
£m

2012
£m

2013
£m

(360.3)

—

—

—

—

(360.3)

(39.4)

(17.0)

(416.7)

(249.9)

(444.5)

—

—

—

(694.4)

(65.6)

(25.9)

(785.9)

4.2

(329.7)

(463.7)

—

—

(789.2)

(113.9)

(26.0)

(929.1)

41.7

43.4

(335.1)

(421.2)

—

(671.2)

(132.6)

(22.9)

(826.7)

Financial year ended 31 December

2010
£m

2011
£m

2012
£m

2013
£m

(184.1)

—

—

—

—

(184.1)

(15.9)

(8.5)

(208.5)

(119.9)

(203.7)

—

—

—

(323.6)

(28.3)

(11.9)

(363.8)

2.9

(151.1)

(191.3)

—

—

(339.5)

(54.2)

(10.8)

(404.5)

41.7

39.7

(139.6)

(175.4)

—

(233.6)

(59.9)

(9.5)

(303.0)

2014
£m

28.1

51.4

50.2

(321.4)

(421.9)

(613.6)

(159.5)

(21.4)

(794.5)

2014
£m

28.1

51.4

50.2

(133.9)

(175.8)

(180.0)

(70.2)

(8.9)

(259.1)

Financial year ended 31 December

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

78%

—

—

—

—

77%

82%

—

—

—

75%

76%

84%

—

—

70%

72%

78%

85%

—

67%

67%

73%

82%

92%

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

91

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORT5. Premium, claims and profit commissions continued
5d. Reinsurance assets and insurance contract liabilities continued
(v) Analysis of claims reserve releases (UK Car Insurance business only)
The following table analyses the impact of movements in prior year claims provisions on a gross and net basis. Figures are presented on an 
underwriting year basis. 

Gross

Underwriting year

2010 and prior

2011

2012

2013

Total gross release (UK Car Insurance)

Total gross release (International Car Insurance)

Total gross release 

Net

Underwriting year

2010 and prior

2011

2012

2013

Total net release (UK Car Insurance)

Total net release (International Car Insurance)

Total net release 

Analysis of net releases on UK Car Insurance:

– Net releases on Admiral net share 
– Releases on commuted quota share reinsurance contracts*1

Total net release as above

2010
£m

40.7

—

—

—

40.7

—

40.7

2010
£m

23.5

—

—

—

23.5

—

23.5

23.1

0.4

23.5

Financial year ended 31 December

2011
£m

10.3

—

—

—

10.3

—

10.3

2012
£m

4.2

32.0

—

—

36.2

—

36.2

Financial year ended 31 December

2011
£m

10.3

—

—

—

10.3

—

10.3

7.8

2.5

10.3

2012
£m

2.9

14.7

—

—

17.6

—

17.6

16.3

1.3

17.6

2013
£m

41.7

43.3

30.8

—

115.8

—

115.8

2013
£m

41.7

39.7

12.8

—

94.2

—

94.2

53.3

40.9

94.2

2014
£m

28.1

51.4

50.2

18.4

148.1

12.6

160.7

2014
£m

28.1

51.4

50.2

7.7

137.4

6.3

143.7

66.8

70.6

137.4

*1   Admiral typically commutes quota share reinsurance contracts in its UK Car Insurance business 24 or 36 months following the start of the underwriting year. 
After commutation, any changes in claims costs on the commuted proportion of the business are reflected within claims costs and are separately analysed 
here. £70.6 million of releases on commuted quota share contracts is split as follows: 2012: £29.1 million; 2011: £27.9 million; 2010 and prior: £13.6 million

Profit commission is analysed in note 5c.

(vi) Reconciliation of movement in net claims provision

Net claims reserve at start of period

Net claims incurred (excluding releases)

Net reserve releases

Movement in net claims reserve due to commutation

Net claims paid 

Net claims reserve at end of period*1

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

863.0

392.9

(143.7)

273.6

(328.0)

1,057.8

660.4

387.7

(94.2)

208.7

(299.6)

863.0

*1   The increase in net claims reserve from £863.0 million at 31 December 2013 to £1,057.8 million at 31 December 2014 is partly as a result of the increase in the 

size of gross claims reserves but largely due to the impact of commutations of reinsurance contracts in the UK Car Insurance business

92

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 20145. Premium, claims and profit commissions continued
5d. Reinsurance assets and insurance contract liabilities continued
(vii) Reconciliation of movement in net unearned premium provision

Net unearned premium provision at start of period

Written in the period

Earned in the period

Net unearned premium provision at end of period

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

217.1

457.2

(464.5)

209.8

233.5

468.2

(484.6)

217.1

6. Investments
6a. Accounting policies
(i) Investment income and finance costs
Investment income from financial assets comprises interest income and net realised gains on financial assets classified as ‘fair value through profit 
or loss’ and ‘available for sale’, and interest income on holdings in term deposits and gilts.

Finance costs from financial liabilities comprise interest expense on subordinated notes, calculated on the effective interest rate method. The effective 
interest rate method calculates the amortised cost of a financial asset (or group of financial assets) and allocates the interest income over the expected 
life of the asset.

(ii) Financial assets – investments and receivables
Initial recognition
Financial assets within the scope of IAS 39 are classified as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL), loans and receivables or held 
to maturity investments.

At initial recognition assets are recognised at fair value and classified according to the purpose for which they were acquired. 

The Group’s investments in money market liquidity funds and short term debt securities are designated as FVTPL at inception. 

This designation is permitted under IAS 39, as the investments in money market funds and short dated securities are managed as a group of assets 
and internal performance evaluation of this group is conducted on a fair value basis. 

The Group’s deposits with credit institutions and gilts are classified as held to maturity investments, which is consistent with the intention for which 
they were purchased.

The Group’s holdings in Fixed Income and Asset Backed Securities are classified as available for sale (AFS) investments, which is consistent with 
the intention for which they were purchased. 

This designation is permitted under IAS 39.

Subsequent measurement
Financial assets at FVTPL are stated at fair value, with any resultant gain or loss recognised through the income statement.

AFS Fixed income and Asset Backed Securities are stated at fair value.

Deposits and gilts with fixed maturities, classified as held to maturity investments are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest 
method. Movements in the amortised cost are recognised through the income statement, as are any impairment losses.

Loans and receivables are stated at their amortised cost less impairment using the effective interest method. Impairment losses are recognised 
through the income statement.

Impairment of financial assets
The Group assesses at each balance sheet date whether any financial assets or groups of financial assets held at amortised cost are impaired. 
Financial assets are impaired where there is evidence that one or more events occurring after the initial recognition of the asset, may lead to 
a reduction in the estimated future cash flows arising from the asset. 

Objective evidence of impairment may include default on cash flows due from the asset and reported financial difficulty of the issuer or counterparty. 

De-recognition of financial assets
A financial asset is derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from that asset have expired, or when the Group transfers the asset and all 
the attaching substantial risks and rewards relating to the asset to a third party.

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents includes cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks and other short term deposits with original maturities of three 
months or less. All cash and cash equivalents are measured at amortised cost. 

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

93

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6a. Accounting policies continued
(iii) Financial liabilities – subordinated notes
Initial recognition
The Group’s financial liabilities comprising subordinated notes were initially recognised at fair value received, net of transaction costs incurred. 

Subsequent measurement
Subordinated notes are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Movements in the amortised cost are recognised through 
the income statement.

De-recognition of financial liabilities
A financial liability is derecognised when the obligation under that liability is discharged, cancelled or expires.

(iv) Fair value measurement of assets held at amortised cost
The fair value of gilts and subordinated notes held at amortised cost is calculated with reference to quoted market valuations. See note 6d 
for a comparison of fair value and carrying value at the statement of financial position date.

The Group’s deposits are held with well rated institutions; as such the approximate fair value is the book value of the investment as impairment 
of the capital is not expected. The amortised cost carrying amount of receivables is a reasonable approximation of fair value.

6b. Investment and interest income 

Investment income

Investment return on money market funds

Interest income on short dated debt securities

Interest income on available for sale debt securities

Interest income on term deposits with credit institutions

Interest income on held to maturity gilt assets

Unwind of discount on gilts

Notional accrual for reinsurers’ share of investment return

Interest receivable*1

Total investment and interest income 

*1  Interest received during the year was £1.5 million (2013: £1.9 million) 

6c. Finance costs 

Interest payable*1

Total finance costs 

*1  Interest paid during the year was £nil (2013: £nil) 

Finance costs represent interest payable on the £200 million subordinated notes.

