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Registered and Head Office
Building Four, West Strand Business Park,
West Strand Road, Preston, Lancashire PR1 8UY
T +44 (0)1772 972050 F +44 (0)1772 482244
www.chesnara.co.uk
Designed by The Chase
—
Annual Report & Accounts
2014
Cautionary statement
This document may contain forward-looking
statements with respect to certain of the plans
and current expectations relating to the future
financial condition, business performance
and results of Chesnara plc. By their nature,
all forward-looking statements involve risk
and uncertainty because they relate to future
events and circumstances that are beyond the
control of Chesnara plc including, amongst
other things, UK domestic, Swedish domestic,
Dutch domestic and global economic and
business conditions, market-related risks such
as fluctuations in interest rates, currency
exchange rates, inflation, deflation, the impact
of competition, changes in customer
preferences, delays in implementing proposals,
the timing, impact and other uncertainties of
future acquisitions or other combinations within
relevant industries, the policies and actions of
regulatory authorities, the impact of tax or
other legislation and other regulations in the
jurisdictions in which Chesnara plc and its
subsidiaries operate. As a result, Chesnara plc’s
actual future condition, business performance
and results may differ materially from the
plans, goals and expectations expressed or
implied in these forward-looking statements.
SECTION A
OVERVIEW
04 An Introduction
06
2014 Highlights
07 Chairman’s Statement
SECTION B
STRATEGIC REPORT
Strategic Objectives, Culture and Values
The Chesnara Business
12 Our Vision & Strategy
13
16
17 Business Model
18 Business Review
Financial Review
28
40
Financial Management
44 Risk Management
47
Solvency II
48 Corporate and Social Responsibility
SECTION C
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
52 Governance Overview from the Chairman
53 Board of Directors
54 Board Profile
55 Corporate Governance Report
60 Directors’ Remuneration Report
80 Audit & Risk Committee Report
83 Directors’ Report
85 Directors’ Responsibilities Statement
SECTION D
IFRS FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Independent Auditor’s Report to the Members of Chesnara plc
88
91 Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
92 Consolidated Balance Sheet
93 Company Balance Sheet
94 Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
95 Company Statement of Cash Flows
96 Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
97 Company Statement of Changes in Equity
98 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
SECTION E
EEV SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
176 Directors’ Responsibilities Statement
177
Independent Auditor’s Report
178 Summarised EEV Consolidated Income Statement
179 Summarised EEV Consolidated Balance Sheet
180 Notes to the EEV Basis Supplementary Information
SECTION F
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
196 Financial calendar
196 Key contacts
197 Notice of Annual General Meeting
201 Explanatory notes to the notice of Annual General Meeting
204 Glossary
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
NOTE ON TERMINOLOGY
As explained in Note 7 to the IFRS financial statements, the
principal reporting segments of the Group are:
CA
S&P
PL
which comprises the original business of Countrywide
Assured plc, the Group’s original UK operating subsidiary,
and of City of Westminster Assurance Company
Limited, which was acquired by the Group in 2005 and
the long-term business of which was transferred to
Countrywide Assured plc during 2006;
which was acquired on 20 December 2010. This business
was transferred from Save & Prosper Insurance Limited
and Save & Prosper Pensions Limited to Countrywide
Assured plc on 31 December 2011 under the provisions of
Part VII of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000;
which was purchased on 28 November 2013 from
Direct Line Insurance Group plc. Protection Life Company
Limited is included within the Group’s UK business.
On 31 December 2014 the long-term business of PL was
transferred into CA plc under Part VII of the Financial
Services and Markets Act 2000; and
Movestic which was purchased on 23 July 2009 and comprises the
Group’s Swedish business, Movestic Livförsäkring AB
and its subsidiary and associated companies.
In this Report & Accounts:
i.
ii.
The CA, S&P and PL segments may also be collectively referred
to as the ‘UK Business’;
The Movestic segment may also be referred to as the
‘Swedish Business’;
iii. ‘CA plc’ refers to the legal entity Countrywide Assured plc, which
includes the long-term business of CA, CWA, S&P and PL;
iv. ‘CWA’ refers to City of Westminster Assurance Company Limited
or to its long-term business funds transferred to Countrywide
Assured plc;
v.
‘S&P’ may also refer collectively to Save & Prosper Insurance
Limited and Save & Prosper Pensions Limited, as the context
implies. Where it is necessary to distinguish reference to Save
& Prosper Insurance Limited and Save & Prosper Pensions
Limited, or to the businesses subsisting in those companies prior
to the transfer referred to above, they are designated ‘SPI’ and
‘SPP’ respectively;
vi. ‘PL’ refers to the long-term business that was, prior to the
Part VII transfer into CA plc on 31 December 2014, reported
in Protection Life Company Limited;
vii. ‘ PL Ltd’ refers to the legal entity Protection Life Company
Limited; and
viii. ‘ Movestic’ may also refer to Movestic Livförsäkring AB, as the
context implies.
ix. ‘Acquisition of Waard Group’ refers to the purchase of the
Waard Group, based in the Netherlands. At the date of
signing this Annual Report & Accounts the acquisition remained
subject to Dutch regulatory approval.
02
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
SECTION A
OVERVIEW
IN THIS SECTION
04 An Introduction
06 2014 Highlights
07 Chairman’s Statement
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
03
SECTION A OVERVIEW
AN INTRODUCTION
Chesnara plc is a Life Assurance and
Pensions company consolidator. It
currently has books of business in the
UK and Sweden. It expects to add
a third territory in 2015 with the
acquisition of a Dutch Group which is
due to complete in the near future.
The Dutch business mainly consists of
term-life policies, is closed to new
business, and has c74,000 policies. The
UK business is predominantly closed
to new business whereas our Swedish
subsidiary continues to run a
profitable new business operation.
Who we are
Chesnara plc, formed in 2004, is listed on the London
Stock Exchange. The Group initially consisted of
Countrywide Assured, a closed Life and Pensions book
demerged from Countrywide plc, a large estate agency
group. Since incorporation the Group has grown
through the acquisition of three predominantly closed
UK businesses, CWA, S&P and PL plus Movestic, an
open Swedish Life and Pensions business.
What we do
– We administer c.860,000 Life and Pension policies (c.380,000
in the UK and c.480,000 in Sweden).
c.860,000 Life and Pension policies.
– We manage £4.8 billion of funds (£3.0 billion in the UK and
£1.8 billion in Sweden).
£4.8bn of total assets under management.
– We operate to high regulatory standards, ensure we offer high
service levels and aim to maximise returns to policyholders.
– We provide value to shareholders primarily by way of an
established and attractive dividend strategy but also by value
enhancement through acquisitions and the writing of
profitable new business in Sweden.
Chesnara is a responsible and profitable company engaged
in the management of Life and Pension policies in the
UK and Sweden. The Group remains committed to delivering
competitive returns to both its shareholders and policyholders,
and continues to focus on:
– the core business of maximising value from the in-force life
and pensions book.
– value enhancement through the writing of profitable new
business in Sweden.
– making further life and pensions acquisitions where they meet
stringent assessment criteria.
How we operate
– We maintain a professional corporate governance team
responsible for ensuring regulatory compliance, risk and
capital management, and oversight of both our Swedish
subsidiary and our predominantly outsourced UK business.
– We maintain a robust regulatory, compliance and risk
management regime.
– The governance team has significant experience and a proven
track record in acquiring and successfully integrating Life and
Pension businesses. The team engages professional partners
and advisors to support the acquisition model, as required.
– Acquisitions are funded by a combination of cash, debt and
equity as appropriate. We have tried and tested support
from debt providers and from our established and supportive
shareholder base.
– We maintain strong solvency levels.
How we create value
Policyholder
Effective customer service operations together with
competitive fund performance, whilst always adopting exacting
standards with regard to all regulatory matters ensures
policyholders receive good returns in line with policy, industry
and market expectations.
Shareholder
Efficient management of the policy base and good capital
management practices means that surpluses emerge
from the in-force books of business. These surpluses enable
dividend transfers to be made from the subsidiaries
to Chesnara, which fund the attractive dividend strategy.
In addition, growth from both the proven acquisition model
and from writing profitable new business in Sweden has
had a positive impact on the embedded value of the business
(as shown below).
GROUP EEV DEVELOPMENT HISTORY
The Embedded Value of the Group has grown significantly since incorporation. The reported growth is net of £170m of cumulative
dividend payments. The chart illustrates Embedded Value growth and the impact of the acquisition strategy.
Values quoted are as at 31 December of the relevant year.
‘04
£126M
Chesnara lists on the
London Stock Exchange,
following its acquisition
of CA plc.
‘05
£176M
Chesnara acquired
CWA from Irish Life and
Permanent plc. EEV
gain of £30.3m arising on
acquisition and £22.0m
new share capital issued.
‘06
£189M
‘07
£187M
‘08
£183M
The long-term
business of CWA was
transferred to CA plc.
Steady operating
profit on covered
business to support
dividend payment.
Steady operating profit
on covered business
supports dividend
payment in year.
‘09
£263M
Chesnara acquired Movestic
Liv, an open Swedish Life
and Pensions business,
resulting in an EEV gain of
£54.2m on acquisition.
04
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
OVERVIEW SECTION A
The Chesnara investment proposition is
largely dependent upon cash emerging
from the in-force books of business at levels
sufficient to fund the dividend strategy,
support future acquisitions, and provide
adequate surplus to protect against the
potential for earnings volatility in the future.
The gross cash generated in 2014 exceeds
the full year dividend by 88%, continuing the
recent trend of strong dividend coverage.
Capital management actions including
Part VII transfers and regulator approved
capital extractions ensure the cash
generated is available for distribution to
the fullest extent possible.
In addition to the attractive dividend yield,
growth is delivered through Swedish new
business and value adding acquisitions. As
a result Chesnara has consistently provided
a greater TSR than the FTSE 350 higher
yield index.
GROSS CASH GENERATION
£42.6M IN 2014
(2013: £49.7m).
£49.7M
£42.6M
£33.1M
£34.0M
£18.8M
‘10
‘11
‘12
‘13
‘14
Note 1: Cash generation is defined on page 34.
The figures exclude any impact from acquisition
funding arrangements including cash utilised to
directly fund acquisitions.
TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURN
5 year TSR of 145%
2014 TSR of 11%
PROVEN ATTRACTIVE
DIVIDEND HISTORY
£13.1M
£13.7M
£10.2M
£15.8M
£16.0M
£16.2M
£18.1M
£19.4M
£19.9M
£20.5M
£22.5M
‘04
‘05
‘06
‘07
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
‘13
‘14
‘10
£355M
Chesnara acquired SPI
and its subsidiary, SPP,
from JPMorgan and
Movestic acquired the
business of Aspis Liv,
a small Swedish life and
health insurer. These
purchases resulted in
a combined gain on
acquisition of £41.0m.
£25.7m new share capital
issued in the year.
‘11
£295M
The long-term business
of SPI and SPP were
transferred to CA plc
under the provisions of
Part VII of FSMA. Falls
in both equity markets
and bond yields result
in a reduction in EEV
in the year.
‘12
£311M
SPI and SPP were
de-authorised from
conducting activities
regulated under the
provisions of FSMA 2000.
Investment market factors
support the increase in
EEV in the year.
‘13
£376M
Chesnara acquired
Protection Life (formerly
Direct Line Life Insurance
Company Limited) from
Direct Line Group plc,
with an EEV gain on
acquisition of £12.3m.
Strong investment
markets drive EEV growth.
‘14
£417M
The long-term business
of Protection Life was
transferred into CA plc
under the provisions
of Part VII of FSMA.
£34.5m of new equity
raised for the pending
acquisition of the
Waard Group.
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
05
2014 HIGHLIGHTS
FINANCIAL
£28.8M
IFRS PRE-TAX PROFIT
IFRS pre-tax profit for the year ended
31 December 2014 of £28.8m
(year ended 31 December 2013: £60.6m).
Financial Review Page 30
£42.6M
GROSS CASH GENERATION
Gross cash generated in the year of £42.6m
(year ended 31 December 2013: £49.7m).
Cash Generation Page 34
£417.2M
EEV INCREASE OF £40.8M TO £417.2M
Increase in EEV from £376.4m at 31 December
2013 to £417.2m at 31 December 2014, stated
after dividend distributions of £20.7m, and new
equity of £34.5m in the year.
Financial Review Page 37
£44.2M
EEV EARNINGS AFTER TAX
EEV earnings net of tax of £44.2m
(year ended 31 December 2013: £82.7m,
before modelling adjustments).
Financial Review Page 35
Throughout the Annual Report &
Accounts the following symbols are
used to help distinguish between
the various financial and non-financial
measures reported:
IFRS
Cash generation
EEV
EEV earnings
Solvency
Dividend/Total Shareholder Return
Part VII
Operational performance
Compliance
New business market share
Acquisitions
06
£8.9M
MOVESTIC EEV NEW BUSINESS CONTRIBUTION
Movestic has generated a new business contribution of £8.9m
in the year (year ended 31 December 2013: £7.2m), representing
an increase of 23.6% year on year.
Financial Review Page 35
284%
GROUP SOLVENCY
Strong Insurance Group Directive solvency cover of 284% (31 December 2013:
194%), stated after the impact of £34.5m of new equity raised during the year.
Financial Management Page 25
2.9%
FULL YEAR DIVIDEND INCREASE
Total dividends for the year increased by 2.9% to 18.40p per
share (6.42p interim and 11.98p proposed final). This compares
with 17.88p per share in 2013 (6.25p interim and 11.63p final).
OPER ATIONAL AND STR ATEGIC
ANNOUNCEMENT TO ACQUIRE
THE ENTIRE SHARE CAPITAL
OF THE WAARD GROUP
During December 2014 Chesnara announced its intention to
purchase the entire share capital of the Waard Group which will
add further value to the Group.
£34.5M OF EQUITY RAISED TO FUND
THE WAARD GROUP ACQUISITION
During December 2014 the Group issued £34.5m of new equity
share capital (stated after issue costs) to support the acquisition of
the Waard Group, due to complete in 2015. This has contributed
to an increase in Group solvency at 31 December 2014. Waard Group
numbers will be reported once the acquisition has completed.
PART VII TRANSFER OF PROTECTION
LIFE INTO CA PLC
In line with our plans the insurance business of Protection Life
was successfully transferred into Countrywide Assured plc on
31 December 2014 under Part VII of FSMA 2000.
EXTENSION OF CORE OUTSOURCE
CONTRACT WITH HCL
We have extended our core outsource contract with HCL which ensures
continuity of service and certainty of cost over a further 10 year period.
MANAGEMENT ACTIONS TAKEN
TO ENHANCE THE PROFITABILITY
OF NEW BUSINESS
Revised funding structures, including “white-labelling” initiatives,
delivered during the year, contributing to a 17% increase in
new business margins.
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION A OVERVIEW
CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT
OVERVIEW SECTION A
During 2014 there have been significant developments
to the Chesnara Group. In particular we have
announced the acquisition of the Waard Group in
the Netherlands. Whilst the deal offers attractive
returns in terms of both cash generation potential
and embedded value growth, perhaps the most
significant aspect is the opportunity we see to repeat
the ongoing success of the UK consolidation model
in a new territory. As always the ongoing development
of the Group’s acquisition strategy will never be at
the expense of ensuring we continue to maximise the
value emerging from our existing business and
doing so in a responsible manner. In light of this, I am
particularly pleased to report continued strong
financial and regulatory performance in the year across
all our businesses.
Peter Mason, Chairman
Notes
1. Throughout the Chairman’s Statement, Business Review and Financial Review sections, all results quoted at a business segment level exclude the
impact of consolidation adjustments. These consolidation adjustments are analysed by business segment on page 33.
2. Net cash generation in the year is defined as the net amount of the following items:
i. Gross cash generation, defined as:
a. the change in the excess of actual regulatory capital resources over target capital resources in respect of the CA, S&P and PL operating segments;
b. less capital contributions made by the Group to the Movestic operating segment;
c. less cash utilised by Parent Company operations.
ii. Plus the cash impact of one-off management actions coupled with movements in the restrictions of policyholder funds to shareholder funds.
As such, the cash generation KPIs defined above do not align to the Cash Flow Statement as included in the IFRS Financial Statements.
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
07
CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT (CONTINUED)
I start my Chairman’s statement by reviewing how Chesnara has delivered against its three core strategic objectives and how it has done so
remaining true to its well established culture and values of treating customers fairly and adopting a robust approach to regulatory compliance.
1 Maximise value from
the in-force book
2
Enhance value
through new business
3
Acquire life and
pension businesses
£71.1m of net cash generation
including the benefits of the
Protection Life Part VII transfer
Increasing new business profits
in Sweden have significantly added
to its franchise value.
Reference & page number:
Business review page 19
Reference & page number:
Business review pages 22 to 23
Acquisition of the Waard Group
in the Netherlands. Note 1
Reference & page number:
Business review page 24
Note 1: Subject to Dutch
regulatory approval.
Chesnara culture and values
Improved Group solvency of 284% (31 December 2013: 194%), stated after the impact of £34.5m of new
equity raised in the year. We expect an element of the increase since last year to reverse on completion
of the Waard Group acquisition in 2015. On-going sound regulatory record.
Reference & page number: Business review page 25
Maximise value from the in-force book
Despite generally adverse investment market conditions,
in particular a relatively sharp reduction in the yield curve,
the UK in-force book has continued to provide a reliable
and resilient source of cash. The variable element of our
financial model, namely S&P, has been adversely affected
by a reduction in the yield curve, as would be expected,
such that the increased exposure to policy guarantees has
resulted in a cash strain. Reassuringly the more stable
element of the financial model, consisting of CA, CWA and
Protection Life, has generated levels of surplus broadly in
line with expectations. Also, during the year there have
been two key developments which will have a positive impact
in terms of the emergence of value from the existing book in
the future. We have extended our core outsource contract
with HCL which ensures continuity of service and certainty
of cost over a further 10 year period. Also, we have
migrated the actuarial services that HCL used to provide to
Towers Watson. As a more specialist actuarial operation,
Towers Watson will offer a more flexible solution
better suited to respond to future reporting and capital
management requirements.
The embedded value of Movestic has increased during the
year. However, this increase has been dampened by the
depreciation of the Swedish Krona against Sterling during 2014.
Cash available for distribution
2014: £71.1m* 2013: £36.7m
*including Part VII impact of £27.4m
Enhance value through new business
New business profits in Movestic have continued to increase
during the year. At the 2014 level of new business profit of
£8.9m, I believe that, although we primarily retain a closed
book consolidation focus, the franchise value of our
Swedish new business operation has become a significant
aspect to the valuation of the Chesnara Group.
Movestic new business contribution in 2014
£8.9m 2013: £7.2m
Acquiring Life and Pension Businesses
Before I comment on the recently announced acquisition
of the Waard Group in the Netherlands I would like to provide
an update on the status of the acquisition of Protection
Life. The business has contributed significantly to the cash
generation of the Group. IFRS pre-tax profits of £5.5m
are broadly in line with expectations. In addition, the Part
VII transfer was completed in December and the resulting
capital efficiencies will enable a one-off cash transfer of
£27.4m to Chesnara plc.
During December we announced our intention to acquire the
Waard Group in the Netherlands. The move into a third
geographical market received strong investor support. The
positive equity raise process was consistent with the level
of potential we see in the acquisition in its own right but also
the strategic opportunity arising from entering a new territory
in which closed book consolidation has yet to reach levels
historically seen in the UK.
Our market intelligence suggests significant market
consolidation potential in the Netherlands and we are pleased
to be in a position to apply our acquisition and consolidation
expertise, together with Waard Group management’s local
knowledge, in the Dutch market.
08
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION A OVERVIEWInvestment proposition
The strong performance referred to on the previous page
has resulted in continued strong returns to shareholders.
The results have enabled us to continue our attractive
dividend strategy whilst also ensuring we retain sufficient
cash resources to support our growth strategy. The effective
balance between dividend payments and the retention of
capital to invest in acquisitions has been a key reason why
Chesnara has out performed the FTSE 350 higher yield index.
Chesnara
FTSE 350 higher
yield index
2014 5 year
11%
1%
145%
47%
Chesnara culture and values
Delivery of our objectives is underpinned by our well
established culture and values which are based on an ethos
of responsible management. All our business decisions are
made so as to ensure policyholders are treated fairly and both
policyholders and shareholders are not exposed to levels
of risk beyond our risk appetite. More information about the
Group’s culture and values is included within the Strategic
Report on pages 25 to 27.
Before I move on to consider the outlook for the Group I would
like to take the opportunity to comment on the recent change
in CEO. Graham Kettleborough had been CEO for 10 years from
the initial listing of Chesnara plc. He has been at the heart
of the Chesnara success story to date and I would like to thank
him for his significant contribution to the Group. During that
period shareholders, many of whom have been loyal investors
from day one, have received extremely competitive total
returns. As importantly however, shareholder returns have never
been delivered to the detriment of ensuring policyholders are
treated fairly and the Group has continued to be highly compliant
in all regulatory matters.
It is easy to talk about matters such as culture and values but in
reality it is only possible to maintain standards if the senior
decision makers truly share the same cultural values. With this
in mind a key priority in appointing Graham’s replacement
was to ensure any new CEO had a strong cultural fit and shared
values. I strongly believe that following a rigorous recruitment
process, Chesnara has managed to achieve this key objective
of cultural continuity.
John Deane was appointed as Group CEO on 1 January 2015
and I am confident he will build upon all that is good about
Chesnara and also drive it forward to ensure we take maximum
advantage of the opportunities the strategic move into the
Netherlands will present.
In addition to providing momentum to our new venture in the
Netherlands John has demonstrated from a very early
stage that sound governance remains at the heart of any
long term success. He has developed a revised
Governance model that adopts best practice, implemented
in a pragmatic fashion. This will ensure any future
development of the Chesnara Group continues to be built
upon solid regulatory, risk appetite and culturally
responsible foundations.
Regulatory
About the time of writing my statement in last year’s Report
& Accounts the UK Government had just announced
proposed changes to the annuity market. Shortly after, the
FCA announced its intention to undertake a full review of
legacy closed book operations. Our early assessment of the
potential impact of these two issues was that Chesnara
would not be materially affected. We have worked to support
the FCA legacy review and our assessment of these two
issues remains unchanged. That said, the fact is that until
the FCA concludes on the scope of the legacy review a
degree of uncertainty of impact remains and management
will manage the risk through the general governance and
risk management framework.
Outlook
The acquisition of the Waard Group creates a three territory
business model. This gives Chesnara wider reach, optionality
and flexibility thereby improving the outlook for the
continuation of our successful acquisition strategy. In addition
to the benefits of a wider target market, my confidence in
our acquisition strategy is underpinned by three key factors:
i) Strong financial foundations
We have the financial strength to fund future acquisitions.
In particular we are modestly geared, have healthy
solvency margins and have own cash available. We also
continue to receive strong support from shareholders
and lending institutions.
ii) Good regulatory track record
We continue our good regulatory track record in the UK and
Sweden and there are positive signs and a strong intent to
build similarly good relations with regulators in the Netherlands.
Strong regulatory focus will mean regulators see Chesnara
as a responsible buyer who will ensure the interests of
policyholders are protected.
iii) Expertise and experience
Our recent track record demonstrates that the management
team has the required drive and capabilities to deliver all
aspects of successful acquisitions. The management team
of the Waard Group will further enhance this capability
into the Dutch market. We demonstrate diligent assessment
of the risks and benefits of any opportunity, we have
the commercial experience to effectively price for risk and
importantly we have the technical and operational expertise
to integrate acquired businesses into the Chesnara Group,
thereby ensuring risks are managed and the benefits emerge
as required.
In addition to my positive assessment of the acquisition
strategy, the robustness of the UK in-force business and the
continued growth in the Movestic new business results
both contribute to my overall conclusion that the Chesnara
Group is well positioned to continue to provide value to our
shareholders and policyholders.
Peter Mason
Chairman
30 March 2015
09
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014 OVERVIEW SECTION A
10
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
SECTION B
STRATEGIC
REPORT
IN THIS SECTION
12 Our Vision & Strategy
13 Strategic Objectives, Culture and Values
16 The Chesnara Business
17 Business Model
18 Business Review
28 Financial Review
40 Financial Management
44 Risk Management
47 Solvency II
48 Corporate and Social Responsibility
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
11
OUR VISION & STRATEGY
MISSION
VISION
STR ATEGIC
OBJECTIVES
Our mission is to deliver value for shareholders, while maximising
returns to policyholders. Underpinning everything we do is a desire
to maintain regulatory and legal compliance. Meeting these aims
is achieved through attracting and retaining highly talented people who
not only bring expertise and quality thinking into our business
and industry, but also have a passion for improving outcomes for our
customers and shareholders. All members of the Chesnara team
share a common value in recognising their responsibility to shareholders
and policyholders.
To be recognised as a responsible and profitable company engaged
in the management of life and pensions books in the UK and Western
Europe. The Group remains committed to delivering competitive
returns to both its shareholders and policyholders, and continues
to focus on:
– the core business of maximising value from the in-force life and
pensions book;
– value enhancement through the writing of profitable new business in
Sweden; and
– making further life and pensions acquisitions where they meet stringent
assessment criteria.
While we focus on delivering value to shareholders primarily through
dividend streams arising from strong cash generation as the UK life
and pensions books run off, we also consider the acquisition of open
businesses where there is clear value enhancement and where the
scale is such that our core proposition of being principally a closed book
consolidator and manager does not become unbalanced.
At Chesnara the strategic objectives, which support the fulfilment of
our mission and the realisation of our vision, are embedded in
day-to-day business operations and underpin Management decisions.
At the core of the business is the recognition by the Board
and Management Team of their responsibilities to policyholders and
shareholders, so that the values and principles of management
wholly align with strategic objectives. This value of responsibility is
at the heart of the Chesnara business model. Our core strategic
objectives are explained and evidenced on the following pages.
12
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORTSTRATEGIC OBJECTIVES, CULTURE AND VALUES
Introduction
Chesnara is engaged in the ownership of life assurance and
ancillary company assets in the UK and Western Europe.
The Group’s aim is to deliver a reliable and attractive income
stream to its shareholders. The aim is to extend this and/or
take the opportunity to increase shareholder value through
the acquisition of financial services companies and/or the
development of existing Group businesses.
Chesnara has a clear aim to unlock value for our shareholders
through the acquisition, restructuring and development of
financial services companies domiciled in Western Europe.
This aim is captured in our three core strategic objectives:
1 Maximise value from the in-force book
2 Enhance value through new business in selected markets
3 Acquire life and pensions businesses
In endeavouring to achieve the strategic objectives, Chesnara
will always be mindful of the need to preserve a strong
responsible culture and set of common values across the
Group. The culture and values underpin the delivery of our
core strategic objectives. It should be self-evident in the way
the Group conducts business and more specifically, how
it treats customers, employees, investors and regulators.
1 Maximise value from
the in-force book
2
Enhance value
through new business
3
Acquire life and
pension businesses
Chesnara culture and values
General business
conduct
Treatment of
customers
Treatment of
employees
Treatment of
investors
Relationship with
regulators
The following pages describe our strategic objectives and core culture and values in more detail.
The Movestic funds are managed by a carefully selected range
of fund managers who have strong performance records
in the relevant sector. Performance is monitored very closely
and regular meetings are held with fund managers. Should
under-performance continue then an alternative manager is
sourced and appointed to manage the relevant assets.
Where a new market niche or specific opportunity is identified
new funds may also be added.
We adopt a business operating model which ensures unit
expenses remain appropriate for the scale of the in-force book.
UK operations are predominantly outsourced, with contract
charging structures that ensure a significant element of the
cost base varies in line with the run-off of the business.
Acquisitions are integrated into the Chesnara Group in a
manner to ensure optimum operational and financial synergies.
Risks associated with this strategic objective
– Sustained adverse investment market conditions
challenge our ability to manage financial risks inherent
in the in-force portfolio.
– Despite the effective cost management model, in the absence
of further acquisitions or management action, there remains
a risk that unit costs will increase in the long-term.
– A number of factors including economic recession, adverse
investment performance and a deterioration in customer
servicing standards could lead to an increase in policy attrition.
– Regulatory change can affect the value emerging from
the in-force books.
1
MAXIMISE VALUE FROM THE
IN-FORCE BOOKS
Why is this of strategic importance?
Chesnara is primarily a “closed book” operation and as such
generating surplus and cash from the existing in-force books
is at the heart of its investment proposition.
How do we deliver this strategic objective?
We proactively manage continuing financial exposures.
Significant financial exposures in life and pensions portfolios
typically arise from onerous policy options and guarantees,
and compensation claims for past misselling of products.
For example the S&P segment brings exposure to the impact
of investment market performance due to a portion of the
policies containing options and guarantees to policyholders.
Furthermore, the Group continues to have exposure to
market weakness by way of the impact on policyholders’
linked funds, from which surplus is generated. We seek to
minimise this exposure by regular review of investment asset
holdings and by adjusting investment manager guidelines
where appropriate and within the boundaries of our obligations
to policyholders.
We operate in a manner that aims to ensure that policy
attrition is as low as possible, as this is a key determinant of
our future profitability and of the level and longevity of the
emergence of surplus, which underpins our dividend-paying
capacity. As such we continue to maintain a focus on the
retention of policies where it is in the interest of customers
to continue with their arrangements.
We continue to manage investment performance so as to
provide a competitive level of return to our policyholders.
The CA funds are primarily managed by Schroder Investment
Management Limited; the CWA funds are managed by
Irish Life Investment Managers Limited and the S&P funds
are managed by JPMorgan Asset Management (UK) Limited.
