Quarterlytics / Financial Services / Insurance - Diversified / International General Insurance Holdings Ltd.

International General Insurance Holdings Ltd.

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FY2008 Annual Report · International General Insurance Holdings Ltd.
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About IGIH

Board of Directors

Letter from the Board of Directors

Financial Statements

Auditors Report

Balance Sheet

Income Statement  

Statement of Cash Flows

Statement of Changes in Equity

Notes to the Financial Statements

Corporate Officers

IGI Offices

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INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

International General Insurance Holdings Limited (IGIH) is registered 
in the Dubai International Financial Centre with operations in Bermuda 
(IGI Bermuda), the United Kingdom, Jordan and Malaysia. 

IGI Bermuda is a class 3 (re)insurer regulated by the Bermuda Monetary 
Authority and is rated A- (“Excellent”) by A.M. Best Company Inc. This 
subsidiary  is  the  principal  underwriting  entity  for  the  Group  with  the 
Jordan office providing all management, underwriting and operational 
functions. The Group also has a subsidiary company in Labuan, Malaysia 
registered as a first tier reinsurer.

IGI  Bermuda  underwrites  a  worldwide  portfolio  of  energy,  property, 
marine,  engineering,  financial 
institutions  and  non-proportional 
reinsurance  treaty  business  with  the  main  geographical  focus  on  the 
Afro-Asian markets

IGIH has assets of more than US$ 375 million and total shareholders’ 
equity in excess of US$ 187 million, as at 31st March, 2008.  

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INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

At 7TH June, 2009

Mr. Mohammed Abu Ghazaleh 

Director (Chairman and C.E.O. Del Monte Fresh Produce, USA)

Mr. Wasef Jabsheh 

Vice Chairman and C.E.O. (Director, Jordan International Insurance Company) 

Mr. Amir Abu Ghazaleh

Director (General Manager/Partner, Abu Ghazaleh International Co. (LLC) Dubai, UAE)

Mr. Khalifah Al Mulhem

Director (Chairman, Advanced Polypropylene Co. Ltd. Saudi Arabia)

Mr. Rateb Wazani

Director (Former Minister of Justice, Government of Jordan)

Mr. Hani Tarazi

Director (Director, Saba & Co.)

Mr. Khaled Sifri

Director (C.E.O. of Arab Emirates Investment Bank P.J.S.C.)

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INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

The Board of Directors of International General 
Insurance Holdings Limited (IGIH) is pleased to 
report on the Company’s operations and result 
for the 2008 year.

The strategic decision to change IGIH financials 
to  calendar  year  reporting,  in  line  with  our 
industry  peers,  means  that  the  Company’s 
2008  accounts  are  reported  for  the  nine 
months period up to December 31, 2008.

The  insurance  industry  has  seen  earnings 
impacted  not  only  by  the  world  economic 
crisis  affecting  investment  returns  and  asset 
values, but also by large insurance losses as a 
consequence of the severe natural catastrophic 
events occurring during the year. In particular, 
Hurricane  Ike  produced  devastating  losses 
amounting to several billion dollars in the Gulf 
of Mexico and mainland USA.  This resulted in 
many  insurers  re-evaluating  their  catastrophe 
management strategy for such events.

IGIH is pleased to report that as a consequence 
of the conservative investment policy adopted, 
the  Company  had  absolutely  no  exposure  to 
the  dramatic  financial  losses  emanating  from 
mortgage  backed  securities,  credit  default 
swaps  and  the  like.    The  Company  did  see  a 
minimal  deterioration  on  the  market  value 
of  the  investment  portfolio,  but  the  low  risk 
strategy  of  investing  in  interest  bearing  fixed 
income  securities  has  proven  to  be  a  sound 
policy.

IGI’s underwriting result has been impacted by 
the natural catastrophes which occurred during 
the  year  and  in  particular  the  Gulf  of  Mexico 
Hurricane  losses.  A  thorough  review  of  the 
portfolio in that region was undertaken.  As a 
consequence of the findings, IGI have made a 
strategic decision to withdraw from underwriting 
this business.

IGI  continues  to  develop  its  unique  regional 
brand.  Following the successful restructuring of 
the group last year, IGI is pleased to announce 
the  successful  establishment  of  marketing 
offices  in  the  Dubai  International  Financial 
Center  (DIFC)  and  in  Kuala  Lumpur.  These 
offices  are  run  by  respected  and  experienced 
market  practitioners  and  will  support  the 
Company’s growth objectives and enhance our 
profile in our core geographical areas.  

that  the  benefits  of  a  Dublin  operation  had 
diminished.    IGI  are  in  the  final  stages  of 
submitting  an  application  to  the  UK  Financial 
Services Authority for establishing a separately 
capitalized subsidiary of the Bermuda Company 
in the United Kingdom.

The  attainment  in  March  2008  of  an  A- 
(“Excellent”)  financial  strength  rating  from 
A  M  Best  Company  Inc.  has  been  a  major 
contributing success factor in the development 
of the portfolio.  In the current difficult financial 
environment,  there  is  an  enhanced  security 
requirement  from  policyholders  and  IGI  are 
committed to improve further upon this rating.

to  strengthen 

IGI  continues 
its  existing 
underwriting units and diversify its product lines 
where  it  believes  opportunities  for  long  term 
profitability  exist.  IGI  has  added  experienced 
underwriters  to  both  its  Financial  Institutions 
and Marine underwriting teams. As part of its 
continued diversification plans, IGI will also start 
developing  an  Aviation  portfolio.  Underwriting 
of this class is anticipated to commence in the 
fourth quarter of 2009.

2008  financial  highlights  are  as  follows  (pro 
forma  figures  reflect  a  comparison  between 
2008 and 2007 calendar years):
(cid:129)  Gross  Written  Premium  for  nine  months 
period stood at US$ 116.3 million.  On pro 
forma  basis,  this  reflects  a  62%  increase 
from US$ 104 million to US$ 169 million. 
(cid:129)    Net  Underwriting  Loss  was  US$  1  million.  
On pro forma basis, Underwriting Profit would 
have  decreased  from  US$  13.9  million  to 
US$ 2.6 million.