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

5.4

—

9.4

5.2

2.6

22.6

(0.4)

(8.3)

13.9

1.5

15.4

4.7

1.5

—

6.2

—

12.4

—

—

12.4

1.9

14.3

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

4.6

4.6

—

—

94

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WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 20146. Investments continued
6d. Financial assets and liabilities
The Group’s financial instruments can be analysed as follows:

Financial assets

Investments held at fair value through profit or loss

Money market funds 

Short dated debt securities 

Investments classified as available for sale

Available for sale debt securities

Investments classified as held to maturity

Term deposits with credit institutions

Gilts

Assets classified as loans and receivables

Amounts owed by policyholders

Total financial assets per Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Financial liabilities

Subordinated notes

Trade and other payables

Total financial liabilities per Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

909.2

—

909.2

822.7

822.7

263.1

199.1

462.2

353.3

2,547.4

82.0

255.9

1,406.1

202.4

1,608.5

—

—

288.4

—

288.4

368.1

2,265.0

77.5

187.9

2,885.3

2,530.4

203.8

965.8

1,169.6

—

1,013.7

1,013.7

The nominal £200 million subordinated notes were issued on 25 July 2014 at a fixed rate of 5.5% and have a redemption date of 25 July 2024. 

The notes are unsecured subordinated obligations of the Group and rank pari passu without any preference among themselves. In the event of a 
winding-up or bankruptcy, they are to be repaid only after the claims of all other creditors have been met.

There have been no defaults on any of the notes during the year. The Group has the option to defer interest payments on the notes but to date has 
not exercised this right. The aggregate fair value of subordinated dated notes at the balance sheet date is disclosed in the table below.

Fair value measurement
The measurement of investments at the end of the period, for investments held at fair value and short term debt securities held at fair value, is based 
on active quoted market values (level one). 

The measurement of available for sale debt securities at the end of the period, is also based on active quoted market values (level one). 

The deposits are held with well rated institutions; as such the approximate fair value is the book value of the investment as impairment of the 
capital is not expected. There is no quoted market for these holdings and as such a level two valuation is used. The book value of term deposits 
is £263.1 million (2013: £288.4 million).

The amortised cost carrying amount of receivables is a reasonable approximation of fair value. The fair values of gilts and subordinated notes 
(both level one valuations) together with their carrying values shown in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position are as follows:

Financial assets

Gilts 

Financial liabilities

Subordinated notes 

31 December 2014

31 December 2013

Carrying 
amount
£m

Fair 
value
£m

Carrying 
amount
£m

199.1

216.2

203.8

211.2

—

—

Fair 
value
£m

—

—

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

95

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORT6. Investments continued
6d. Financial assets and liabilities continued
The maturity profile of financial assets and liabilities at 31 December 2014 is as follows:

Financial assets

Investments held at fair value 

Term deposits with credit institutions

Short dated debt securities

Gilts

Receivables – amounts owed by policyholders

Total financial assets 

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Financial liabilities

Subordinated notes

Trade and other payables

The maturity profile of financial assets and liabilities at 31 December 2013 was as follows: 

Financial assets

Investments held at fair value 

Term deposits with credit institutions

Short term debt securities

Gilts

Receivables – amounts owed by policyholders

Total financial assets 

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Financial liabilities

Subordinated notes

Trade and other payables

On demand
£m

< 1 year
£m

Between 
1 and 2 years
£m

> 2 years
£m

605.4

—

—

—

—

605.4

—

255.9

861.3

—

—

—

303.8

48.6

161.3

0.9

353.3

867.9

82.0

—

949.9

4.6

965.8

970.4

—

104.5

183.8

—

—

288.3

—

—

—

110.0

477.6

198.2

—

785.8

—

—

288.3

785.8

—

—

—

199.2

—

199.2

On demand
£m

< 1 year
£m

Between 
1 and 2 years
£m

> 2 years
£m

1,104.8

—

—

—

—

301.3

188.9

202.4

—

368.1

1,104.8

1,060.7

—

187.9

77.5

—

1,292.7

1,138.2

—

—

—

—

1,013.7

1,013.7

—

99.5

—

—

—

99.5

—

—

99.5

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

96

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 20146. Investments continued
6d. Financial assets and liabilities continued
Objectives, policies and procedures for managing financial assets and liabilities
The Group’s activities expose it primarily to financial risks of credit risk, interest rate risk, liquidity risk and foreign exchange risk. The Board of Directors 
has delegated the task of supervising risk management and internal control to the Group Risk Committee. There is also an Investment Committee 
that makes recommendations to the Board on the Group’s investment strategy. 

There are several key elements to the risk management environment throughout the Group. These are detailed in full in the Corporate Governance 
Statement. Specific considerations for the risks arising from financial assets and liabilities are detailed below. 

Credit risk
The Group defines credit risk as the risk of loss if another party fails to perform its obligations. The key areas of exposure to credit risk for the 
Group result through its reinsurance programme, investments, bank deposits and policyholder receivables. 

Economic and financial market conditions have led the Directors to consider counterparty exposure more frequently and in significant detail. 
The Directors consider that the policies and procedures in place to manage credit exposure continue to be appropriate for the Group’s risk 
appetite and, during 2014 and historically, no material credit losses have been experienced by the Group. 

There are no specific concentrations of credit risk with respect to investment counterparties due to the structure of the liquidity funds which 
invest in a wide range of very short duration, high quality securities. Cash balances and deposits are placed only with highly rated credit institutions. 
The detailed holdings are reviewed regularly by the Investment Committee. 

To mitigate the risk arising from exposure to reinsurers (in the form of reinsurance recoveries and profit commissions), the Group only conducts 
business with companies of appropriate financial strength ratings. In addition, many reinsurance contracts are operated on a funds withheld basis, 
which substantially reduces credit risk, as the Group withholds the cash received as collateral.

The other principal form of credit risk is in respect of amounts due from policyholders, largely due to the potential for default by instalment payers. 
The impact of this is mitigated by the large customer base and low average level of balance recoverable. There is also mitigation by the operation 
of numerous high- and low-level controls in this area, including payment on policy acceptance as opposed to inception and automated cancellation 
procedures for policies in default.

The Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk at 31 December 2014 is £3,047.4 million (2013: £2,644.8 million), being the carrying value of financial 
assets and cash, and the excess of reinsurance assets over amounts owed to reinsurers under funds withheld arrangements. The Group does not 
use credit derivatives or similar instruments to mitigate exposure. The amount of bad debt expense relating to policyholder debt charged to the 
income statement in 2014 and 2013 is insignificant. 

There were no significant financial assets that were past due at the close of either 2014 or 2013.

The Group’s credit risk exposure to assets with external ratings is as follows:

Financial institutions – Credit institutions

Financial institutions – Credit institutions 

Financial institutions – Credit institutions

Financial institutions – Credit institutions

UK Government gilts

Reinsurers

Reinsurers

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

291.1

625.8

413.0

531.2

1,216.0

1,060.6

Rating

AAA

AA

A

BBB and below

AA

AA

A

119.6

199.1

207.8

16.3

80.0

—

190.8

14.0

Interest rate risk 
The Group considers interest rate risk to be the risk that unfavourable movements in interest rates could adversely impact on the capital values 
of financial assets and liabilities. 

As noted above, the Group invests the following asset types:

 @ Money market liquidity funds and cash plus liquidity funds, which in turn invest in a mixture of short dated fixed and variable rate securities, such as cash 

deposits, certificates of deposits, floating rate notes and other commercial paper. 

 @ Term deposits with well rated institutions are short in duration (one to five years). These are classified as term and valued at amortised cost. 

Therefore neither the carrying value of the asset, nor the interest return will be impacted by fluctuations in interest rates.

 @ Available for sale debt securities. These securities are held within two segregated mandates. The guidelines of the investments retain a similar 
credit quality of the money market funds (all holdings are investment grade). The duration of the securities is relatively short and similar to the 
duration of the on book claims liabilities (the average duration is three years).

 @ UK Government gilts. These are classified as term and valued at amortised cost. Therefore neither the capital value of the gilts, nor the interest return, 

will be impacted by fluctuations in interest rates.

In 2014, the Group issued £200 million of subordinated notes with a ten year maturity and fixed rate coupon of 5.5%. This liability is valued at amortised 
cost and therefore neither the carrying value of the deposits, nor the interest payable, will be impacted by fluctuations in interest rates.

No sensitivity analysis to interest rates has been presented on the grounds of materiality. 