We meet formally with fund managers on a quarterly basis
to assess past performance and future strategy.
13
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES, CULTURE AND VALUES (CONTINUED)
2
ENHANCE VALUE THROUGH NEW
BUSINESS IN SELECTED MARKETS
3
ACQUIRE LIFE AND PENSIONS
BUSINESSES
Why is this of strategic importance?
Why is this of strategic importance?
– The Chesnara business model primarily focuses on “closed
book” consolidation. However, where acquisitions offer the
potential to write new business with adequate return on capital
we will continue to invest in the new business operations
so as to maximise value for the Group.
– As with any business, it is important that we use our capital
efficiently to provide optimum returns to shareholders.
– As a primarily “closed book” operation, further acquisitions
can maintain and increase the Group’s cash flow and
operational economies of scale.
– Maintaining a flexible position regarding the willingness to
remain open to new business will potentially increase the
number of acquisition targets and indeed our attractiveness
to such targets.
How do we deliver this strategic objective?
Ultimately we rely on acquisition opportunities being available
in our target market of the UK and Western Europe.
How do we deliver this strategic objective?
The only part of the Chesnara Group writing material levels of
new business is Movestic, our Swedish business. Movestic
has a new business operation that delivers a positive new
business contribution. There are detailed business plans
in place that aim to increase new business profits through
a combination of new product launches and improvements
to operational effectiveness. Local and Group management
continually assess Movestic’s performance to ensure being
open to new business continues to enhance value.
We actively engage with various investment advisers to ensure
we are aware of acquisition opportunities.
We leverage our proven track record in the consolidation
market. Past experience suggests we maintain a high degree
of credibility with regulators, policyholders, lenders and
shareholders. All prior acquisitions have been delivered with
no adverse impact in terms of treating customers fairly,
regulatory standing or our reputation in the life and pensions
consolidation market.
Risks associated with this strategic objective
– New business volumes fall below levels required to ensure
We will only pursue opportunities which meet very stringent
assessment criteria.
sufficient return on the acquisition cost base.
– Product margins fall to unsustainable levels due to factors
including; market price pressures, reduced investment growth,
increased policy lapse rates and increasing maintenance
unit costs.
– Regulatory change may impact the profitability of writing
new business.
Risks associated with this strategic objective
– If Chesnara makes no further acquisitions there will be a
potential strain on the per policy unit costs of the existing
business, with the potential impact on dividend sustainability.
– Any departure from the current, stringent acquisition
assessment criteria and due diligence procedures could result
in an acquisition that, under certain stress scenarios, adversely
impacts the financial strength of the Group.
– Regulatory demands can act as a barrier to delivering
this objective.
14
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORTCHESNARA CULTURE AND VALUES
Why is this of strategic importance?
Continuing to maintain a strong responsible culture is
imperative in delivering the three core strategic objectives
of the Group. Not doing so could compromise the ability to
deliver this strategy.
The culture and values should be self-evident in the way the
Group conducts business and more specifically, how it treats
customers, employees, investors and regulators.
General business conduct
Chesnara embraces the UK Corporate Governance Code and
its associated guidance and the Group will:
– conduct business with professionalism and integrity.
– conduct business with due care, skill and attention and in
accordance with accepted business practices followed in the
industries and territories within which we are operating.
Treatment of employees
Chesnara is committed to ensuring all employees across
the Group, whether temporary or permanent, full time or
part time, and regardless of race, disability, gender, gender
reassignment, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief,
marriage or civil partnership, sexual orientation or age are
treated fairly and are offered access to opportunities on
an equitable basis.
In support of this commitment, subsidiaries throughout
the Group will:
– pay regard to employees and treat them fairly, including
ensuring that they are fairly rewarded for the contribution that
they make to the Group.
– create an open culture where issues and concerns of
employees can be raised.
– maintain an appropriate whistle blowing policy.
– not tolerate harassment, victimisation or discrimination.
– ensure that employees are adequately trained and supported
– take care to organise and control our affairs responsibly and
effectively, with adequate risk management systems.
for the roles they undertake.
– maintain adequate financial resources.
– observe proper standards of market conduct.
– manage conflicts of interest fairly.
– pay regard to corporate social and environmental
responsibilities.
The Group operates in accordance with high legal, moral
and ethical standards. Whenever an employee deals on
behalf of any part of the Group with a supplier, customer,
regulator or other third party, that employee is required to
act in the best interests of the Group whilst maintaining
these overall standards.
Treatment of customers
The majority of customers of the Group have not been sold
a policy by a Group subsidiary but have been acquired by
Chesnara following the acquisition of a subsidiary that sold
them their policy. They have a right to expect that a Group
subsidiary will honour these terms. On occasions these terms
will be amended by court orders or local legislation. Guidance
from local regulators on the application or removal of policy
conditions will be taken into account in the treatment of our
customers while balanced with the interests of our
shareholders. Each subsidiary will:
Treatment of Investors
Chesnara seeks to protect the interests of its investors at all
times by operating its business within a controlled governance
and risk management environment. It also follows the
fundamental principles of making fair disclosure of information
to investors and conducting open and honest communication
with them.
In support of this:
– The Board is responsible for maintaining an ongoing dialogue
with shareholders, and regularly reviewing the shareholders’
communication process to ensure its effectiveness.
– Chesnara maintains a policy of frank communication, and
delivers information to shareholders and investors through
various channels, including:
– The financial reports, including interim and annual reports.
– Annual General Meetings and other Extraordinary General
Meetings that may be convened.
– Making available on the Chesnara website all the disclosed
information submitted to the London Stock Exchange,
Chesnara’s public communications and other Chesnara
publications.
Relationship with regulators
The Group operates in a number of jurisdictions. It will:
– pay regard to the interests of customers and treat them fairly,
maintaining an appropriate Treating Customers Fairly policy,
or equivalent for each regulatory jurisdiction, and monitor the
adherence to that policy.
– deal with regulators in an open and co-operative way and
disclose anything relating to the Group, Divisions or individual
subsidiaries of which the regulators would reasonably
expect notice.
– pay regard to the information needs of customers and
communicate information to them in a way which is clear,
fair and not misleading.
– comply with the regulations for any areas of activity in which
we operate.
15
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION BSECTION B STR ATEGIC REPORT
THE CHESNARA BUSINESS
The history of the development of
the Chesnara Group, together with a
description of the characteristics of
our operating businesses, illustrates
how we have endeavoured to achieve
our strategic objectives and how
we have created the platform for their
ongoing realisation.
The successive acquisitions made by Chesnara have
progressively increased the overall longevity of its run-off
portfolio, while diversifying the policy base. At 31 December
2014, the Group had 246,000 (2013: 254,000) pension
policies and 612,000 (2013: 613,000) life policies in force.
Chesnara continues to seek to
participate in the consolidation of life
assurance and pensions businesses in
the UK and Western Europe.
We primarily target acquisitions with a value of between
£50m and £200m, although other opportunities are
considered. All opportunities are assessed against a number
of key criteria including size, risk (including actual or potential
product and financial liabilities), discount to embedded
value, capital requirements, the pattern and quality of predicted
profit emergence and future strategic opportunities. Our
strategic approach, however, remains that such potential
acquisitions should not detract significantly from, and should
contribute to, the primary aim of delivering an attractive dividend
yield, although opportunities which present a significant
value uplift or growth opportunity will also be evaluated.
14
History (2004 – 2014)
Chesnara announces the intention to purchase the Waard
Group, an insurance group based in the Netherlands, for
€67.8 million. The acquisition is to be part-funded by £34.5m
of new equity share capital that was issued during the year
and is awaiting regulatory approval.
The insurance business of Protection Life Company Limited
is transferred into Countrywide Assured plc under Part VII of
the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA).
Chesnara acquired Direct Line Life Insurance Company Limited
(subsequently renamed Protection Life Company Limited)
from Direct Line Group plc for £39.3m, funded by a mixture
of bank debt and internal cash resources. PL is closed to
new business, with a portfolio containing non-linked products,
including mortgage life cover, fixed term life cover (both
with and without critical illness cover) and over 50s life cover
to UK customers.
SPI and SPP were de-authorised from conducting activities
regulated under the provisions of the Financial Services and
Markets Act 2000, thereby releasing £7.0m of solvency capital.
The long-term business funds and part of the shareholder
funds of SPI and SPP were transferred to CA plc under the
provisions of Part VII of FSMA, thereby realising significant
financial and operational synergies.
Chesnara acquired SPI and its subsidiary, SPP, from JPMorgan
Asset Management Limited for a consideration of £63.5m,
funded by a mixture of debt and new equity capital. SPI and
SPP are also closed UK Life and Pensions businesses
whose portfolios predominantly comprise pensions policies
(both unit-linked and with-profits), endowments (some
with-profits) and protection policies.
Movestic acquired the in-force business, personnel,
expertise and systems of Aspis Försäkrings Liv AB, a small
Swedish life and health insurer, thereby complementing
Movestic’s existing focus on pensions and savings contracts.
Chesnara acquired Movestic Liv, an open predominantly
unit-linked Swedish Life and Pensions business, for £20m,
representing a significant discount to its embedded value.
Subsequently a new subsidiary, Movestic Kapitalförvaltning
was established to separate out fund selection and
management activities from Movestic Liv and to develop
these services in the wider marketplace.
The long-term business of CWA was transferred to CA plc
under the provisions of Part VII of the Financial Services
and Markets Act 2000 (‘FSMA’), thereby realising significant
financial and operational synergies.
Chesnara acquired CWA from Irish Life and Permanent plc
for a consideration of £47.8m, funded principally by a mixture
of debt and new equity capital. CWA is also a substantially
closed UK Life and Pensions business. Its portfolio, which
is also predominantly unit-linked, comprises endowments,
protection and pensions policies.
Chesnara listed on the London Stock Exchange, following
its acquisition of CA plc on the latter’s demerger from
Countrywide plc, a large estate agency group. CA is a
substantially closed UK Life and Pensions business whose
portfolio predominantly comprises unit-linked endowment
and protection policies.
13
12
11
10
09
06
05
04
16
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
BUSINESS MODEL
Business model
The following sets out the key operating characteristics
of the Chesnara business:
Chesnara plc and the UK business activities are based in
Preston, Lancashire, while Movestic is based in Stockholm
in Sweden. Chesnara has 25 (2013: 21) full-time
equivalent employees in its corporate governance team in
the UK. In Sweden, the headcount is 131 (2013:123).
UK
Sweden
– The primary focus of the business is the efficient run-off
– The primary focus of the Swedish business is to profitably
grow market share in the company-paid and individual
pensions market, whilst developing further profitable business
in other areas, in particular in the risk and health market.
Writing new business requires funding to support the initial
costs incurred: this is provided by way of external financial
reinsurance or cash contributions from Chesnara. As the
in-force business portfolio grows in scale the income
generated by it eventually allows the business to self-fund
and become a net generator of cash.
– As the Movestic book is open and in a growth phase, we
retain a broader-based management and operational team.
Rather than outsource core functions, we believe that it is
important that the drive and team ethic of Movestic is
preserved as it seeks to grow profitable market share in our
target markets. Whilst Movestic manages the selection
of appropriate investment funds, investment decisions are
made solely by the fund managers.
of its existing life and pensions portfolios. This gives rise to
the emergence of surplus which supports our primary aim
of delivering an attractive dividend yield to our shareholders.
By the very nature of the life business assets, the surplus
arising will deplete over time as the policies mature, expire
or are the subject of a claim.
– We maintain a professional corporate governance team
which is responsible for both the regulatory and operational
requirements of the listed entity Chesnara and those of the
UK business. Our team is intentionally small and focused in
the interests of keeping the overall expense base tight. It
has the capability to manage the UK business and to assess
acquisition opportunities, and is supplemented from time
to time by temporary resource if justified by operational or
strategic demands.
– The operating model of our UK business is directed towards
maintaining shareholder value by outsourcing all support
activities to professional specialists. This typically embraces
policy administration, systems, accounting, actuarial and
investment management and reduces the impact of potential
fixed and semi-fixed cost issues which would otherwise
occur as the income streams arising from a declining in-force
portfolio diminish. By securing long-term contracts to support
these activities we aim to enhance the variability of the
expense base with the size of the in-force policy portfolio. This
also leads to the avoidance of the full weight of systems
development costs, as these will, where possible, be shared
with other users of the outsourcers’ platforms.
– Oversight of the outsourced functions is a significant part
of the responsibility of the central governance team.
The maintenance of service and performance standards,
and thereby the core interests of shareholders and
policyholders, is maintained through a strict regime of
service level agreements and through continuous monitoring
of performance. This is reinforced by adherence to the
principles and practice of treating customers fairly.
17
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION BBUSINESS REVIEW
Introduction
The Business Review is structured to report on how we have
performed against each of our three stated strategic objectives
and our culture and values. Where relevant the review reports
separately for our UK and Swedish operations. The review
focuses on:
– How we have performed generally
– Key developments or challenges
– Key performance indicators
– Risks associated with each objective
Our strategic objectives, culture and values are reassessed on an annual basis as part of the Group
business planning process. Their continued relevance gives consideration to recent performance,
emerging risks and future opportunity. They are assessed giving full regard to both internal and
external influences e.g. changes to regulatory requirements.
In the 2013 Report & Accounts we reported five core strategic objectives. This year, to reflect the
way the Group manages itself, the objectives “Maintain a strong solvency position” and “Adopt
good regulatory practice at all times” have been re-presented to be included within our overall
Chesnara culture and values. This better reflects the fact that these are a “given” and underpin
the delivery of our three core strategic objectives.
The governance framework seeks to ensure that controls and procedures are in place to protect
all stakeholders. The control environment has remained effective and robust throughout the year.
Further details of the operation of the governance framework, and its future development, are
included in Section C – Corporate Governance, including a governance overview from the Chairman.
1 Maximise value from
the in-force book
2
Enhance value
through new business
3
Acquire life and
pension businesses
Chesnara culture and values
General business
conduct
Treatment of
customers
Treatment of
employees
Treatment of
investors
Relationship with
regulators
18
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORT
BUSINESS REVIEW
1
MAXIMISE VALUE FROM THE IN-FORCE BOOK UK
STR ATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
Strong cash generation
continues despite adverse
investment market
conditions. Operational cash is
complemented by exceptional cash
emerging from the Part VII transfer
of Protection Life.
Highlights
– £50.9m of gross cash generation (2013: £54.1m),
excluding Chesnara parent company cash.
– £27.4m exceptional cash release due to the Part VII
transfer of PL into CA plc, contributing to net cash
generation of £79.4m (2013: £41.1m).
– Funds under management resilient to book run off.
– Positive EEV development.
– Solid fund performance.
– Improved policy attrition levels.
Review of the year
Operational performance has been strong across the three
key areas of focus for the in-force book, namely: management
of the assets, regulatory compliance and ensuring we
continue to provide a high quality service to policyholders in
terms of administration service levels and investment return.
Our administration and asset management outsource
partners have all performed well during the year and
generally exceeded service level arrangements and relevant
benchmarks. In light of this we are pleased to have extended
our outsource contract with HCL for a further 10 year
period. The financial terms are in line with revised expense
assumptions recognised in 2013. We have also transferred
the actuarial services that HCL used to provide to Towers
Watson. As a specialist actuarial service consultancy Towers
Watson are better placed to respond to the changes imposed
by business development and regulatory change.
The CA plc Investment Committee has continued its oversight
of policyholder funds through regular meetings with the
investment managers. We continue to work with our
managers in order to ensure the underlying investment mix
is the most appropriate for policyholders. All our primary
managed funds have outperformed benchmarks during 2014.
£50.9m (2013: £54.1m) of gross cash
generated from business as usual operations
Gross cash generation during the year has remained strong
in light of generally adverse investment market conditions.
This is primarily due to the core product based surpluses
being sufficiently resilient to market conditions to compensate
for a reduction in cash emerging from the more volatile
During the year we have progressed
the integration of Protection Life
which will ensure we maximise the potential
value from the acquisition. In particular,
the successful Part VII transfer has created
a more capital efficient model thereby
enabling a one-off significant cash transfer.
business segment, namely S&P. This is consistent with the
fact that the S&P surplus is sensitive to investment market
performance, which was generally adverse during the year.
Unit-linked funds under management
The levels of unit-linked funds under management continue to
support the on-going level of profitability of the UK business,
as fund-related charges are an important component of profit.
The movement in the value of unit-linked funds under
management is a function of:
i)
performance of the funds across UK equities, international
equities, property and fixed interest securities;
ii) received and invested premiums; and
iii) policies closed, due to surrender, transfer or claim. Good
performance by our administration and investment
management business partners has contributed positively
to all three of the above factors.
Unit linked funds under management remain
constant at £2.3bn despite book run off.
Risks associated with the strategic objective
S&P has a proportion of its product base that provides
guaranteed returns. The probability of guarantees being of
value to policyholders increases when the value of assets held
to match the policy liabilities falls or when, particularly for
those guarantees expressed as an amount of pension, bond
yields fall. To mitigate this risk, to some extent, assets held
by shareholders to provide security for these guarantees are
invested in cash and long bonds. As a consequence, our results
will be negatively affected by falls in equity and property
values, which impact assets backing policyholder liabilities,
and/or falls in bond yields, which impacts the cost of providing
the guarantees were they to occur. Conversely, increasing
markets and yields will positively affect the results. Close
management of the portfolio backing these liabilities continues.
Increased lapses on cash generative products are also a risk
to the delivery of this strategic objective. We manage this
risk through:
– Close monitoring of persistency levels.
– Active investment management to aim to deliver
competitive policyholder investment returns.
– Outsourcer service levels that ensure strong customer
service standards.
– Customer retention processes.
Unit-linked funds under
management (£m)
2,300
2,331
Fund performance
Policy attrition, based on policy count
CA Pension Managed
CWA Balanced Managed Pension
S&P Managed Pension
ABI Mixed Inv 40%- 85% shares
2014
2013
8.5% 8.6%
18.2%
20.4%
13.9%
14.6%
7.0% 8.2% 6.9% 5.0%
5.5% 5.7%
7.1%
6.8%
6.9% 7.0%
2014
2013
2014
2013
CA
S&P
PL
Total UK
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
19
BUSINESS REVIEW
1
MAXIMISE VALUE FROM THE IN-FORCE BOOK SWEDEN
Following a favourable investment
market performance, good new business
levels and the impact of transfers
creating a net inflow, Movestic’s funds
under management have increased
by 23.0% during 2014.
Highlights
– Strong growth in funds under management;
increase of 23.0% during 2014.
– Positive EEV development.
– Stable policy attrition levels.
– Competitive fund performance.
– Transfer-in levels exceed transfer outflows thereby
reversing a recent trend for net outflows.
– Krona depreciation against Sterling in the year
reduces reported results.
Review of the year
During 2014 continued IFA support, good service and support
and strong investment performance led to increasing new
sales, a large amount of transferred in business and a stabilised
position for transferred out business. The focus to ensure
that we continue to provide a high quality service to IFAs and
policyholders in terms of administration service levels and
investment return continues and independent market surveys
show continuing positive ratings. This has resulted in the
further growth in the Pensions and Savings business on all key
measures including funds under management, profitability
and policy numbers.
The Life & Health book of business remains stable and the
portfolio continues to deliver high quality in terms of claims
development with a gross loss ratio of 56.5% for 2014 (2013:
50.3%). An element of the increase in loss ratio is due to
increasing claims on health contracts. As a result we no longer
write new health business.
The scale of the Pension and Savings in-force book in Sweden
is such that profits emerging from it are relatively modest
in comparison to UK equivalents. As such, the challenge is
to increase the value of the funds under management from
which we earn income in the form of management charges
and fund rebates. The following matrix illustrates the factors
that directly influence the growth of the in-force book:
NEW
BUSINESS
POLICY
ATTRITION
GROWTH
The general performance on all four factors has been
positive resulting in strong fund growth, as illustrated by
the chart below:
21.9
17.8
)
n
b
(
K
E
S
14.3
2012
2013
2014
The factors are considered in more detail below:
New business
The review of the new business operation is covered in
the “Enhance value from new business” objective review
on page 22.
Policy attrition (fig 1 & fig 2 on the following page)
Policy attrition levels during 2014 have been relatively
stable. The most significant measure is the level of pension
transfers. Pension transfers out have improved. The levels
experienced are deemed to be an inherent feature of the
broader dynamics of the IFA market, rather than being a direct
reflection of any Movestic specific issues. In light of this,
the embedded value assumes no material improvement in
persistency levels in the future. Management continually
seeks to improve service levels, with a view to positively
impacting the longer term persistency levels. Any positive
impact will only be recognised if improvements are seen in
actual attrition rates.
Despite there being only modest improvements in transfer-out
levels, the ratios of transferred in business to transferred
out has improved further during 2014 to an extent that transfer
inflows now exceed outflows.
The ratio of transferred-in business
to transferred-out business has
reached a milestone during 2014 in
that transfers created a net inflow
of funds during the year.
20%
80%
40%
60%
52%
48%
FUND
PERFORMANCE
PREMIUM
INCOME
2012
2013
2014
Transferred out
Transferred in
20
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORT
Policy attrition trend analysis (fig 1)
Lapses/paid-ups (pensions and endowments)
Transfers (Pensions)
19.4%
16.3%
18.9%
11.5%
4.8%
4.4%
5.2%
5.0%
Q1 2014
Q2 2014
Q3 2014
Q4 2014
Policy attrition 2014 vs. 2013 (fig 2)
2014
2013
16.6%
15.0%
4.9%
5.2%
Transfers (Pensions)
Lapses/Paid-ups (Pensions)
and Endowments
Fund performance (fig 3)
Outperformed against the relevant index
Underperformed against the relevant index
35
35
26
39
12 months to
December 2014
12 months to
December 2013
Total premium income (SEK(m))(fig 4)
Total
Risk & health
Pensions & savings – Deposit insurance
2013
2014
864
714
694
956
1,010 1,017
881
868
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Fund performance (fig 3)
One of Movestic’s key differentiators is its approach to
selecting the funds available to investors. Rather than adopt
mainstream funds, which, in Sweden, are those predominantly
managed by subsidiaries of banks which also have life
assurance subsidiaries, we select a limited number of funds
from a wide range of independent fund managers.
The funds selected are, in general, actively managed funds
with a value approach. The performance of all funds is closely
monitored and regular contact is made with managers
to ensure that the underlying reason for fund performance,
whether positive or negative, is fully understood. Funds
that do not perform favourably compared with the relevant
index are wholly replaced if there are no acceptable strategies
for improvement. Where applicable we continue to add further
funds to fill perceived gaps in the range. Activity during
2014 included the development of a Movestic sustainability
fund which is deemed to be an attractive investment
proposition in light of the strong ecological political agenda in
Sweden. Three new ‘white label’ Movestic funds were also
launched during the year together the “Movestic Sustainability
Portfolio”, which is suitable for customers who wish to draw
down money to fulfil their retirement needs.
The relative fund performance measure (fig. 3) focuses on
the number of funds under or over performing their relevant
indices. It does not recognise the level of over or under
performance nor does it reflect the relative size of each fund.
An alternative and well established fund performance measure,
produced by a respected industry magazine, compares the
value of savers’ average fund holdings. This measure best
reflects the investment performance from a policyholder
perspective. According to that measure, Movestic’s fund range
performed competitively during 2014 when compared with
our peer group, which maintains our strong market position.
Premium income (fig 4)
The increase in premium income is predominantly due to an
increase in new business levels. The recurring regular
premiums have increased marginally year on year for the
Pensions and Savings business which is key to achieving
sustained growth. Regular premiums for the Life and Health
business have remained broadly flat year on year.
Risks associated with the strategic objective
There remains a risk from high levels of lapses. It is evident
that there is inherent risk in the Swedish market where
customer awareness of the ability to transfer their pension
is a feature with increasing influence as a consequence of
ongoing public discussion. The Movestic product proposition
already offers significantly more portability for transferring
pensions than the general market. As such, although higher
transfer rates would create challenges, an increased right
to transfer would be beneficial to customers and to
Movestic in terms of its market position with other more
traditional competitors.
Profit emerging from the in-force book is dependent upon
the size of the funds under management. Adverse investment
market conditions would therefore adversely impact this
strategic objective.
From a Group perspective we are exposed to foreign currency
fluctuations which impacts the Sterling value emerging from
the Swedish operations.
21
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B BUSINESS REVIEW
2
ENHANCE VALUE THROUGH NEW BUSINESS SWEDEN
New business profits have increased
further in 2014 as the result of
continued improvement in IFA support
together with an improvement in
average margins.
Highlights
– Modest increase in new business volumes
compared with 2013.
– Improved average profit margins despite increasingly
competitive market conditions.
– The development of innovative product
concepts continues.
Review of the year
After a successful 2013, growth in new business has
continued in 2014, with continued support being provided
by the IFA market. The business is deemed to have reached
a realistically sustainable level of new business volumes
and hence focus in the year has partly been on developing
products and fund commercial structures so as to increase
the average profitability of the new business written. The 17%
increase in gross new business margin (before acquisition
costs) compared to 2013 illustrates the rewards from
management’s focus on profitability.
The approach taken by Movestic to focus on profitability and
sustainability rather than having an inappropriate expectation
of volume growth beyond a sensible natural level for the
size of the business and the market competition, is very much
in accordance with the Chesnara Group strategy regarding
writing new business. It is very reassuring to see Movestic
demonstrate how this sensible approach can continue to
generate significant new business franchise value in the Group.
New business premium income
As expected the strong growth in new premium income in
2013, which was a year of recovery, has not continued in 2014.
Volumes have, however, continued to increase, albeit at
a more sustainable rate. They are in line with plan and are
deemed to be positive in context of the market size and the
scale of the Movestic operation. More importantly the volume
is sufficient to provide a competitive return on capital and
to create significant franchise value for the Chesnara Group.
The quarterly trend analysis shows a relatively marked
reduction in the second half of 2014. This is partly a reflection
of the general seasonality of new business levels and the
inherent variability in new business over short timeframes.
In addition, during the second half of 2014 there has been
a general market shift from unit-linked products to more
traditional products offering more certainty of returns. Whilst
in the short term any preference for the benefits of more
traditional contracts puts an inevitable strain on Movestic’s
sales, the view remains that unit-linked investments will
become increasingly attractive over time as the sustainability
of the returns being offered on traditional contracts
becomes unviable.
Trend analysis of new business
premium income (£m)
65.0
Q4, 14.0
Q3, 12.7
Q2, 19.4
Q1, 18.9
2014
58.4
Q4, 17.0
Q3, 13.8
Q2, 15.0
Q1, 12.6
2013
22
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORTMarket share
The market share of our specific target market, namely the
company paid unit-linked market was 12.5% for 2014. This
remains above our internal benchmark expectation for a
company of Movestic’s scale in relation to the scale of the
market competition.
The downturn in the second half of the year is not reflective
of any systematic concerns or deficiencies in the product
offering. The second half results are also slightly understated
as a result of a change in how Movestic interfaces with
a particular broker leading to a tranche of new business
being omitted from our Q4 sales volume submission. This
was solely a market share reporting issue with no implications
on policy processing and accounting routines.
Trend analysis of Movestic’s share
of new business
Total business
Unit-linked company-paid pension business
(excluding ‘tick the box’ market)
15.1%
14.2%
12.4%
7.8%
8.7%
7.1%
5.1%
5.6%
8.9%
8.5%
10.8%
6.8%
H1 2012 H2 2012 H1 2013 H2 2013
H1 2014 H2 2014
Movestic’s share of new unit-linked company-paid
pension business (excluding ‘tick the box’ market)
12.5%
13.7%
2014
2013
Development of innovative product concepts and
margin enhancement
A differentiating feature of Movestic is the carefully
selected fund range which over time has proven to perform
very well compared to similar offerings. The work to
further develop and improve the fund range is continually
given high priority. During 2014 there has been significant
activity in this including the launch of three new funds
white labelled as Movestic funds and the introduction of a
Movestic Sustainability portfolio. The benefits of the new
“white labelled” funds, enabled through the set-up of a new
SICAV (fund structure) during the year, in addition to being
well matched to policyholder requirements, is that Movestic
receives a higher proportion of the product value chain
thereby improving new business margins. The sustainability
fund is very much required to meet the increasingly
ecologically focused demands of the Swedish consumer.
Risks associated with the strategic objective
Economic conditions in Sweden have been mixed during
2014. The Swedish OMX all-share index has increased by
11.9% during the year whilst interest rates were reduced
to zero in late October 2014, and now stand at negative 0.1%,
effective at the start of February 2015. As a result, there
remains a general sense of uncertainty that has led to some
consumers preferring more traditional investment products
to equity-based unit-linked investments. Whilst recent
improvements in confidence and good equity market
performance has ensured the unit-linked market has remained
attractive to many investors, there is a risk that returns being
offered on traditional products will adversely impact the
relative attractiveness of Movestic’s unit-linked proposition.
We continue to believe that as equity market confidence
continues to recover and that as the traditional investment
offerings become less sustainable for providers, there will
be a gradual shift back towards unit-linked investments. New
business volumes remain sensitive to market preferences
and continued IFA support. New business volumes are also
sensitive to the quality of service provided to IFAs and the
end customer. Movestic continues to score highly in internal
and external service level assessments.
New business remains relatively concentrated towards several
large IFAs. This is inevitable to some extent but the fact
that Movestic has extended the breadth of IFA support in the
year has reduced the concentration risk. Whilst Movestic
has further broadened its coverage of the broker market, the
fact remains that a large proportion of new business comes
from two large brokers thereby creating a level of concentration
risk. In light of this risk, Movestic takes comfort from the
fact they are assessed very favourably on an internal product
provider assessment scorecard maintained by one of the
major brokers. The second large broker has a proven strong
level of support for the Movestic proposition as demonstrated
by its continued support of Movestic during and subsequent
to the servicing difficulties experienced in 2011.