(cid:129)  Total  Assets  increased  from  US$  374.4 
million to US$ 426.7 million, reflecting 14% 
growth.

(cid:129) Investment Income decreased from US$ 7.2 

million to US$ 4.4 million.

(cid:129) Net Loss for the year was US$ 4.8 million.  
On pro forma basis, this would have resulted 
in a decrease in Net Income from US$ 16.7 
million to US$ 0.91 million.

We would like to thank all clients and producers 
for  their  continued  support  throughout  2008.  
We would also like to thank all employees for 
their  significant  efforts  and  contribution  this 
year.

Original  plans  of  the  Company  entailed  the 
establishment  of  a  subsidiary  company  in 
Dublin followed by a branch office in London.  
Upon  further  analysis,  it  was  recognized 

We look forward to working together in 2009 to 
fulfil the visions and ambitions of the Company 
and to further establish IGI as the (re)insurer of 
choice for the region.

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INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

P.O. Box 9267
28th Floor - Al Attar Business Tower
Sheikh Zayed Road
Duabi, United Arab Emirates
Tel: +971 4 332 4000
Fax:+971 4 332 4004
dubai.uae@ae.ey.com
www.ey.com/me

NDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT TO THE SHAREHOLDERS OF
INTERNATIONAL GENERAL INSURANCE HOLDING LIMITED

Report on the financial statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of International General Insurance 
Company Holdings Limited and its subsidiaries (“the Group”), which comprise the consolidated balance 
sheet as at 31 December 2008 and the consolidated income statement, consolidated cash flow statement 
and consolidated statement of changes in equity for the period from 1 April 2008 to 31 December 2008, 
and a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes.

Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements
Management  are  responsible  for  the  preparation  and  fair  presentation  of  these  financial  statements  in 
accordance  with  International  Financial  Reporting  Standards  and  the  applicable  provisions  of  the 
Companies Law pursuant to DIFC law No. 3 of 2006. This responsibility includes: designing, implementing 
and maintaining internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements 
that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate 
accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances.

Auditors’ Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. To the fullest 
extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company and 
the shareholders of the company as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have 
formed. We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing. Those standards 
require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable 
assurance whether the financial statements are free from material misstatement.  

An  audit  involves  performing  procedures  to  obtain  audit  evidence  about  the  amounts  and  disclosures 
in the financial statements.  The procedures selected depend on the auditors’ judgement, including the 
assessment  of  the  risks  of  material  misstatement  of  the  financial  statements,  whether  due  to  fraud  or 
error.  In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s 
preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are 
appropriate for the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of 
the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies 
used  and  the  reasonableness  of  accounting  estimates  made  by  the  directors,  as  well  as  evaluating  the 
overall presentation of the financial statements.  

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for 
our audit opinion.

Opinion
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial 
position of the Group as of 31 December 2008 and its financial performance and its cash flows for the period 
from 1 April 2008 to 31 December 2008, in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards.

Report on other legal and regulatory requirements

We also confirm that, in our opinion, the consolidated financial statements include, in all material respect, 
the  applicable  requirements  of  the  Companies  Law  pursuant  to  DIFC  Law  No.  3  of  2006.  We  have 
obtained  all  the  information  and  explanations  which  we  required  for  the  purpose  of  our  audit. To  the 
best of our knowledge and belief, no other violations of the companies law pursuant to DIFC law No. 3 
of 2006 have occurred during the period which would have had a material effect on the business of the 
Group or on its financial position.

Date
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A member firm of Ernst & Young Global Limited

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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET  As at 31 December 2008 

ASSETS 

Premises and equipment 

Intangible assets

Investment in associated companies

Investment property

Financial assets held to maturity

Financial assets available-for-sale

Financial assets held for trading

Deferred policy acquisition costs

Receivables arising from insurance contracts

Other receivables

Reinsurers’ share of unearned premiums 

Reinsurers’ share of outstanding claims

Cash and short term deposits 

TOTAL ASSETS 

Notes

31 December 2008
USD 

31 March 2008
USD (Restated)

3

4

5

6

7

18

8

9

13

14

10

1,657,747

560,480

10,197,712

7,905,040

1,690,141

1,292,975

622,312

7,417,111

-

1,690,141 

92,428,375

105,176,677 

3,889,747

18,073,444

114,963,834

2,817,514

13,427,326

49,671,556

-

12,917,781 

93,963,104 

2,384,242 

10,380,698 

22,864,403 

109,415,441

115,679,069 

426,698,357

374,388,513

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 

Equity attributable to equity holders of parent

Issued share capital

11

143,375,678

143,375,678

Foreign currency translation adjustment 

Cumulative changes in fair value of investments

Retained earnings 

Minority interest 

Total equity 

LIABILITIES

Liabilities arising from insurance contracts 

Unearned premiums

Outstanding claims 

Other liabilities

Reinsurance payable

Reinsurance deposit

13

14

15

(231,658)

(5,010,043)

14,674,685

8,764

15,560,227

27,217,954

152,808,662

186,162,623

529,981

503,449

153,338,643

186,666,072

78,743,301

141,032,181

69,756,299

76,542,762

219,775,482

146,299,061

1,856,695

34,332,781

13,808,875

981,407

28,408,347

11,116,376

917,250

Deferred policy acquisition costs ceded

18

3,585,881

Total liabilities 

TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 

273,359,714

187,722,441

426,698,357

374,388,513

The consolidated financial statements were authorised for issue in accordance with a resolution of the Board 
of Directors on 

.