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

97

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORT6. Investments continued
6d. Financial assets and liabilities continued
Objectives, policies and procedures for managing financial assets and liabilities continued
Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is defined as the risk that the Group does not have sufficient, available financial resources to enable it to meet its obligations as they 
fall due, or can only secure them at excessive cost. 

The Group is strongly cash-generative due to the large proportion of revenue arising from non-underwriting activity. Further, as noted above, 
a significant portion of insurance funds are invested in money market liquidity funds with same day liquidity, meaning that a large proportion 
of the Group cash and investments is immediately available. 

A breakdown of the Group’s other financial liabilities, trade payables and other payables is shown in note 10. 

The subordinated notes have a ten year maturity whereas all trade and other payables will mature within three to six months of the balance sheet date. 
(Refer to the maturity profile at the start of this note for further detail.)

In practice, the Group’s Directors expect actual cash flows to be consistent with this maturity profile except for amounts owed to co-insurers 
and reinsurers. Of the total amounts owed to co-insurers and reinsurers of £756.5 million (2013: £785.3 million), £585.7 million (2013: £629.3 million) 
is held under funds withheld arrangements and therefore not expected to be settled within 12 months.

A maturity analysis for insurance contract liabilities is included in note 5. The maturity profile for financial assets is included at the start of this note. 

The Group’s Directors believe that the cash flows arising from these assets will be consistent with this profile. Liquidity risk is not, therefore, 
considered to be significant.

Foreign exchange risks
Foreign exchange risks arise from unfavourable movements in foreign exchange rates that could adversely impact the valuation of overseas assets. 

The Group is exposed to foreign exchange risk through its operations overseas. Although the relative size of the international operations means 
that the risks are relatively small, increasingly volatile foreign exchange rates could result in larger potential gains or losses. Assets held to fund 
insurance liabilities are held in the currency of the liabilities; however, surplus assets held as regulatory capital in foreign currencies remain exposed. 

The Group’s exposures to net assets held in euros and dollars at the balance sheet date were £2.2 million and £72.0 million respectively 
(2013: £7.1 million and £60.2 million).

Fair value
For cash at bank and cash deposits and other receivables, the fair value approximates to the book value due to their short maturity. For assets held 
at fair value through profit and loss, their value equates to level one (quoted prices in active markets) of the fair value hierarchy. 

For gilts and subordinated notes, the fair value is calculated with reference to the quoted market valuation. This is compared to carrying value 
earlier in this note.

6e. Cash and cash equivalents

Cash at bank and in hand

Total cash and cash equivalents 

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

255.9

255.9

187.9

187.9

Cash and cash equivalents includes cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, and other short-term term deposits with original maturities 
of three months or less.

7. Other Revenue
7a. Accounting policy
(i) Contribution from additional products and fees and Other Revenue
Contribution from additional products and fees and Other Revenue includes revenue earned on the sale of products supplementing the core motor 
insurance policy, administration and other charges paid by the policyholder, referral fees, revenue from policies paid by instalments and vehicle 
commission charges paid by co- and reinsurers. Revenue is credited to the income statement over the period matching the Group’s obligations 
to provide services. Where the Group has no remaining contractual obligations, the revenue is recognised immediately. An allowance is made 
for expected cancellations where the customer may be entitled to a refund of amounts charged.

Commission from price comparison activities and broking commission earned by Gladiator is credited to revenue on the sale of the underlying 
insurance policy.

98

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 20147. Other Revenue continued
7b. Contribution from additional products and fees and Other Revenue

Contribution from additional products and fees 

Price comparison revenue 

Other Revenue 

Total Other Revenue

Refer to the Strategic Report for further detail on the sources of revenue.

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

185.6

107.5

39.4

332.5

177.0

112.7

38.1

327.8

8. Expenses
8a. Accounting policies
(i) Acquisition costs and operating expenses
Acquisition costs incurred in obtaining new and renewal business are charged to the income statement over the period in which those premiums 
are earned. All other operating expenses are charged to the income statement in the period that they are incurred. 

(ii) Employee benefits
Pensions
The Group contributes to defined contribution personal pension plans for its employees. The contributions payable to these schemes are charged 
in the accounting period to which they relate.

Employee share schemes
The Group operates a number of equity and cash settled compensation schemes for its employees. The fair value of the employee services received 
in exchange for the grant of free shares under the equity settled schemes is recognised as an expense, with a corresponding increase in equity. 
For cash settled schemes, the fair value of services received are also recognised as an expense, with a corresponding increase in liability. 

For equity settled schemes, the total charge expensed over the vesting period is determined by reference to the fair value of the free shares 
granted as determined at the grant date (excluding the impact of non-market vesting conditions). Non-market conditions such as profitability 
targets as well as staff attrition rates are included in assumptions over the number of free shares to vest under the applicable scheme. 

For cash settled schemes, the total charge expensed over the vesting period is determined by reference to the closing Admiral Group share price 
at the end of the period. Prior to the vesting of each scheme, the closing share price at the end of the reporting period is used as an approximation 
for the closing share price at the end of the vesting period. As with equity settled schemes, non-market vesting conditions also impact on the total 
charge expensed over the vesting period. 

At each balance sheet date, the Group revises its assumptions on the number of shares to be granted with the impact of any change in the 
assumptions recognised through income.

Refer to note 8f for further details on share schemes. 

8b. Operating expenses and share scheme charges

Acquisition of insurance contracts

Administration and other marketing costs (insurance contracts)

Insurance contract expenses

Administration and other marketing costs (other)

Share scheme charges

Total expenses and share scheme charges

31 December 2014

Recoverable 
from co- and 
reinsurers
£m

(56.7)

(162.0)

(218.7)

—

(12.9)

(231.6)

Gross
£m

91.9

209.5

301.4

166.3

34.1

501.8

Net
£m

35.2

47.5

82.7

166.3

21.2

270.2

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

99

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORT8. Expenses continued
8b. Operating expenses and share scheme charges continued

Acquisition of insurance contracts

Administration and other marketing costs (insurance contracts)

Insurance contract expenses

Administration and other marketing costs (other)

Share scheme charges

Total expenses and share scheme charges

31 December 2013

Recoverable 
from co- and 
reinsurers
£m

(51.8)

(150.5)

(202.3)

—

(13.5)

(215.8)

Gross
£m

85.5

203.5

289.0

142.0

36.0

467.0

Net
£m

33.7

53.0

86.7

142.0

22.5

251.2

The £47.5 million (2013: £53.0 million) administration and marketing costs allocated to insurance contracts is principally made up of salary costs.

Analysis of other administration and other marketing costs:

Expenses relating to additional products and fees

Price comparison operating expenses

Other expenses

Total

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

37.9

110.3

18.1

166.3

34.4

92.3

15.3

142.0

Refer to note 12 for a reconciliation between insurance contract expenses and the reported expense ratio.

8c. Staff costs and other expenses

31 December 2014

31 December 2013

Salaries

Social security charges

Pension costs

Share scheme charges (see note 8f)

Total staff expenses

Depreciation charge:

– Owned assets

– Leased assets

Amortisation charge:

– Software

– Deferred acquisition costs

Operating lease rentals:

– Buildings

Auditor’s remuneration (including VAT):

– Fees payable for the audit of the Company’s annual accounts

– Fees payable for the audit of the Company’s subsidiary accounts

– Fees payable for other services

Net foreign exchange (gains)/losses

Analysis of fees paid to the auditor for other services:

– Tax compliance services

– Tax advisory services

– Other services

Total as above 

Total
£m

155.3

14.6

5.4

34.1

209.4

6.8

0.3

4.6

—

11.2

—

0.3

0.3

(1.4)

0.1

0.2

—

0.3

Net
£m

57.9

6.1

1.9

10.7

76.6

2.7

0.1

2.0

42.7

3.7

—

0.2

0.1

(1.4)

—

0.1

—

0.1

Total
£m

148.5

16.7

4.1

36.0

205.3

7.2

0.1

4.9

—

11.4

—

0.3

0.3

1.5

0.1

0.2

—

0.3

Net
£m

49.2

5.7

1.4

9.0

65.3

2.6

—

1.9

68.8

3.6

—

0.2

0.1

1.5

—

0.1

—

0.1

Total and net expenses are before and after co- and reinsurance arrangements respectively.

Refer to the Corporate Governance Report for details of the Audit Committee’s policy on fees paid to the Company’s auditor for non-audit 
services. The ratio of non-audit fees to audit fees in 2014 was 109% (2013: 108%).

The amortisation of software and deferred acquisition cost assets is charged to expenses in the income statement. 