The competitive market puts pressure on new sales margins
and even though Movestic’s margins have held up well,
these external pressures have led to management focussing
on achieving better terms in the fund operation.
23
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION BBUSINESS REVIEW
3
ACQUIRE LIFE AND PENSION BUSINESSES
During the year we announced the acquisition of the Waard Group in the Netherlands.
The deal scores highly on our financial assessment criteria and is expected to be
cash generative. The purchase price represents a healthy discount to embedded value.
Perhaps of even more relevance is the opportunity to progress further value
adding deals in the Dutch market.
Highlights
– Successful acquisition of the Waard Group in the Netherlands for
€67.8m (subject to regulatory approval).
– Entry to a third market assessed as having significant further market
consolidation potential.
– Benefits have accrued from the Protection Life acquisition in line
with expectations.
Review of the year
There has been a continued increase in general market activity in the UK
and across Europe. The activity is due to a number of factors including larger
financial organisations wishing to re-focus on core activities and the desire
to release capital or generate funds from potentially capital intensive Life and
Pension businesses. Despite the improving general M&A environment,
regulatory review programmes and legislative changes, have to an extent
dampened the actual level of Life and Pension sector deals progressed in the
UK. We are therefore mindful that there may be a slight short term hiatus in
activity in the UK. As a result we have increased our focus on Western Europe.
This has resulted in our move into the Dutch market through the acquisition
of the Waard Group.
Acquisition of the Waard group
During November 2014 we announced the acquisition of the Waard Group
in the Netherlands for €67.8m. To finance the deal we raised £34.5m of equity
through a well supported share placing exercise. The acquisition creates
a great opportunity to enter a new market within which consolidation has not
yet begun. The deal was assessed positively on all four elements of our
assessment scorecard:
CASH GENER ATION
High solvency levels
will enable material cash
distributions.
EMBEDDED VALUE Note 1
26% discount to embedded
value supports our growth
proposition.
STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITY
Market intelligence indicates
that significant consolidation
potential exists. Early
indications post announcements
are generally supportive of
our expectations.
RISK CONSIDERATIONS
The deal has been structured
such that residual risks are
deemed to be low. The
potential impact on the risk
profile of the Group going
forward is minimal.
Note 1: The discount to embedded value, in terms of the Group balance
sheet expressed in Sterling, will have deteriorated compared with the initial
deal assessment of 26% as a result of the Euro depreciation during 2015.
However, it remains suitably positive and of course would recover should the
Euro subsequently recover against Sterling.
At the date of publishing the 2014 Report & Accounts the purchase of the
Waard Group remains subject to Dutch regulatory approval.
Protection Life
The PL business has been successfully transferred into CA plc during 2014,
resulting in £27.4m of additional cash available to transfer to Chesnara plc.
When PL Ltd was purchased we made plans to migrate the day to day
servicing to HCL. This process is ongoing and is envisaged to complete during
the first half of 2015. This is slightly later than planned but broadly in line
with the plans made at acquisition. The first full year set of results have been
reassuring and are broadly in line with expectations.
Acquisition process and approach
Chesnara is an established Life and Pensions consolidator with a proven
track record. This, together with a good network of contacts in the adviser
community, who understand the Chesnara acquisition model and are
mindful of our good reputation with the regulator, ensure we are aware of
most viable opportunities in the UK and many opportunities in Europe.
Despite our proven market presence, we have recently implemented
a revised acquisition process framework in order to ensure we continue
to identify and assess all potential value adding deals across our widening
geographical markets.
We assess the financial impact of potential acquisition opportunities by
estimating the impact on three financial measures namely; the cash flow of
the Group, the incremental embedded value and the internal rate of return.
The financial measures are assessed under best estimate and stress scenarios.
The measures are considered by the Board and Audit & Risk Committee,
in the context of other non-financial measures including the level of risk and
the degree of strategic fit and opportunity.
We engage specialists to support stringent due diligence procedures and the
actual acquisition process.
Risks associated with the strategic objective
The risk of not effectively delivering this objective is two-fold. Firstly, there is
the risk that Chesnara makes no further acquisitions and secondly there
is the risk that we make an inappropriate acquisition that adversely impacts
the financial strength of the Group.
The acquisition of the Waard Group opens a new territory and hence
increases our options thereby reducing the risk that no further value adding
deals are done. Also, the broader target market will also reduce the risk
of inappropriate opportunities being progressed on the ground that better
optionality will enable us to identify better fit deals at a more competitive
price. As our acquisition strategy focuses more on non-UK markets we
become increasingly exposed to currency risk. Where appropriate, as was
the case with the Waard acquisition, we protect the Sterling value of the
purchase price. Flexibility over the timing of subsequent capital extractions
and dividend flows provide an element of management control over the
Sterling value of cash inflows. We accept the short-term fluctuations in the
reporting of embedded value that can arise.
During recent years we have enhanced our financial deal assessment modelling
capabilities which improves the quality of financial information available
to the Board. This strongly mitigates the risk of inappropriate opportunities
being pursued. In addition, the increased financial strength of the Group means
that any perceived risk that pressure to do a deal could result in a departure from
the stringent assessment criteria will have reduced.
Acquisition outlook
Despite some short term challenges in the UK due to the uncertainty
created by regulatory review programmes, we remain confident that all the
commercial and economic drivers for consolidation remain positive and
hence the market will become more active in due course. In the meantime,
the acquisition of the Waard Group will provide significant potential in the
Dutch market. We are well positioned to take advantage of any value adding
opportunities that may arise. Our financial foundations are strong and we
continue to have strong support from shareholders and lending institutions
to progress our acquisition strategy. In addition our operating model which
consists of well established outsource arrangements plus efficient, modern
in house solutions, means we have the flexibility to accommodate a wide
range of potential target books. With all the above in mind, we are confident
that we are well positioned to continue the successful acquisition track
record in the future.
24
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORTBUSINESS REVIEW
CHESNARA CULTURE AND VALUES
General business conduct
The principles of general business conduct are illustrated below:
Conduct
Business with
professionalism
and integrity
Conduct
business with
due care, skill
and attention
Responsible
management,
with adequate
risk management
systems
Maintain adequate financial resources
Good business conduct is in many ways a matter of behavioural or cultural
practice and principles. Chesnara has always maintained high standards
with regards to ensuring the business is managed on a risk based, fair and
responsible basis. To further reinforce and embed this culture of
responsibility revised Governance procedures and processes (“Governance
Map”) are being developed which are due for full implementation during
2015. The Governance Map will ensure Chesnara’s cultural values and good
business conduct are effectively applied across the enlarged Group.
It will also create consistency of approach and transparency of policy both of
which are fundamental requirements of the Solvency II regime.
A critical element of good business conduct in a regulated financial services
business is the need to maintain adequate financial resources which in
turn is managed by governing our solvency position. In recognition of this,
as part of the day to day conduct of our business we regularly monitor
the solvency position of the Group. This demonstrates our commitment to
maintaining a strong, but not excessive, solvency position.
This brings a number of benefits, including supporting:
– one of our key financial management objectives of safeguarding
policyholder interests.
– delivering to the dividend expectations of our shareholders.
– potential acquisition opportunities.
– our ability to absorb volatility created by external economic conditions.
Highlights – Group solvency continues to be strong at 284% (2013: 194%). This is stated after a proposed final dividend of £15.1m, and also
reflects the benefit of the £34.5m equity raise in December 2014. Completion of the Waard Group acquisition in 2015 will reverse some of the
increase in Group Solvency that has been seen in 2014.
Regulatory capital at 31 December
Excess of Capital Resources over Target Requirement
Excess of Target Requirement minimum over Minimum
Minimum Regulatory Capital Resources Requirement
£m
284%
200
150
146.0
194%
76.8
100
50
0
79.3
81.9
176%
14.0
36.3
65.8
218%
29.2
23.1
44.1
156%
1.4
12.6
1.6
25.2
121%
0.6
2.9
2014 2013
PL Ltd
376%
21.0
4.6
9.3
311%
280%
18.0
5.6
11.2
2014 2013
Movestic
2014 2013
Group
2014 2013
CA plc
Notes
– The percentages in the chart to the left represent the
excess of the capital resources over the minimum
regulatory capital resources requirement.
– The target capital requirements stated are based
on the Board’s internal minimum targets, and are
set as follows:
– Group – 100% of minimum regulatory capital
resources requirement.
– CA plc – 162.5% of the minimum long-term
insurance capital requirement plus 100% of the
resilience capital requirement.
– PL – the European minimum long-term insurance
capital requirement.
– Movestic – 150% of the capital resources
requirement.
Group solvency (IGD)
The IGD represents the solvency of the Group, and is calculated using
requirements imposed by the PRA. The IGD ratio at 31 December 2014 is
284% (2013: 194%) with the surplus having moved from £76.8m at 31
December 2013 to £146.0m at 31 December 2014. IGD is stated after the
final dividend of £15.1m (2013: £13.4m). The movement in IGD this year is a
function of the following key items:
– Equity share raising; £34.5m was raised from a share placing for the
acquisition of Waard Group.
– The Group regulatory surplus in the year. The Group Regulatory surplus
in 2014 has been strong, amounting to £44.5m. This has resulted in a
significant benefit to the IGD, outweighing the impact of the 2014
total dividend of £22.5m (interim dividend of £7.4m plus the proposed final
2014 dividend of £15.1m).
– CA plc solvency has reduced from 218% to 176%, with the surplus over
the requirement reducing from £52.3m to £50.3m. This is stated after
proposed dividends of £65.0m (2013: £48.0m), thereby showing that strong
solvency is still being achieved whilst delivering strong cash flows to the
Chesnara parent company. The position at 31 December 2014 includes the
impact of the Part VII transfer from PL into CA plc.
– PL Ltd solvency is 128% at 31 December 2014. The reduction when
compared to the prior year is a result of the successful Part VII transfer
of PL into CA plc. The remaining capital is due to be transferred in 2015
following de-regulation of PL Ltd.
– Movestic had a solvency ratio of 376% at 31 December 2014. Whilst it has
a very strong solvency ratio, Movestic does not currently pay dividends to
Chesnara due to an additional liquidity constraint that is imposed by the
Swedish regulator.
Solo solvency
The Board sets internal solvency targets for each of its regulated subsidiaries,
which have remained unchanged when compared with the prior year. The
graph above shows that the solvency positions of each regulated subsidiary
continue to exceed the internal targets imposed by the Board:
Solvency II
The introduction of Solvency II on 1 January 2016 will change the capital
position of both the Group and its regulated subsidiaries. The final
impact of Solvency II continues to be uncertain although we expect the
Group will not be adversely impacted. Solvency II may also result in
the Board re-assessing the internal targets imposed on each regulated
entity. Further detail on the status of our Solvency II programme is
included on page 47.
25
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
BUSINESS REVIEW
CHESNARA CULTURE AND VALUES (CONTINUED)
Treatment of customers
UK
Treating customers fairly
We have embedded the principle that we aim to treat all customers fairly
within all our people, processes and procedures. This aim has been shared
with all our outsourcing partners. The principle goes beyond the way we
answer telephone calls and deal with the regular service that we provide
to our customers. It is also considered when we deal with complaints from
our customers or where we identify an error within our systems that
affects policyholder outcomes.
Complaints
The general downward trend in the overall volume of complaints received
has continued although we continue to receive a number of complaints
from complaint management companies in respect of endowment policies
surrendered or lapsed many years ago. The Financial Ombudsman Service
continues to agree with our decision on the majority of complaints referred
to them for adjudication.
Policyholder investment funds
Through the auspices of the CA plc Investment Committee we have
continued our oversight of policyholder funds through regular meetings
with the investment managers. With them we continue to review the
funds to ensure the underlying investment mix is the most appropriate for
policyholders. A critical factor that has a bearing on the customer
experience is the level of investment return on their assets. Whilst unit
linked customers are naturally directly exposed to the volatility of
investment markets outside of Chesnara’s direct influence, it is important
that we ensure the investment performance of our policyholder funds
is competitive against market benchmarks. In light of this we are pleased
to confirm that our main managed funds have all out-performed their
benchmarks during 2014.
Sweden
Movestic has received high scores in external surveys conducted within
the insurance industry in Sweden. Furthermore and in relation to the
size of the operations, Movestic’s complaints function receives very few
customer complaints and cases brought to the Public Complaints Board
are very rare. The Swedish Consumer Agency has recently completed a
review regarding marketing of funds. The review of Movestic’s
information and marketing activities was closed without remarks.
Treatment of employees
We recognise that management and staff are at the heart of Chesnara’s
success. Our continued flexible and supportive approach has contributed
to another year of low staff turnover throughout the Group.
The Waard Group has been through a period of significant uncertainty over
recent years following the bankruptcy of its parent company. Throughout
this period the staff and management have remained focussed,
professional and loyal. Chesnara are keen that our new Dutch colleagues
are rewarded for their professionalism and loyalty by being positively
involved in our future plans for the development of the Waard Group.
Treatment of investors
As a listed company, clearly one of our core responsibilities is to continue
to provide a competitive return to our shareholders. We are aware that for
many of our shareholders continuity of our historically strong dividend
performance is a core requirement. In light of this we are pleased that the
financial performance of the Group during 2014 enables us to increase our
full year dividend by 2.9% compared to 2013. The 2014 full year dividend
of 18.4p per share represents a yield of 5.4% (based on the share price
as at 31 December 2014 of 339.25p per share). Total shareholder returns
over a 5 year and 1 year period are competitive in comparison to the FTSE
350 higher yield index.
In addition to providing financial returns to our investors we also recognise
the importance of engaging with our investors in an effective way so
as to ensure they are appropriately informed about the performance of the
company. To this end, we produce Report and Accounts that aim to be
as open and informative as is reasonable. We also ensure we are available
to meet with investors and hold ad hoc presentations as appropriate.
The ongoing investor satisfaction is evidenced by the support received
for the recent equity raise required to enable the Group’s acquisition in
the Dutch market.
26
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORT
Sweden
Movestic has an active dialogue with the regulator on business as usual
matters, in conjunction with interactions on any specific regulatory affairs.
The relationship with the regulator is good and no complaints or concerns
have been expressed regarding Movestic’s operations.
Netherlands
We have forged an encouraging initial relationship with the Dutch regulator
(DNB) which builds upon a strong pre-existing relationship between the
existing Waard Group management team and the DNB. The Declaration of
No Objection (DNO) application, which the regulator is required to give
before the transaction can complete, is pending at the point of issuing
these Report & Accounts.
Relationship with regulators
UK
As ever in this highly regulated industry there have been a number of
new and ongoing initiatives that have led to various levels of attention and
challenge. It is pleasing to report that none of these have given rise
to significant issues. The commentary below sets out a list of the key
activities during the year.
Legacy review
During the year CA plc has participated in a review by the FCA that looked
at legacy investment linked business. This review has looked at a number
of areas including company governance, customer correspondence and
policyholder charges. A report on the findings of this review is expected
in the second quarter of 2015.
Independent Governance Committees (IGCs) on pensions
The government has announced that there will be new requirements for
the governance of both Workplace Personal Pension schemes and
Occupational Pension schemes. The company has taken external legal
advice on the impact of these changes and will be ensuring that the
governance of these schemes going forward meets the requirements of
the regulations and legislation. The changes are likely to result in the
appointment of an external Governance Advisory Arrangement to oversee
the Workplace Personal Pensions and report on their value for money
whilst the Trustee arrangements for the occupational schemes will need
to be reviewed and they will also need to report on value for money.
Pension changes
The government has passed legislation that has changed the pensions
rules with effect from April 2015 to allow policyholders to take their
retirement benefits in a variety of ways, including as a lump sum. In order
to comply with these new rules it has been necessary to update our
systems and correspondence with customers. Following its introduction in
April there is an expectation that there will be a peak in demand for this
new benefit, we have therefore planned additional resources to meet this
expected demand.
PRA visit
As part of its regular monitoring of CA plc the PRA carried out its annual
Periodic Summary Meeting. This meeting helps it understand the business
and identify its monitoring requirements over the year.
27
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
FINANCIAL REVIEW
The key performance indicators illustrate how effectively we have delivered against our three strategic objectives.
The strong net cash generation of £71.1m together with the significant embedded value earnings in the year clearly
demonstrates how effectively we continue to deliver against our core objective of “maximising value from the in-force
book”. Within the embedded value earnings there is a £9.7m new business profit item which reflects the positive
performance against our objective to “Enhance value through new business”. Finally, whilst not recognised in any of the
2014 figures, the impending acquisition of the Waard Group is forecast to have a positive impact on all of the financial
measures in 2015, continuing to deliver our objective to add value by acquiring Life and Pension businesses.
IFRS PRE-TAX PROFIT
£28.8 M 2013: £60.6m
What is it?
The presentation of the
results in accordance with
International Financial
Reporting Standards (IFRS)
aims to smooth the
recognition of profit arising
from written business over
the life of insurance and
investment contracts.
Why is it important?
For businesses in run-off the reported profit is closely aligned
with, and a strong indicator of, the emergence of surplus
arising within the long-term insurance funds of those
businesses. The emergence of surplus supports the payments
of dividends from the regulated insurance businesses to
Chesnara plc, which in turn enables the payment of dividends
to our shareholders. IFRS pre-tax profit is a strong indicator of
how we are performing against our stated strategic objective
of “maximising value from the in-force book”.
Risks
The IFRS profit can be affected by a number of our principal
risks and uncertainties as set out on pages 45 to 46. In
particular, a significant reduction in Government bond yields
during 2014 has had a material effect on the IFRS pre-tax
profit in the year. Equity and property markets in the UK have
been broadly flat during 2014, but had a more marked impact
on the 2013 results, following strong performance in that year.
NET CASH GENERATION
£71.1M 2013: £36.7m
What is it?
Net cash generation is a
measure of how much
distributable cash the
subsidiaries have generated
in the period. The
dominating aspect of cash
generation is the change in
amounts freely transferable
from the operating
businesses, taking into
account target statutory
solvency requirements
which are determined by the
boards of the respective
businesses. It follows that
cash generation is not only
influenced by the level
of surplus arising but
also by the level of target
solvency capital.
Why is it important?
Cash generation is a key measure, because it is the net cash
flows to Chesnara from its Life and Pensions businesses
which supports Chesnara’s dividend-paying capacity and
acquisition strategy. Cash generation can be a strong indicator
of how we are performing against our stated objective
of “maximising value from the in-force book”. However, our
cash generation is always managed in the context of our
stated value of maintaining strong solvency positions within
the regulated entities of the Group.
Risks
The ability of the underlying regulated subsidiaries within the
Group to generate cash is affected by a number of our
principal risks and uncertainties as set out on pages 45 to 46.
Whilst cash generation is a function of the regulatory surplus,
as opposed to the IFRS surplus, they are closely aligned, and
therefore factors such as yields on fixed interest securities
and equity and property performance contribute significantly
to the level of cash generation within the Group. In addition to
this, regulatory change, such as the introduction of Solvency
II, can also materially affect the levels of cash, both positively
or adversely, generated by our regulated subsidiaries.
28
Highlights
£m
CA
S&P
PL
Movestic
Group &
consol adj
Profit on
acquisition
2014
2013
45
35
25
15
5
(5)
(15)
– Overall reduction in IFRS pre tax profit of £31.8m is driven
by a £45.6m adverse swing in S&P result.
– S&P loss in the year is driven by reducing bond yields,
which has resulted in the requirement to increase reserves
held for policies with options and guarantees.
– This loss is off-set by a strong CA segment result, which
has provided an expected hedge against this dynamic,
with bond yields having had a positive impact.
– Movestic result is stronger than the prior year.
2014
2013
Highlights
Total Gross cash generated
Synergistic effects of Part VII transfer
Release of capital from S&P WP funds
Exceptional cash capitalisation PL
Movement in restriction of
S&P WP Capital
Net cash generation
£m (20) (10) 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
– Gross cash generation across the Group continues to be
strong, driven by strong and stable UK cash generation.
– Net cash generation is supported by the Part VII transfer of
PL into CA plc on 31 December 2014.
– The cash generated during 2014, coupled with the strong
parent company cash position of £80.1m at 31 December
2014 and the expected cash generative nature of the Waard
Group acquisition leaves us in a good position to continue
our attractive dividend policy and acquisition strategy.
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORTEEV EARNINGS, NET OF TAX
£44.2 M 2013: £82.7m (excluding modelling adjustments of £4.1m)
2014
2013
Why is it important?
By recognising the net present value of expected future cash
flows arising from the contracts (in-force value), a different
perspective is provided in the performance of the Group and
on the valuation of the business. EEV earnings are an
important KPI as they provide a longer-term measure of the
value generated during a period. The EEV earnings of the
Group can be a strong indicator of how we have delivered to
our strategic objectives, in particular the new business profits
generated from “enhancing our value through new business
in selected markets”, coupled with “maximising our value from
the in-force book”.
Risks
The EEV earnings of the Group can be affected by a number
of factors, including those highlighted within our principle risks
and uncertainties as set out on pages 45 to 46. In addition
to the factors that affect the IFRS pre-tax profit and cash
generation of the Group, the EEV earnings can be more
sensitive to other factors such as the expense base and
persistency assumptions. This is primarily due to the fact that
assumption changes in EEV affect our long-term view of the
future cash flows arising from our books of business.
What is it?
In recognition of the longer-
term nature of the Group’s
insurance and investment
contracts, supplementary
information is presented
in accordance with
European Embedded Value
‘EEV’ principles.
The principal underlying
components of the EEV
result are:
– The expected return from
existing business (being the
effect of the unwind of
the rates used to discount
the value in-force).
– Value added by the writing
of new business.
– Variations in actual
experience from that
assumed in the
opening valuation.
– The impact of restating
assumptions underlying the
determination of expected
cash flows.
Highlights
New business contribution
Operating profit - existing business
Economic effects
Uncovered business & other group
Exceptional gain on acquisition
Tax
Total EEV earnings
£m (20) (10) 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
– Although a reduction year on year, the EEV result for 2014
remains a positive indicator of the growth of the business.
– Economic items continue to contribute a significant portion
of the overall EEV result, albeit at lower levels than in 2013.
EEV
£417.2M 2013: £376.4m
What is it?
The European Embedded
Value (EEV) of a life
insurance company is the
present value of future
profits, plus adjusted net
asset value. It is a construct
from the field of actuarial
science which allows
insurance companies to
be valued.
Why is it important?
As the EEV takes into account expected future earnings
streams on a discounted basis, EEV is an important reference
point by which to assess Chesnara’s intrinsic value. A life
and pensions group may typically be characterised as trading
at a discount or premium to its embedded value. Analysis of
EEV, distinguishing value in-force by segment and by product
type, provides additional insight into the development of the
business over time. The EEV development of the Chesnara
Group over time can be a strong indicator of how we have
delivered to our strategic objectives, in particular the value
created from acquiring life and pensions businesses and
enhancing our value through new business in selected markets.
It ignores the potential of new business to be written in the
future (the franchise value of our Swedish business) and the
value of the Company’s ability to acquire further businesses.
Highlights
£m
44.2
o
f
t
a
x
i
E
a
r
n
n
g
s
n
e
t
376.4
E
E
V
2
0
1
3
2014
2013
34.6
(17.3)
(20.7)
(20.7 )
417.2
E
q
u
i
t
y
r
a
i
s
e
F
o
r
e
i
g
n
e
x
c
h
a
n
g
e
r
e
s
e
r
v
e
m
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
E
E
V
2
0
1
4
D
i
v
i
d
e
n
d
s
p
a
i
d
Risks
The Embedded Value of the Group is affected by economic
factors such as equity and property markets and yields on fixed
interest securities. In addition to this, whilst the other KPIs
(which are all “performance measures”) remain relatively
insensitive to exchange rate movements (largely due to the
proportion of IFRS pre-tax profit generated by Movestic
compared with the other UK businesses) the EEV of the Group
can also be materially affected by exchange rate fluctuations
between Swedish Krona and Sterling. For example a 10.0%
weakening of exchange rates between Swedish Krona and
Sterling would reduce the EEV of the Group by 3.0%, based
on the composition of the Group’s EEV at 31 December 2014.
– Group EEV has increased by £40.8m, or 11% during the year.
– Post-tax EEV earnings have contributed £44.2m of the
movement.
– The equity raise of £34.5m during Q4 2014 has added to
the EEV. This is being used to acquire the Waard Group
during 2015.
– Off-setting the above positive movement is a foreign
exchange loss of £17.3m on the re-translation of the Movestic
EEV, as a result of the weakening of the Swedish Krona
against Sterling during the year, coupled with the reduction in
EEV arising from dividends paid in the year.
29
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
FINANCIAL REVIEW
30
IFRS PRE-TAX PROFIT
£28.8 M 2013: £60.6m
Executive summary
The IFRS results by business segment reflect the natural
dynamics of each line of business. In summary the current
financial model has three major components which can be
characterised as: the “stable core”, the “variable element”,
and the “growth operation”. The results and financial
dynamics of each segment are analysed further as follows:
Stable core
At the heart of surplus, and hence cash generation, are the
CA and PL segments. The requirements of these books are to
provide a predictable and stable platform for the financial
model and dividend strategy. As a closed book, the key is
to sustain this income source as effectively as possible.
The IFRS results during the year support this objective, with
a strong IFRS pre-tax surplus of £41.2m for CA (2013:
£25.0m) and a PL pre-tax surplus of £5.5m. Assets under
management within the CA segment, a key driver of
surplus, have reduced from £1,736m at the start of the year
to £1,702m at 31 December 2014. Whilst this represents
a 2% reduction during the year, the reduction is less than the
policy attrition levels in the year, despite slightly negative
equity markets.
Further detail of the results of the CA and PL segments can
be found on pages 31 and 32 respectively.
Variable element
The S&P component brings an element of earnings volatility
to the Group, with the results being particularly sensitive to
investment market movements. This is illustrated by a
material increase in the reserve for costs of guarantees since
the start of the year, of £17.8m in 2014. During 2013 the
S&P segment included a surplus arising from movements in
reserves for products with guarantees of £24.4m thereby
representing a year on year adverse swing of some £42.2m.
Product based deductions continue to remain strong, at
£17.1m (2013: £17.1m).
Further detail of the results of the S&P segment can be
found on page 32.
Growth operation
The long-term financial model of Movestic is based on
growth, with levels of new business being targeted to more
than offset the impact of policy attrition, leading to a
general increase in assets under management and, hence,
management fee income. There has been an increase in
funds under management of 23.5% (on constant exchange
rates) since 31 December 2013.
As a result the underlying IFRS profit after adjusting for
non-recurring items (the deferred acquisition cost charge
in 2013 of £3.0m and the Modernac profit of £1.2m) has
increased from £4.4m to £4.9m, or 11.4%.
The 2014 Movestic results have also been suppressed, to
some extent, by the deterioration in strength of the Swedish
Krona against Sterling, which has witnessed a 13.9% fall
during 2014.
Further detail of the results of the Movestic segment can be
found on page 33.
IFRS results
The financial dynamics of Chesnara, as described above, are
reflected in the following IFRS results:
Year ended 31 December
2014
£m
2013
£m
Note
CA
S&P
PL
Movestic
Chesnara
Consolidation adjustments
Total profit before tax and
exceptional item
Profit arising from
PL acquisition
1
2
3
4
5
6
41.2
(9.2)
5.5
4.9
(7.6 )
(6.0 )
25.0
36.4
0.2
2.6
(4.9 )
(1.5 )
28.8
57.8
–
2.8
7
Total profit before tax
Tax
28.8
(3.2 )
60.6
(11.2 )
Total profit after tax
25.6
49.4
Note 1 – The CA segment has reported strong
results for 2014. This is largely driven by the positive
impact of reserve changes, driven by both economic
and non-economic factors. Further detail is provided
on page 31.
Note 2 – The S&P segment has reported a pre-tax
loss in the year, largely as a result of a strain arising
from an increase in reserves required for products
with options and guarantees. These reserves
are sensitive to market movements, in particular the
reduction in bond yields during 2014.
Note 3 – The 2014 results include a full year of the
PL business. For 2013 the results that were
reported were for the period post acquisition, being
28 November 2013.
Note 4 – The Movestic result has improved when
compared with 2013. The 2013 result was adversely
impacted by a one-off deferred acquisition cost
charge that has not been repeated in 2014. Further
detail is provided on page 33.
Note 5 – The Chesnara result represents holding
company expenses. 2014 costs are higher than 2013
primarily due to the costs associated with the Part VII
transfer of PL into CA plc. Both 2014 and 2013
included costs associated with acquisition activity,
being PL Ltd and the Waard Group respectively.
Note 6 – Consolidation adjustments relate to items
such as the amortisation of intangible assets. More
detail is provided on page 33.
Note 7 – The 2013 Group profit before tax was stated
after recognition of a £2.8m gain arising as a
result of the purchase of PL Ltd. There have been no
adjustments to this during 2014.
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORT
The IFRS results by business segment are analysed in
more detail as follows:
The key components of the IFRS result for the year are as
follows:
CA
The CA segment has reported a strong result for the year.
This is driven predominantly by product deductions and the
positive impact of reserve changes in the year. The
waterfall graph below bridges the IFRS profit for 2013 and
2014 and shows that the movement in surplus is driven by
the aforementioned positive impact of reserve reductions in
the year.