The attached notes 1 to 24 form part of these consolidated financial statements

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INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

 
 
 
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT  For the period from 1 April 2008 to 31 December 2008 

For the 9 months
ended

For the 12 months 
ended

Notes

31 December 2008
USD 

31 March 2008
USD (Restated)

16

16

17

17

18

116,299,988

101,973,615

(32,081,401)

(26,634,345)

84,218,587

75,339,270

(107,969,060)

(60,840,941)

38,095,339

16,860,138

(15,346,205)

(15,366,118)

Gross premiums

Reinsurers’ share of premiums

Net premiums earned

Claims

Reinsurers’ share of claims

Policy acquisition costs

NET UNDERWRITING RESULT

(1,001,339)

15,992,349

Investment income

19

4,441,841

7,159,599

Revaluation gain from financial assets held for trading

Commission income

Net realised gains from sale of financial
    assets available-for-sale

Share of profit (loss) from associated companies 

Impairment loss on financial assets available for sale 

19

5

7

Loss on sale of equipment

General and administrative expenses

(Loss) gain on exchange

188,510

20,273

-

135,719

800,809

3,904,956

3,085,601

(1,003,005)

(3,436,566)

(3,474)

-

-

(7,456,002)

(7,514,843)

(1,500,496)

683,350

(LOSS) PROFIT FOR THE PERIOD/ YEAR

(4,860,843)

19,358,125

Attributable to

Equity holders of the parent

Minority interest

(5,023,905)

19,366,935

163,062

(8,810)

(4,860,843)

19,358,125

The attached notes 1 to 24 form part of these consolidated financial statements.  

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CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS STATEMENT   For the period from 1 April 2008 to 31 December 2008  

OPERATING ACTIVITIES  

(Loss) profit for the period/ year

Adjustments for: 

Depreciation and amortisation

Net gains on sale of financial assets available-for-sale 

Impairment loss on financial assets available for sale

Loss on sale of equipment

Revaluation gain from financial assets held for trading

Investment income

Share of (profit) loss from associated companies 

Reinsurers’ share of unearned premiums

Change in on unearned premiums

For the 9 months ended

For the 12 months ended

Notes 31 December 2008

USD 

31 March 2008
USD (Restated)

(4,860,843)

19,358,125

3, 4 

20 

19

5 

176,131

(800,809)

3,436,566

3,474

(188,510)

(4,441,841)

(3,085,601)

(3,046,628)

8,987,002

(3,821,059)

131,050

(3,904,956)

-

-

-

(7,159,599)

1,003,005

(3,235,540)

14,961,895

21,153,980

Deferred policy acquisition costs

(5,155,663)

(4,108,408)

Receivables arising from insurance and reinsurance contracts 

(12,671,193)

(26,090,200)

Other receivables 

Movement on outstanding claims

Reinsurers’ share of outstanding claims 

Deferred ceded commission

Financial assets held for trading

Other liabilities

Net cash from operating activities 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES 

Purchase of premises and equipment

Proceeds from sale of equipment

Purchase of intangible assets

Purchase of financial assets available-for-sale

Proceeds from sale of financial assets available-for-sale

Cash outflow on acquisition net of cash acquired

Purchase of investment property

Dividends received from associates

Purchase of financial assets held to maturity

Deposits maturing after 3 months

Investment income

(433,272)

(832,723)

64,489,419

23,210,277

(26,807,153)

2,668,631

(3,701,237)

697,560

272,319

-

875,288

2,230,320

15,443,761

16,533,125

(472,518)

(1,035,619)

7,406

-

(106,989)

(250,719)

(16,176,822)

(23,460,731)

3,217,882

12,858,699

-

(595,960)

(7,905,040)

305,000

-

-

-

(1,690,141)

7,804,229

(11,889,624)

3 

4

4 

6

19

4,441,841

7,159,599

Net cash used in investing activities

(8,885,011)

(18,904,496)

FINANCING ACTIVITIES 

Dividends paid 

12 

(5,018,149)

(3,585,774)

Net cash used in financing activities 

(5,018,149)

(3,585,774)

NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH  EQUIVALENTS 

1,540,601

(5,957,145)

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period/ year

103,789,445

109,746,590

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE END OF THE PERIOD/ YEAR

21 

105,330,046

103,789,445

The attached notes 1 to 24 form part of these consolidated financial statements.  

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INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGE IN EQUITY   For the period from 1 April 2008 to 31 December 2008 

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13

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

1. ACTIVITIES
International  General  Insurance  Holdings  Limited  “IGIH”  is  incorporated  as  a  company 
limited by shares under the Companies Law, DIFC Law No. 2 of 2004 on 7 May 2006 and 
is engaged in the business of re-insurance and insurance. The Company’s registered office 
is in Dubai International Financial Centre.
The Company operates in four countries, United Arab Emirates, Bermuda, Jordan and Malaysia.
The Company had changed its accounting reference period during the period from 31 March 
to 31 December. Accordingly, the consolidated financial statements were prepared for the 
period from 1 April 2008 to 31 December 2008.

2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of preparation
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

The consolidated financial statements have been presented in United States Dollars “USD” 
which is the Group’s functional currency.

The  consolidated  financial  statements  are  prepared  under  the  historical  cost  convention 
modified  to  include  the  measurement  at  fair  value  of  financial  assets  available-for-sale, 
financial assets held for trading and investment properties. 