100

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 20148. Expenses continued
8d. Staff numbers (including Directors)

Direct customer contact staff

Support staff

Total

8e. Directors’ remuneration
(i) Directors’ remuneration

Directors’ emoluments

Amounts receivable under long term incentive schemes

Company contributions to money purchase pension plans

Total

(ii) Number of Directors

Retirement benefits are accruing to the following number of Directors under:

– Money purchase schemes

– Defined benefit schemes

8f. Staff share schemes
Analysis of share scheme costs (per the Consolidated Income Statement):

SIP charge (i)

DFSS charge (ii)

Total share scheme charges

Average for the year

2014
Number

5,179

1,738

6,917

2013
Number

5,145

1,420

6,565

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

2.0

0.9

—

2.9

2.0

0.8

—

2.8

2014
Number

2013
Number

2

—

1

—

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

8.6

12.6

21.2

7.6

14.9

22.5

The share scheme charges reported above are net of the co- and reinsurers share of the cost and therefore differ from the gross charge reported 
in note 8c (2014: £34.1 million; 2013: £36.0 million) and the gross credit to reserves reported in the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity 
(2014: £23.2 million; 2013: £25.7 million).

The Consolidated Cash Flow Statement also shows the gross charge in the reconciliation between ‘profit after tax’ and ‘cash flows from operating 
activities’. The co-insurance share of the charge is included in the change in trade and other payables line. 

(i) The Approved Share Incentive Plan (the SIP)
Eligible employees qualified for awards under the SIP based upon the performance of the Group in each half-year period. The current maximum 
award for each year is £3,000 per employee. The awards are made with reference to the Group’s performance against prior year profit before tax. 
Employees must remain in employment for the holding period (three years from the date of award) otherwise the shares are forfeited. 

The fair value of shares awarded is either the share price at the date of award, or is estimated at the latest share price available when drawing 
up the financial statements for awards not yet made (and later adjusted to reflect the actual share price on the award date). Awards under the 
SIP are entitled to receive dividends, and, hence, no adjustment has been made to this fair value. 

(ii) The Discretionary Free Share Scheme (the DFSS)
Under the DFSS, details of which are contained in the remuneration policy section of the Directors’ Remuneration Report, individuals receive 
an award of free shares at no charge. Staff must remain in employment until the vesting date in order to receive shares. The maximum number 
of shares that can vest relating to the 2014 scheme is 2,680,858 (2013 scheme: 2,348,549). 

The amount of award that actually vests is based on the growth in the Company’s earnings per share (EPS) relative to a risk free return (RFR), 
for which LIBOR has been selected as a benchmark. This performance is measured over the three year period the award applies to. For the 
2014 and 2013 schemes, 50% of the shares awarded at the start of the three year vesting period are subject to these performance conditions. 

The range of awards is as follows:

 @ If the growth in EPS is less than the RFR, no awards vest.

 @ EPS growth is equal to RFR – 10% of maximum award vests.

 @ To achieve the maximum award, EPS growth has to be 36 points higher than RFR over the three year period.

Between 10% and 100% of the maximum awards, a linear relationship exists.

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8f. Staff share schemes continued
(ii) The Discretionary Free Share Scheme (the DFSS) continued
Awards under the DFSS are not eligible for dividends (although a discretionary bonus is currently paid equivalent to the dividend that would have 
been paid on the respective shareholding) and hence the fair value of free shares to be awarded under this scheme has been revised downwards 
to take account of these distributions. The unadjusted fair value is based on the share price at the date on which awards were made (as stated in 
the Directors’ Remuneration Report). 

Number of free share awards committed at 31 December 2014

SIP H211 scheme

SIP H112 scheme

SIP H212 scheme

SIP H113 scheme

SIP H213 scheme

SIP H114 scheme

DFSS 2012 scheme 1st award

DFSS 2012 scheme 2nd award

DFSS 2013 scheme 1st award

DFSS 2013 scheme 2nd award

DFSS 2014 scheme 1st award

DFSS 2014 scheme 2nd award

Total awards committed

Awards 
outstanding*1

598,400

617,778

533,792

603,432

514,500

575,016

181,668

1,979,752

173,348

2,175,201

203,292

2,477,566

10,633,745

Vesting 
date

March 2015

September 2015

March 2016

September 2016

March 2017

September 2017

March 2015

October 2015

March 2016

October 2016

March 2017

September 2017

*1  Being the maximum number of awards expected to be made before accounting for expected staff attrition

During the year ended 31 December 2014, awards under the SIP H210 and H111 schemes and the DFSS 2011 scheme vested. The total number 
of awards vesting for each scheme is as follows.

Number of free share awards vesting during the year ended 31 December 2014

SIP H210 scheme

SIP H111 scheme

DFSS 2011 scheme 1st award

DFSS 2011 scheme 2nd award

Original awards

Awards vested

346,590

489,280

279,990

380,160

1,634,732

1,486,410

157,312

102,121

9. Taxation
9a. Accounting policy
Income tax on the profit or loss for the periods presented comprises current and deferred tax. 

(i) Current tax
Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the period, using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted 
by the balance sheet date, and includes any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous periods. 

Current tax related to items recognised in other comprehensive income is also recognised in other comprehensive income and not in the 
income statement.

(ii) Deferred tax
Deferred tax is provided in full using the balance sheet liability method, providing for temporary differences arising between the carrying amount 
of assets and liabilities for accounting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. It is calculated at the tax rates that have been enacted 
or substantially enacted by the balance sheet date and that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised.

The principal temporary differences arise from carried forward losses, depreciation of property and equipment and share scheme charges. The resulting 
deferred tax is charged or credited in the income statement, except in relation to share scheme charges where the amount of tax benefit credited 
to the income statement is limited to an equivalent credit calculated on the accounting charge. Any excess is recognised directly in equity.

Deferred tax assets relating to carried forward losses are recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available 
against which the assets can be utilised. The probability of the availability of future taxable profits is determined by a combination of the classification 
of the status of the businesses holding cumulative tax losses and the business plan profit projections for that business, subject to appropriate stress testing.

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 20149. Taxation continued
9b. Taxation 

Current tax

Corporation tax on profits for the year

(Over)/under provision relating to prior periods 

Current tax charge

Deferred tax

Current period deferred taxation movement

Over provision relating to prior periods – deferred tax

Total tax charge per Consolidated Income Statement

Factors affecting the total tax charge are:

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

72.2

(0.4)

71.8

(1.8)

(0.9)

69.1

83.4

0.4

83.8

0.1

(0.6)

83.3

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

Profit before tax

Corporation tax thereon at effective UK corporation tax rate of 21.50% (2013: 23.25%)

Expenses and provisions not deductible for tax purposes 

Impact of change in UK tax rate on deferred tax balances

Adjustments relating to prior periods

Impact of different overseas tax rates

Unrecognised deferred tax

Other differences 

Total tax charge for the period as above

9c. Deferred income tax asset
Analysis of deferred tax asset

350.7

75.4

(0.9)

—

(1.3)

(11.2)

7.1

—

69.1

Balance brought forward at 1 January 2013

Tax treatment of share scheme charges through income or expense

Tax treatment of share scheme charges through reserves

Capital allowances

Carried forward losses

Other difference

Balance carried forward at 31 December 2013

Tax treatment of share scheme charges through income or expense

Tax treatment of share scheme charges through reserves

Capital allowances

Carried forward losses

Other difference

Balance carried forward at 31 December 2014

Tax treatment
 of share 
schemes
£m

Capital 
allowances
£m

Carried 
forward losses
£m

Other 
differences
£m

(3.8)

1.8

(2.1)

—

—

—

(4.1)

2.4

(3.1)

—

—

—

(4.8)

(1.9)

—

—

(1.4)

—

—

(3.3)

—

—

(1.3)

—

—

(4.6)

(5.7)

(3.8)

—

—

—

(2.1)

—

(7.8)

—

—

—

(5.6)

—

(13.4)

—

—

—

—

2.0

(1.8)

—

—

—

—

1.7

(0.1)

370.2

86.1

0.2

2.7

(0.2)

(5.6)

—

0.1

83.3

Total
£m

(15.2)

1.8

(2.1)

(1.4)

(2.1)

2.0

(17.0)

2.4

(3.1)

(1.3)

(5.6)

1.7

(22.9)

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9c. Deferred income tax asset continued
Analysis of deferred tax asset continued
The UK corporation tax rate reduced from 23% to 21% on 1 April 2014. The average effective rate of tax for 2014 is 21.50% (2013: 23.25%). It will fall 
to 20% in April 2015. Deferred tax has therefore been calculated at 20% where the temporary difference is expected to reverse after this date.