Profit before tax movement
Year ended 31 December 2013 to year ended
31 December 2014 (£m)
Dec 2013
Negative movements
Positive movements
Dec 2014
Pre-tax IFRS profit
2014
£m
2013
£m
Note
Product-based charges
Administration expenses
Returns on retained surplus
Operating assumption changes
Reserve changes, including
those due to market movements
Impact of new HCL contract
Complaint costs
Other
23.2
(8.4 )
4.8
0.7
14.3
4.2
(1.4)
3.8
28.7
(7.0 )
3.5
(1.7 )
3.3
–
(1.5 )
(0.3 )
Total
41.2
25.0
1
1
1
2
3
4
2 .4
1.3
(4.9)
(0.6)
41.2
2 .8
4.2
11.0
25.0
D
e
c
2
0
1
3
(
n
o
t
e
2
)
R
e
s
e
r
v
e
c
h
a
n
g
e
s
t
o
m
a
r
k
e
t
m
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
i
i
n
c
l
u
d
n
g
t
h
o
s
e
r
e
l
a
t
i
n
g
I
m
p
a
c
t
o
f
n
e
w
H
C
L
c
o
n
t
r
a
c
t
(
n
o
t
e
3
)
O
t
h
e
r
c
h
a
n
g
e
s
O
p
e
r
a
t
i
n
g
a
s
s
u
m
p
t
i
o
n
r
e
t
a
i
n
e
d
s
u
r
p
u
s
l
G
a
i
n
s
a
n
d
i
n
t
e
r
e
s
t
o
n
D
e
c
2
0
1
4
v
a
r
i
a
b
l
e
(
n
o
t
e
1
)
P
r
o
d
u
c
t
c
h
a
r
g
e
s
C
o
r
e
p
r
o
d
u
c
t
c
h
a
r
g
e
s
(
n
o
t
e
1
)
Note 1 – Product-based charges and returns on
retained surplus remain significantly in excess of
recurring administration expenses. The level of
product-based charges in 2014 has reduced when
compared with 2013; the core charges have remained
stable year on year (2014: £17.3m, 2013: £17.9m),
although the variable product charges have reduced
from £10.8m to £5.9m. This is caused by a reduction
in mortality and morbidity charges as a result of
higher than expected mortality experience during
the year.
Note 2 – The surplus in 2014 has arisen due to
a number of items, with the two main ones being a
positive movement in tax reserves of c£4m and
an economic surplus of c£6.0m, driven by reducing
Government bond yields in the year. This
compares with the prior year where tax reserves
were strengthened by c£2m.
Note 3 – The CA surplus includes the effect of
modelling the new HCL contract which, as explained
on page 19 of the Business Review, has not had a
financial impact on the overall UK results in the
period. This has, however, contributed a surplus of
£4.2m to the CA result, with an equal and opposite
impact being seen in the S&P segment results, which
are analysed on page 32.
Note 4 – The CA result in the period includes £3.8m
of “other” items. This predominantly (£3.4m) relates
to a one off item arising from the reserving impact
of a change in practice associated with policies that
can accrue bonus units in certain circumstances.
31
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
FINANCIAL REVIEW
IFRS PRE-TAX PROFIT (CONTINUED)
S&P
The S&P segment has posted a pre-tax loss for the year,
compared with a profit in the prior year. The change in
profitability can be highlighted by the following waterfall graph:
Profit before tax movement
Year ended 31 December 2013 to year ended
31 December 2014 (£m)
Dec 2013
Negative movements
Positive movements
Dec 2014
6.8
(42 .2)
36.4
D
e
c
2
0
1
3
s
h
a
r
e
h
o
d
e
r
l
f
u
n
d
s
I
n
c
o
m
e
o
n
w
i
t
h
p
r
o
fi
t
s
C
h
a
n
g
e
i
n
C
o
s
t
o
f
G
u
a
r
a
n
t
e
e
s
(
n
o
t
e
3
)
(9.2)
D
e
c
2
0
1
4
(6.0)
C
h
a
n
g
e
i
n
s
t
e
r
l
i
n
g
a
n
d
e
x
p
e
n
s
e
r
e
s
e
r
v
e
s
(
n
o
t
e
4
)
(4.2)
n
e
w
H
C
L
c
o
n
t
r
a
c
t
(
n
o
t
e
5
)
d
e
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
s
a
n
d
i
m
p
a
c
t
o
f
O
t
h
e
r
,
i
n
c
P
r
o
d
u
c
t
b
a
s
e
d
S&P posted a pre-tax IFRS loss of £9.2m for year, the key
components of the result being:
Pre-tax IFRS profit
2014
£m
2014
£m
Note
Product based deductions
Administration expenses
Income on S&P
shareholder funds
Change in cost of guarantees
in with-profit funds:
Asset valuation
movements
Change in yield curve
Lapse experience
Other
Total
Change in sterling and
expense reserves
Impact of new HCL contract
Other
17.1
(9.7 )
6.4
17.1
(9.9 )
(0.4 )
15.7
(23.2 )
(4.0 )
(6.3 )
(17.8 )
(0.6 )
(4.2 )
(0.4 )
8.6
19.9
(3.7 )
(0.4 )
22.4
5.4
-
(0.2 )
Total
(9.2 )
36.4
1
1
2
3
4
5
Note 1 – Product-based deductions continue to hold up as the book
runs-off. These are supported by assets under management, which
have remained broadly constant year on year, having moved from
£1,113m at the start of the year to £1,146m at 31 December 2014.
Product deductions exceed administration expenses by £7.4m and
£7.2m in 2014 and 2013 respectively.
Note 2 – The income on with-profits shareholder funds is driven by
investment market performance. The 2014 result has benefited
significantly from the impact of increases in the capital value of
government bonds during the year. Such a dynamic did not exist in
the 2013 financial year.
Note 3 – During 2014 the S&P segment has reported a strain of
£17.8m arising from its policies that contain options and guarantees.
The strain has arisen primarily due to the significant reduction in
government bond yields that has been witnessed in 2014, most
notably during the last quarter of the year. Whilst equity values can
also affect the reserves that are required for these policies, the fact
that equity performance has been only slightly negative in 2014 has
resulted in no significant changes in the reserves required. Included
within the change in the costs of guarantees is a lapse experience
loss of £4.0m, driven by observed lapses being slightly less than
assumed at the start of the year.
Note 4 – Sterling and expense reserves are sensitive to both the
expense base and to investment market movements. As investment
markets improve, the level of sterling reserves (which provide against
situations where future policy-based revenue does not cover future
administration costs) reduces. 2013 witnessed a surplus emerging as
a result of this dynamic, whereas equity market movements in 2014
have been more muted, resulting in no significant changes required
to sterling reserves in the year.
Note 5 – As reported in the half year 2014 results there is a £4.2m
strain that has arisen as a result of the effect of modelling the revised
HCL contract. Whilst this has not impacted the overall Group results,
the effect can be seen in the individual segments, with the CA
segment reflecting a benefit of the same magnitude in its surplus.
PL
The PL segment has contributed a pre-tax IFRS surplus of
£5.5m during 2014 compared with £0.2m during 2013. The
main reason for the increase year on year is that PL Ltd was
purchased in November 2013, and therefore the earnings
as reported in 2013 only reflect the earnings of the business
subsequent to Chesnara’s ownership, and consequently the
contribution in 2013 was not material.
The main contributor to the pre-tax IFRS profit in 2014
is the expected release of the prudence margins within the
reserving basis, relating to mortality, persistency and
investment returns from the book, amounting to £5.3m.
Experience surpluses, representing the difference between
the expected releases of margins and the actuarial
experience, were not material in the period. Administration
expenses of £2.1m, representing the ongoing costs of
administering the PL book of business were incurred in the
year. These costs are in line with the expectations that were
derived from our due diligence process, prior to completing
the acquisition on 28 November 2013.
32
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORT
Consolidation adjustments
The adjustments arising on consolidation are analysed below:
Pre-tax IFRS profit
2014
£m
2013
£m
Note
CA – Amortisation of AVIF
S&P – Amortisation of AVIF
PL – Amortisation of AVIF
Movestic:
Amortisation of AVIF
Write back of DAC
Total
(2.3 )
(0.7 )
(2.4 )
(3.9 )
3.3
(0.6 )
(2.2 )
(0.8 )
(0.2 )
(4.4 )
6.1
1.7
5
6
Total
(6.0 )
(1.5 )
Note 5 – As PL Ltd was purchased on
28 November 2013 the amortisation charge associated
with the “value in force” intangible asset that was
recognised on acquisition was small. The 2014
financial year includes a full year charge. The “value
in force” intangible asset is being amortised over its
estimated useful economic life.
Note 6 – Included within consolidation adjustments
is an item in relation to Movestic that reverses the
amortisation charge on DAC relating to policies that
were written prior to Chesnara ownership. During
2013 this adjustment increased compared with
previous years due to the additional charge that was
booked as a result of the refinements made to the
DAC amortisation model. See note 4 for further detail.
For 2014 this consolidation adjustment is back in
line with previous years.
Movestic
The IFRS pre-tax results of Movestic, before the impact of
DAC model changes of £(3.0)m (see note 4 below) and a
non-recurring profit share of £1.2m (see note 2 below), both
of which occurred during 2013, have increased slightly year
on year, from £4.4m in 2013 to £4.9m in 2014. The table
below analyses the constituent parts of the pre-tax IFRS profit:
Pre-tax IFRS profit
2014
£m
2013
£m
Note
Pensions and Savings,
before impact of DAC
model change
Risk and health
Other
Total profit before impact of
DAC model change
Impact of DAC model change
Total profit before tax
2.4
0.4
2.1
4.9
–
4.9
2.2
2.2
1.2
5.6
(3.0 )
2.6
1
2
3
4
Note 1 – The Pensions & Savings business generates
value through fee income that it receives from
policyholders (management charges) and investment
managers (fee rebates). These fees are a function of
Assets under Management (AuM), which have grown
from SEK 17.7bn at 31 December 2013 to SEK 21.9bn
at 31 December 2014, representing growth of 23%
during the year. This has led to fee and income
growth of 15%, excluding the impact of exchange
rates. The corresponding cost base (being brokerage
costs and internal costs) has increased at broadly the
same rate, resulting in a small growth in profit.
Note 2 – The Risk and Health business has
generated a small profit in the year, amounting to
£0.4m (SEK 4.8m), compared with a profit of £2.2m
(SEK 22.5m) during 2013. The size of the business
has remained broadly the same year on year, with
net earned premiums, after reinsurance, of £15.6m
(SEK 175.9m) in 2014 versus £16.7m (SEK 170.1m)
in 2013. The number of policies in force at
31 December 2014 was 382,000, compared with
362,000 at 31 December 2013. The key drivers of
the reduction in profit in this business are a slight
increase in the net loss ratio in the year coupled
with 2013 including the recognition of a one-off
profit share of £1.2m that was not repeated in 2014.
Note 3 – The “Other” component includes; the
results of Movestic’s associated company,
Modernac; investment income; the results of
Movestic’s investment management business and
fair value adjustments on the financial reinsurance
that Movestic uses to fund the writing of new
Pensions & Savings business. The key reason that
the result of this segment has increased when
compared to the prior year is due to a swing in fair
value adjustment on financial reinsurance, which
was a loss of c£0.9m in 2013, versus a small fair
value profit of c£0.3m in 2014.
Note 4 – During the prior year a one-off accelerated
deferred acquisition costs charge was reported
following a review of the amortisation profile of
deferred acquisition costs. There was no such
adjustment this year.
33
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
FINANCIAL REVIEW
NET CASH GENERATION
£71.1M 2013: £36.7m
The Group’s cash flows are generated
principally from the interest earned on capital,
the release of excess capital as the life funds run
down, policyholder charges and management
fees earned on assets under management.
This information illustrates that gross and net cash generation within the
Group continue to be robust. Key aspects underpinning the outcome are:
Highlights
– Gross cash generation in the UK run-off businesses has decreased by
£3.2m in the year compared with 2013, largely due to the net impact
of a large decrease in bond yields in the year.
– Net cash generation has benefitted from capital efficiencies of £27.4m
arising from the Part VII transfer of PL into CA plc (see note 2).
– In 2013 the acquisition of PL Ltd had a short-term adverse impact on
net cash generation as a result of a day one capital injection being
required to increase the capital resources to 150% of the minimum
regulatory capital requirement. As can be seen from the table to
the right, £7.1m of cash has been generated by PL in its first full year,
coupled with the synergistic impact of the Part VII transfer.
– Movestic required no additional funding during 2014 (2013: £nil).
– The increase in cash utilised by Chesnara in the year is due to a
combination of costs associated with PL Part VII transfer, as well as
initial transaction costs in relation to the acquisition of Waard Group.
The Group’s closed life funds provide predictable fund maturity and
liability profiles, creating stable long-term cash flows for distribution to
shareholders and for repayment of outstanding debt. Cash flow
generation will ultimately naturally decline over time as the UK
businesses run-off. Despite this natural downward pressure gross cash
generation in 2014 held up well when compared with 2013.
Although investment returns are less predictable, a significant portion of
the investment risk is borne by policyholders. However, the S&P
segment continues to demonstrate short-term volatility. This arises from
the impact of investment market movements and the cost to
shareholders of guarantees within the S&P with profits funds. Although
the short-term measure of this cost follows the fortunes of investment
markets, we manage the risk taking a longer-term perspective.
The following table identifies the source of internal gross
and net cash generation within the Group, representing the
net change in funds available to service debt (interest and
loan principal repayment) and equity (dividends):
Year ended 31 December
Cash generated from/
(utilised by):
2014
2013
Note
£m
£m
CA
Surplus arising in the year
Change in target capital
requirement
S&P
Regulatory surplus arising
in the year
Change in target capital
requirement
Increase/(decrease) in policy-
holder funds cover for target
capital requirement
PL
Regulatory surplus arising
in the year
Change in target capital
requirement
39.5
20.4
(0.1 )
3.2
3.7
25.1
1
(0.8)
4.3
1.5
(0.5 )
4.3
2.8
0.2
1.4
Movestic
Additional capital contributions
–
–
Chesnara
Cash utilised by operations
(8.3 )
(4.4)
Total gross cash generation
42.6
49.7
Items affecting ability to
distribute cash
Synergistic effects of
Part VII transfer
PL capital injection
Release of capital from
S&P WP fund
Restricted surplus in
S&P WP fund
27.4
–
–
–
(13.1 )
15.5
1.1
(15.4 )
Net cash generation
available for distribution
71.1
36.7
2
3
4
4
5
Items affecting the cash available for distribution:
Note 1 – The S&P regulatory surplus is significantly lower than 2013 due
to the impact of reducing Government bond yields in the year. The regulatory
profit in 2014 compares with a loss on an IFRS basis. This difference is
due to differing valuation bases, largely in respect of products that contain
options and guarantees.
Note 2 – The Part VII transfer of the PL business into CA plc on
31 December 2014 has released £27.4m of cash that would otherwise
have been unavailable. There is a further £3.5m of capital that will be
released in 2015 when the company is de-regulated.
Note 3 – In 2013, PL was acquired at a solvency level lower than the target
requirement. An immediate capital injection was made which had a
one-off negative impact on cash available for distribution. This short term
cash strain has been reversed during 2014 as a result of the cash benefit of
the Part VII transfer, as highlighted in note 2 above.
Note 4 – An element of the statutory surplus in the year emerges in the
S&P WP fund. In the absence of management action the majority of the
surplus is not available for distribution and the net cash generated recognises
this restriction. Periodically Chesnara, with regulatory approval, can apply a
waiver to release some of the previously restricted surplus within S&P. This
process was undertaken during 2013 resulting in a £15.5m capital release.
Note 5 – The net cash generation KPI is a useful indicator of the dividend
paying capacity of the Group’s regulated subsidiaries. This is monitored
closely by Management as cash generated by the Group’s regulated
subsidiaries is used by the Chesnara Parent Company for corporate
transactions such as the servicing of debt, payments of dividends and the
funding of future acquisitions. It should be noted that this KPI is quite distinct
from the Group’s Cash Flow Statement as included in the Group’s IFRS
Financial Statements, which is intended to reflect the movement in cash
held by Chesnara and its subsidiaries but does not reflect that most of the
subsidiary cash balances are held in regulated insurance funds and are
therefore not available for use by the Parent Company.
34
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORT
EEV EARNINGS
£44.2 M 2013: £82.7m*
*excluding modelling adjustments
Summary
2014 has delivered a significant EEV result for the Group, with
a strong operating profit supplemented by value emerging
from the impact of economic conditions. The 2014 result is,
however, lower when compared with the prior year, largely
due to the significant profits arising from investment and
economic conditions in 2013 not being repeated to the same
level during 2014. Whilst we have reported an overall
economic profit during the year, it is not as strong as 2013,
largely due to UK equity performance being slightly negative
in 2014, coupled with a significant reduction in UK
Government bond yields. Swedish equities have performed
slightly better than the UK, although their impact on the UK
results is slightly diminished by the weakening of the Krona
against Sterling in the year.
Off-setting the reduced economic profits in the year are
strong operating profits on covered business, amounting to
£37.5m (2013: £8.9m). Further detail has been provided
below, although the key drivers are an increase in shareholder
returns on net worth, which is driven by UK Government bond
value appreciation in the year, coupled with c£12m of positive
operating assumption changes, largely in the CA segment
(see further detail on page 35).
The following tables analyse the Group EEV earnings after-tax
by source and by business segment:
Profit after tax movement
Year ended 31 December 2013 to year ended
31 December 2014 (£m)
Dec 2013
Negative movements
Positive movements
Dec 2014
Analysis of the EEV result in the year by earnings source
New business contribution
Return from in-force business
Expected return
Experience variances
Operating assumption changes
Return on shareholder net worth
2014
£m
2013
£m
9.7
7.9
7.1
0.6
11.0
9.1
5.5
5.8
(10.0 )
(0.3 )
Operating profit of covered business
Variation from longer term
investment return
Effect of economic assumption changes
37.5
8.9
32.0
(7.4 )
54.7
16.4
Profit on covered business before tax
and before gain on acquisition
Tax
62.0
(12.2 )
80.0
(7.6 )
Profit on covered business after tax
and before gain on acquisition
Gain on acquisition of PL Ltd
Uncovered business and other
group activities
Tax on uncovered business
49.8
–
(7.3 )
1.7
72.4
12.3
(2.3 )
0.3
Profit after tax
44.2
82.7
Economic conditions
The EEV result is sensitive to economic conditions. Economic
experience and assumption changes contributed a profit of
£24.6m in 2014 compared with a profit of £71.1m in the prior year.
Key economic condition highlights are as follows:
– The FTSE All share has fallen by 2.1% during 2014, compared
with a rise of 16.7% in 2013
– The Swedish OMX all share has increased by 11.9% during the
year, compared with a 23.2% increase in the prior year
– 10 year gilt yields have reduced by 1.2% in year, compared with
an increase of 1.26% in 2013.
These conditions have led to a large reduction in the EEV
economic profits during the year. The following table analyses
the economic conditions impact by segment:
12 .0
(56.9)
25.4
82.7
Economic experience and
assumption changes
(12 .3)
(3.2)
(2 . 5)
(1.0)
44.2
CA
S&P
PL
Movestic
2013
CA
Movestic
S&P
Profit on
purchase of PL
Tax
Chesnara
PL
2014
Total
2014
£m
2013
£m
16.2
(11.7 )
1.6
18.5
18.7
33.9
–
18.4
24.6
71.1
Analysis of the EEV result in the year by
business segment
2014
£m
2013
£m
CA
S&P
PL
Movestic
Chesnara
50.0
(14.2 )
(0.9 )
27.5
(7.7 )
Profit before tax and gain on acquisition
Gain on acquisition of PL Ltd
54.7
–
Profit before tax
Tax
54.7
(10.5 )
24.5
42.7
0.1
15.5
(5.1 )
77.7
12.3
90.0
(7.3 )
Profit after tax
44.2
82.7
The CA segment has benefited from a number of positive items in the
period, the most significant being the impact of investment returns in
the year, driven by Government bond values increasing (c£14m) and
the positive impact of tax gains of c£5m. Off-setting this are negative
economic assumption changes of c£5m.
The S&P segment reported a loss as a result of prevailing economic
conditions. This is almost exclusively due to the impact that the
reduction in Government bond yields in the year has had on the reserves
required for those products which contain options and guarantees.
PL has reported positive economic profits in the year. This is largely
due to the positive impact that increasing bond values has had on this
segment during the year.
Movestic is sensitive to movements in equity markets, largely due to
its core income stream being dependent upon management charges
generated from policyholders. These management charges are based
on the level of funds under management, which are primarily equity
invested. Strong equity returns in Sweden have driven this positive
change in EEV over the year.
35
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
The S&P segment has reported a negative operating
assumption change in the period. As referred to above, the
main item that contributes to this a £4.2m strain arising
from the modelling of the new HCL outsource contract.
The PL segment has reported an operating assumption
change loss of £2.9m. This is as a result of a number
of items, the most significant being the impact of new
expense assumptions which capture additional central
costs that were not allocated in the prior year.
Movestic has reported an operating assumption change
loss of £5.2m in the year. This is driven by the need to
increase the maintenance cost assumptions at the end of
the year, resulting in an adverse impact of £3.4m.
Gain on acquisition of PL Ltd
The EEV result in 2013 benefitted from the impact of
one-off gain of £12.3m arising from the purchase of PL Ltd.
Uncovered business and other group activities
Chesnara
Movestic
Total
2014
£m
2013
£m
(7.7 )
0.3
(5.0 )
2.7
(7.4 )
(2.3 )
The Chesnara segment of the uncovered business relates
to Chesnara parent company costs, such as corporate
governance and business development, that are not
attributable to the covered business. The increase in costs
when compared with 2013 largely relates to the costs
associated with the Part VII transfer of the PL business into
CA plc. Both 2013 and 2014 include similar amounts of
costs associated with acquisition activities, being the Waard
Group in 2014 and the purchase of PL Ltd in 2013.
The Movestic result contains a number of components which
are not modelled on an EEV basis. The main component
is the Life and Health business, which has reported a profit
of £0.4m during 2014, £1.8m lower than the prior year
profit of £2.2m (see page 33 for further detail). In addition
the Movestic segment includes the impact of financial
reinsurance valuation movements and the results of Movestic’s
associate business, Modernac.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
36
EEV EARNINGS (CONTINUED)
New business contribution
The new business contribution relates primarily to the
Movestic Pensions and Savings business. Movestic also
writes Risk and Health policies, but due to its more
short-term nature the Risk and Health business is reported
as uncovered business and hence does not contribute to
the new business result. Movestic has contributed £8.9m
(2013: £7.2m) of the £9.7m (2013: £7.9m) new business
profits. This is made up of profit on brand new contracts of
£6.0m (2013: £4.5m) coupled with £2.9m (2013: £2.7m)
which is attributable to increments on policies that were in
force at the start of the year. The reason for the increase
in new contract profits is as a result of a notable increase
in the margins on new products, coupled with slightly higher
volumes of new policies sold year on year.
Experience variances
CA
S&P
PL
Movestic
Total
2014
£m
2013
£m
6.1
(4.8 )
(0.7 )
(0.1 )
7.6
4.7
–
(6.5 )
0.5
5.8
The CA segment has reported positive experience variances
in the year. This is predominately due to positive lapse
experience, which has benefitted the EEV result by c£5m.
Off-setting this, the S&P segment has reported experience
losses of £4.8m, the majority of which is due to better than
expected policy attrition, resulting in additional strain arising
from the reserves that are held to cover the associated
policy options and guarantees. The PL result is driven by the
allocation of additional central costs to the segment in
the period. Regarding the Swedish business, it has reported
a small negative experience in 2014. This is made up of a
number of items, the most significant being positive lapse and
transfers experience of c£2.3m, off-set by adverse expense
variance of c£2.6m. The expense variance in the year has
resulted in Movestic re-assessing its expense assumptions,
leading to a small strengthening at the end of the year (see
“Operating assumption changes” section below).
Operating assumption changes
CA
S&P
PL
Movestic
Total
2014
£m
2013
£m
23.7
(4.6 )
(2.9 )
(5.2 )
(4.3 )
4.5
–
(10.2 )
11.0
(10.0 )
The CA segment has reported a strong assumption change
profit in the year. This is primarily due to a one off positive
item of £17.3m arising from a change around how the
assumptions for future bonus units that are allocated to
policyholders are determined. The EEV impact of this
assumption change is higher than IFRS due to the positive
impact on the VIF, an asset that is not recognised for IFRS
reporting purposes. In addition to this the CA segment has
benefited from the positive impact of the new HCL contract,
amounting to £4.2m. An equal and opposite effect can be
seen in the S&P segment.
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORT
EUROPEAN EMBEDDED VALUE
£417.2M 2013: £376.4m
EEV movement 31 December 2013 to
31 December 2014 (£m):
Dec 2013
Negative movements
Positive movements
Dec 2014
Summary
The EEV of the Chesnara Group represents the present
value of the estimated future profits of the Group plus an
adjusted net asset value. Movements between different
periods are a function of the following components:
34.6
(17.3)
– Net of tax profit arising in the period, pre exceptional items;
– Exceptional items, such as:
(20.7 )
(20.7)
417.2
– The impact of raising new equity;
– the surpluses arising on acquisitions; and
– Modelling adjustments;
376.4
E
E
V
2
0
1
3
44.2
N
e
t
o
f
t
a
x
p
r
o
fi
t
a
r
i
s
i
n
g
i
n
t
h
e
p
e
r
i
o
d
*
a
c
q
u
i
s
i
t
i
o
n
E
q
u
i
t
y
r
a
i
s
e
d
f
o
r
F
o
r
e
i
g
n
e
x
c
h
a
n
g
e
r
e
s
e
r
v
e
m
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
E
E
V
2
0
1
4
D
i
v
i
d
e
n
d
s
p
a
i
d
EEV movement 31 December 2012 to
31 December 2013 (£m):
4.1
(1.4)
12 .3
70.4
(20.1)
(20.7)
376.4
311.1
E
E
V
2
0
1
2
N
e
t
o
f
t
a
x
p
r
o
fi
t
a
r
i
s
i
n
g
i
n
t
h
e
p
e
r
i
o
d
*
o
n
a
c
q
u
i
s
i
t
i
o
n
E
x
c
e
p
t
i
o
n
a
l
s
u
r
p
u
s
l
j
a
d
u
s
t
m
e
n
t
s
E
f
f
e
c
t
o
f
m
o
d
e
l
l
i
n
g
F
o
r
e
i
g
n
e
x
c
h
a
n
g
e
r
e
s
e
r
v
e
m
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
E
E
V
2
0
1
3
D
i
v
i
d
e
n
d
s
p
a
i
d
Dec 2012
Negative movements
Positive movements
Dec 2013
*Stated before exceptional items
– Foreign exchange movements arising from retranslating
the EEV of Movestic into Sterling; and
– Dividends that are paid in the year.
More detail behind each of these components has been
provided below:
Net of tax profit
The EEV profit arising during the year is analysed in more
detail within the preceding section.
Equity raised for acquisition
During November 2014 we announced the acquisition of the
Waard Group in the Netherlands for €67.8m. To finance
the deal we raised £34.5m of equity through a well
supported share placing exercise. With a Euro-denominated
purchase price, to mitigate the downside risk of a
strengthening Euro the capital raised was converted to Euros
at the time of the capital raise.
Exceptional surplus on acquisition
The purchase of PL Ltd during 2013 resulted in an acquisition
surplus of £12.3m. The surplus arose because the EEV of
PL Ltd at the acquisition date amounted to £51.6m, which is
£12.3m higher than the purchase price of £39.3m.
Effect of modelling adjustments
Year ended 31 December 2014
There were no modelling adjustments during the year.
Year ended 31 December 2013
Positive modelling adjustments during 2013 of £4.1m related
entirely to the Movestic business. These arose due to
refinements being made to the way in which commissions
were modelled.
Foreign exchange reserve movements
The £17.3m foreign exchange reserve movement during 2014
has arisen as a result of a significant weakening of the
Swedish Krona against Sterling by 14% since the end of 2013.
Dividends paid
Dividends of £20.7m were paid during 2014, being the final
dividend from 2013 of £13.3m and the interim dividend from
2014 of £7.4m.
37
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
FINANCIAL
REVIEW
EUROPEAN EMBEDDED VALUE (CONTINUED)
Analysis of EEV
The information on this page provides some further analysis of the EEV of the Group, both in terms of the split between
different operating segments and also the split between the adjusted shareholder net worth and the value of the in-force (VIF)
business. The adjusted shareholder net worth represents the IFRS net worth of the Group, but adjusted for items that are
measured differently under EEV measurement rules and the VIF represents Management’s best estimate of the present value
of the future profits that will arise out of each book of business.
EEV – Value in force (VIF) and adjusted shareholder net worth (SNW)
(£m)
417.2
243.7
173.5
376.4
262.2
311.1
210.0
114.2
101.1
31 Dec 2014
31 Dec 2013
31 Dec 2012
Total EEV VIF SNW
Analysis of VIF at 31 December 2014 - £243.7m
Analysis of EEV at 31 December 2014 - £417.2m
146
67
Movestic
CA
12
S&P
19
PL
128
148
61
Movestic
CA
S&P
63
PL
17
Other Group
Activities
In the above segmental analysis any outstanding
debt in relation to the S&P and PL acquisitions is
included in “Other Group Activities”.
Highlights
– There is a good balance in EEV across the core business
– There is a significant level of product diversification
segments, with the UK businesses representing
the majority (65%) of the total EEV, which includes the
supplementary addition of the PL business last year.