Basis of consolidation 
The  consolidated  financial  statements  comprise  the  financial  statements  of  IGIH  and  its 
subsidiaries as at 31 December:
International General Insurance/Bermuda, IGIH owns 100% of its paid in capital amounting 
to USD 120,000 as of 31 December 2008. The company was established on 2 May 2007. 
The subsidiary’s is engaged in the business of re-insurance and insurance.
International General Insurance Underwriting/Jordan, IGIH owns 100% of its paid in capital 
amounting to USD 2,556,171 as of 31 December 2008. The company was established on 
4 October 2001. The subsidiary’s main operation is insurance brokerage.
SR Bishops Underwriting Limited/London, IGIH owns 51% of its paid in capital amounting to 
USD 19,625 as of 31 December 2008. The company was acquired on 1 April 2007. The 
subsidiary’s main operation is insurance brokerage.
The financial statements of the subsidiaries are prepared for the same reporting period as 
the Group, using consistent accounting policies. If different accounting policies were applied 
by  the  subsidiaries,  adjustments  shall  be  made  on  their  financial  statements  in  order  to 
comply with those of the IGIH.
All  intra-company  balances,  transactions,  income  and  expenses  and  profits  and  losses 
resulting  from  intra-company  transactions  that  are  recognised  in  assets  or  liabilities,  are 
eliminated in full.
Subsidiaries  are  fully  consolidated  from  the  date  on  which  control  is  transferred  to  IGIH. 
Control is achieved where IGIH has the power to govern the financial and operating policies 
of an entity in order to obtain benefits from its activities. The results of subsidiaries acquired 
or disposed of during the year are included in the consolidated income statement from the 
date of acquisition or up to the date of disposal, as appropriate.
Minority interests represent the portion of profit or loss and net assets not owned, directly or 
indirectly, by IGIH and are presented separately in the income statement and within equity 
in the consolidated balance sheet, separately from parent shareholders’ equity.

14

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

Summary of significant accounting policies:

Premiums earned
Premiums are taken into income over the terms of the policies to which they relate on a 
pro-rata basis. Unearned premiums represent the portion of premiums written relating to 
the unearned premium of coverage.  The change in the provision for unearned premiums is 
taken to the income statement in order that revenue is recognised over the period of risk.

Premiums  written  include  adjustments  to  premiums  written  in  prior  accounting  periods 
and estimates for “pipeline” premiums. An estimate is made at the balance sheet date to 
recognise  retrospective  adjustments  to  premiums  or  commissions.  Outward  reinsurance 
premiums are accounted for in the same accounting period as the premiums for the related 
direct insurance or inwards reinsurance business.

Claims 
Claims,  comprising  amounts  payable  to  contract  holders  and  third  parties  and  related 
loss adjustment expenses, net of salvage and other recoveries, are charged to income as 
incurred. Claims comprise the estimated amounts payable, in respect of claims reported to 
the Group and those not reported at the balance sheet date.

The  Group  generally  estimates  its  claims  based  on  appointed  loss  adjusters  or  leading 
underwriters’ recommendations. In addition a provision based on management’s judgement 
and the Group’s prior experience is maintained for the cost of settling claims incurred but 
not  reported  at  the  balance  sheet  date  for  the  fiscal  year.  Any  difference  between  the 
provisions at the balance sheet date and settlements and provisions for the following year is 
included in the underwriting account for that year.

Policy acquisition costs
Commissions  paid  to  intermediaries  and  other  direct  costs  incurred  in  relation  to  the 
acquisition and renewal of insurance contracts are capitalised as an intangible asset. The 
deferred policy acquisition costs are subsequently amortised over the terms of the insurance 
contracts to which they relate as premiums are earned.

Liability adequacy test
At each balance sheet date the Group assesses whether its recognised insurance liabilities 
are adequate using current estimates of future cash  flows under its insurance contracts.  
If that assessment shows that the carrying amount of its insurance liabilities (less related 
deferred policy acquisition costs) is inadequate in the light of estimated future cash flows, 
the entire deficiency is immediately recognised in income and an unexpired risk provision 
created.

The Group does not discount its liability for unpaid claims.

Reinsurance 
The Group cedes insurance risk in the normal course of business for all classes of business. 
Reinsurance  assets  represent  balances  due  from  reinsurance  companies.  Recoverable 
amounts are calculated in a manner consistent with the outstanding claims provision and 
are in accordance with the reinsurance contract.  
An  impairment  review  is  performed  at  each  reporting  date  or  more  frequently  when  an 
indication of impairment arises during the reporting year. Impairment occurs when objective 
evidence exists that the Group may not recover outstanding amounts under the terms of the 
contract and when the impact on the amounts that the Group will receive from the reinsurer 
can be measured reliably. The impairment loss is recorded in the income statement.

15

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

Ceded reinsurance arrangements do not relieve the Group from its obligations to policyholders. 

Premiums  and  claims  on  assumed  reinsurance  are  recognised  as  income  and  expenses 
in the same manner as they would be if the reinsurance were considered direct business, 
taking into account the product classification of the reinsured  business. 

Reinsurance liabilities represent balances due to reinsurance companies. Amounts payable 
are calculated in a manner consistent with the associated reinsurance contract.   

Premiums and claims are presented on a gross basis for both ceded and assumed reinsurance.  

Reinsurance assets or liabilities are derecognised when the contractual rights are extinguished 
or expire or when the contract is transferred to another party.  

Interest revenue
Interest revenue is recognised as the interest accrues using the effective interest method, 
under  which  the  rate  used  exactly  discounts  estimated  future  cash  receipts  through  the 
expected life of the financial asset to the net carrying amount of the financial asset.

Dividend revenue
Dividend revenue is recognised when right to receive the payment is established.

Premises and equipment 
Premises  and  equipment  are  stated  at  cost  less  accumulated  depreciation  and  any 
impairment in value. Deprecation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated 
useful lives of the assets ranging between 5 to 10 years.

The  assets’  residual  values,  useful  lives  and  method  of  depreciation  are  reviewed  and 
adjusted  if  appropriate  at  each  financial  year  end.  Impairment  reviews  take  place  when 
events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. 
Impairment losses are recognised in the income statement as an expense. 

Intangible assets
a) Goodwill

Goodwill acquired in a business combination is initially measured at cost being the excess 
of the cost of the business combination over the Group’s interest in the net fair value of the 
identifiable  assets,  liabilities  and  contingent  liabilities  acquired.  Goodwill  arising  from  the 
investment in subsidiaries is separately shown under intangible assets, while that arising from 
the investment in associates is shown as part of investment in associates and subsequently 
adjusted for any impairment losses.

For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill acquired in a business combination is from 
the date of acquisition allocated to each of the Group’s cash-generating units, or groups 
of cash-generating units. Where the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit is less 
than the carrying value, an impairment loss is recognised.