The deferred tax asset relating to carried forward losses of £13.4 million (2013: £7.8 million) relates to losses incurred in the Group’s US businesses, 
Elephant Auto and compare.com, and is calculated at the local US rate of tax (35%). 

Elephant Auto (asset recognised: £3.6 million; remaining unused losses: £33 million) – the asset is expected to be recovered over the next seven 
years. The recognised asset has been limited to the amount supported by forecast cash flows over the next seven years. Whilst profits are 
expected to be available after 2021, the Group considers these longer term forecasts to be more uncertain and has therefore not recognised an 
asset that would only be supported by profits beyond the seven year period. 

compare.com (asset recognised: £9.8 million; remaining unused losses: £nil) – the asset is expected to be fully recovered over the next five years. 
The recognised asset has been limited to the amount supported by forecast cash flows over the next five years. The forecasts and underlying 
assumptions have been reviewed and approved by the Board. In addition, the forecasts have been stressed for both revenue and profit reductions 
and the asset remains recoverable under the stressed scenarios. 

The Group considers full recovery of the assets to be probable in both cases.

At 31 December 2014 the Group had unused tax losses amounting to £33 million (2013: £nil), relating to these businesses, for which no deferred tax 
asset has been recognised.

10. Other assets and other liabilities
10a. Accounting policy
(i) Property and equipment, and depreciation
All property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated using the straight line method to write off 
the cost less residual values of the assets over their useful economic lives. These useful economic lives are as follows:

Improvements to short leasehold buildings 

–  four to ten years

Computer equipment 

Office equipment 

Furniture and fittings 

Motor vehicles 

–  two to four years

–  four years

–  four years

–  four years

(ii) Impairment of property and equipment
In the case of property and equipment, carrying values are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there are any indications of 
impairment. If any such indications exist, the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated and compared to the carrying value. The carrying value is the 
higher of the fair value of the asset, less costs to sell and the asset’s value in use. Impairment losses are recognised through the income statement.

(iii) Leased assets
The rental costs relating to assets held under operating leases are charged to the income statement on a straight line basis over the life of the lease. 

Leases under the terms of which the Group assumes substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership are classed as finance leases. Assets 
acquired under finance leases are included in property and equipment at fair value on acquisition and are depreciated in the same manner as 
equivalent owned assets. Finance lease and hire purchase obligations are included in creditors and the finance costs are spread over the periods 
of the agreements based on the net amount outstanding.

(iv) Intangible assets
Goodwill
All business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. Goodwill has been recognised in acquisitions of subsidiaries, and 
represents the difference between the cost of the acquisition and the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired. 

The classification and accounting treatment of acquisitions occurring before 1 January 2004 have not been reconsidered in preparing the Group’s 
opening IFRS balance sheet at 1 January 2004 due to the exemption available in IFRS 1 (First time adoption). In respect of acquisitions prior to 
1 January 2004, goodwill is included at the transition date on the basis of its deemed cost, which represents the amount recorded under UK GAAP, 
which was tested for impairment at the transition date. On transition, amortisation of goodwill has ceased as required by IAS 38.

Goodwill is stated at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is allocated to cash generating units (CGUs) according to business 
segment and is reviewed annually for impairment. 

The goodwill held on the balance sheet at 31 December 2014 is allocated solely to the UK Car Insurance segment. 

Impairment of goodwill
The annual impairment review involves comparing the carrying amount to the estimated recoverable amount (by allocating the goodwill to CGUs) 
and recognising an impairment loss if the recoverable amount is lower. Impairment losses are recognised through the income statement and are 
not subsequently reversed. 

The recoverable amount is the greater of the fair value of the asset less costs to sell and the value in use of the CGU.

The value in use calculations use cash flow projections based on financial budgets approved by management covering a three year period. Cash 
flows beyond this period are considered, but not included in the calculation. The discount rate applied to the cash flow projections in the value in 
use calculations is 6.8% (2013: 9.8%), based on the Group’s weighted average cost of capital, which is in line with the market (source: Bloomberg).

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 201410. Other assets and other liabilities continued
10a. Accounting policy continued
(iv) Intangible assets continued
The key assumptions used in the value in use calculations are those regarding growth rates and expected changes in pricing and expenses incurred 
during the period. Management estimates growth rates and changes in pricing based on past practices and expected future changes in the market. 

The headroom above the goodwill carrying value is very significant, and there is no foreseeable event that would eliminate this margin.

Deferred acquisition costs
Acquisition costs comprise all direct and indirect costs arising from the conclusion of insurance contracts. Deferred acquisition costs represent the 
proportion of acquisition costs incurred that correspond to the unearned premiums provision at the balance sheet date. This balance is held as an 
intangible asset. It is amortised over the term of the contract as premium is earned. 

Software
Purchased software is recognised as an intangible asset and amortised over its expected useful life (generally the licence term). Internally generated 
software is recognised as an intangible asset, with directly attributable costs incurred in the development stage capitalised. The internally generated 
software assets are amortised over the expected useful life of the systems and amortisation commences when the software is available for use.

The carrying value of software is reviewed every six months for evidence of impairment, with the value being written down if any impairment exists. 
Impairment may be reversed if conditions subsequently improve.

10b. Property and equipment

Improvements 
to short 
leasehold 
buildings
£m

Computer
 equipment
£m

Office 
equipment
£m

Furniture 
and fittings
£m

Cost
At 1 January 2013
Additions
Disposals

At 31 December 2013

Depreciation
At 1 January 2013
Charge for the year
Disposals

At 31 December 2013

Net book amount
At 1 January 2013

Net book amount
At 31 December 2013

Cost
At 1 January 2014
Additions*1
Disposals
At 31 December 2014
Depreciation
At 1 January 2014
Charge for the year

Disposals

At 31 December 2014

Net book amount

At 31 December 2014

*1  The increase in additions is due to investment in the fit-out of new premises

The net book value of assets held under finance leases is as follows:

Computer equipment

7.3
1.2
—

8.5

5.3
1.0
—

6.3

2.0

2.2

8.5
16.9
(0.5)
24.9

6.3
1.7

(0.4)

7.6

17.3

31.6
1.7
(0.5)

32.8

22.6
3.9
(0.4)

26.1

9.0

6.7

32.8
6.8
(0.1)
39.5

26.1
3.6

—

29.7

9.8

12.9
0.1
—

13.0

8.7
1.7
—

10.4

4.2

2.6

13.0
1.0
—
14.0

10.4
1.2

—

11.6

2.4

Total
£m

56.8
3.3
(0.5)

59.6

40.3
7.3
(0.4)

47.2

16.5

12.4

59.6
27.2
(0.6)
86.2

47.2
7.1

(0.4)

53.9

5.0
0.3
—

5.3

3.7
0.7
—

4.4

1.3

0.9

5.3
2.5
—
7.8

4.4
0.6

—

5.0

2.8

32.3

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

2.5

—

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10c. Intangible Assets

At 1 January 2013
Additions
Amortisation charge
Disposals

At 31 December 2013
Additions
Amortisation charge
Disposals
At 31 December 2014

Goodwill
£m

62.3
—
—
—

62.3
—
—
—
62.3

Deferred 
acquisition 
costs
£m

20.3
67.7
(68.8)
—

19.2
38.3
(42.7)
—
14.8

Software
£m

9.9
6.8
(4.9)
(0.5)

11.3
23.4
(4.6)
—
30.1

Total
£m

92.5
74.5
(73.7)
(0.5)

92.8
61.7
(47.3)
—
107.2

Goodwill relates to the acquisition of Group subsidiary EUI Limited (formerly Admiral Insurance Services Limited) in November 1999. It is allocated 
solely to the UK Car Insurance segment. As described in the accounting policies, the amortisation of this asset ceased on transition to IFRS on 
1 January 2004. All annual impairment reviews since the transition date have indicated that the estimated recoverable value of the asset is greater 
than the carrying amount and therefore no impairment losses have been recognised. Refer to the accounting policy for goodwill for further information.

10d. Trade and other receivables

Trade receivables

Prepayments and accrued income

Total trade and other receivables

10e. Trade and other payables

Trade payables

Amounts owed to co-insurers and reinsurers

Finance leases due within 12 months

Other taxation and social security liabilities 

Other payables

Accruals and deferred income (see below)

Total trade and other payables

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

78.4

3.6

82.0

73.9

3.6

77.5

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

24.6

756.5

1.4

20.9

82.2

80.2

965.8

16.9

785.3

0.1

20.6

90.1

100.7

1,013.7

Of amounts owed to co-insurers and reinsurers, £585.7 million (2013: £629.3 million) is held under funds withheld arrangements. 