The value in-force component is dominated by the
Swedish business which represents 61% of the total
Group VIF.
within the VIF. When adjusted to recognise the impact
of the S&P cost of guarantees which are
predominantly pension contract related, 64.0% of the
total product level value in-force relates to pension
contracts, 23.5% to protection business and 10.3%
to endowments.
– The Group EEV includes £17.1m in “Other Group
Activities” which includes the £34.5m equity raised
through a share placing to finance the acquisition of
the Waard Group.
38
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORTAnalysis of VIF by policy type
The tables below set out the value of in-force business by major product line at each year end. Analysis of the composition of
the VIF by business and major product category provides a useful insight into the commercial dynamics underpinning the value
of Chesnara.
31 December 2014
Number of policies
Value of in-force business
CA
000’s
S&P
000’s
PL Movestic
000’s
000’s
Total
000’s
Endowment
Protection
Annuities
Pensions
Other
29
36
6
37
2
3
4
–
115
10
–
136
–
–
–
Total at product level
110
132
136
10
–
–
88
–
98
Valuation adjustments:
Holding company
expenses
Other
Cost of capital/
frictional costs
Value in-force pre-tax
Taxation
Value in-force post-tax
Endowment
Protection
Annuities
Pensions
Other
33
39
6
39
3
4
5
–
120
11
–
146
–
–
–
Total at product level
120
140
146
11
–
–
82
–
93
Valuation adjustments:
Holding company
expenses
Other
Cost of capital/
frictional costs
Value in-force pre-tax
Taxation
Value in-force post-tax
CA
£m
19.0
45.8
4.6
37.8
2.2
S&P
£m
4.1
2.4
0.6
39.1
4.2
PL Movestic
£m
£m
Total
£m
–
23.2
–
–
–
8.3
–
–
147.0
–
31.4
71.4
5.2
223.9
6.4
42
176
6
240
12
476
109.4
50.4
23.2
155.3
338.3
(6.4 )
(12.4 )
(3.0 )
(34.6 )
(1.4 )
–
(9.1 )
–
(19.9 )
(47.0 )
(1.1 )
(1.3 )
(2.8)
(0.1 )
(5.3 )
89.5
(22.4 )
67.1
11.5
–
11.5
19.0
–
146.1
–
266.1
(22.4 )
19.0
146.1
243.7
CA
£m
24.1
46.2
4.0
29.7
3.9
S&P
£m
2.9
3.9
1.1
44.6
4.9
PL Movestic
£m
£m
–
36.0
–
–
–
8.0
–
–
140.0
–
Total
£m
35.0
86.1
5.1
214.3
8.8
48
190
6
241
14
499
107.9
57.4
36.0
148.0
349.3
(6.5 )
(16.5 )
(1.0 )
83.9
(16.7 )
(3.4 )
(21.2 )
(2.3 )
30.5
–
–
–
(8.9 )
–
(18.8 )
(37.7 )
(4.0 )
32.0
(6.5 )
(0.1 )
(7.4 )
139.0
–
285.4
(23.2 )
67.2
30.5
25.5
139.0
262.2
31 December 2013
Number of policies
Value of in-force business
CA
000’s
S&P
000’s
PL Movestic
000’s
000’s
Total
000’s
The policy numbers in the table at 31 December 2013 have been restated to capture a change in the definition of a policy, following
on from the migration of some actuarial services to Towers Watson. Whilst the change in policy numbers is not significant using
the new definition, not adjusting would have meant that the movement in policy numbers in the year would have been misleading.
The value-in-force represents the discounted value of the
future surpluses arising from the insurance and investment
contracts in force at each respective year end. The future
surpluses are calculated by using realistic assumptions for
each component of the cash flows.
Holding company expenses are apportioned across the
segments pro-rata to the total product-based VIF.
’Other’ valuation adjustments in CA principally comprise
expenses for managing policies which are not attributed at
product level. In S&P they represent the estimated cost of
guarantees to with-profits policyholders.
Taxation in the value-in-force is modelled on a combined
CA and S&P basis and, in the analysis above, is attributed
wholly to the CA segment.
39
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
The Group’s financial management framework is designed
to provide security for all stakeholders, while meeting the
expectations of policyholders and shareholders.
The following diagram illustrates the aims, approach and outcomes from the financial management framework:
OBJECTIVES
The Group’s financial management framework is designed to provide security for all stakeholders,
while meeting the expectations of policyholders, shareholders and regulators. Accordingly we:
Maintain
solvency targets
Meet the dividend
expectations
of shareholders
Optimise the
gearing ratio to
ensure an efficient
capital base
Maintain the Group
as a going concern
Ensure there is
sufficient liquidity
to meet obligations
to policyholders,
debt financiers
and creditors
HOW WE DELIVER OUR OBJECTIVES
In order to meet our obligations we employ and undertake a number of methods. These are centred on:
1. Monitor and control risk & solvency
2. Longer-term projections
3. Responsible investment management
OUTCOMES
Key outcomes from our financial management process, in terms of meeting our objectives, are set out below:
1. SOLVENCY
2. SHAREHOLDER
RETURNS
3. CAPITAL STRUCTURE
4. LIQUIDITY AND
POLICYHOLDER
RETURNS
5. MAINTAIN THE
GROUP AS A GOING
CONCERN
Group Solvency
Ratio of 284%
2014 TSR 11%
2014 dividend
yield 5.4%
Based on share price as at
31 December 2014 of 339.25p
and full year 2014 dividend
of 18.4p.
Gearing ratio of
23.1% following
acquisition of PL
This does not include the
financial reinsurance that
is held within the Swedish
business.
Competitive fund
performance
Group remains a
going concern
Policyholders’
realistic
expectations
maintained
(see Directors’
Report pages 83
to 84)
40
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORTHOW WE DELIVER OUR FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES
1. MONITOR AND CONTROL RISK
AND SOLVENCY
2. LONGER-TERM PROJECTIONS
3. RESPONSIBLE INVESTMENT
MANAGEMENT
The Board sets internal solvency
targets that are based on
solvency requirements imposed
by our regulators. The targets are
set with the intention of balancing
the requirements of both our
shareholders and policyholders.
i) a Pillar 1 calculation, which
compares regulatory capital
resource requirements, based
on the characteristics of the
in-force life business, with an
associated measure of capital
as prescribed by regulation;
and
ii) a Pillar 2 calculation which
compares a risk-based
assessment of solvency
capital with an associated
measure of capital based on
a realistic assessment of
insurance liabilities; and
iii) the amount of required
regulatory solvency capital is
then determined by the
method which gives rise to
the lower excess of regulatory
capital over requirements.
These calculations are
monitored regularly.
Long-term projections are performed covering,
as a minimum:
i)
Segmental earnings and surplus arising in
the long-term insurance funds;
ii) Chesnara holding company cash flows;
iii) Regulatory solvency and capital resources
and requirements; and
iv) European embedded value.
The projections are prepared for a base case,
using latest board-approved assumptions,
and for various individual and multiple economic
and non-economic sensitivities.
In addition:
Financial condition reports are prepared on an
annual basis which includes assessments of
the ability of the business to withstand key
adverse events, including increased rates of
policy lapse, expense overruns and unfavourable
market conditions.
Reverse stress testing techniques are employed
which assess events and circumstances which
would cause the business to become unviable.
In this context, unviable is defined as the point at
which the market loses confidence in the firm being
able to carry out its normal business activities.
Investment management
We aim to promote customer
retention by pursuing good
relative investment performance
across both our UK and
Swedish businesses.
We use third party investment
managers in both the UK and
Sweden. They are charged with
operating within pre-determined
guidelines which are set having
regard to the nature of the fund
and to contractual obligations to
policyholders. For the with-profits
funds these are also in
accordance with the published
Principles and Practices of
Financial Management. In
Sweden a larger number of fund
managers are used, which
are subject to very stringent
initial selection and ongoing
monitoring criteria.
A conservative approach to
the investment of shareholders’
funds is also adopted within
the Group.
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CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)
Throughout 2014 and up to 25 March 2015 there has been
a general appreciation in the share price, having increased
by 10% from 321.75p per share at 1 January 2014 to
355.0p per share at 25 March 2015. The combined impact
of the share price growth throughout 2014 and the
continuing attractive dividends means shareholders have
achieved strong total shareholder return.
3. Capital structure
The Group’s UK operations are financed through a
combination of retained earnings and debt finance. Surplus
emerging from the UK business is used:
to repay our debt obligations;
i)
ii) to support dividend distributions to shareholders; and
iii) to support the medium-term requirements of
Movestic to meet regulatory solvency capital
requirements as it expands.
The borrowings in place that part-finance the UK
operations arose as follows:
– S&P, which was purchased in December 2010 for £63.5m,
was accomplished by way of debt: equity financing broadly
in a ratio of 2:1.
– PL, which was acquired in November 2013 for £39.3m,
was funded using a combination of debt and existing cash
resources. The process for raising the debt to fund
the purchase of PL also gave rise to a restructuring of the
existing facilities that were initially arranged to fund the
purchase of S&P. The result is that, at 31 December 2014
bank borrowings amounted to £64.3m. This is a five year
loan that has four years remaining.
The purchase of Movestic was financed by internal cash
resources. On an ongoing basis the Movestic business
is financed by a combination of external financial
reinsurance arrangements and capital contributions from
Chesnara, if required.
With respect to acquisitions the Group seeks to finance
these through a suitable mix of debt, existing cash
resources, and equity, within the constraints imposed by
the operation of regulatory rules over the level of debt
finance which may be borne by Insurance Groups without
breaching solvency requirements.
Other factors which may place a demand on capital resources
in the future include the costs of unavoidable large
scale systems developments such as those which may be
involved with changing regulatory requirements. To the
extent that ongoing administration of the UK life businesses
is performed within the terms of its third-party outsourcing
agreements, the Group is sheltered, to a degree, from these
development costs as they are likely to be on a shared basis.
OUTCOMES FROM IMPLEMENTING OUR
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES
Key outcomes from our financial management process, in
terms of meeting our objectives are set out below:
1. Solvency
The solvency and regulatory capital of the Group and its
regulated subsidiaries is monitored regularly. Further detail
of the year end solvency positions has been summarised in
the Business Review on page 25.
2. Shareholder returns
The Board’s primary aim is to provide an attractive dividend
flow to its shareholders. With Movestic in its growth phase,
shareholder dividend flows are currently generated by CA plc,
by way of the emergence of surpluses in, and transfer of
surpluses from, its long-term insurance funds to shareholder
funds and by the return on shareholder net assets.
Dividend flows from CA plc to Chesnara are utilised in the first
instance for the repayment and servicing of debt, coupled
with bearing central corporate governance costs which cannot
be fairly attributed to the long-term insurance funds, and
which arise largely in connection with Chesnara’s obligations
as a listed company.
Returns to shareholders can be assessed by reference to
many measures including the actual share price, the yields
on the shares and the comparison of total market capital to
embedded value. The graphs below illustrate:
– how the EEV per share has compared with the share price
over recent years, up to 31 December 2014; and
– the dividend growth per share over this same period.
EEV per share versus share price:
EEV per share (p) Share price (p)
400
350
300
250
200
150
100
9
0
c
e
D
0
1
r
a
M
0
1
n
u
J
0
1
p
e
S
0
1
c
e
D
1
1
r
a
M
1
1
n
u
J
1
1
p
e
S
1
1
c
e
D
2
1
r
a
M
2
1
n
u
J
2
1
p
e
S
2
1
c
e
D
3
1
r
a
M
3
1
n
u
J
3
1
p
e
S
3
1
c
e
D
4
1
n
u
J
4
1
p
e
S
4
1
c
e
D
Dividends (pence per share):
16.40
16.85
17.35
17.88
18.40
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
42
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORT
4. Liquidity and policyholder returns
Key aspects of policyholder fund performance in respect
of the UK Business and in respect of the Swedish Business
are set out in the Business Review.
The current profile and mix of investment asset holdings
between fixed-interest securities and cash deposits is such
that realisations to meet obligations to third parties and
to support dividend distributions can be made in an orderly
and efficient way.
5. Maintain the Group as a going concern
The Group’s cash flow position, together with the return on
financial assets in the parent company, supports the ability
to trade in the short term. Accordingly, the underlying
solvency position of the UK life business and its ongoing
ability to generate surpluses which support cash transfers
to shareholders’ funds is critical to the ongoing ability of
the Group to continue trading and to meet its obligations
as they fall due.
The information set out on page 25 indicates a strong solvency
position as at 31 December 2014 as measured at both
the individual regulated life company levels in both the UK
and Sweden and at the Group level. In addition, in respect
of the UK business, the financial condition report and
reverse stress testing assessments indicate that it is able
to withstand the impact of adverse scenarios, including the
effect of significant investment market falls, while
the business’s outsourcing arrangements protect it from
significant expense overruns.
The Group is well capitalised, and has a healthy level of cash
reserves to be able to meet its debt obligations as they fall
due. The Group does not rely on the renewal or extension
of bank facilities to continue trading – indeed, as indicated,
its day to day operations are cash generative. The Group
does, however, rely on cash flow from the maturity or sale
of fixed interest securities which match certain obligations
to policyholders, which brings with it the risk of bond default.
In order to manage this risk we ensure that our bond
portfolio is actively monitored and well diversified. Other
significant counterparty default risk relates to our principal
reassurers. We monitor their financial position and are
satisfied that any associated credit default risk is low. It is
noteworthy that we have negligible exposure to Euro-
denominated sovereign debt.
In light of the above, our expectation is that the Group will
continue to generate surplus in its UK long-term business
sufficient to meet its debt obligations as they fall due,
to continue to pursue an attractive dividend policy and to
meet the short-term financing requirements of Movestic.
The Director’s Report on pages 83 to 84 provides confirmation
that the IFRS Financial Statements have been prepared
on the Going Concern basis.
43
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
RISK MANAGEMENT
Risk management processes
Overlaying all the day-to-day and development activity we
undertake is a focused risk management culture and regime.
In both the UK and Swedish businesses we maintain
processes for identifying, evaluating and managing the
significant risks faced by the Group, which are regularly
reviewed by the Group Audit & Risk Committee. Our risk
processes have regard to the significance of risks, the
likelihood of their occurrence and take account of existing
controls and the cost of mitigating them. The processes are
designed to manage rather than eliminate risk and, as such,
provide reasonable, but not absolute, assurance against loss.
At the subsidiary level in the UK businesses we maintain,
in accordance with the regulatory requirements of the PRA
and FCA, a risk and responsibility regime. Accordingly,
the identification, assessment and control of risk are firmly
embedded within the organisation and the procedures
for the monitoring and updating of risk are robust. As part of
this we have a Risk Committee in CA plc, which comprises
solely of Non-executive Directors. This Committee receives
quarterly updates of the key risk registers, as maintained
by the senior management, for review and challenge. The
Committee reports directly to the CA plc Board which
also reviews reports from the compliance and internal audit
functions. The Chesnara plc Group risk register is
updated on a quarterly basis for any material changes in the
CA plc risk register, which is then presented to the
Chesnara Audit & Risk Committee. Since its acquisition similar
arrangements have been established for PL Ltd. The key
risk registers have been designed to complement the
production of Individual Capital Assessments, which we are
required to submit to the PRA on request and maintain on
an ongoing basis. We categorise all risks against the
following relevant categories – insurance, market, credit,
liquidity, operational and Group – and identify potential
exposures and the necessary capital requirements accordingly.
In the Swedish business, at the Movestic subsidiary level,
there is full compliance with the regulatory requirement in
that its Board and Managing Director have responsibility for
ensuring that the management of the organisation is
characterised by sound internal control, which is responsive
to internal and external risks and changes in them. The
Board has responsibility for ensuring that there is an internal
control risk function, which is charged with (i) ensuring that
there is information which provides a comprehensive and
objective representation of the risks within the organisation
and (ii) proposing changes in processes and documentation
regarding risk management. These obligations are
evidenced by regular compliance, internal audit, general risk
and financial risk reports to the Movestic Board. The
latter is supplemented by quarterly returns to the Swedish
regulator, Finansinspektionen, which set out estimated
capital requirements in respect of insurance, market, credit,
liquidity, currency and operational risks.
Risk management processes are enhanced by stress and
scenario testing, which evaluates the impact on the
Group of certain adverse events occurring separately or in
combination. There is a strong correlation between these
adverse events and the risks identified in ‘principal risks and
uncertainties’ below. The outcome of this testing provides
context against which the Group can assess whether any
changes to its risk management processes are required.
Group and subsidiary auditors regularly report to
management on identified control weaknesses together
with suggested improvements.
We are currently reviewing and upgrading our risk
management processes, so that Group-wide they will be
enhanced in a uniform and consistent manner, embracing:
– articulation of risk appetite statements, following from
documented strategic objectives;
– formulation and monitoring of associated risk metrics;
– risk identification and assessment;
– calculation of risk-based capital; and
– the embedding of risk management processes so that
they are at the forefront of, and underpin, strategic and
operating decisions.
These developments have continued during 2014 and are
planned to continue during 2015 and into 2016.
Principal risks and uncertainties
Risks and uncertainties are assessed by reference
to the extent to which they threaten, or
potentially threaten, the ability of the Group to
meet its core strategic objectives. These currently
centre on the intention of the Group to maintain
an attractive dividend policy.
The specific principal risks and uncertainties subsisting
within the Group are determined by the fact that:
i)
the Group’s core operations centre on the run-off
of closed life and pensions businesses in the UK;
ii) notwithstanding this, the Group has a material
segment, which comprises an open life and
pensions business operating in a foreign
jurisdiction; and
iii) these businesses are subject to local regulation,
which significantly influences the amount of
capital which they are required to retain and
which may otherwise constrain the conduct of
business.
44
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORT
The following identifies the principal risks and uncertainties, together with a description of
their actual or potential impact and of the way in which the Group seeks to control these risks.
The table below is based on the Chesnara Group at 31 December 2014. The acquisition of
the Waard Group, as discussed on page 24 will result in a requirement for the following list of
principal risks and uncertainties being reviewed.
PRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES
Risk
Impact
Control
Adverse mortality/
morbidity/longevity
experience
To the extent that actual mortality or morbidity rates
vary from the assumptions underlying product pricing,
so more or less profit will accrue to the Group.
– Effective underwriting techniques and
reinsurance programmes.
– Option on certain contracts to vary premium rates in the
light of actual experience.
– Partial risk diversification in that the Group has a portfolio
of annuity contracts where the benefits cease on death.
Adverse persistency
experience
Persistency rates significantly lower than those
assumed will lead to reduced Group profitability in the
medium to long-term.
– Active investment management to ensure competitive
policyholder investment funds.
– Outsourcer service levels ensure strong customer
service standards.
– Customer retention processes.
– Close monitoring of persistency levels across all groups
of business
Expense overruns
and unsustainable
unit cost growth
Significant and
prolonged equity
market falls
For the closed UK life and pensions businesses, the
Group is exposed to the impact of fixed and semi-fixed
expenses, in conjunction with a diminishing policy base,
on profitability. For the Swedish open life and pensions
business, the Group is exposed to the impact of
expense levels varying adversely from those assumed
in product pricing.
– For the UK businesses, the Group pursues a strategy of
outsourcing functions with charging structures such
that the policy administration cost is sensitive to book run
off to the fullest extent possible.
– The Swedish operations assume growth through new
business such that the general unit cost trend is positive.
– For both the UK and Swedish businesses, the Group
maintains a strict regime of budgetary control.
A significant part of the Group’s income and, therefore,
overall profitability derives from fees received in
respect of the management of policyholder and investor
funds. Fee levels are generally related to the value
of funds under management and, as the managed
investment funds overall comprise a significant equity
content, the Group is particularly exposed to the impact
of significant and prolonged equity market falls, which
may lead to policyholders switching to lower-margin,
fixed-interest funds.
– Individual fund mandates may give rise to a degree
of diversification of risk and within those funds, hedging
techniques are used where appropriate.
– Investment management costs fall in line with market
falls and hence cost savings partially hedge the impact
on income.
– There is a wide range of investment funds and managers
so that there is no significant concentration of risk.
Adverse Sterling:
Swedish Krona
exchange
rate movements
Exposure to adverse Sterling: Swedish Krona exchange
rate movements arises from actual planned cash flows
between the Swedish subsidiary and its UK parent
company and from the impact on reported IFRS and
EEV results which are expressed in Sterling.
– The Group monitors exchange rate movements and
the cost of hedging the currency risk on cash flows
when appropriate.
Counterparty failure
The Group carries significant inherent risk of counterparty
failure in respect of:
– its fixed interest security portfolio;
– cash deposits; and
– amounts due from reinsurers.
– Operation of guidelines which limit the level of exposure
to any one counterparty and which impose limits on
exposure to credit ratings.
– In respect of exposure to one major reinsurer, Guardian
Assurance Limited (‘Guardian’), the Group has a floating
charge over the reinsurer’s related investment assets, which
ranks the Group equally with Guardian’s policyholders.
45
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B
RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)
PRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES (CONTINUED)
Risk
Impact
Control
Adverse movements
in yields on fixed
interest securities
Failure of outsourced
service providers
to fulfil contractual
obligations
The Group maintains portfolios of fixed interest securities
(i) in order to match its insurance contract liabilities,
in terms of yield and cash flow characteristics, and (ii)
as an integral part of the investment funds it manages on
behalf of policyholders and investors. It is exposed to
mismatch losses arising from a failure to match its
insurance contract liabilities or from the fact that sharp
and discrete fixed interest yield movements may not
be associated fully and immediately with corresponding
changes in actuarial valuation interest rates.
The Group’s UK life and pensions businesses are heavily
dependent on outsourced service providers to fulfil a
significant number of their core functions. In the event
of failure by any of the service providers to fulfil their
contractual obligations, in whole or in part, to the requisite
standards specified in the contracts, the Group may suffer
loss as its functions degrade.
Key man dependency
The nature of the Group is such that it relies on a
number of key individuals who have particular
knowledge, experience and know how. The Group is,
accordingly, exposed to the sudden loss of the
services of these individuals.
Adverse regulatory
and legal changes
The Group operates in jurisdictions which are currently
subject to significant change arising from regulatory
and legal requirements. These may either be of a local
nature, or of a wider nature, following from EU-based
regulation and law. Significant issues which have arisen
and where there is currently uncertainty as to their full
impact on the Group include:
i)
the implementation of Solvency II
requirements; and
ii) the FCA’s review of legacy business; and
iii) the changes in pensions legislation planned for
April 2015
– The Group maintains rigorous matching programmes to
ensure that exposure to mismatching is minimised.
– Active investment management such that, where
appropriate, asset mixes will be changed to mitigate the
potential adverse impact on declines in bond yields.
– Rigorous service level measures and management
information flows under its contractual arrangements.
– Continuing and close oversight of the performance of all
service providers.
– The supplier relationship management approach is
conducive to ensuring the outsource arrangements deliver
to their obligations.
– Under the terms of the contractual arrangements the
Group may impose penalties and/or exercise step-in rights
in the event of specified adverse circumstances.
– The Group promotes the sharing of know-how and expertise
to the fullest extent possible.
– It periodically reviews and assesses staffing levels, and,
where the circumstances of the Group justify and permit,
will enhance resource to ensure that know-how and
expertise is more widely embedded.
– The Group maintains succession plans and remuneration
structures which comprise a retention element.
– The Group complements its internal expertise with
established relationships with external specialist partners.
The current opinion is that the implementation of Solvency
II will strengthen the long-term risk management
environment of Chesnara (as is its intention).
The Solvency II programme is covered in more detail on the
next page. The key risks are mitigated as follows:
The Solvency II programme is covered in more detail
on the next page. The key risks are mitigated as follows:
– Proposed appointment of an external specialist Quality
Assurance partner;
– Dedicated internal resource; and
– Robust programme governance framework.
Management continually reviews the potential impact of
any prospective regulatory changes.
46
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORT
SOLVENCY 11
Our Solvency II programme
remains on track for the
planned implementation date
of 1 January 2016.
Solvency II is a fundamental review of the capital adequacy
regime for the European insurance industry. It aims to
establish a revised set of EU-wide capital requirements and
risk management standards that will replace the current
solvency requirements. Solvency II’s primary objective is to
strengthen policyholder protection by aligning capital
requirements more closely with the risk profile of the
company. The regime has a three pillar structure, with each
pillar governing a different aspect of the Solvency II
requirements and approach. As well as requiring firms to
disclose their capital and risk frameworks, the Directive also
asks firms to demonstrate how and where the requirements
are embedded in their wider activities. The implementation
date is 1 January 2016 and we remain confident that our
SII projects in the UK and Sweden are on target to achieve
SII-compliance by this date. Solvency II costs across the
industry are considered to be significant and, for Chesnara,
we expect to incur additional implementation costs of
up to £2m during 2015. Our view remains that the
introduction of Solvency II will not adversely impact the
Group’s solvency position.
Chesnara’s approach
Pillar 1
Pillar 1 considers the quantitative requirements of
the system, including the calculation of technical
provisions and the rules relating to the calculation
of the Minimum Capital Requirement (MCR) and
the Solvency Capital Requirement (SCR). Under
Solvency II there are two prescribed methods for
assessing an insurer’s SCR; either a Standard
Formula set by the regulator or an Internal Model
specific to that insurer and which is subject to
regulatory approval. Chesnara has opted for the
Standard Formula approach for CA plc, PL and
Movestic on the grounds that it is a good fit and
appropriate for its businesses at the current time.
However, we will continue to monitor our position
on the choice of approach as our businesses evolve.
Progress update
All model development for Pillar 1 is materially
complete and a full dry run for CA, PL and Movestic
will be carried out in Q2 2015 with the Group,
consolidated, dry run scheduled for Q3 2015.
Outputs from these exercises will be subject to
review and challenge by the respective boards.
In December 2014, following Board review and
approval, CA plc provided an assessment of the
appropriateness of the Standard Formula for its
business to the PRA whose response is expected
during Q2 2015. For Movestic, this assessment was
included as part of its 2014 FLAOR submission.
Pillar 2
Pillar 2 deals with two main areas: firstly, that our businesses have in
place effective strategies and controls to assess and manage the risks
it is exposed to and to assess and maintain its solvency capital based
on its own risk profile and, secondly, that its strategies, controls and
assessment of its solvency capital are subject to supervisory review.
This pillar requires us to produce either, an Own Risk and Solvency
Assessment (ORSA) for each subsidiary and one for the Group or a
single Group-wide ORSA. We will be producing an ORSA for each
subsidiary and the Group ORSA. Each ORSA is subject to review and
scrutiny by the relevant regulator who will have the power to
impose a higher capital requirement should it find any inadequacies
in the approach to calculating the SCR or in the risk and governance
controls in operation.
Progress update
A significant milestone was achieved during 2014 for both CA plc
and Movestic who each produced a FLAOR (forward-looking
assessment of own risks) report based on the own risk and solvency
assessment (‘ORSA’) principles as required under the preparatory
Solvency II guidelines. Following review and approval by the
respective boards, the CA plc FLAOR was issued to the PRA and
the Movestic FLAOR to the FI in December 2014 and feedback is
expected from the regulators during the first half of 2015. With
regard to the governance aspects of SII, Chesnara will be
implementing a comprehensive Corporate Governance Map during
the first half of 2015 which will consolidate and refine the existing
governance structures in place within the Group, ensure they are
SII-compliant and provide a platform for a consistent, cohesive
governance approach across all group businesses going forward.
Pillar 3
Pillar 3 seeks to enhance market discipline on regulated firms by
requiring them to disclose publicly key information that is relevant to
market participants. As such, in choosing which information should
be selected for disclosure under Pillar 3, supervisors will be guided
by the actual needs of market participants rather than by their own
information needs. The key reporting requirements are a Solvency &
Financial Condition Report (SFCR) and a Regular Supervisory Report
(RSR). The SFCR is for public disclosure and will follow a prescribed
format. The RSR is not public and is only communicated to the
relevant supervisor and, again, will largely follow a prescriptive format.
Progress update
The development work required to populate the Quantitative Reporting
Templates (QRTs) is materially complete and a number of dry run
exercises are planned for CA plc, Movestic and the Group during
2015. The dry runs will look to test and validate both the process and
the outputs and will include; the Annual QRTs (based on year-end
2014 data), the quarterly QRTs (based on half-year 2015 data) and a
consolidated set of Group QRTs (based on year-end 2014 data).
Work is also ongoing in CA plc and Movestic to finalise the format and
content of their Solvency & Financial Condition Report (SFCR) and
Regular Supervisory Report (RSR) and the plan is to perform a dry run
on these reports during Q3 2015.
47
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION BCORPORATE AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Social and environmental issues are
taken seriously and by Chesnara, with
particular emphasis given to
developing and maintaining high
standards.
We do not, however, consider that these aspects are critical
to the achievement of our strategic aims or that they should
form any significant element of remuneration or reward.
Equal opportunities
Chesnara is committed to a policy of equal opportunity in
employment and it will continue to select, recruit, train and
promote the best candidates based on suitability for the role
and treat all employees and applicants fairly regardless
of race, age, gender, marital status, ethnic origin, religious
beliefs, sexual orientation or disability. Chesnara will
ensure that no employee suffers harassment or intimidation.
Health, safety and welfare at work
Chesnara places great importance on the health, safety and
welfare of its employees. Relevant policies, standards
and procedures are reviewed on a regular basis to ensure
that any hazards or material risks are removed or reduced
to minimise or, where possible, exclude the possibility of
accident or injury to employees or visitors.
The policies, standards and procedures are communicated
to employees through contracts of employment, the staff
handbook and employee briefings and all employees have a
duty to exercise responsibility and do everything possible
to prevent injury to themselves and others.