Following initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment 
losses. Goodwill is reviewed for impairment, annually or more frequently, if events or changes 
in circumstances indicate that the estimated recoverable amount of a cash-generating unit 
or group of cash-generating units is less than their carrying amount. Impairment losses are 
transferred to the income statement.

b) Intangible assets

Intangible assets acquired through business combination are recorded at their fair value on 
that date. Other intangible assets are measured on initial recognition at cost. 

Intangible  assets  with  finite  lives  are  amortised  over  the  useful  economic  lives,  while 

16

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are assessed for impairment at each reporting 
date or when there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired.

Internally generated intangible assets are not capitalised and are expensed in the income 
statement.

Indications of impairment of intangible assets are reviewed for and their useful economic 
lives are reassessed at each reporting date. Adjustments are reflected in the current and 
subsequent periods.

Intangible  assets  include  computer  software  and  licenses.  These  intangible  assets  are 
amortised evenly over their estimated economic useful lives of 5 years.

Impairment and uncollectibility of financial assets
An assessment is made at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is objective 
evidence  that  a  specific  financial  asset  may  be  impaired.  If  such  evidence  exists,  any 
impairment loss is recognised in the income statement.

Impairment is determined as follows:

a) For assets carried at fair value, impairment is the difference between cost and fair value; 

b) For assets carried at cost, impairment is the difference between cost and the present 
value of future cash flows discounted at the current market rate of return for a similar 
financial asset.

c)  For  assets  carried  at  amortised  cost,  impairment  is  based  on  estimated    cash  flows 

discounted at the effective interest rates.

Derecognition of financial instruments
The derecognition of a financial instrument takes place when the Group no longer controls 
the  contractual  rights  that  comprise  the  financial  instrument,  which  is  normally  the  case 
when the instrument is sold, or all the cash flows attributable to the instrument are passed 
through to an independent third party.

Investment in associated companies 
Investments  in  associated  companies  are  carried  in  the  balance  sheet  at  cost  plus  post  – 
acquisition changes in the Group’s share of net assets of associates, less any impairment in value. 
The income statement reflects the share of the results of the operations of the associates.

Financial assets available-for-sale
Financial  assets  available-for-sale  are  non-derivative  financial  assets  that  are  designated 
as  financial  assets  available-for-sale.  These  investments  are  initially  recorded  at  cost. 
Subsequent to initial recognition, these investments are remeasured at fair value. Fair value 
gains and losses are reported as a separate component of equity until the investment is 
derecognised or the investment is determined to be impaired. On derecognition or impairment, 
the cumulative fair value gains and losses previously reported in equity is transferred to the 
income statement.

If a financial assets available-for-sale is impaired, an amount comprising the difference between 
its cost (net of any principal repayment and amortisation) and its current fair value, less any 
impairment loss previously recognised in the income statement, is transferred from equity to 
the income statement. Reversals in respect of equity instruments classified as financial assets 
available-for-sale are not recognised in the income statement. Reversals of impairment losses 
on debt instruments classified at financial assets available-for-sale are reversed through the 
income statement if the increase in the fair value of the instruments can be objectively related 
to an event occurring after the impairment losses were recognised in the income statement.

17

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

Financial assets held for trading 
Financial assets held for trading are those purchased with the intent to be resold in the near 
future to generate gains as a result of changes in market prices of such investments.  

They  are  initially  recognised  at  the  fair  value  of  consideration  given  and  subsequently 
remeasured at fair value. All realised and unrealised gains or losses are transferred to the 
income statement including any gains or losses resulting from the translation of such assets 
held in foreign currencies to the functional currency.

Interest earned is included in interest income and dividends received are included in gains 
(losses) from financial assets and liabilities held for trading. 

Financial assets held to maturity
Held  to  maturity  investments  are  initially  recognised  at  cost,  being  the  fair  value  of 
consideration given including directly attributable transaction costs. After initial measurement, 
held-to-maturity financial investments are subsequently measured at amortised cost using 
the effective interest method, less allowance for impairment. Amortised cost is calculated 
by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees that are an integral 
part of the effective interest method.

Trade and settlement date accounting
Purchases and sales of financial assets are recognised on the trade date (that being the 
date at which the sale or purchase takes place).

Cash and cash equivalents
For the purpose of the Statement of Cash Flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash 
in hand, bank balances, and short-term deposits with an original maturity of three months 
or less, net of outstanding bank overdrafts.

Provisions
Provisions  are  recognised  when  the  Group  has  an  obligation  (legal  or  constructive)  as  a 
result of a past event, and the costs to settle the obligation are both probable and able to 
be reliably measured.

Offsetting
Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount reported in the balance sheet 
only when there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognised amounts and there 
is  an  intention  to  settle  on  a  net  basis,  or  to  realise  the  assets  and  settle  the  liability 
simultaneously. Income and expense is not offset in the statement of income unless required 
or permitted by any accounting standard or interpretation. 

Foreign currencies
Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded at the functional currency rate ruling at 
the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies 
are retranslated at the functional currency rate of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. 
Non-monetary  items  that  are  measured  in  terms  of  historical  cost  in  a  foreign  currency 
are translated using the exchange rate as at the date of the initial transaction and are not 
subsequently  restated.  Non-monetary  items  measured  at  fair  value  in  a  foreign  currency 
are translated using the exchange rates at the date when the fair value was determined. All 
foreign exchange differences are taken to the statement of income except when it relates 
to  items  when  gains  or  losses  are  recognised  directly  in  equity,  the  gain  or  loss  is  then 
recognised net of the exchange component in equity.

18

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

As at the reporting date, the assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are translated into 
the Group’s presentation currency at the rate of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date, 
and their income statements are translated at the weighted average exchange rates for the 
year. Exchange differences arising on translation are taken directly to a separate component 
of  equity.  On  disposal  of  an  entity,  the  deferred  cumulative  amount  recognised  in  equity 
relating to that particular foreign operation is transferred to the income statement.

Leases
The Group has no finance leases.