Analysis of accruals and deferred income:

Premium receivable in advance of policy inception

Accrued expenses

Deferred income

Total accruals and deferred income as above

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

50.9

11.1

18.2

80.2

60.7

22.0

18.0

100.7

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 201410. Other assets and other liabilities continued
10f. Obligations under finance leases
Analysis of finance lease liabilities:

Less than one year

Between one and five years

More than five years

At 31 December 2014

At 31 December 2013

Minimum 
lease 
payments
£m

1.4

—

—

1.4

Interest
£m

Principal
£m

—

—

—

—

1.4

—

—

1.4

Minimum 
lease
 payments
£m

0.1

—

—

0.1

Interest
£m

Principal
£m

—

—

—

—

0.1

—

—

0.1

The fair value of the Group’s lease obligations approximates to their carrying amount.

10g. Financial commitments 
The Group was committed to total minimum obligations under operating leases on land and buildings as follows:

Minimum payments due on operating leases

Within one year

Within two to five years

Over five years

Total commitments 

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

8.5

36.9

115.5

160.9

5.3

8.2

1.8

15.3

Operating lease payments represent rentals payable by the Group for its office properties. The increase in operating lease commitments from the 
prior period is due to the agreement of long term lease agreements relating to new premises in South Wales.

10h. Contingent liabilities 
The Group is, from time to time, engaged in legal matters or disputes (including, but not limited to, employment, regulatory matters and data 
protection) which might result in an outflow of benefits from the Group. Where the Group is able to reliably estimate probable losses, provision is 
made. The Group has not disclosed estimates of the potential financial effect of contingent liabilities arising from matters where the impact is 
highly unlikely to be material, or where it is not practicable to do so, or, in cases where it is practicable, where disclosure could prejudice conduct 
of the matters.

In particular, the Group’s US insurance operation is subject to legal action in relation to alleged breach of consumer protection legislation. At the 
balance sheet date, the outcome and duration of the legal action is highly uncertain and it is not possible to make a reliable estimate of the outcome. 

11. Share capital
11a. Accounting policies
(i) Share capital
Shares are classified as equity when there is no obligation to transfer cash or other assets. 

(ii) Dividends
Dividends are recorded in the period in which they are declared and paid. 

11b. Dividends
Dividends were declared and paid as follows:

March 2013 (45.5 pence per share, paid June 2013)

August 2013 (48.9 pence per share, paid October 2013)

March 2014 (50.6 pence per share, paid May 2014)

August 2014 (49.4 pence per share, paid October 2014)

Total dividends

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

—

—

138.3

135.2

273.5

123.1

132.7

—

—

255.8

The dividends declared in March represent the final dividends paid in respect of the 2012 and 2013 financial years. The dividends declared in August 
are interim distributions in respect of 2013 and 2014.

A final dividend of 49.0 pence per share (£136 million) has been proposed in respect of the 2014 financial year. Refer to the Chairman’s Statement 
and Strategic Report for further detail.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

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107

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11c. Earnings per share

Profit for the financial year after taxation attributable to equity shareholders 

Weighted average number of shares – basic 

Unadjusted earnings per share – basic 

Weighted average number of shares – diluted

Unadjusted earnings per share – diluted

31 December 
2014
£m

285.2

31 December 
2013
£m

287.0

276,885,828

274,311,039

103.0p

104.6p

277,334,765

274,813,144

102.8p

104.4p

The difference between the basic and diluted number of shares at the end of 2014 (being 448,937; 2013: 502,105) relates to awards committed, but 
not yet issued under the Group’s share schemes. Refer to note 8 for further detail.

11d. Share capital

Authorised

500,000,000 ordinary shares of 0.1 pence

Issued, called up and fully paid

278,689,742 ordinary shares of 0.1 pence

276,141,432 ordinary shares of 0.1 pence

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

0.5

0.3

—

0.3

0.5

—

0.3

0.3

During 2014 2,548,310 (2013: 2,617,838) new ordinary shares of 0.1 pence were issued to the trusts administering the Group’s share schemes. 

748,310 (2013: 917,838) of these were issued to the Admiral Group Share Incentive Plan Trust for the purposes of this share scheme to give a closing 
number at 31 December 2014 of 7,232,394 (31 December 2013: 6,484,084). These shares are entitled to receive dividends. 

1,800,000 (2013: 1,700,000) were issued to the Admiral Group Employee Benefit Trust for the purposes of the Discretionary Free Share Scheme to 
give a closing number at 31 December 2014 of 12,861,948 (31 December 2013: 11,061,948). The Trustees have waived the right to dividend payments, 
other than to the extent of 0.001 pence per share, unless and to the extent otherwise directed by the Company from time to time. 

The number of shares in issue at flotation was 258,595,400.

11e. Objectives, policies and procedures for managing capital
The Group manages its capital to ensure that all entities within the Group are able to continue as going concerns and also to ensure that regulated 
entities meet regulatory requirements with an appropriate margin. Excess capital above these levels within subsidiaries is paid up to the Group 
holding company in the form of dividends on a regular basis. 

The Group’s dividend policy is to make distributions after taking into account capital that is required to be held a) for regulatory purposes; b) to 
fund expansion activities; and c) as a further buffer against unforeseen events. This policy gives the Directors flexibility in managing the Group’s capital.

The Group’s regulatory capital requirements are discussed in the Group Financial Review within the Strategic Report.

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 201411. Share capital continued
11f. Group subsidiary companies
The Parent Company’s subsidiaries are as follows:

Subsidiary

Country of 
incorporation

Class of 
shares held

% 
Ownership

Able Insurance Services Limited

England and Wales

Admiral Insurance (Gibraltar) Limited

Gibraltar

Admiral Insurance Company Limited

Admiral Law Limited

Admiral Life Limited

Admiral Syndicate Limited

Admiral Syndicate Management Limited

BDE Law Limited

Bell Direct Limited

England and Wales

England and Wales

England and Wales

England and Wales

England and Wales

England and Wales

England and Wales

comparenow.com Insurance Agency LLC

United States of America

Confused.com Limited

Diamond Motor Insurance Services Limited

England and Wales

England and Wales

Elephant Insurance Company

United States of America

Elephant Insurance Services Limited

England and Wales

Elephant Insurance Services LLC

United States of America

EUI (France) Limited

EUI Limited

England and Wales

England and Wales

Inspop Technologies Private Limited

India

Inspop USA LLC

Inspop.com (France) Limited

Inspop.com Limited

Rastreator.com Limited

United States of America

England and Wales

England and Wales

England and Wales

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

100

100

100

90

100

100

100

90

100

67.79 
(indirect)

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

67.79

100

100

75

Principal 
activity

Insurance Intermediary

Insurance Company

Insurance Company

Legal Company

Dormant

Non Trading

Dormant

Legal Company

Dormant

Insurance Intermediary

Dormant

Dormant

Insurance Company

Dormant

Insurance Intermediary

Insurance Intermediary

Insurance Intermediary

Internet technology supplier

Insurance Intermediary

Insurance Intermediary

Insurance Intermediary

Insurance Intermediary

For further information on how the Group conducts its business across the UK, Europe and the US, refer to the Strategic Report.

11g. Related party transactions
Details relating to the remuneration and shareholdings of key management personnel are set out in the Directors’ Remuneration Report. Key 
management personnel are able to obtain discounted motor insurance at the same rates as all other Group staff, typically at a reduction of 15%. 

The Board considers that only the Executive Directors of Admiral Group plc are key management personnel. Aggregate compensation for the 
Executive Directors is disclosed in the Directors’ Remuneration Report on pages 60 to 72.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

109

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORT12. Reconciliations
The following tables reconcile significant key performance indicators and non-GAAP measures included in the Strategic Report to items included 
in the financial statements.