Social, environmental and ethical issues
Chesnara aims to be sensitive to the cultural, social and
economic needs of our local community and endeavours to
protect and preserve the environment where it operates.
To support this we allow each of our UK employees two days
release on full pay each year where they can support a local
charity project of their choice.
The table below shows the gender split of employees of the
Chesnara Group split across different categories:
We seek to be honest and fair in our relationships with
our customers and provide the standards of products and
services that have been agreed.
2014
2013
Male Female Male Female
Directors of Chesnara plc
7
1
7
1
Senior management of
the Group (other than
Directors of Chesnara plc)
Heads of business units
and Group functions
1
–
1
–
6
5
6
6
Employees of the Group
70
60
60
62
Total
84
66
74
69
Senior management includes employees other than Group
Directors who have the responsibility for planning, directing
or controlling the activities of the company, or a strategically
significant part of the company. In Chesnara’s case, this is
the Managing Director of the Swedish subsidiary, Movestic
Livförsäkringar AB.
The Board has not identified any senior management as
defined by the Companies Act outside of the Board
of Directors and subsidiary Directors. However, to give
additional information in keeping with the spirit of the
Company’s focus on diversity we have provided additional
disclosures to cover the employees within the Group.
We have provided an analysis of diversity which shows
“Heads of Business Units and Group functions” separately
from the remainder of employees within the Group.
Disabled employees
Chesnara will provide employment for disabled persons
wherever the requirements of the business allow and
if applications for employment are received from suitable
applicants. If existing employees become disabled,
every reasonable effort will be made to achieve continuity
of employment.
Being primarily office-based financial services companies,
the Directors believe that the Group’s activities do not
materially contribute to pollution or cause material damage
to the environment. However, the Group takes all
practicable steps to minimise its effects on the environment
and encourages its employees to conserve energy, minimise
waste and recycle work materials.
Greenhouse gas reporting
Disclosure of emissions
Global GHG emissions data for the period from 1 January 2014
to 31 December 2014:
Tonnes of CO2e
2014 2013
_
_
76.4
121.3
122.2
0.112
87.8
0.117
Emissions from:
Combustion of fuel and operation
of facilities (scope 1)–
Electricity, heat, steam and cooling
purchased for own use (scope 2)
Travel (scope 3)
Company’s chosen intensity
measurement = tonnes of CO2 e
per square metre of office
space occupied
Emissions reported above normalised to per tonne
of product output
The above analysis shows that our emissions from travel
have increased somewhat when compared with the prior year.
This increase is predominantly as a result of the additional
travel incurred as a result of the work performed during
the year associated with the purchase of the Waard Group.
Off-setting this is a decrease in the consumption of energy
for own use. This is primarily as a result of decreases in the
reported consumption within the Movestic business.
48
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
SECTION B STRATEGIC REPORT
Methodology used to calculate emissions
We have followed the requirements of the GHG Protocol
Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard (revised
edition) and the Defra Carbon Trust conversion factors to
measure and report greenhouse gas emissions, as well
as the disclosure requirements in Part 7 of the Companies
Act 2006 (Strategic Report and Directors’ Report)
Regulations 2013. The financial control method, which captures
the sources that fall within our consolidated financial
statements, has been used. Although we operate an
outsourced model in the UK, these outsourcers do not work
exclusively for the Group and therefore it is not deemed
appropriate to include emissions outside of the Group
consolidated financial statements. The Group’s carbon
reporting falls under three scopes as shown in the table on
the previous page.
There are 16 company-leased vehicles in total in the UK
and Sweden which are used primarily for commuting and
not business-related activities. Commuting mileage is
a personal expense of the employee and is not therefore
included in the consolidated financial statements.
Approved by the Board on 30 March 2015 and signed on its
behalf by:
Peter Mason
Chairman
John Deane
Chief Executive Officer
49
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014STRATEGIC REPORT SECTION B50
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
SECTION C
CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE
IN THIS SECTION
52 Governance Overview from the Chairman
53 Board of Directors
54 Board Profile
55 Corporate Governance Report
60 Directors’ Remuneration Report
80 Audit & Risk Committee Report
83 Directors’ Report
85 Directors’ Responsibilities Statement
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014
51
GOVERNANCE OVERVIEW FROM THE CHAIRMAN
Good governance remains central to
the ongoing success of the Group.
Introduction
This section of the Annual Report & Accounts provides me
with an opportunity to provide insight into the governance of
the Company.
The Corporate Governance Code
Chesnara remains committed to the principles of the UK
Corporate Governance Code (‘the Code’) and has complied
with the provisions of the Code during 2014.
2014 saw the introduction of an updated version of the
Code which applies to accounting periods beginning
on or after 1 October 2014 so is not applicable to these
financial statements.
The updated version of the Code brings greater focus on
the importance of the Board in setting the correct tone
on corporate governance and emphasises the benefits of
diversity on a Board.
Reporting on going concern status will be strengthened
under the new provisions. Going concern statements will
continue to evidence that going concern is an appropriate
basis of accounting but a broader assessment of viability
over a longer period will also be required.
The provision on Remuneration has been amended to
make clear that remuneration policies must be designed to
promote the long-term success of the company and that
the performance-related elements of remuneration must
be transparent.
The revised Code also includes a requirement to explain
how a company intends to engage with shareholders where
a significant percentage of them have voted against an
AGM resolution.
None of the changes are expected to be an issue for
the Company.
Remuneration reporting
The Remuneration Report details how our governance
processes are applied in the area of Director remuneration.
2014 is the second year that we have reported under the
“new style” reporting regime. Particular highlights of this
year’s report include:
– The results of our shareholder vote for the new
remuneration policy that was tabled at the AGM in 2014.
– How this new remuneration policy has been applied during
the year;
– The Remuneration Committee’s activities regarding the
change in the Chief Executive Officer of the Group, including:
– Graham Kettleborough standing down; and
– The Committee’s involvement in the recruitment of
John Deane as the Group’s new CEO.
Governance of the Group
There have been no significant developments in the way in
which the Group governs itself during the year. However,
I would like to take this opportunity to expand a little on our
Governance plans in the future. The planned addition of
a Dutch division to our Group in 2015 will see us operating
in three different territories, namely UK, Sweden and
the Netherlands. At the time of announcing the Waard Group
acquisition in December 2014 we made reference to our
three-legged Group, and our thinking around the implications
of this in the way we govern the Group has started to be
developed in more detail. During 2015 we plan to implement
a new Corporate Governance Map, which, amongst other
things, will bring a more consistent divisionalised structure
across the Group. The Group Board will delegate appropriate
levels of authority to each divisional Board. I will report
on its implementation in the 2015 Annual Report & Accounts.
Audit & Risk Committee Report
This report provides some insight into the key activities of the
Audit & Risk Committee during 2014. The Committee
has continued to provide excellent oversight and challenge to
support the key judgments made by Executive Management,
and has been involved in supporting a number of key
activities during the year, such as the transfer of some of our
core actuarial services from HCL to Towers Watson and the
purchase of the Waard Group.
I trust that the various reports in the rest of this section
of the Annual Report & Accounts show how important good
governance is to the ongoing success of Chesnara.
Peter Mason
Chairman
30 March 2015
52
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCEBOARD OF DIRECTORS
Peter Mason was appointed as Chairman of Chesnara plc and
Chairman of the Nomination Committee on 1 January 2009
and was appointed as Chairman of Movestic Livförsäkring AB
with effect from 23 July 2009. He is also a member of the
Remuneration Committee. He was the Investment Director
and Actuary of Neville James Group, an investment
management company and was admitted as a Fellow of the
Institute of Actuaries in 1979. He has over 40 years’ experience
in financial services and held several non-executive posts
within the industry.
John Deane was appointed as a director of Chesnara plc on
3 December 2014. He assumed the role of CEO from
1 January 2015 on the resignation of Graham Kettleborough.
John is a qualified Actuary and has over 30 years experience
in the life assurance industry. John joined Century Life, a
closed book acquisition company in 1993. As CEO, he oversaw
the creation of the outsourcing company Adepta in 2000.
He joined Old Mutual plc in 2003 becoming their Corporate
Development Director later that year. In 2007 he joined
the Board of Royal London with responsibility for their open
businesses in the UK, Ireland and Isle of Man. Since 2013,
John has been leading a financial services consultancy which
has been advising UK and overseas companies on a
variety of strategic projects. John is a non-executive Director
of Crossco (1337) plc, which is seeking to become a
challenger bank (Atom).
David Rimmington was appointed as Group Finance Director
with effect from 17 May 2013. He trained as a chartered
accountant with KPMG, has more than 17 years’ experience
in financial management within the life assurance and banking
sectors and has had a significant role in a number of major
acquisitions and business integrations. Prior to joining
Chesnara plc in 2011 as Associate Finance Director David
held a number of financial management positions within
the Royal London Group including 6 years as Head of Group
Management Reporting.
Frank Hughes is the Business Services Director of Chesnara
plc. He joined Countrywide Assured plc in November 1992
as an IT Project Manager and was appointed to the Board
as IT Director in May 2002. He has 27 years’ experience in
the life assurance industry gained with Royal Life, Norwich
Union and CMG.
Peter Wright is an Independent Non-executive Director
who was appointed to the Chesnara plc Board on 1 January
2009. At the same date he was appointed as Chairman of
the Audit & Risk Committee. He was appointed as a member
of the Nomination Committee with effect from 9 July 2009.
He retired as a Principal of Towers Perrin on 1 January 2008
and is a former Vice President of the Institute of Actuaries,
having been admitted as a Fellow in 1979. He is Chairman of
the Risk Committee and of the With-profits Committee of
Countrywide Assured plc.
Veronica Oak (née France) is an Independent Non-executive
Director who was appointed to the Chesnara plc Board on
16 January 2013. She serves on the Nomination and Audit &
Risk Committees and took over the role of Chairman of the
Remuneration Committee on 17 May 2013. On 16 February
2015, Veronica was appointed to the Board of the Hanley
Economic Building Society as a Non-Executive Director. She
is also a Non-executive Director of Family Assurance where
she is a member of their Risk & Audit and Nominations
Committees and chairs their Remuneration Committee.
Having held a number of positions within life companies,
including Marketing Director, in 1992, Veronica set up her
own financial services consultancy business advising on
strategy, business development, product development and
related activities. Veronica was Chairman of the trade body,
the Investment and Life Assurance Group in 2002/3
and served on its Management Committee for over ten years
before stepping down in 2010.
David Brand is an Independent Non-executive Director
who was appointed to the Chesnara plc Board and the Board
of Movestic Livförsäkring AB on 16 January 2013. He serves
on the Nomination, and Audit & Risk Committees. He is a
Non-executive Director at Exeter Friendly Society, where he
is Chairman of the Investment Committee and also sits
on the Audit, Risk and Compliance and the Nomination and
Remuneration Committees. He is a qualified actuary
who, prior to his retirement in June 2012, had worked for the
Hannover Re Group in the UK, acting as the Managing
Director of the UK life reinsurance subsidiary since 2003.
David had been with the company since 1988, and a Director
since 1990. During his career David has also held various
roles with the Institute of Actuaries, including being a member
of Council and he also served on the ABI Health Committee
from 2006 to 2012.
Mike Evans is an Independent Non-executive Director who
was appointed to the Chesnara plc Board on 4 March 2013.
He serves on the Audit & Risk, Nomination and Remuneration
Committees. Mike became Senior Independent Director
on 17 May 2013. He is currently Non-executive Chairman of
Hargreaves Lansdown plc, a FTSE 100 listed company, a
position he has held since 2009. He chairs their Nomination
Committee and sits on their Remuneration Committee. He
originally joined the Hargreaves Lansdown Board as a
Non-executive Director in 2006. Mike is also the Non-executive
Chairman of Zoopla Property Group plc. In this role he also
chairs the Nomination Committee and is a member of the
Remuneration Committee. Mike is also a Non-executive
Director of esure Group plc. Mike is a qualified actuary and
served in a number of Director level positions within Skandia
UK between 1991 and 2006.
Graham Kettleborough was the Chief Executive of
Chesnara plc throughout 2014 until his resignation from
Chesnara plc and its UK subsidiaries on 31 December 2014.
He joined Countrywide Assured plc in July 2000 with
responsibility for marketing and business development and
was appointed as Managing Director and to the Board in
July 2002. He was appointed as a Non-executive Director of
Movestic Livförsäkring AB and as Chairman of Movestic
Kapitalförvaltning AB with effect from 23 July 2009. He has
lifetime experience in the financial services industry, primarily
in customer service, marketing and product and business
development, gained with Scottish Provident, Prolific Life,
City of Westminster Assurance and Target Life.
53
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION CBOARD PROFILE
The Board’s mix of skills and
experience creates a solid platform
to govern the Group and deliver its
strategic objectives.
This part of the assessment focuses on ensuring
the appropriate breadth and depth of competencies
and experience.
A competency matrix is defined for the Board which is aligned
to the strategic objectives set out on pages 13 and 14. Each
Board member is assessed and scored against the core
competencies and cumulative scores provide a competency
profile for the Board as a whole, as set out below.
The profile is used to ensure that the Board as a whole
possesses an appropriate skills and experience base for
effective governance of the Group. The chart below compares
the current assessment with the prior year assessment.
Highlights of the current profile changes compared
with 2013 are:
– In general the slight changes as compared to 2013 relate to
the impact of a change in CEO. In the short term the
appointment of a new CEO has a slight adverse impact on
the Chesnara company knowledge component. Certain
other components are deemed to strengthen marginally.
– The level of knowledge of the Swedish Insurance market
is adequate to enable effective Board oversight of the
Swedish business for which the deeper specialist
knowledge is devolved to the local Board and executive
management team.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
2014
2013
A Chesnara Company Knowledge
B Industry Knowledge – UK
C Industry Knowledge – Sweden
D Governance – Actuarial
E Governance – Financial
F Audit & Risk Management
G Investment Management
H M&A and Business Development
I Commercial Management
J Operational Change Management
K Operational Management
54
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCECORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT
The Directors are committed
to achieving a high standard
of corporate governance
including compliance with the
principles and practices of the
UK Corporate Governance
Code (the ‘Code’), as
published by the Financial
Reporting Council.
The following statement, together with the Directors’
Remuneration Report on pages 60 to 79 and the Audit & Risk
Committee Report on pages 80 to 82 describes how
the principles set out in the Code have been applied by the
Company and details the Company’s compliance with
the Code’s provisions for the year ended 31 December 2014.
During the year under review the UK life and pensions
businesses of the Group subsisted in two UK subsidiary
companies being Countrywide Assured plc and Protection
Life Company Limited. As at 31 December 2014, the
business of Protection Life Company Limited was
transferred into Countrywide Assured plc by means of a
Part VII transfer of the business under FSMA 2000.
Compliance with the Code
The Company has complied throughout the year with all of the
relevant provisions of the Code.
The Board
At the end of the year ended 31 December 2014, the Board
comprised a Non-executive Chairman, four other
Non-executive Directors and three Executive Directors.
During the year, there was one addition to the Board
membership. On 3 December 2014, John Deane was
appointed as a Director of Chesnara plc.
With effect from 1 January 2015, John was appointed as CEO
of Chesnara plc following Graham Kettleborough’s resignation
on 31 December 2014.
Biographical details of all current Directors are given on page 53
and a Board Profile, which assesses the core competencies
required to meet strategic objectives, is provided on page 54.
The Board, which plans to meet eight times during the year,
has a schedule, which it reviews annually, of matters reserved
for its consideration and approval. These matters include:
– setting corporate strategy;
– approving the annual budget and medium-term projections;
– reviewing operational and financial performance;
– approving acquisitions, investments and capital expenditure;
– reviewing the Group’s system of financial and business
controls and risk management and setting risk appetite
parameters;
– approving appointments to the Board and to its Committees;
– appointment of the Company Secretary; and
– approval of policies relating to Directors’ remuneration.
In addition:
i)
the Directors of the Company are also the Directors of
Countrywide Assured plc, a UK-based life and pensions
business subsidiary of the Group. Under PRA Regulation
the Directors of CA plc have responsibility for maintenance
and projections of solvency and for assessment of
capital requirements, based on risk assessments, and for
establishing the level of long-term business provisions,
including the adoption of appropriate assumptions.
Graham Kettleborough resigned from the Board of CA plc
on 31 December 2014 and John Deane was appointed
to that Board on 3 December 2014;
ii) five Directors of the Company Messrs Mason, Evans,
Deane (appointed 3 December 2014) and Rimmington,
and Ms Oak (née France) are also Directors of
Protection Life Company Limited a UK-based life
business subsidiary of the Group. Graham Kettleborough
was also a director of PL Ltd until his resignation on
31 December 2014. Under PRA Regulation the Directors
of PL Ltd have responsibility for maintenance and
projections of solvency and for assessment of capital
requirements, based on risk assessments, and for
establishing the level of long-term business provisions,
including the adoption of appropriate assumptions.
iii) three Directors of the Company, being Messrs Mason,
Kettleborough and Brand, were also Directors of Movestic
Livförsäkring AB throughout the year. In March 2015
Graham Kettleborough stood down from the Board of
Movestic and John Deane was appointed. Under regulation
by Finansinspektionen, the Directors of Movestic have
responsibility for ensuring that Movestic complies with
regulatory solvency requirements. John Deane has been
approved by the Swedish regulator for his appointment as
a Director of the company.
The responsibilities that the Board has delegated to the
respective Executive Management teams, of the UK and
Swedish businesses include: the implementation of the
strategies and policies of the Group as determined by the
Board; monitoring of operational and financial results
against plans and budget; prioritising the allocation of capital,
technical and human resources and developing and
managing risk management systems.
55
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION CCORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT (CONTINUED)
The roles of the Chairman and Chief Executive
The division of responsibilities between the Chairman of the
Board, and the Chief Executive is clearly defined and has
been approved by the Board. The Chairman leads the Board
in the determination of its strategy and in the achievement
of its objectives and is responsible for organising the business
of the Board and supplying timely information, ensuring
its effectiveness, encouraging challenge from Non-executive
Directors and setting its agenda. The Chairman has no
day-to-day involvement in the management of the Group.
The Chief Executive has direct charge of the Group on
a day-to-day basis and is accountable to the Board for the
financial and operational performance of the Group.
Senior Independent Director
The Board has designated Mike Evans as Senior Independent
Director. He is available to meet shareholders on request
and to ensure that the Board is aware of shareholder
concerns not resolved through the existing mechanisms for
shareholder communication.
Directors and Directors’ independence
The Board considers that Peter Mason was independent on
his appointment as Chairman on 1 January 2009. In making
this determination, the Board has carefully considered the fact
that he is also a Non-executive Director of Countrywide
Assured plc, a position which he has held since 1 October
1990, and a Non-executive Director of Countrywide
Assured Life Holdings Limited (‘CALHL’), the parent company
of Countrywide Assured plc, a position he has held since
18 November 1991.
With regard to Peter Mason the Board considers that the
characteristics, aims and mode of operation of the relevant
activities of the Company are sufficiently different from
those prevailing when he held the relevant position, that the
judgement and independence of mind exercised on behalf
of the Company are not adversely affected or circumscribed.
The Board is of the view that his considerable specific
experience and knowledge in the business of the Group
outweighs any residual risk in the historical relationships
described above.
The Board considers that all Non-executive Directors are
independent. In making this determination, the Board has
carefully considered that Peter Wright had, within the
last three years prior to his appointment, held regulatory
actuarial roles at Countrywide Assured plc and had
otherwise provided actuarially-based consultancy advice, all
such services being provided under an agreement with his
employer at the time, Tillinghast Towers Perrin.
With regard to Peter Wright, the nature of the services he
provided, being subject either to FSA regulation at that time
or to professional standards and guidance prescribed
or issued variously by the Institute of Actuaries or by the
Financial Reporting Council Board of Actuarial Standards,
was such that he was required to maintain a vigorous
independence of mind and to prepare recommendations in
accordance with the highest professional standards.
There were no comparable matters to consider in respect of
Veronica Oak (née France), David Brand or Mike Evans.
The Board is satisfied that the overall balance of the Board
continues to provide significant independence of mind and
judgement and further considers that, taking the Board as a
whole, the Independent Directors are of sufficient calibre,
knowledge and number that they are able to challenge the
Executive Directors and their views carry significant weight
in the Company’s decision making.
The Directors are given access to independent professional
advice, at the Company’s expense, when the Directors deem
it necessary, in order for them to carry out their responsibilities.
Details of the Chairman’s professional commitments are
included in his biography on page 53. The Board is satisfied
that these are not such as to interfere with his performance,
which is based around a commitment of between fifty and
sixty hours in any three-month period.
Professional development
The Directors were advised, on their appointment, of their
legal and other duties and obligations as Directors of a listed
Company. This has been supplemented by the adoption
and circulation to each Director of a written Code of Conduct,
covering all aspects of the specific operation of Corporate
Governance standards and of policies and procedures within
the Group. Throughout their period in office, the Directors
have, through the conduct of business at scheduled Board
meetings, been continually updated on the Group’s business
and on the competitive and regulatory environment in which
it operates. Through their membership of the CA plc Board,
and, where relevant, PL Board, all of the Directors who
served during the period under review have considerable
knowledge and experience of the UK-based businesses of the
Chesnara plc Group. Similarly, Messrs Mason, Kettleborough,
Deane and Brand, through their membership of the Movestic
Board, have considerable knowledge and experience of the
Swedish-based business of the Group.
Information
Regular reports and information are circulated to the
Directors in a timely manner in preparation for Board and
Committee meetings.
As stated above, the Company’s Directors are also variously
members of the Boards of CA plc, PL and Movestic. These
Boards hold scheduled meetings, at least quarterly, which
are serviced by detailed regular reports and information,
which cover all of the key areas relevant to the direction and
operation of that subsidiary including:
For CA plc and PL Ltd:
– Earnings report;
– Report from the Actuarial Function Holder
and With-profits Actuary;
– Compliance report;
– Investment report; and
– Outsourcing reports.
56
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCECA and PL monitor risk management procedures, including
the identification, measurement and control of risk through
the offices of a Risk Committee. These committees are
accountable to and report to their Boards on a quarterly basis.
The Chairmen of the Audit & Risk Committee and
Remuneration Committee used a questionnaire approach in
their respective performance evaluation of the Committees
they chair.
In addition, annual reports are produced which cover an
assessment of the capital requirements of the life assurance
subsidiaries, their financial condition and a review of risk
management and internal control systems.
In addition, and using similar methods to those described
above, the Non-executive Directors, led by the
Senior Independent Director, met to conduct a performance
evaluation of the Chairman.
For Movestic:
– Earnings report;
– Operating reports, including sales and fund performance;
– Financial risk report;
– General risk report, including an estimate of risk-based
capital, in accordance with Swedish regulatory requirements;
– Compliance report; and
– Report on subsidiaries and the associated company.
In addition, Movestic is required to submit to the Chesnara
Audit & Risk Committee a quarterly risk report, an annual
report on risk management and internal control systems and
all internal audit reports.
On a monthly basis, the Directors receive summary high
level information, relating to total Group operations, prepared
by the Group Chief Executive, which enables them to maintain
continuing oversight of the Group’s and management’s
performance against objectives.
In addition to these structured processes, the papers are
supplemented by information which the Directors require
from time to time in connection with major events and
developments, where critical views and judgements are
required of Board members outside the normal reporting cycle.
Performance evaluation
During the period under review the Chairman undertook
a formal performance evaluation of the Board and
Nomination Committees, and of individual directors. To that
end he held in-depth discussions with each Director on a
one-to-one basis.
The Head of UK Internal Audit, reporting to the Chairman
of the Group Audit & Risk Committee, monitors the
assessment and follow through of any issues arising in
the evaluation process. As stated previously the Board
considers its approach to the evaluation of Board
effectiveness on an annual basis.
Company Secretary
The Company Secretary is responsible for advising the Board,
through the Chairman, on all governance matters. For
the period under review, Mary Fishwick held the position of
Company Secretary. The Directors have access to the advice
and services of the Company Secretary.
Board Committees
The Board has established the Committees set out below to
assist in the execution of its duties. Each of these Committees
operates according to written terms of reference and the
Chairman of each Committee reports to the Board. The
constitution and terms of reference of each Committee are
reviewed at least annually to ensure that the Committees
are operating effectively and that any changes considered
necessary are recommended to the Board for approval.
During the year the terms of reference of all the Committees
were reviewed and changes made, where required, to
reflect updated guidance on corporate governance. The terms
of reference of each Committee are available on the Company’s
website at www.chesnara.co.uk or, upon request, from
the Company Secretary.
The attendance record of each of the Directors at scheduled Board and Committee meetings for the period under review is:
Peter Mason – Non-executive Chairman
Peter Wright – Non-executive Director
Graham Kettleborough - Executive Director
Frank Hughes – Executive Director
Veronica Oak (née France) - Non-executive Director
David Brand – Non-executive Director
David Rimmington – Executive Director
Mike Evans – Non-executive Director
John Deane – Executive Director (appointed 3 December 2014)
Scheduled
Board
Nomination
Committee
Remuneration
Committee
Audit & Risk
Committee
7 (7 )
7 (7 )
7 (7 )
7 (7 )
7 (7 )
7 (7 )
7 (7 )
7 (7 )
2 (2 )
2 (2 )
2 (2 )
n/a
n/a
2 (2 )
2 (2 )
n/a
2 (2 )
n/a
4 (4 )
n/a
n/a
n/a
4 (4 )
n/a
n/a
4 (4 )
n/a
n/a
6 (6 )
n/a
n/a
6 (6 )
6 (6 )
n/a
6 (6 )
n/a
The figures in brackets indicate the maximum number of scheduled meetings in the period during which the individual was a Board or Committee
member. The information above relates to the period from 1 February 2014 to 31 January 2015.
57
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION C
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT (CONTINUED)
The Nomination Committee considers
the mix of skills and experience
that the Board requires and seeks the
appointment of Directors to ensure
that the Board is effective in discharging
its responsibilities.
Nomination Committee
During the period under review, the Nomination Committee
comprised Peter Mason, who also served as Chairman of
the Committee, Peter Wright, David Brand, Veronica Oak
(neé France) and Mike Evans, all of whom served throughout
the period. The Terms of Reference for the Committee can
be found on the company website, www.chesnara.co.uk
The role of the Nomination Committee is to:
– review the balance and composition of the Board and its
Committees, ensuring that they remain appropriate;
– be responsible for overseeing the Board’s succession planning
requirements including the identification and assessment of
potential Board candidates and making recommendations to
the Board for its approval; and
– keep under review the leadership needs of, and succession
planning for, the Group in relation to both its Executive
Directors and other senior executives.
This includes the consideration of recommendations made
by the Chief Executive Officer for changes to the executive
membership of the Board.
Change of Chief Executive Officer
The Nominations Committee led the process to select and
appoint a new CEO to succeed Graham Kettleborough
and ensure a smooth transition. With the interests of the
organisation firmly in mind, the Committee sought to
recruit a new CEO with extensive experience of our sector,
strong leadership skills and an individual who provided a
good cultural fit. Following an extensive recruitment process
which utilised independent professional recruitment
consultants the Nominations Committee recommended the
appointment of John Deane. Following Board and regulatory
approval, John was appointed as a Director on 3 December
2014, and was appointed CEO on 1 January 2015, following
Graham giving notice on 2 December 2014 to resign as
CEO on 31 December 2014. A short resume of John’s career
history and experience is shown on page 53.
During the period, the Committee met twice to consider the
continuing mix of skills and experience of the Directors.
Remuneration Committee
Full details of the composition and work of the Remuneration
Committee are provided in the Directors’ Remuneration Report
on pages 60 to 79.
Audit & Risk Committee
Full details of the composition and work of the Audit & Risk
Committee are provided in the Audit & Risk Committee Report
on pages 80 to 82.
Relations with shareholders
The Chief Executive and the Finance Director meet
with institutional shareholders on a regular basis and are
available for additional meetings when required. Should
they consider it appropriate, institutional shareholders are
able to meet with the Chairman, the Senior Independent
Director and any other Director. The Chairman is responsible
for ensuring that appropriate channels of communication
are established between the Chief Executive and the Finance
Director on the one part and the shareholders on
the other and is responsible for ensuring that the views of
shareholders are known to the Board. This includes
twice yearly feedback prepared by the Group’s brokers on
meetings the Executive Directors have held with
institutional shareholders.
Annual and interim reports are distributed to other parties who
may have an interest in the Group’s performance and those
reports, together with a wide range of information of interest to
existing and potential shareholders, are made available on the
Company’s website, www.chesnara.co.uk
Regular meetings are held
with industry analysts and
commentators so that
they are better informed in
formulating opinions and
making judgements on the
Group’s performance.
Private investors are encouraged to attend the Annual
General Meeting (‘AGM’) at which the results are explained
and opportunity is provided to ask questions on each
proposed resolution. The Chairmen of the Board Committees
will be available to answer such questions as appropriate.
Details of the resolutions to be proposed at the AGM
on 16 May 2015 can be found in the notice of the meeting
on pages 197 to 198.
Internal control
The Board is ultimately responsible for the Group’s system
of internal control and for reviewing its effectiveness. In
establishing the system of internal control, the Directors have
regard to the significance of relevant risks, the likelihood of
risks occurring and the costs of mitigating risks. It is,
therefore, designed to manage rather than eliminate the risks
which might prevent the Company meeting its objectives
and, accordingly, only provides reasonable, but not absolute,
assurance against the risk of material misstatement or loss.