Leases where the lessor retains substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the 
asset are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments are recognised as an 
expense in the income statement on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Fair values
The fair value of financial instruments that are actively traded in organized financial markets 
is  determined  by  reference  to  quoted  market  bid  prices  for  assets  and  offer  prices  for 
liabilities, at the close of business on the balance sheet date. If quoted market prices are 
not available, reference is also be made to broker or dealer price quotations.
For financial instruments where there is not an active market, the fair value is determined by 
using valuation techniques. Such techniques include using recent arm’s length transactions, 
reference to the current market value of another instrument which is substantially the same 
and/or discounted cash flow analysis. For discounted cash flow techniques, estimated future 
cash  flows  are  based  on  management’s  best  estimates  and  the  discount  rate  used  is  a 
market related rate for a similar instrument.
If the fair value can not be measured reliably, these financial instruments are measured at 
cost, being the fair value of the consideration paid for the acquisition of the investment or 
the amount received on issuing the financial liability. All transaction costs directly attributable 
to the acquisition are also included in the cost of the investment.

Judgements
In  the  process  of  applying  the  Group’s  accounting  policies,  management  has  made  the 
following judgements, apart from those involving estimations, which have the most significant 
effect in the amounts recognised in the financial statements:

Classification of investments

Management decides on acquisition of an investment whether it should be classified as held 
for trading or available for sale or held to maturity. 

The group classifies investments as trading if they are acquired primarily for the purpose of 
making a short term profit by the dealers.

Financial assets are classified as held to maturity if the Group has the positive intention and 
ability to hold up till maturity.

All other investments are classified as financial assets available for sale.

Impairment of investments
The  group  treats  financial  assets  available  for  sale  as  impaired  when  there  has  been  a 
significant  or  prolonged  decline  in  the  fair  value  below  its  cost  or  where  other  objective 
evidence  of  impairment  exists.  The  determination  of  what  is  “significant”  or  “prolonged” 
requires considerable judgement. In addition, the Group evaluates other factors, including 
normal volatility in share price for quoted equities and the future cash flows and discount 
factors for unquoted equities.  

19

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

Estimation uncertainty
The key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty 
at the balance sheet date, that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the 
carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below:
Valuation of outstanding claims, whether reported or not
Considerable judgement by management is required in the estimation of amounts due to 
contract holders arising from claims made under insurance contracts. Such estimates are 
necessarily based on assumptions about several factors involving varying, and possibly 
significant,  degrees  of  judgement  and  uncertainty  and  actual  results  may  differ  from 
management’s estimates resulting in future changes in estimated liabilities. 
In  particular,  estimates  have  to  be  made  both  for  the  expected  ultimate  cost  of  claims 
reported at the balance sheet date and for the expected ultimate cost of claims incurred 
but not yet reported (IBNR) at the balance sheet date. The primary technique adopted by 
management in estimating the cost of notified and IBNR claims, is that of using past claim 
settlement trends to predict future claims settlement trends. 
Claims requiring court or arbitration decisions are estimated individually. Independent loss 
adjustors normally estimate property claims. Management reviews its provisions for claims 
incurred, and claims incurred but not reported, on a quarterly basis.

Investment properties
Investment  properties  are  stated  at  fair  value  which  is  determined  based  on  valuations 
performed by professional independent valuers.

Reinsurance
The Group is exposed to disputes with, and possibility of defaults by, its reinsurers. The Group 
monitors on a quarterly basis the evolution of disputes with and the strength of its reinsurers.

Change in accounting policies
The  accounting  policies  adopted  are  consistent  with  those  used  in  the  previous  financial 
period  except  the  change  in  accounting  policy  used  to  account  for  investment  property, 
which was changed from the cost model to the fair value model as the management believe 
that using the fair value model provides more relevant information than the cost model.
The associates holds certain properties as investments to earn rental income, for capital 
appreciation  or  both.  Investment  properties  are  measured  initially  at  cost,  including 
transaction  costs.  Subsequent  to  initial  recognition,  investment  properties  are  stated  at 
fair  value,  which  reflects  market  conditions  at  the  balance  sheet  date.  Gains  or  losses 
arising from changes in the fair values of investment properties are included in the income 
statement in ‘Other operating income’ in the year in which they arise.
The effect of the adjustments on the company’s consolidated financial statements for the 
period ended 31 March 2008 is illustrated in (note 5).

New standard and interpretations issued but not yet effective
The following standards have been issued by the International Accounting Standards Board 
(IASB) but are not yet mandatory for these financial statements:

IFRS 3R Business Combinations and IAS 27R Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements
The  revised  standards  were  issued  in  January  2008  and  become  effective  for  financial 
years beginning on or after 1 July 2009. IFRS 3R introduces a number of changes in the 
accounting for business combinations occurring after this date that will impact the amount 
of goodwill recognised, the reported results in the period that an acquisition occurs, and 

20

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

future  reported  results.  IAS  27R  requires  that  a  change  in  the  ownership  interest  of  a 
subsidiary  (without  loss  of  control)  is  accounted  for  as  an  equity  transaction.  Therefore, 
such transactions will no longer give rise to goodwill, nor will it give rise to a gain or loss. 
Furthermore,  the  amended  standard  changes  the  accounting  for  losses  incurred  by  the 
subsidiary as well as the loss of control of a subsidiary. Other consequential amendments 
were made to IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows, IAS 12 Income Taxes, IAS 21 The Effects of 
Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates, IAS 28 Investment in Associates and IAS 31 Interests in 
Joint Ventures. The changes by IFRS 3R and IAS 27R will affect future acquisitions or loss of 
control and transactions with minority interests. 

IAS 1 Revised Presentation of Financial Statements
The revised Standard was issued in September 2007 and becomes effective for financial 
years beginning on or after 1 January 2009. The Standard separates owner and non-owner 
changes in equity. The statement of changes in equity will include only details of transactions 
with owners, with non-owner changes in equity presented as a single line. In addition, the 
Standard introduces the statement of comprehensive income which presents all items of 
recognised income and expense, either in one single statement, or in two linked statements. 
The Company is still evaluating whether it will have one or two statements.