12a. Reconciliation of turnover to reported total premiums written and Other Revenue as per the financial statements

Total premiums written before co-insurance arrangements per note 5b of financial statements

Other Revenue per note 7b of financial statements

UK vehicle commission*1
Other*2
Turnover as per note 4b of financial statements

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

1,675.6

332.5

2,008.1

(50.8)

13.7

1,737.6

327.8

2,065.4

(48.1)

12.9

1,971.0

2,030.2

*1    During 2012 Admiral ceased earning Other Revenue from the sale of non-optional legal protection policies. At the same point, the Group began charging its 
panel of co- and reinsurers a vehicle commission. The substance of these changes meant that the total premiums written increased by the amount of revenue 
that was previously earned from the sale of non-optional legal protection policies. The vehicle commission included within Other Revenue is therefore 
eliminated from the turnover measure to avoid double counting

*2  Other reconciling items represent co-insurer and reinsurer shares of Other Revenue in the Group’s International Car Insurance businesses 

12b. Reconciliation of claims incurred to reported Group loss ratio, excluding releases on commuted reinsurance

Net insurance claims 

Less: net claims handling expenses

Add back reserve releases on commuted reinsurance

Adjusted net claims

Net insurance premium revenue 

Reported loss ratio

31 December 2014

31 December 2013

UK Car
£m

188.9

(8.9)

70.6

250.6

365.1

68.6%

Group
£m

259.1

(8.9)

70.6

320.8

464.9

69.0%

UK Car
£m

243.3

(9.5)

40.9

274.7

403.9

68.0%

12c. Reconciliation of expenses related to insurance contracts to reported Group expense ratio

Net insurance expenses 

Add: net claims handling expenses

Adjusted net expenses

Net insurance premium revenue 

Reported expense ratio

31 December 2014

31 December 2013

UK Car
£m

43.5

8.9

52.4

365.1

14.4%

Group
£m

82.7

8.9

91.6

464.9

19.7%

UK Car
£m

51.2

9.5

60.7

403.9

15.0%

Group
£m

303.0

(9.5)

40.9

334.4

483.0

69.2%

Group
£m

86.7

9.5

96.2

483.0

19.9%

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUEDFOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
PARENT COMPANY BALANCE SHEET

Non-current assets

Shares in Group undertakings

Intangible assets

Other investments

Current assets

Amounts owed from subsidiary undertakings

Trade and other receivables

Cash at bank and in hand

Creditors – falling due within one year

Other creditors

Net current liabilities

Total assets less current liabilities

Creditors – falling due after one year

Subordinated liabilities

Net assets

Capital and reserves

Called up share capital

Share premium account

Capital redemption reserve

Profit and loss account

As at

31 December
 2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

Note

5

6

7

8

9

11

10

243.1

0.7

203.2

1.5

1.4

50.0

52.9

(73.6)

(73.6)

(20.7)

426.3

(203.8)

(203.8)

222.5

0.3

13.1

—

209.1

222.5

212.6

—

29.5

8.0

0.1

3.3

11.4

(63.4)

(63.4)

(52.0)

190.1

—

—

190.1

0.3

13.1

—

176.7

190.1

These financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 4 March 2015 and were signed on its behalf by:

Geraint Jones
Chief Financial Officer
Admiral Group plc

Company number: 03849958

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

111

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTNOTES TO THE PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014

The following accounting policies have been 
applied consistently in dealing with items 
which are considered material in relation 
to the financial statements:

1. Basis of preparation
The accounts have been prepared on a going 
concern basis. In considering the appropriateness 
of this assumption, the Board has reviewed 
the Company’s projections for the next 
12 months and beyond, including cash flow 
forecasts and regulatory capital surpluses. 

As a result of this review the Directors have 
satisfied themselves that it is appropriate to 
prepare these financial statements on a going 
concern basis.

The adoption of new accounting standards 
during the year has not had a material impact 
on either the current year or comparative figures. 

The Admiral Group plc Company financial 
statements have been prepared in accordance 
with applicable accounting standards, under 
the historical cost convention and in accordance 
with the provisions of Section 396 to the 
Companies Act 2006. 

As permitted by Section 408 of the Companies 
Act 2006, the profit and loss account of the 
Parent Company is not presented. Under 
FRS 1 Cash Flow Statements the Company is 
exempt from having to present a cash flow 
statement on the grounds that its cash flows 
are included in the Group’s published 
Consolidated financial statements.

The Parent Company audit fee is not disclosed 
in these accounts as it is disclosed in the 
Consolidated financial statements for Admiral 
Group plc, which precede them at note 8c.

Refer to note 11 of the Consolidated 
financial statements for disclosure of 
related party transactions.

2. Investments 
Shares in Group undertakings are valued at 
cost less any provision for impairment in value.

3. Taxation
The charge for taxation is based on the profit 
for the year and takes into account taxation 
deferred because of timing differences between 
the treatment of certain items for taxation and 
accounting purposes. 

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the 
extent that they are regarded as recoverable. 
They are regarded as recoverable to the extent 
that, on the basis of all available evidence, it 
can be regarded as more likely than not that 
there will be sufficient taxable profits from 
which the future reversal of the underlying 
timing differences can be deducted.

4. Employee share schemes
The Group operates a number of share schemes for its employees. For equity settled schemes 
commencing 1 January 2004 and after, the fair value of the employee services received in exchange 
for the grant of free shares under the schemes is recognised as an expense in the Parent Company’s 
subsidiaries, with a corresponding increase in equity in the Parent Company. 

Refer to note 8 of the Consolidated financial statements for further details on share schemes.

5. Shares in Group undertakings 

Investments in subsidiary undertakings:

At 1 January 2013

Additions

At 31 December 2013

Additions

At 31 December 2014

£m

192.3

20.3

212.6

30.5

243.1

A full list of the Company’s subsidiaries is disclosed in note 11 of the Consolidated financial statements.

6. Other investments 

Other investments:

At 1 January 2013

Disposals

At 31 December 2013

Additions

Disposals

At 31 December 2014

£m

74.6

(45.1)

29.5

199.1

(25.4)

203.2

Other investments are money market liquidity funds and gilts. Refer to note 6 of the Group 
financial statements details of the Group’s investments, including money market liquidity funds 
and gilts.

7. Trade and other receivables – due within one year

Trade and other receivables

Corporation tax recoverable 

8. Other creditors – due within one year

Trade payables and other liabilities

Amounts owed to subsidiary undertakings

Corporation tax payable 

9. Other Creditors – due after one year

Subordinated notes 

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

0.1

1.3

1.4

0.1

—

0.1

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

1.4

72.2

—

73.6

0.4

—

63.0

63.4

31 December 
2014
£m

31 December 
2013
£m

203.8

203.8

—

—

The Company issued subordinated notes in 2014. Refer to note 6 of the Group financial 
statements for details of the subordinated notes issue.

112

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10. Reconciliation of movements in shareholders’ funds

Company figures

At 1 January 2013

Retained profit for the period

Dividends

Issues of share capital

Share scheme charges

As at 31 December 2013

Retained profit for the period

Dividends

Issues of share capital

Share scheme charges

As at 31 December 2014

Share 
capital
£m

0.3

—

—

—

—

0.3

—

—

—

—

0.3

Share 
premium 
account
£m

13.1

—

—

—

—

13.1

—

—

—

—

Retained 
profit 
and loss
£m

203.5

203.3

(255.8)

—

25.7

176.7

282.7

(273.5)

—

23.2

Total 
equity
£m

216.9

203.3

(255.8)

—

25.7

190.1

282.7

(273.5)

—

23.2

13.1

209.1

222.5

11. Share Capital
Full details of the Company’s share capital are included in note 11 of the Consolidated financial statements.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

113

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTCONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL SUMMARY

Basis of preparation
The figures below are as stated in the Group financial statements preceding this financial summary and issued previously. Only selected lines from 
the income statement and balance sheet have been included. 

Income statement 

Total premiums

Net insurance premium revenue

Other Revenue

Profit commission

Investment and interest income

Net revenue

Net insurance claims

Net expenses

Operating profit 

Finance costs

Profit before tax

Balance sheet

Property and equipment

Intangible assets

Deferred income tax

Reinsurance assets

Trade and other receivables

Financial assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Assets held for sale

Total assets

Equity

Insurance contracts

Subordinated liabilities

Trade and other payables

Current tax liabilities

Total liabilities 

2014
£m

2013
£m

2012
£m

2011
£m

2010
£m

1,675.6

1,737.6

1,897.2

1,841.3

1,308.6

464.9

332.5

71.8

15.4

884.6

(259.1)

(270.2)

355.3

(4.6)

350.7

2014
£m

32.3

107.2

22.9

829.8

82.0

2,547.4

255.9

—

3,877.5

580.9

2,097.4

203.8

965.8

29.6

3,877.5

483.0

327.8

99.3

14.3

924.4

(303.0)

(251.2)

370.2

—

370.2

2013
£m

12.4

92.8

17.0

821.2

77.5

2,265.0

187.9

—

3,473.8

524.1

1,901.3

—

1,013.7

34.7

3,473.8

498.9

361.1

108.4

15.9

984.3

(404.5)

(235.2)

344.6

—

344.6

2012
£m

16.5

92.5

15.2

803.0

55.3

2,005.1

216.6

—

3,204.2

460.7

1,696.9

—

1,006.5

40.1

3,204.2

445.8

349.0

61.8

13.7

870.3

(363.8)

(207.4)

299.1

—

299.1

2011
£m

17.6

87.5

10.3

639.8

52.1

1,583.0

224.6

—

2,614.9

394.4

1,333.7

—

856.6

30.2

288.1

276.2

67.0

9.5

640.8

(208.5)

(166.8)

265.5

—

265.5

2010
£m

13.6

82.9

12.4

357.0

47.9

1,004.7

246.7

1.5

1,766.7

350.7

806.6

—

561.0

48.4

2,614.9

1,766.7

114

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GLOSSARY

Accident year

The year in which an accident occurs, also referred to as the earned basis. 