In accordance with ‘Internal Control: Guidance for Directors
on the Combined Code’ (The ‘Turnbull Guidance’) the Board
confirms that there is an ongoing process for identifying,
evaluating and managing the significant risks faced by the
Group, that this process has been in place for the year
under review and up to the date of approval of the Annual
Report and Accounts, and that the process is regularly
reviewed by the Board and accords with the guidance.
58
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCEIn accordance with the regulatory requirements of the
PRA, CA has established and maintained a risk and
responsibility regime. This ensures that the identification,
assessment and control of risk are firmly embedded
within the organisation and that there are procedures for
monitoring and update of the same. The CA and PL
Risk Management functions review and report quarterly
on this regime to the relevant CA and PL Boards.
The Board also confirms the continuing appropriateness of
the maintenance of a UK Internal Audit Function, which
reports to the Chairman of the Audit & Risk Committee. The
Internal Audit function in Sweden is provided by external
consultants who, in accordance with Swedish insurance
regulations, must report formally to the Movestic Board. The
Audit & Risk Committee has access to this work and speaks
with them at least on an annual basis.
The Group also maintains a Key Risk Register which ensures
that there is identification, assessment and control of
the significant risks subsisting within the Company, CA, PL
and Movestic. The maintenance of the key risk registers
is the responsibility of senior management, who respectively
report on them quarterly to the CA plc Risk Committee, PL
Risk Committee and to each Chesnara Audit & Risk
Committee meeting. In accordance with the requirements
of the Swedish regulator, the Finansinspektionen,
Movestic has also established and maintained a risk and
responsibility regime, which requires inter alia that:
– the Movestic Board and Chief Executive have responsibility
for ensuring that the organisation and management of
the operation are characterised by sound internal control,
which is responsive to internal and external risks and to
changes in them;
– the Movestic Board has responsibility for the satisfactory
management and control of risks through the specification
of internal procedures; and
– there is an explicit risk control function, which is supported
by compliance and internal control functions.
As an integral part of this regime Movestic also maintains a
detailed risk register, which identifies, monitors and assesses
risk by appropriate classification of risk.
As stated above, all of the Chesnara Directors are also
members of the CA plc Board and the Company thereby has
effective oversight of the maintenance and effectiveness
of controls subsisting within CA plc. Regarding PL and
Movestic, such oversight is exercised by way of the
membership of a number of the Chesnara Directors on
their Boards, together with quarterly reporting by PL and
Movestic to the Chesnara Audit & Risk Committee.
In addition, the Chesnara Board confirms that it has
undertaken a formal annual review of the effectiveness of
the system of internal control for the year ended
31 December 2014, and that it has taken account of material
developments between that date and the date of approval
of the Annual Report and Accounts. The Board confirms that
these reviews took account of reports by the internal audit
functions on the operation of controls, internal financial
controls, and management assurance on the maintenance
of controls and reports from the external Auditor on matters
identified in the course of statutory audit work.
Financial reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining
adequate internal controls over financial reporting. These
controls are designed to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation
of financial statements for external reporting purposes.
The Group has comprehensive planning, budgeting,
forecasting and monthly reporting processes in place. A
summary of the Group’s financial results supported by
commentary and performance measures is provided to the
Board before each Board Meeting.
In relation to the preparation of the Group financial statements,
the controls in place include:
– the finance governance team review new developments in
reporting requirements and standards to ensure that these are
reflected in Group accounting policies; and
– the finance governance team develop the Group’s financial
control processes and procedures which are implemented
across the Group.
The reporting process is supported by transactional and
consolidation finance systems. Reviews of the applications
of controls for external reporting purposes are carried out
by senior finance management. The results of these reviews
are considered by the Board as part of its monitoring
of the performance of controls around financial reporting.
The Audit & Risk Committee reviews the application of
financial reporting standards and any significant accounting
judgements made by management.
Going concern
The Directors’ Statement on going concern is included in the
Directors’ Report on page 84.
Directors
The present Directors of the Company and their biographical
details are set out on page 53.
59
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION C
DIRECTORS’ REMUNER ATION REPORT
REMUNERATION COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN’S
ANNUAL STATEMENT
Dear Shareholders
I am pleased to present Chesnara’s Remuneration Report
for the year ended 31 December 2014 which comprises:
– My report as Remuneration Committee Chairman and our
Annual Remuneration Report, both of which are subject to an
advisory shareholder vote at the AGM in May 2015; and
– Our Remuneration Policy, which is shown for your ease of
reference and includes updates to dates and data although
the policy remains unchanged from that approved by
shareholders in May 2014.
Management’s performance in 2014
During 2014 the Executive Directors have continued to
deliver on key financial metrics and on a number of
important strategic initiatives and regulatory requirements,
notably progress towards Solvency II. The year finished
with three important announcements:
– legal approval obtained to transfer the insurance business of
Protection Life Company Limited into Countrywide Assured plc;
– purchase of the Waard Group in the Netherlands; and
– a change of CEO.
The main factors to influence the Committee’s
assessment of performance in 2014 were:
– Growth in the business – up 10.8% as measured by European
Economic Value (EEV) after dividend distribution and profit
before tax on an IFRS basis of £28.8m.
– Progress on preparations for the advent of Solvency II,
effective from 1 January 2016.
– Effective management of the business with no significant
regulatory breaches.
– Conclusion of the legal and regulatory proceedings to
transfer Protection Life Company Limited (acquired November
2013) into Countrywide Assured plc and integration
activity leading to Chesnara’s outsourcers being ready to
accept this business from Direct Line.
– Operational improvements in the UK and Sweden,
including the conclusion of negotiations with Chesnara’s
main UK outsource partner to safeguard administration
costs and services for the next 10 years.
Additionally management has identified, negotiated
and successfully raised capital to fund the purchase of the
Waard Group which extends Chesnara’s geographic
presence into the Netherlands and, we believe, creates an
important strategic platform for future acquisitions.
I trust shareholders will agree that the performance of the
Executive Team in 2014 has delivered on important initiatives
that are aligned to shareholder’s interests. Our performance
assessment of the new 2014 Short-Term Incentive Scheme
has resulted in an award for the three Executive Directors
equivalent to 68.5% of salary (details on page 71).
Composition and activities of the Remuneration
Committee
There have been no changes this year to the composition of
the Committee. In addition to myself, Committee members
are Peter Mason (Chairman of the Board) and Mike Evans
(Senior Independent Director).
The Committee met four times in 2014 and dealt with the
following matters in relation to Executive Remuneration:
– Following shareholder approval at the last AGM, the 2014
Short-Term Incentive Scheme (STI) and the 2014
Long-Term Incentive Scheme (LTI) for Executive Directors
were implemented and the Committee discussed and set
the performance targets for each. Additionally a minimum
shareholding requirement for Executives (100% of salary)
was also put into effect.
– 2013 Annual Bonus Plan – noted that the maximum pay-out
under this plan had been reached in 2013 and hence
there was no assessment and no further award under the
LTIP element.
– When David Rimmington was promoted to Group Finance
Director in May 2013 we awarded a salary appropriate to his
experience. David’s salary was increased in 2013, and we have
done so again this year as result of his continued development
in this role and good performance. His salary increased from
£175,000 to £200,000 with effect from 1 July 2014.
– The Committee has reviewed various regulatory changes
relevant to remuneration including that from the FRC
which now expects incentive schemes to include provision
for malus (the ability to withhold an award) and clawback
(the ability to recover an award), unless an organisation has
good reason not to. Our current incentive schemes contain
a malus clause and we see no reason not to adopt the new
FRC requirement. A clawback provision will be effective
for awards made after 1 January 2015 under both the
Short-Term and Long-Term Incentive Schemes (see page 60).
– A review of remuneration trends across the Group revealed
that pay remains at appropriate levels and is not adversely
affecting staff turnover or the ability to recruit new members
of staff with the required skills and experience. In addition,
the Committee reviewed salary and bonus awards to senior
management within Movestic.
– Reviewed the Company’s Remuneration Policy and concluded
that no changes were necessary.
– Reviewed the Committee’s Terms of Reference and
concluded that they continue to be appropriate for the
activities of the Committee.
– An evaluation of the Committee’s performance suggested
that the Committee is working effectively and that
the composition of the Committee is appropriate at the
current time.
– Where justified by the Company’s results and the
satisfactory performance of individuals, it is our normal
practice to award Executive Directors, and indeed all
employees, an annual salary increase broadly in line with
inflation. This year, the Executive Directors, with the
exception of the newly appointed CEO were granted an
increase to their basic pay of 1.5%.
60
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCEShareholder Voting
Last year we asked shareholders to vote on our Remuneration
Report, Remuneration Policy and two new incentive
schemes which sought to address a number of concerns
that had been expressed about the previous incentive
arrangements and to better align Executive and shareholder
interests. I am pleased to report that these resolutions
were well supported by shareholders with votes in favour
being over 98% on each (full results on page 79). The support
from shareholders is appreciated but we will continue to
monitor and review our arrangements to ensure that they
continue to help influence and reward the desired outcomes.
I hope my report together with our Remuneration Report
provides you with a clear account of the operation of the
Remuneration Committee during 2014 and how we have
put our Remuneration Policy into practice. I’m very happy to
talk to shareholders to discuss any aspect of our activities
or decisions.
Veronica Oak (née France)
30 March 2015
Change of Chief Executive Officer
The Committee worked closely with the Nominations
Committee in the selection and appointment of a new CEO
to succeed Graham Kettleborough and to facilitate a
smooth transition. Execution of the Company’s succession
plans led to the appointment of John Deane on 3 December
2014. Taking account of the needs of the business
and with the benefit of a four month handover period the
Committee, with legal advice and in accordance with
Graham’s Service Contract and our Remuneration Policy,
entered into a Settlement Agreement with Graham.
This provides for pay-in-lieu of notice covering salary and
benefits for eight of his twelve month notice period.
Full details of the agreement and the discretion that the
Committee has exercised was posted to the company’s
website in December 2014 and is also set out on page 74.
Again, with the interests of the organisation firmly in mind,
we sought to recruit a CEO successor with extensive
experience of our sector and strong leadership skills. We
believe this has been achieved with the appointment of
John Deane. John’s services have been secured in line with
our Remuneration Policy on a basic salary of £360,000 plus
pension and benefits and without any compensatory bonus
or LTI awards being made.
Looking ahead
One of the initial tasks for our new CEO will be to
undertake a review of the company’s corporate governance
and organisational design to strengthen Chesnara’s group
function. This is particularly important with the advent
of the PRA’s new Senior Insurance Managers Regime and
the expansion of the business into a new geographic territory.
Should this give rise to any matters for the Remuneration
Committee to consider we will consult or report next year,
as appropriate.
61
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION CDIRECTORS’ REMUNER ATION REPORT
REMUNER ATION POLICY REPORT
The Remuneration Policy was approved by our shareholders at the Annual General
Meeting held on 16 May 2014. No changes are being made to the Policy this
year requiring shareholder approval. The only change is the introduction of clawback
provisions in line with the revisions to the Code of Corporate Governance. The
Remuneration Policy will next be put to shareholders no later than the AGM in 2017.
For shareholders’ ease of reference key sections of the Policy with updated information
(e.g. salary, dates etc.) is included in this section. The Policy as approved by shareholders
can be found in last year’s Report & Accounts and as a separate document on our
website www.chesnara.co.uk /corporate-responsibility/governance-reports
Remuneration Policy
This section sets out the Company’s policy on Directors’
remuneration which was approved at the 2014 Annual General
Meeting. The policy was developed by the Remuneration
Committee (the Committee) to provide a clear framework for
reward which is linked to the strategy of the Company and
aligns the interests of executives and shareholders.
Chesnara plc is a holding company engaged in the
management of life and pension books of business in the
UK and Western Europe. With an operating model in the UK
which extensively utilises the benefits of outsourcing,
Chesnara has 25 employees in the UK including three
Executive Directors. Chesnara has a wholly owned life
insurance subsidiary in Sweden, Movestic which is open to
new business and employs 131 people.
The schematic below illustrates how the Company’s KPI’s
align to its strategic objectives and cultural values and in turn
how those KPIs are recognised as key components of both
the short and long-term incentive schemes. Reading across
the chart shows how the KPIs cover the objectives. For
example, “Maximise the value from the in-force book”,
“Enhance value from new business” and “Acquire life and
pensions businesses” will all directly impact the EEV growth
of the Group. Likewise all objectives should have an impact
on the TSR to varying degrees. Strong performance in
terms of “maximising value from the in-force book” should
positively influence all three KPIs. The diagram below
has been updated during 2014 to reflect how Chesnara
articulates its strategy. Our three objectives are the Group’s
core strategic objectives. Underpinning the delivery of
these three core objectives is the Group’s culture and
values, something that is pervasive in everything we do.
This covers how we manage our investors, policyholders,
employees and regulators, and how we conduct our business.
As can be seen below adhering to our core culture and
values is expected to benefit all KPIs that are used to assess
the performance remuneration of the Executive Directors.
Strategic objectives/cultural values
Key performance indicators
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Chesnara culture and values
Short-Term
Incentive scheme
Long-Term
Incentive scheme
62
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Overall remuneration policy aims are:
– to maintain a consistent remuneration strategy based on
clear principles and objectives;
– to ensure remuneration structures do not encourage or
reward excessive risk-taking which is outside the boundaries
of our stated risk appetite;
– to link remuneration clearly to the achievement of our
business strategy and ensure executive and shareholder
reward is closely aligned;
The implementation of this policy involves:
– paying salaries that reflect individual roles and sustained
individual performance and contribution, taking account of
the external competitive market;
– enabling executives to enhance their earnings by meeting
and out-performing stretching short and long-term targets in
line with the Group’s strategy;
– requiring executives to build and maintain shareholdings in
the Company;
– to enable the Company to attract, motivate and retain
high-calibre executives; and
– for the policy to be easy to understand and communicate.
– rewarding executives fairly and responsibly for their
contribution and paying what is commensurate with
achievement of these objectives; and
– including malus and with effect from 1 January 2015, clawback
provisions, as appropriate in the short-term incentive
scheme (including the deferred share award) and the long-term
incentive scheme.
For the avoidance of doubt, the Directors’ Remuneration
Policy includes authority for the Company to honour any
commitments entered into with current or former Directors
that have been disclosed to shareholders in previous
Remuneration Reports. Details of any payments to former
Directors will be set out in the implementation section
of this report as they arise.
The following tables give an overview of the Company’s
policy on the different elements of the remuneration package.
63
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION CDIRECTORS’ REMUNER ATION REPORT
REMUNER ATION POLICY REPORT (CONTINUED)
Future policy table
Executive Directors’ remuneration
Purpose and link
to strategy
Operation
Performance
measures and
maximum
Changes to
policy approved
at the 2014 AGM
There have
been no
changes to the
policy that was
approved at the
2014 AGM.
Personal
and Group
performance
is taken into
consideration
when deciding
whether a
salary increase
should be
awarded – but
salary increases
may not be
awarded on the
strength of
performance
alone.
In setting salaries for new executive roles or reviewing the
salaries for existing roles, the Committee will take into account,
as it considers appropriate, some or all of the following factors:
– assessment of the responsibilities of the role and the
experience and skills of the jobholder
– the Company’s salary budgets and results
– the jobholder’s performance
– with the use of periodic benchmarking exercises, the external
market for roles of a similar size and accountability
– inflation and salaries across the Company
– balance between fixed and variable pay to help ensure good
risk management.
Where a new appointment is made, pay may be initially below
that applicable to the role and then may increase over time
subject to satisfactory performance.
Salaries are usually reviewed annually. There may be reviews
and changes during the year in exceptional circumstances (such
as new appointments to executive positions).
The table below has been updated to reflect the salaries for each
Executive Director effective from 1 January 2015.
Director
John Deane
David Rimmington
Frank Hughes
Basic salary from
1 January 2015
Increase
N/A
8.3%
1.5%
£360,000
£203,000
£205,856
Executive Directors receive life assurance, a company car, fuel
benefit and private medical insurance. A cash equivalent may
be paid in lieu of a car.
Benefits may be changed in response to changing circumstances
whether personal to an Executive Director or otherwise subject
to the cost of any changes being largely cost neutral.
No
performance
measures
attached.
There have
been no
changes to the
policy that was
approved at
the 2014 AGM.
The Executive Directors participate in a defined contribution
pension scheme with employer contributions varying between
7.5% and 9.5% of basic salary. If regulatory maxima have been
reached, the executive can elect to receive the balance of the
contribution as cash.
No
performance
measures
attached.
There have
been no
changes to the
policy that was
approved at
the 2014 AGM.
Basic salary
To recruit and retain
individuals with the
skills and experience
needed for the role and
to contribute to the
success of the Group.
Taxable benefits
To recruit and retain
individuals with the
skills and experience
needed for the role and
to contribute to the
success of the Group
and to minimise the
potential of ill health to
undermine Executive’s
performance.
Pensions
To recruit and retain
individuals with the
skills and experience
needed for the role and
to contribute to the
success of the Group
and to encourage
responsible provision
for retirement.
64
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Changes to
policy approved
at the 2014 AGM
There have been
no changes to the
policy that was
approved at the
2014 AGM, with
the exception of
clawback
provisions that
were introduced
to awards
made after
1 January 2015.
Purpose and link
to strategy
Operation
Short-Term Incentive (STI) scheme
Performance measures and maximum
To drive and
reward
achievement of
the Group’s
business plan
and key
performance
indicators. To
help retention
and align the
interests of
Executive
Directors with
those of
shareholders.
The 2014 STI Scheme is discretionary.
Awards are based on the Committee’s
assessment and judgement of
performance against specific performance
targets and Group strategic objectives,
assessed over a financial year.
Performance is measured based on the
financial results of the Group and its
strategic priorities, together with the
performance of the Executives in relation
to specific objectives. The main weighting
is given to financial results – typically 80%.
The targets may include costs, IFRS
pre-tax profit, EEV operating profit, cash
generation, Group strategic objectives
and personal performance.
STI Scheme targets are commercially
sensitive and therefore, not disclosed.
Actual targets and results will be disclosed
in the Annual Report immediately
following each performance period.
For the 2015 STI award the measures and
their weighting are:
– IFRS pre-tax profit 50%
– EEV operating profit 30%
– Group Strategic objectives 20%
The Committee may substitute, vary
or waive the performance measures in
accordance with the Scheme Rules.
The maximum award is 100% of basic
salary, however the STI Scheme award
for 2015 is limited to 75%.
Provided the minimum performance
criteria is judged to have been achieved
then an award will be granted in two parts;
at least 35% into deferred share awards in
the shape of nil cost options which will
vest after a three year deferral period and
the balance in cash.
Dividend equivalents accrue in cash with
interest thereon in respect of the deferred
share awards between the date the share
award is granted and the date the options
are exercised.
It is the intention of the Committee to
grant awards annually and the
performance criteria will be set out in the
corresponding Implementation Plan.
The Committee can apply malus provisions
to unvested awards, for example, in the
event of misstated performance or
misconduct and in line with new regulatory
changes may apply clawback to awards
made after 1 January 2015.
As referred to on page 75 the Company
has a minimum shareholding policy that
requires each Director to hold shares in
the Company up to the value of their
annual salary. The Directors will only be
able to sell the shares awarded under this
scheme subject to meeting these rules.
65
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION CDIRECTORS’ REMUNER ATION REPORT
REMUNER ATION POLICY REPORT (CONTINUED)
Future policy table (continued)
Executive Directors’ remuneration (continued)
Purpose and link
to strategy
Operation
Performance measures
and maximum
Changes to policy
approved at the
2014 AGM
Long-Term Incentive (LTI) scheme
To incentivise
the delivery of
the longer-term
strategy by
the setting of
stretching
targets based
on shareholder
value, and to
help retain key
executives and
increase their
share ownership
in the Company.
The 2014 LTI Scheme is discretionary.
Awards are made under a performance
share plan, with no exercise price.
The right to receive shares awarded
will be based on achievement of
performance conditions over a minimum
three-year period.
It is the intention of the Committee to
grant awards annually and the
performance criteria will be set out in
the corresponding Implementation Plan.
The Committee may apply malus
provisions to unvested awards, for
example, in the event of misstated
performance or misconduct and in line
with new regulatory changes may
apply clawback to awards made after
1 January 2015.
As referred to on page 75 the Company
has a minimum shareholding policy that
requires each Director to hold shares
in the Company up to the value of their
annual salary. The Directors will only be
able to sell the shares awarded under this
scheme subject to meeting these rules.
For 2015 vesting is dependent on two
equally weighted performance measures:
1. Total Shareholder Return: Performance
conditions are based on total
shareholder return of the Company
when compared to that of the companies
comprising the FTSE 350 Higher Yield
Index. No payout will be made unless the
Company achieves at least median
performance. Full vesting will be
achieved if the Company is at the upper
quartile compared to the peer group.
There have been
no changes to the
policy that was
approved at the
2014 AGM, with
the exception
of clawback
provisions that
were introduced
to awards
made after
1 January 2015.
2. Group Embedded Value: this target is
commercially sensitive and therefore,
not disclosed. Actual targets and results
will be disclosed in the Annual Report
for the year in which an award vests.
The assumptions underpinning the
calculations are subject to independent
actuarial scrutiny.
The Committee may substitute, vary or
waive the performance measures in
accordance with the Scheme Rules.
The maximum award is 100% of basic
salary, however the LTI Scheme award
for 2015 is limited to 75%.
Non-executive Directors’ remuneration
Purpose and link
to strategy
Operation
Performance measures
and maximum (where applicable)
Changes to policy
approved at the
2014 AGM
Fees for the Chairman and Non-executive
Directors are not performance related.
Reflecting the periodic nature of the
fee reviews, increases at the time they
are made, may be above those paid to
Executives and / or other employees.
There have been
no changes to the
policy that was
approved at the
2014 AGM.
Fees
To recruit and
retain
independent
individuals with
the skills,
experience and
qualities relevant
to the role and
who are also able
to fulfil the
required time
commitment.
Fees for the Chairman are determined and
agreed with the Board by the Committee
(without the Chairman being party to this).
Non-executive Director fees are
determined by the Chairman and the
Executive Directors.
Fees are reviewed periodically and in
setting fees consideration is given to
market data for similar roles in companies
of comparable size and complexity whilst
also taking account of the required time
commitment.
All Non-executive Directors are paid a
base fee. Additional fees are paid to
the Senior Independent Director, the
chair of Board Committees and to other
Non-executive Directors to reflect
additional time commitments and
responsibilities required by their role.
66
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Explanatory notes:
1. Why these performance measures were chosen and
how performance targets are set
STI Scheme - The performance measures for the STI Scheme
reflect the main financial contributors to sustaining
returns for shareholders and the Group strategic objectives
to ensure that management is incentivised on the important
projects needed to support the strategy. The Remuneration
Committee determines the measures, their weighting
and the targets for each financial year. The measures will be
based upon the most relevant taken from a selection of
measures which may include costs, IFRS pre-tax profit, EEV
operating profit, cash generation, Group strategic objectives
and personal performance. The maximum potential award
requires significant outperformance of budgeted targets.
LTI Scheme - The performance measures for the LTI Scheme
have been selected for their alignment to shareholder
interests using an absolute measure (growth in Group EEV)
and a comparative measure (TSR). The measures and the
targets are set by the Committee. The maximum potential
award for the Group EEV measure requires significant
outperformance of budgeted targets. The TSR measure uses
the FTSE 350 Higher Yield Index over a three year period with
averaging during the first and last month. The Committee
currently considers this to be an appropriate comparator given
Chesnara’s strategic aims and focus on dividend payments.
– All taxable benefits: There are no differences in policy
although the benefits available vary by personnel and
jurisdiction and with job role. For example cars and health
insurance benefits are broadly consistent with the equivalent
benefits when offered to UK Non-Director personnel.
Executive Directors receive fuel allowances which is a
benefit not offered to other grades receiving a car allowance.
– Annual bonus: This is an integral part of the Company’s
philosophy with all UK employees below Board level being
eligible to participate in a bonus scheme which is based on
service and achievement of financial targets. Senior
managers in Sweden participate in annual bonus schemes
which reflect the achievement of business targets and
personal goals. In line with Swedish regulations part of the
payment of this bonus is deferred. Other employees in
Sweden participate in a scheme based on the achievement
of company-wide business goals.
– Long-term plans: Only Executive Directors are entitled
to participate in the long-term plans as these are the roles
which have most influence on and accountability for
the strategic direction of the business and the delivery of
returns to shareholders.
– Pension: The level of contribution made by the Company to
Executive Directors is similar to that offered to the majority
of other UK employees. Certain employees do receive lower
company pension contributions.
In setting targets for both Schemes, the Committee exercises
its judgement to try and ensure that there is a balance
between stretch in the targets and the company’s risk appetite.
Details of the performance measures, weightings and
targets and the corresponding potential awards are set out in
the Implementation Plan. (For 2015 see page 77).
4. Other
The last SAYE expired in 2014. The Committee has the
discretion to renew the SAYE scheme, a tax efficient
all employee scheme in which Executive Directors are
eligible to participate.
The Future Policy table notes that all the financial targets for
the STI Scheme are commercially sensitive as is one of the
measures for the LTI Scheme. The Committee has considered
whether it could reasonably use transparent targets but
concluded that transparency should not be sought at the
expense of choosing the right ones for the alignment of
Executive Director and shareholder interests even if these
are not capable of being disclosed upfront.
Approach to remuneration on recruitment
The following principles apply when recruiting
Executive Directors:
– To offer a remuneration package that is sufficient to attract
individuals with the skills and experience appropriate to the
role to be filled whilst also being consistent with this
Policy. In addition to salary and variable remuneration, this
may include pension, taxable benefits and other allowances
such as relocation, housing and education.
2. Changes to the Executive Directors’ incentive schemes
– Pay levels will be set taking account of remuneration across
In 2013 the Committee undertook a wide ranging review of
the Executive Directors’ incentive schemes primarily to better
align the interests of Executive Directors and shareholders;
and to improve the balance of awards between short-term
results and achievement of longer-term strategic initiatives.
The review resulted in two new schemes being approved by
shareholders at the 2014 AGM. Information explaining how
the new and old schemes compare is set out in the approved
Policy Report which is available on the Chesnara website.
3. Differences in policy compared with other employees:
The following note outlines any differences in the
Company’s policy on Executive Director remuneration from
other employees of the Group.
– Salary and fees: Salary and fees: There are no differences
in policy. The Committee takes into account the Company’s
overall salary budget and percentage increases made to
other employees.
the company including other senior appointees, and
the salary offered for similar roles by other companies of
similar size and complexity.
– Each element of remuneration offered will be considered
separately and collectively in this context.
– The maximum awards in respect of the STI Scheme and
LTI Scheme as set out in the tables on pages 65 and 66
apply in recruitment situations, save that exceptionally the
Company may award a one-off compensatory bonus or LTI
award where the new joiner would lose a bonus or long-term
award relating to his or her former role. In the event that
such a payment is made, full details will be disclosed
in the Annual Report on remuneration for the relevant year.
67
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION CDIRECTORS’ REMUNER ATION REPORT
REMUNER ATION POLICY REPORT (CONTINUED)
Service contracts and loss of office
Executive Directors
Our policy is for Executive Directors to have service contracts with a rolling twelve-month notice period.
The table below summarises the notice periods and other termination rights of the Executive Directors and the
Company. The approach of the Company on any termination is to consider all relevant circumstances and to
act in accordance with any relevant rules or contractual provisions. Typically, a leaving employee is classified
as a ‘Good Leaver’ if they depart under ‘Special Circumstances’ (defined in the table below). An employee
leaving under any other circumstances is classified as a ‘Bad Leaver’.
The Committee has discretion to classify an employee as a Good Leaver or a Bad Leaver and to determine
the treatment of their outstanding awards upon departure. Typical treatment in relation to salary, benefits
and outstanding incentive awards for leavers under each scenario is shown below:
Nature of
termination
Notice
period
Salary and
benefits
Short-Term Incentive
scheme
Long-Term Incentive
scheme
Pension
Cease
on date
employment
ends.
Cease
on date
employment
ends.
Cease
on date
employment
ends.
12 months.
By Executive
Director or
company giving
notice (excluding
special
circumstances
see below).
Cease on date
employment
ends.
Payment may be
made for any
unused holiday
entitlement.
No grants following service of notice.
Right to cash payment and unvested
deferred share awards cease on date
employment ends.
Outstanding options must be
exercised within 6 months of date
employment ends.
No grants following
service of notice.
Unvested awards lapse on
date employment ends.
Outstanding options
must be exercised
within 6 months of date
employment ends.
By Company
summarily.
None.
Cease on date
employment
ends.
None
prescribed.
Special
circumstances:
leaving by reason
of death, injury
or disability,
redundancy,
retirement with
the agreement of
the Remuneration
Committee, the
sale of employing
business or
company, or
other special
circumstances
at the discretion
of the Committee.
Normally
cease on date
employment
ends.
Payment may be
made for any
unused holiday
entitlement.
Discretion to
Company to
pay salary and
benefits in a
single payment
or in monthly
instalments.
Where payments
are made
monthly the
executive is
under an
obligation to
mitigate his or
her loss and
monthly
payments will
cease or
reduce upon
the executive
accepting
alternative
employment.
No further grants.
No further grants.
Right to cash payment and unvested
deferred share awards cease on date
employment ends.
Outstanding options must be
exercised within 6 months of date
employment ends.
Unvested awards lapse on
date employment ends.
Outstanding options
must be exercised
within 6 months of date
employment ends.
Discretion to make further grants during
a notice period where this is considered
to be in the company’s interests.
Where employment ends before
deferred share awards made, at the
discretion of the Committee, the award
may be retained.