IAS  32  Financial  Instruments:  Presentation  and  IAS  1  Presentation  of  Financial 
Statements – Puttable Financial Instruments and Obligations Arising on Liquidation
These amendments to IAS 32 and IAS 1 were issued in February 2008 and become effective 
for financial years beginning on or after 1 January 2009. The revisions provide a limited scope 
exception for puttable instruments to be classified as equity if they fulfil a number of specified 
features. The amendments to the standards will have no impact on the financial position or 
performance of the Company, as the Company has not issued such instruments.

IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement – Eligible Hedged Items
These amendments to IAS 39 were issued in August 2008 and become effective for financial 
years beginning on or after 1 July 2009. The amendment addresses the designation of a 
one-sided risk in a hedged item, and the designation of inflation as a hedged risk or portion 
in particular situations. It clarifies that an entity is permitted to designate a portion of the 
fair  value  changes  or  cash  flow  variability  of  a  financial  instrument  as  hedged  item.  The 
Company has concluded that the amendment will have no impact on the financial position 
or performance of the Company, as the Company has not entered into any such hedges.

IFRIC 16 Hedges of a Net Investment in a Foreign Operation
IFRIC 16 was issued in July 2008 and becomes effective for financial years beginning on or 
after 1 October 2008. The interpretation is to be applied prospectively. IFRIC 16 provides 
guidance on the accounting for a hedge of a net investment. As such it provides guidance 
on identifying the foreign currency risks that qualify for hedge accounting in the hedge of a 
net investment, where within the group the hedging instruments can be held in the hedge of 
a net investment and how an entity should determine the amount of foreign currency gain 
or loss, relating to both the net investment and the hedging instrument, to be recycled on 
disposal of the net investment. The Company is currently assessing which accounting policy 
to adopt for the recycling on disposal of the net investment.

IFRS 2 Share-based Payment (Revised)
The IASB issued an amendment to IFRS 2 in January 2008 that clarifies the definition of 
a vesting condition and prescribes the treatment for an award that is effectively cancelled. 
This  amendment  becomes  effective  for  annual  periods  beginning  on  or  after  1  January 
2009.  The  amendment  is  not  expected  to  have  any  impact  on  the  financial  position  or 
performance of the company.

21

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

3. PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

Office

furniture  Computers 

Equipment

Decorations
& leasehold 
improvements 

Vehicles

USD 

USD 

USD

USD

USD

Total 

USD

Cost 

At 1 April 2008 

373,027

189,676

93,704

715,317

218,552

1,590,276

Additions

Disposal

108,973

89,518

42,897

231,130

-

472,518

-

(6,183)

-

-

(19,720)

(25,903)

At 31 December 2008

482,000

273,011

136,601

946,447

198,832

2,036,891

Depreciation 

-

-

-

-

-

-

At 1 April 2008 

31,095

119,977

30,783

42,112

73,334

297,301

Additions

Disposal 

38,070

24,241

8,909

3,176

22,470

96,866

-

(6,183)

-

-

(8,840)

(15,023)

At 31 December 2008

69,165

138,035

39,692

45,288

86,964

379,144

Net carrying amount 

At 31 December 2008

412,835

134,976

96,909

901,159

111,868

1,657,747

Office

furniture  Computers 

Equipment

Decorations
& leasehold 
improvements 

Vehicles

USD 

USD 

USD

USD

USD

Total 

USD

Cost 

At 1 April 2007 

73,872  167,809 

55,843 

100,880 

156,253 

554,657 

Additions 

299,155 

21,867 

37,861 

614,437 

62,299 

1,035,619 

At 31 March 2008 

373,027  189,676 

93,704 

715,317 

218,552 

1,590,276 

Depreciation 

At 1 April 2007 

23,629 

87,307 

25,960 

37,873 

55,352 

230,121 

Additions 

7,466 

32,670 

4,823 

4,239 

17,982 

67,180 

At 31 March 2008 

31,095  119,977 

30,783 

42,112 

73,334 

297,301 

Net carrying amount 

At 31 March 2008 

341,932 

69,699 

62,921 

673,205 

145,218 

1,292,975 

The  depreciation  charge  for  the  period  of  USD  96,866  (2007:  USD  67,180)  has  been 
included in general and administrative expenses.

22

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

4- INTANGIBLE ASSETS 

Goodwill*

Computers
software 

USD 

USD 

Total

USD

USD

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

Cost 

Beginning Balance  

Additions 

341,522

-

445,153

106,989

Foreign currency translation adjustment

(89,556)

-

786,675

106,989

(89,556)

194,434

592,241

-

Ending Balance

Amortization

Beginning Balance

Additions

Ending Balance

Net book value

251,966

552,142

804,108

786,675

-

-

-

164,363

164,363

79,265

79,265

243,628

243,628

251,966

308,514

560,480

100,493

63,870

164,363

622,312

*  Effective  1  April  2007,  the  Group  completed  the  acquisition  of  51%  of  S  R  Bishop 
Underwriting Limited.

The details of the fair values of the assets and liabilities acquired and goodwill arising on the 
acquisition are as follows:

Insurance receivables

Other receivables

Cash and deposits

Reinsurance payables

Less: minority interest (49%)

Net assets

Goodwill arising on the acquisition is as follows: 

Total payments made  

Less: Fair value of net assets acquired  

Goodwill  

Cash outflow on acquisition: 

Payments made for acquisition   

Cash on hand and at banks from S R Bishop 

Net cash outflow  

1 April 2007

Carrying value

Fair value

1,312,321

1,312,321

51,404

269,966

51,404

269,966

(605,448)

(605,448)

1,028,243

1,028,243

(503,839) 

 524,404 

Amount 

865,926

524,404

341,522

(865,926)

269,966

(595,960)

During the year ended 31 March 2008 S R Bishop net income amounted to USD 332,780 
before minority interest. 