Actuarial best estimate

The probability-weighted average of all future claims and cost scenarios calculated using 
historical data, actuarial methods and judgement.

Claims reserves 

Co-insurance 

Combined ratio 

Commutation

Expense ratio 

A monetary amount set aside for the future payment of incurred claims that have not yet been 
settled, thus representing a balance sheet liability. 

An arrangement in which two or more insurance companies agree to underwrite insurance 
business on a specified portfolio in specified proportions. Each co-insurer is directly liable 
to the policyholder for their proportional share.

The sum of the loss ratio and the expense ratio.

An agreement between a ceding insurer and the reinsurer that provides for the valuation, 
payment and complete discharge of all obligations between the parties under a particular 
reinsurance contract.

The ratio can be calculated on an earned or written basis. Expressed as a percentage, of (i) net 
operating expenses, either divided by (ii) written or earned premiums, net of reinsurance.

Insurance market cycle 

The tendency for the insurance market to swing between highs and lows of profitability over 
time, with the potential to influence premium rates (also known as the ‘underwriting cycle’).

Loss ratio 

Net claims 

The loss ratio can be calculated on an accident year or underwriting year basis, and is expressed 
as a percentage of (i) claims incurred, divided by (ii) net premiums.

The cost of claims incurred in the period, less any claims costs recovered under reinsurance 
contracts. It includes both claims payments and movements in claims reserves.

Net insurance premium revenue 

Also referred to as net earned premium. The element of premium, less reinsurance premium, 
earned in the period.

Premium 

A series of payments are made by the policyholder, typically monthly or annually, for part of or all 
of the duration of the contract. Written premium refers to the total amount the policyholder has 
contracted for, whereas earned premium refers to the recognition of this premium over the life 
of the contract.

Profit commission 

A provision found in some reinsurance and co-insurance agreements that provides for profit sharing. 

Reinsurance 

Contractual arrangements whereby the Group transfers part or all of the insurance risk accepted  
to another insurer. This can be on a quota share basis (a percentage share of premiums, claims  
and expenses) or an excess of loss basis (full reinsurance for claims over an agreed value).

Total/Gross/Net premiums written 

Total = total premiums written, including co-insurance.

Gross = total premiums written, including reinsurance but excluding co-insurance.

Net = total premiums written, excluding reinsurance and co-insurance.

Turnover 

A non-GAAP measure, turnover is the sum of ‘total premiums written’ and ‘Other Revenue’.

Ultimate loss ratio 

Underwriting year

The projected ratio for a particular accident year or underwriting year, often used in the 
calculation of underwriting profit and profit commission.

The year in which the policy was incepted, also referred to as the written basis. Claims incurred 
are allocated to the calendar year in which the policy was underwritten.

Written/Earned basis

A policy can be written in one calendar year but earned over a subsequent calendar year.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

115

OTHER INFORMATIONSTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOTHER INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTDIRECTORS AND ADVISORS

Directors
Alastair Lyons, CBE
Non-Executive Chairman

Henry Engelhardt, CBE
Chief Executive Officer

Geraint Jones
Chief Financial Officer

David Stevens, CBE
Chief Operating Officer

Roger Abravanel
Non-Executive Director

Manfred Aldag
Non-Executive Director

Annette Court
Non-Executive Director

Colin Holmes
Non-Executive Director

Penny James
Non-Executive Director

Margaret Johnson, OBE
Non-Executive Director

Lucy Kellaway
Non-Executive Director

Jean Park
Non-Executive Director

Company Secretary
Mark Waters
Ty Admiral 
David Street 
Cardiff CF10 2EH

Auditor
KPMG LLP
3 Assembly Square 
Britannia Quay 
Cardiff CF10 4AX

Actuarial advisor
Ernst & Young LLP
1 More London Place 
London SE1 2AF

Bankers
Lloyds Bank plc
City Office 
Bailey Drive 
Gillingham Business Park 
Kent ME8 0LS

Registrar 
Capita Asset Services
The Registry 
34 Beckenham Road 
Beckenham 
Kent BR3 4TU

Joint corporate brokers
Merrill Lynch International
2 King Edward Street 
London EC1A 1HQ

UBS Investment Bank
1 Finsbury Avenue 
London EC2M 2PP

Solicitors
Clifford Chance LLP
10 Upper Bank Street 
London E14 5JJ

116

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

WWW.ADMIRALGROUP.CO.UK

Corporate website
The Group’s corporate website is at  
www.admiralgroup.co.uk. A range of 
information about the Admiral Group is 
presented, including the Group’s history: 
financial reports and press releases; 
corporate responsibility and governance. 

The website also includes the contact details 
for investor relations. 

Financial calendar 
Final 2014 dividend 
7 May 2015 – Ex dividend date 
8 May 2015 – Record date 
29 May 2015 – Payment date

Annual General Meeting
29 April 2015

Interim results
19 August 2015

The Group does not produce printed copies 
of interim results for shareholders unless 
requested. 

Admiral Group businesses

UK
Car Insurance: 
Admiral  www.admiral.com 
elephant.co.uk  www.elephant.co.uk 
Diamond  www.diamond.co.uk 
Bell  www.bell.co.uk

Price Comparison: 
Confused.com  www.confused.com

Household Insurance: 
Admiral Household  www.admiral.com/home-insurance

Household

Van Insurance: 
Gladiator  www.gladiator.co.uk

Spain
Car Insurance: 
Balumba  www.balumba.es 
Qualitas Auto  www.qualitasauto.com

The interim results will be available on the 
corporate website from 19 August 2015.

Price Comparison: 
Rastreator  www.rastreator.com

Registered office
Capital Tower 
Greyfriars Road 
Cardiff CF10 3AZ

Italy
Car Insurance: 
ConTe  www.conte.it

USA
Car Insurance: 
Elephant Auto  www.elephant.com 

Price Comparison: 
compare.com  www.compare.com

France
Car Insurance: 
L’olivier Assurances  www.lolivier.fr

Price Comparison: 
LeLynx  www.lelynx.fr 

The Group’s commitment to environmental issues is reflected in this Annual Report which has 
been printed on Revive 100 Silk which is made from 100% post-consumer fibres, FSC® certified 
and PCF (Process Chlorine Free). Printed in the UK by 

 using their 

and 

environmental printing technology, and vegetable inks were used throughout. 
is a CarbonNeutral® company. Both manufacturing mill and the printer are 

registered to the Environmental Management System ISO14001 and are Forest Stewardship 
Council® (FSC) chain-of-custody certified.

ADMIRAL GROUP PLC

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2014

117

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCORPORATE GOVERNANCESTRATEGIC REPORTINTRODUCTIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCEOTHER INFORMATION 
2014 was an  
award winning year!

2nd place in the 
Sunday Times Best Big  
Companies to Work For listings, 2014

3rd Best 
Large UK Workplace  
Great Place to Work Institute, 2014

Best
Workplaces
Europe

3rd Best 
Multinational Workplace in Europe,  
Great Place to Work Institute’s Best 
Multinationals in Europe, 2014

23rd Best 
Best Large Workplace in Canada  
(Admiral Halifax)

11th Best 
Small to Medium Workplace in Italy  
(ConTe) 

5th Best 
Workplaces PYMES (SMEs) in Spain  
Great Place to Work Institute, 2014  
(Rastreator)

8th Best 
Company to Work for in Spain  
(Admiral Seguros: Balumba and Qualitas Auto)

4th Best 
Large Employer in the  
Richmond Times Dispatch Sterling Award 
(Elephant Auto)

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