If retained, the Committee has discretion
to allow the award to vest in accordance
with original terms, or determine award is
to vest on ceasing to be employed and
will also assess the extent to which
targets have been met.
In either case the award will be pro-rated
to reflect period of Performance Period
that has been worked and will be paid in
cash. Committee has discretion to
pro-rate using a longer period.
Where employment ends after deferred
share awards made, the award will be
retained and vest in accordance with
original terms. The Committee has
discretion to allow the award to vest on
ceasing to be employed.
All outstanding options must be
exercised within six months of the date
on which employment ends or on which
they vest (whichever is later), unless the
Committee specifies a longer period.
No further grants.
Where employment ends
before share awards vest,
at the discretion of the
Committee the award may
be retained. If retained, the
Committee has discretion to
allow the award to vest in
accordance with original
terms or, may determine
awards to vest on ceasing to
be employed and will also
assess the extent to which
the targets have been met.
In either case the award will
be pro-rated to reflect the
period of the Performance
Period that has been
worked. Committee has
discretion to pro-rate using
a longer period.
All outstanding options
must be exercised within
6 months of the date on
which employment ends
or on which they vest
(whichever is later) unless
the Committee specifies a
longer period.
68
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCENon-executive Directors
– Appointments are made under a contract for services for an
initial term of three years subject to election by shareholders
at the first Annual General Meeting following their appointment
and annual re-election thereafter.
Other Directorships
Executive Directors may, if approved by the Board, accept
appointments as non-executive directors of suitable
organisations. Normally fees for such positions are paid to
the Company, unless the Board determines otherwise.
– Non-executive Directors are typically expected to serve two
three-year terms but may be invited by the Board to serve
for an additional period. Any renewal is subject to Board
review and AGM re-election.
– The terms of an appointment are set out in a letter of
appointment which can be terminated by either party with
three months’ notice.
– There are no compensation terms regardless of the
circumstances that may lead to a contract being terminated.
Illustration of application of Remuneration Policy
The view of the Committee is that there should be balance
between fixed and variable pay such that when stretching
performance targets have been achieved in full around half
of an Executive Directors’ earnings are variable and half
are fixed. The Committee believes that this is appropriate
given the strategy of the Company and its risk appetite.
The charts below provide estimates of the potential future
reward opportunities for each Executive Director, and
the potential split between the different elements of
remuneration under three different performance scenarios:
‘Minimum’, ‘In line with expectation’ and ‘Maximum’.
The illustration assumes that the 2015 LTI and STI Schemes
apply throughout the period.
Chief Executive Officer
Finance Director
Business Services Director
£000’s
Long-term incentive
Annual variable
Fixed
603
13%
17%
423
963
28%
28%
100%
70%
44%
541
28%
28%
44%
343
13%
17%
70%
240
100%
548
28%
28%
44%
237
100%
338
13%
17%
70%
Minimum
In line with
expectation
Maximum
Minimum
In line with
expectation
Maximum
Minimum
In line with
expectation
Maximum
Minimum
The table below analyses the constitution of the minimum remuneration projection for 2015:
Director
Chief Executive Officer
Finance Director
Business Services Director
Salary and fees
£000
Benefits
£000
Pension
£000
Total fixed pay
£000
360
203
206
29
18
18
34
16
16
423
237
240
The pension information above includes the employer contribution element of the pension value. This can vary by Director,
and is between 7.5% and 9.5% of gross basic salary.
Statement of shareholder views
The review of Executive Director incentives carried out during 2013 by the Remuneration Committee took into account views
expressed by shareholders in connection with the 2012 Remuneration Report. Following the strong support expressed by
shareholders at the AGM in May 2014 for the Remuneration Policy, Remuneration Report and two new incentive schemes
there has been no further shareholder engagement in connection with remuneration.
69
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION C
DIRECTORS’ REMUNER ATION REPORT
ANNUAL REMUNER ATION REPORT
Single total figure of remuneration for each Director (audited information)
The remuneration of the Executive Directors for the years ended 31 December 2014 and 31 December 2013 is made up as follows:
Executive Directors’ remuneration as a single figure – year ended 31 December 2014
Name of Director
Salary All taxable Non taxable
benefits
benefits
£000
£000
and fees
£000
Annual
bonuses
£000
LTIP
£000
Pension
£000
Graham Kettleborough*
John Deane (appointed 3 December 2014)
David Rimmington
Frank Hughes
Total
328
30
188
203
749
20
2
13
14
49
8
–
5
5
18
225
–
128
139
492
100
–
–
61
161
31
3
16
15
65
Total for
2014
£000
712
35
350
437
1,534
*On 31 December 2014 Graham Kettleborough ceased to be a Director of the Company, and will leave employment during 2015. With the exception of
the Annual Bonus and LTIP figures quoted above, the table does not reflect the payments that have been awarded to Graham as a result of ceasing to
hold office. These have been disclosed on page 74.
Executive Directors’ remuneration as a single figure – year ended 31 December 2013
Name of Director
Salary All taxable Non taxable
benefits
benefits
£000
£000
and fees
£000
Annual
bonuses
£000
LTIP
£000
Total for
Pension
£000
Graham Kettleborough
Ken Romney (resigned 17 May 2013)
David Rimmington (appointed 17 May 2013)
Frank Hughes
Total
320
80
98
198
696
21
5
9
14
49
8
2
2
5
17
320
–
98
198
616
–
–
–
–
–
33
14
8
19
74
2013
£000
702
101
215
434
1,452
The remuneration of the Non-executive Directors for the years ended 31 December 2014 and 31 December 2013 is made up as follows:
Non-executive Directors’ remuneration as a single figure – year ended 31 December 2014
Name of Director
Peter Mason
Peter Wright
Veronica Oak (née France)
David Brand
Mike Evans
Total
Non-executive Directors’ remuneration as a single figure – year ended 31 December 2013
Name of Director
Peter Mason
Mike Gordon (resigned on 17 May 2013)
Terry Marris (resigned on 17 May 2013)
Peter Wright
Veronica Oak (née France - appointed 16 January 2013)
David Brand (appointed 16 January 2013)
Mike Evans (appointed 4 March 2013)
Total
Salary All taxable
benefits
£000
and fees
£000
Total for
2014
£000
100
60
50
45
45
300
–
–
–
–
–
–
100
60
50
45
45
300
Salary All taxable
benefits
£000
and fees
£000
Total for
2013
£000
90
17
15
60
46
43
37
308
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
90
17
15
60
46
43
37
308
The fees for Veronica Oak include an additional fee of £5,000 per annum, payable for two years only commencing in May 2013 for the
increased workload for the Remuneration Committee Chairman in designing and implementing the new incentive schemes and adopting new
regulatory requirements.
70
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Single total figure of remuneration for each Director (continued)
Salary and fees
Basic salaries are usually reviewed annually by the Remuneration Committee. Assessments are made giving full regard to
external factors such as earnings inflation and industry benchmarks and to internal factors such as changes to the role by
way of either structural reorganisations or enlargement of the Group. In addition, basic pay levels reflect levels of experience.
The single earnings figures demonstrate the application of this assessment process. David Rimmington’s salary was
reviewed in 2014 and, based on experience and performance in his role as Group Finance Director, he was awarded a salary
increase of £25,000 per annum effective from 1 June 2014.
Taxable benefits
The taxable benefits relate to the provision of a car, fuel allowance and medical insurance.
Annual bonuses
The amount reported as Annual Bonuses in 2014 is entirely made up of awards made under the 2014 STI scheme. The amounts
awarded to the Executive Directors under the 2014 STI scheme are based on performance against three core measures, being
IFRS pre-tax profit, EEV operating profit and Group Strategic Objectives. The table below shows the outcome of each measure
when compared with the target and the resulting 2014 STI award.
Percentage
On target
award for performance
Upper
threshold for
minimum
min
performance performance
Percentage
Minimum
award for on threshold for
maximum
Percentage
award for
maximum
performance performance performance
target
Actual
result
Actual
percentage
total award
Actual
percentage
award as
%age of
salary
IFRS pre-tax result
EEV operating result
Group strategic
objectives
≤£13.925m
≤£14.79m
0%
0%
£18.566m *
£16,436m
15.0%
12.8%
£37.132m
£24.654m
≤60% of max
0%
80% of max
10.0%
100%
50%
30%
20%
£34.807m *
£37.522m
91.4%
of max
47%
30%
16%
34.2%
22.5%
11.8%
For results between the performance thresholds, a straight-line basis applies.
*Note – this is stated after certain adjustments, such as consolidation adjustments. The actual results are also adjusted in the same manner.
The Group strategic objectives outcome reflects progress of the Solvency II project in line with plans, operational improvements in the UK
and Sweden and the Part VII transfer of Protection Life.
Name of Director
Graham Kettleborough*
David Rimmington
Frank Hughes
Total
Salary on
which award
based
£
Maximum
potential
award
as %age
of salary
Actual
award as
%age of
salary
Total
value of
award
£
328,189
187,500
202,814
75.00%
75.00%
75.00%
68.47%
68.47%
68.47%
224,716
128,384
138,870
491,970
*Awarded as part of package following cessation of being a Director. Graham is not required to defer 35% of the award into shares.
35% of above awards are granted as deferred share awards that will vest at the end of a three year deferred period.
LTIPs
The bonus and incentive schemes included in the amounts reported for 2014 are as follows:
Scheme
EEV Target EEV Outcome
31 Dec 2014
31 Dec 2014
% of salary
Graham
awarded Kettleborough
Frank
Hughes
Total
2012 LTIP
£279.9m
£417.2m
34%
£99,775
£61,151
£160,926
Amount payable(£)*
Under the 2012 Annual Bonus element the award was 66% of salary. The 2012 annual bonus and LTIP elements share a
bonus cap of 100% of basic salary. The outcome of the LTIP element exceeded target and therefore the bonus cap has
had the effect of limiting the LTIP bonus payment to 34% of salary which was paid in January 2015.
Pension
The pension component in the single figure table represents employer’s contributions that form part of the Director’s
remuneration package. The employer’s contribution is based on a fixed percentage of each Executive’s salary, and can
vary between Executives.
71
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION C
DIRECTORS’ REMUNER ATION REPORT
ANNUAL REMUNER ATION REPORT (CONTINUED)
Scheme interests awarded during the financial year
(audited information)
Up until and including 2011 the LTIP schemes for Executive
Directors were effectively based on single year performance
measures with payments deferred for three years. As such any
amounts due from pre-2012 LTIP schemes have been
recognised within the single earnings figures for the original
performance assessment year. That is, all awards have already
crystallised prior to this financial year and have been reported.
The LTIP schemes for 2012 and 2013 depend upon three year
EEV projection targets being met or exceeded. As such
value in the 2012 scheme has crystallised during 2014, with
the value for the 2013 scheme crystallising during 2015.
Note however that for 2012 and 2013 the total maximum
combined bonus from the short term annual incentive plans
and long term incentive plans is capped at 100% of basic
salary. In light of the annual bonuses earned in 2012 and 2013,
the maximum potential value from these schemes is relatively
limited, as follows:
– 2012 LTIP - Annual bonus payments during 2012
represented 65.48% of the total basic salary and as such
the maximum value for the 2012 LTIP scheme maturing this
year is 34.52% of basic salary.
– 2013 LTIP - the annual bonus represented 100% of basic salary
and hence the 2013 LTIP has no potential value on vesting.
The table below sets out potential long-term incentive scheme interests that have accrued during the year, and each
Director’s interest in that scheme:
Name of
Executive
Director
Name of
scheme
Type and basis of award
(note 4)
Face value
(note 1)
Graham
Kettleborough*
2014
LTI
Share options. 78,390 share
options awarded equal to 75%
of basic salary using the share
price at close of business on
19 May 2014.
£243,205 based
on share price
(310.25p) on
date of grant
(20 May 2014).
Options have a nil exercise
price.
Length
of vesting
period
3 years –
vesting date
31 December
2016.
Summary of performance measures
and targets
Total Shareholder Return
50% of the award will vest subject to the TSR
target being in a certain range, with the range being the ranking
of the TSR of Chesnara against the TSR of the individual
companies in the FTSE 350 Higher Yield Index. The award will
be made on a sliding scale from nil if the Chesnara TSR is below
the median to full if the Chesnara TSR is in the upper quartile.
EEV growth target
50% of the award will vest subject to the EEV outcome being
within a certain range of the Embedded Value target. The award
will be made on a sliding scale with nil being paid out if the
outcome is less than or equal to 89% of target, up to a maximum
pay-out if the outcome is greater than or equal to 114% of target.
2013
LTIP
Cash
2012
LTIP
Cash
–
£99,775
3 years –
vesting date
31 December
2015.
Based on achievement of a target share price at the end of 2015:
Rewards on a sliding scale from 0% of basic annual salary on
achievement of 75% of target to 21.05% of basic annual salary
on achievement of target, continuing on a straight line basis if
target is exceeded. (Note 2).
3 years -
vesting date
31 December
2014.
Based on achievement of a target share price at the end of 2014:
Rewards on a sliding scale from 0% of basic annual salary on
achievement of 75% of target to 21.05% of basic annual salary
on achievement of target, continuing on a straight line basis if
target is exceeded. (Note 2).
The Remuneration Committee assessed that the performance
criteria for this scheme was met. Payment was made in January
2015 and, as explained above, the amount was capped by the
remaining proportion of the shared bonus cap (34.52% of salary).
*Note: Please see page 74 for how the value accruing during 2014 for each of these schemes has been dealt in light of Graham ceasing to hold office on
31 December 2014.
72
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCEScheme interests awarded during the financial year (audited information)(continued)
Name of
Executive
Director
Frank
Hughes
Name of
scheme
Type and basis of award
(note 4)
Face value
(note 1)
2014
LTI
Share options. 48,443 share
options awarded equal to
75% of basic salary using
the share price at close of
business on 19 May 2014.
£150,294 based
on share price
(310.25p) on
date of grant
(20 May 2014).
Options have a nil
exercise price.
Length
of vesting
period
3 years –
vesting date
31 December
2016.
Summary of performance measures
and targets
Total Shareholder Return
50% of the award will vest subject to the TSR target being in
a certain range, with the range being the ranking of the TSR
of Chesnara against the TSR of the individual companies in
the FTSE 350 Higher Yield Index. The award will be made on a
sliding scale from nil if the Chesnara TSR is below the median
to full if the Chesnara TSR is in the upper quartile.
EEV growth target
50% of the award will vest subject to the EEV outcome being
within a certain range of the Embedded Value target. The
award will be made on a sliding scale with nil being paid out
if the outcome is less than or equal to 89% of target, up to a
maximum pay-out if the outcome is greater than or equal to
114% of target.
2013
LTIP
Cash
2012
LTI
Cash
–
£61,204
3 years –
vesting date
31 December
2015.
Based on achievement of a target share price at the end of 2015:
Rewards on a sliding scale from 0% of basic annual salary on
achievement of 75% of target to 21.05% of basic annual salary
on achievement of target, continuing on a straight line basis if
target is exceeded. (Note 2)
3 years –
vesting date
31 December
2014.
Based on achievement of a target share price at the end of 2014:
Rewards on a sliding scale from 0% of basic annual salary on
achievement of 75% of target to 21.05% of basic annual salary
on achievement of target, continuing on a straight line basis if
target is exceeded. (Note 2).
David
Rimmington
2014
LTIP
Share options. 41,800 share
options awarded equal to
75% of basic salary using
the share price at close of
business on 19 May 2014.
£129,685 based
on share price
(310.25p) on
date of grant
(20 May 2014).
3 years –
vesting date
31 December
2016.
Options have a nil
exercise price
The Remuneration Committee assessed that the performance
criteria for this scheme was met. Payment was made in January
2015 and, as explained above, the amount was capped by the
remaining proportion of the shared bonus cap (34.52% of salary).
Total Shareholder Return
50% of the award will vest subject to the TSR target being in a
certain range, with the range being the ranking of the TSR of
Chesnara against the TSR of the individual companies in the
FTSE 350 Higher Yield Index. The award will be made on a
sliding scale from nil if the Chesnara TSR is below the median
to full if the Chesnara TSR is in the upper quartile.
EEV growth target
50% of the award will vest subject to the EEV outcome being
within a certain range of the Embedded Value target. The award
will be made on a sliding scale with nil being paid out if the
outcome is less than or equal to 89% of target, up to a maximum
pay-out if the outcome is greater than or equal to 114% of target.
2013
LTIP
Cash
–
3 years –
vesting date
31 December
2015.
Based on achievement of a target share price at the end
of 2015: Rewards on a sliding scale from 0% of basic annual
salary on achievement of 75% of target to 21.05% of basic
annual salary on achievement of target, continuing on a
straight line basis if target is exceeded. (Note 2; Note 3).
Note 1 – The face value is reported as the estimate of the maximum
potential value on vesting.
Note 3 – Any amounts vesting will be subject to a pro rata
adjustment to reflect scheme entry part way through the year.
Note 2 – For the 2013 and 2012 LTIP, any payments, together with
the annual bonus, would normally be capped, on award, at 100% of
basic salary.
Note 4 – No awards are made if performance is below the
minimum criteria.
73
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION CDIRECTORS’ REMUNER ATION REPORT
ANNUAL REMUNER ATION REPORT (CONTINUED)
Payments for ceasing to hold office
(audited information)
On 3 December 2014 Graham Kettleborough gave notice
of his intention to resign from the Board and the Company.
The Remuneration Committee is of the view that Graham
considered the interests of the business in the timing
of his resignation, which coincided with the successful
conclusion of negotiations and a placing to acquire the
Waard Group in the Netherlands, and the Company being
in a position, through its succession plans, to have
appointed a suitable successor. In the circumstances, the
Remuneration Committee formed the view that the
arrangements and payments set out below were in the
interests of the Company and its shareholders and in line
with the Company’s Remuneration Policy and contractual
agreements with Graham. The total amount for loss of
office is as follows:
– Contractual remuneration entitlements to 31 March 2015:
Graham to continue to receive normal pay and benefits under
the terms of his service contract from 3 December 2014 to
31 March 2015.
– Payment in lieu of notice and awards from incentive plans:
Graham will cease to be employed by the Company on
31 March 2015, and at that time he will receive a payment in
lieu of his contractual remuneration entitlements for the
remaining proportion of his twelve month notice period as
set out in the table below. This table also shows how the
Remuneration Committee (“Committee”) has assessed the
treatment of outstanding awards under the various incentive
schemes in which Graham participates including where
any discretion has been exercised and the amounts / value of
such awards.
Description
Amount £
Explanation of how calculated
Pay in lieu of salary and benefits
276,214
Use and loss of company car
8,200
2012 LTIP
99,775
2014 Short-term incentive scheme
224,716
2014 Long-term incentive scheme
46,969
This represents payment of basic salary (£221,317), accrued holidays
(£23,352), pension contributions (£20,959) and other taxable /
non-taxable benefits (£10,586) for the 8 months and 2 days of the
remaining contractual notice period.
This represents the value of the use of a company car between 31 March
2015 and 29 June 2015 and compensation for loss of use
of a company car for the period 30 June 2015 to 2 December 2015.
This represents the value accrued under the 2012 LTIP.
The Committee has exercised its discretion to determine that
the award shall be retained in full. This is also captured in the
“single figure earnings table” on page 70.
This represents the value accrued under the 2014 STI scheme.
The Committee has exercised its discretion and determined that this
award will be paid in cash with no deferral into shares.
This is also captured in the “single figure earnings table” on page 70.
The Committee determined that Graham should retain a time
rated proportion of the share options awarded to him under the 2014 LTI
Scheme Award - 26,130 shares as compared with 78,390 originally granted.
The Committee has assessed the performance of the measures under
the Scheme against what the Committee consider to be fair proportionate
performance targets as at 31 December 2014. Graham led, and was
critical to, completion of the acquisition of the Waard Group and to the
fund raising so, in making its performance assessment, the Committee
has made an adjustment to the Embedded Value to reflect the positive
effect that completion of the acquisition of the Waard Group is expected
to have and for the timing of the acquisition expenses. As a result Graham
will, on 31 March 2015, be awarded 13,065 shares. The Committee
also determined that the options will remain exercisable until
30 November 2015 and in accordance with the Scheme Rules an amount
in respect of dividends with interest thereon will be payable when
the options are exercised. The value shown in based on the share price
on 24 March 2015 (359.50 pence).
Total
655,874
The Company paid £1,000 on behalf of Graham in respect of legal services received in relation to his cessation of office.
74
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Statement of Directors’ shareholding and share interests (audited information)
The Remuneration policy, which was effective from the 2014 AGM, requires Executive Directors to hold shares to the value
of their basic salary. Directors may dispose of shares even when the minimum holding level has not been achieved
where funds are required to discharge any income tax and National Insurance liabilities arising from awards received from
a Chesnara incentive plan.
The table below shows, in relation to each Director, the total number of share interests with and without performance
conditions, the total number of share options with and without performance measures, those vested but unexercised and
those exercised at 31 December 2014 or the date of resignation.
The share options that were exercised during the year relate to the maturity of the “save as you earn” scheme that was
instigated in 2011 and matured in 2014. The option price of the shares in the save as you earn scheme was 173.4p per share.
No changes took place in the interests of the Directors between 31 December 2014 and 30 March 2015.
Name of Director
Shares
Options
With
Without
performance performance performance performance
Without
With
measures
measures
measures
Vested
but
measures * unexercised
Graham Kettleborough
(ceased to be being a Director on
31 December 2014)
John Deane
(appointed on 3 December 2014)
David Rimmington
Frank Hughes
Peter Mason
Peter Wright
Veronica Oak
Veronica Oak (née France)
David Brand
Mike Evans
Total
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
87,512
26,130
9,677
8,048
12,123
21,743
70,000
2,000
3,000
6,452
–
41,800
48,443
–
–
–
–
–
220,555
116,373
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Exercised
during the
year
5,190
–
5,190
5,190
–
–
–
–
–
15,570
*The “options without performance measures” column in the above table does not include the share options that will be awarded
as part of the mandatory deferral rules of the 2014 STI Scheme, which equate to 35% of the cash award under this scheme. The
timetable for the administration of the Scheme means that these will be reported in the 2015 Annual Report & Accounts.
Performance graph and CEO remuneration table
The following graph shows the Company’s performance
compared with the performance of the FTSE 350 Higher
Yield Index and the FTSE UK Life Insurance Index. The
FTSE 350 Higher Yield Index has been selected as a
comparison because it is the index used by the Company
for the performance criterion for the 2014 and 2015
Long-term Incentive Scheme, and the FTSE UK Life
Insurance Index has been selected due to Chesnara’s
inclusion within this index.
300
250
200
150
100
x
e
d
n
I
R
S
T
50
Jan 10
Chesnara total shareholder return rebased
FTSE UK Life Insurance Index, rebased
FTSE 350 Higher Yield Index, rebased
Jan 11
Jan 12
Jan 13
Jan 14
75
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION C
DIRECTORS’ REMUNER ATION REPORT
ANNUAL REMUNER ATION REPORT (CONTINUED)
Performance graph and CEO remuneration table (continued)
The table below sets out the details for the Director undertaking the role of Chief Executive Officer (Graham Kettleborough):
Year
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
CEO single
figure of total
remuneration
£000
Annual bonus
pay-out
against
maximum
%
712
702
612
384
631
91.30%
100.00%
65.48%
17.39%
100.00%
Long-term
incentive
vesting
rates against
maximum
opportunity
%
34.52%
n/a
100.00%
n/a
n/a
Note
1
2
3
4
4
Note 1 – During 2014 an LTIP that was granted to the
CEO in 2012 vested. The LTIP included a condition
such that the sum of the LTIPs and annual bonuses
awarded in that year could not exceed 100% of the
CEO’s salary. The annual bonus in 2012 amounted to
65.48% of salary. When the performance measurements
for the 2012 LTIP were assessed, the award was
required to be restricted due to the operation of the
100% cap combined cap, such that the 2012 LTIP
paid out 34.52% of the salary at the time of award.
During 2014 the annual bonus that was awarded
represented 70% of the CEO’s salary. The maximum
payable was 75% of the CEO’s salary, resulting in
a 91.30% pay-out with reference to the maximum
potential award.
Note 2 – During 2013 no LTIP value was earned
because the annual bonus in isolation has accounted
for the full 100% combined bonus cap.
Note 3 – The vesting percentage in 2012 within the
Long-term incentive column does not relate to a formal
LTIP scheme. It relates to a discretionary supplementary
scheme established in 2009 to recognise the value
added to the Group from the acquisition of Movestic.
The amount vesting has been classified in the LTIP
column due to the fact its award was subject to certain
future performance criteria being achieved. That
scheme has generated the maximum potential value of
£75,000 in 2012. The formal 2012 LTIP scheme has
contributed no value to the total single remuneration
figure as it does not vest until performance criteria have
been achieved in 2014.
Note 4 – Prior to 2012 the LTIP schemes were in fact
better characterised as deferred annual bonus schemes.
As such they are classified within the annual bonus value
and any value is included in the annual bonus pay-out
against maximum percentage.
Percentage change in remuneration for Director undertaking the role of Chief Executive Officer
The table below shows the percentage change in remuneration for the Director undertaking the role of Chief Executive
Officer and the Company’s employees as a whole between the years 2014 and 2013.
Percentage change in remuneration in 2014 compared with 2013
Salary and fees
All taxable benefits
Annual bonuses
CEO
2.50%
(0.06)%
(29.82)%
Group
employees
1.55%
(3.02)%
(5.07)%
76
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014SECTION C CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Relative importance of spend on pay
The graph to the right shows the actual expenditure of the
Group and change between the current and previous years:
Due to Chesnara adopting a strategy of outsourcing much
of its activities the level of total employee pay is relatively
low in comparison to dividends. In addition, the graph shows
a comparison with the Group’s total acquisition and
maintenance expenditure. As can be seen, the total employee
pay is relatively small against our overall cost base.
£000
180,000
160,000
140,000
120,000
100,000
80,000
60,000
40,000
20,000
0
2014
2013
+3%
+3%
Total employee
pay
Business
acquisition and
maintenance
expenditure
+3%
Dividends
Statement of Implementation of Remuneration Policy in the following financial year
The current Remuneration Policy took effect following approval at the 2014 AGM.
Salaries and fees
Will be set in accordance with the Company’s Remuneration Policy (see pages 62 to 69).
2015 Short-Term Incentive (STI) scheme
In 2015 the Remuneration Committee proposes to grant awards to the Executive Directors under the Chesnara 2014
Remuneration Policy. The table below and accompanying notes set out the performance measures, weightings and the potential
outcomes for achieving minimum, on-target and maximum performance. The actual targets for each measure are commercially
sensitive and will not be disclosed until 2016 together with the actual performance against those targets.
Measures
Weightings
Ranges and targets
Potential outcomes in terms
of % of basic salary
Minimum
achievement
(as % of
Target
target) achievement
Max
achievement
(as % of
Max
target) achievement achievement achievement
Minimum
Target
IFRS pre-tax profit
EEV operating
profit
Group strategic
objectives
50%
30%
20%
75%
Target
200%
90%
Target
150%
75%
Target
125%
–
–
–
11.25%
37.50%
9.60%
22.50%
7.50%
15.00%
The 2015 STI Scheme will be implemented and operated by
the Remuneration Committee as set out within the
Remuneration Policy (see the Future Policy table on pages
64 to 66 and its accompanying notes).
Weightings
The weightings have been set by the Remuneration
Committee. The financial measures that align most directly to
shareholder benefit are generally assigned a higher weighting.
Measures
The three measures selected by the Remuneration
Committee for 2015 ensure a balance between aligning
Executive Director remuneration to shareholder returns
whilst also recognising measures over which the Directors
can exercise more immediate and direct influence. The
IFRS pre-tax profit and EEV operating profit are recognised
outputs from the audited year-end Financial Statements,
although it should be noted that the Remuneration
Committee is able to make discretionary adjustments if
deemed necessary. The objectives assigned to each
Executive Director are relevant to their roles and include
major regulatory or business development initiatives for
2015 that the Committee considers key to delivery of the
Company’s business plan. Each individual development
objective is assigned a “significance weighting” influenced
by factors such as business criticality, scale, complexity
and level of Executive Director influence. Developments
with a higher significance are weighted more heavily when
establishing the overall performance target.
Targets
The IFRS pre-tax profit and EEV operating profit targets are
initially based on the 2015 budgets produced as part of the
2015 Group business planning process. The Group business
plan is subject to rigorous Chesnara Board scrutiny and
approval. The Remuneration Committee can make
discretionary adjustments to either the targets or to the actual
results for the year if it considers this to be appropriate.
Malus and Clawback
This Scheme includes malus and clawback provisions covering
material misstatement, assessment error and misconduct if
this arises within two years of an award vesting.
77
CHESNARA | ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2014CORPORATE GOVERNANCE SECTION C
DIRECTORS’ REMUNER ATION REPORT
ANNUAL REMUNER ATION REPORT (CONTINUED)
2015 Long-Term Incentive (LTI) scheme
In 2015 the Remuneration Committee proposes to grant awards to the Executive Directors under the Chesnara 2014 Long-Term
Incentive Scheme. The table below and accompanying notes set out the performance measures, weightings and the potential
outcomes relative to achieving minimum, on-target and maximum performance. The actual EEV target is commercially sensitive
and will not be disclosed until 2018 together with the actual performance against those targets.
Measures
Weightings
Ranges and targets
Potential outcomes in terms
of % of basic salary
Minimum
achievement
Target
(as % of
target) achievement
Max
achievement
Max
(as % of
target) achievement achievement achievement
Minimum
Target
TSR
EEV
50%
50%
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