23

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

There were no purchases or acquisitions during the period ended 31 December 2008.
Impairment Testing of Goodwill
Key Assumptions Used in Value in Use Calculation
The recoverable amount of S R Bishop Underwriting Limited has been determined based on 
the value in use calculation, using cash flow projections based on financial budgets approved 
by senior management covering a five-year period based on S R Bishop Underwriting Limited 
performance assumptions.
The discount rate used by the Group is 10%.
In the opinion of the Group’s management based on the discounted cash flow projections, 
goodwill is not impaired

5. INVESTMENT IN ASSOCIATED COMPANIES 
During  July  2002  the  Group  acquired  a  33%  equity  ownership  interest  in  companies 
registered in Lebanon as shown below:
The Group has the following investments in associates:

Star Rock SAL Lebanon

Sina SAL Lebanon

Silver Rock SAL Lebanon

Golden Rock SAL Lebanon

Country of 
incorporation

Lebanon

Lebanon

Lebanon

Lebanon

Ownership

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

33%

33%

33%

33%

33%

33%

33%

33%

The following table includes summarised information of the Group’s investments in associates:

Share of associates’ balance sheets: 

Current assets

Non-current assets

Current liabilities

Net assets

Share of associates’ revenues and results:

Revenues

Profit (loss)

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

USD

USD (Restated)

496,456

15,890,798

(6,189,542)

10,197,712

3,547,338

3,085,601

69,743

12,975,627

(5,628,259)

7,417,111

333,030

(1,003,005)

Movement on investment in associates was as follows:

Beginning balance

Share of (loss) income from associated company

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

USD

USD (Restated)

7,417,111

(22,845)

8,420,116

47,283

Share of fair value gain (loss) on investment properties

3,108,446

(1,050,288)

Dividends received

(305,000)

-

10,197,712

7,417,111

24

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

Investment properties of the associates are stated at fair value, which has been determined 
based  on  valuation  performed  by  professional  independent  valuers  that  are  specialist  in 
valuing these types of investment properties. The fair value represents the amount, which 
the assets could be exchanged between a knowledgeable, willing seller in an arm’s length 
transaction at the date of valuation. All the investment properties generated rental income 
during the current period and the prior years.

In accordance with IAS 8, Accounting policies, changes in estimates and errors, the financial 
statements for the period ended 31 March 2008 have been restated to reflect the change 
in accounting policy for investment property from the cost model to the fair value model. The 
restatements were as follows:

After restatement

Before restatement

change

USD

USD

USD

Investment in associated companies

7,417,111

8,467,399

(1,050,288)

Change in equity

186,666,072

187,716,360

(1,050,288)

Profit for the 12 months ended 31 March 2008

19,358,125

20,408,413

(1,050,288)

6. INVESTMENT PROPERTY 
Investment  property  as  of  December  31,  2008  is  registered  in  the  name  of  others.  The 
Company’s directors obtained an irrevocable proxy over this investment property.

There is no significant difference between the carrying amount and fair value of the land.

7- FINANCIAL ASSETS AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE 

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

USD

USD

Quoted investments 

Bonds and debt securities with fixed interest rate 

43,353,223

50,301,287

Equity securities

Funds and alternative investments 

Unquoted investments*

Government bonds and debt securities with fixed interest rate

 Equity securities 

31,436,502

37,566,618

10,747,329

11,130,431

1,410,934

5,480,387

1,763,047 

4,415,294 

92,428,375

105,176,677

Equity securities have no fixed maturity dates and are generally not exposed to interest rate 
risk.

* Included in unquoted bonds and equities are investments carried at cost with value of USD 
6,891,321 (31 March 2008: USD 6,178,341). The investments were stated at cost since 
the fair value could not be measured reliably and there is no indication of impairment in the 
values as of the balance sheet date.

Impairment  loss  charged  for  the  period  ended  31  December  2008  amounted  to  USD 
3,436,566 (31 March 2008:USD 0)

25

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

 
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

8- RECEIVABLES ARISING FROM INSURANCE AND REINSURANCE CONTRACTS 

Receivables from insurance companies and intermediaries

Reinsurers – amounts due in respect of claims paid

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

USD

88,173,971

26,789,863

114,963,834

USD

66,644,042 

27,319,062

93,963,104 

All of the above amounts are due within twelve months of the balance sheet date.

9- OTHER RECEIVABLES 

Prepaid expenses

Refundable deposits

Employees receivables

Advance payment on investments*

Trade receivables

Accrued interest income

Accrued dividends income

Others

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

USD

501,101

17,850

315,637

580,828

36,173

761,427

501,704

102,794

USD

370,234

-

14,369

580,828

96,512

915,234

281,633

125,432

2,817,514

2,384,242 

* This represent payments made in advance to acquire the remaining 49% of S R Bishop 
share capital, which will be transferred in the name of IGI on or after 30 April 2011. If IGIH 
decided not to acquire the remaining 49% the advance payment will be refunded.

10- CASH AND SHORT TERM DEPOSITS 
Cash and cash equivalents included in the statement of cash flows include the following 
balance sheet amounts: 

Cash and bank balances

Time deposits

Demand deposits

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

USD

10,963,620

94,366,426

4,085,395

USD

7,390,562

96,398,883

11,889,624 

109,415,441

115,679,069 

The time deposits, which are substantially denominated in US Dollars, are made for varying 
periods of between one week and one month depending on the immediate cash requirements 
of the Group, and earn interest at the respective short-term deposit rates.

Demand  deposits  maturing  after  three  months  amounted  to  USD  4,085,395  as  of  31 
March 2008 (31 March 2008: USD 11,889,624).

11- SHARE CAPITAL  

Authorised

Issued and fully paid

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

USD

USD

USD

USD

Shares of USD 1 each

143,375,678

143,375,678

143,375,678

143,375,678

26

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

12- DIVIDENDS PAID 
The Board of directors and shareholders of IGI approved on their meeting held on 25 May 
2008  to distribute cash dividends amounting to USD 5,018,149  (USD 0.04 per share). 
(31 March 2008: USD 3,585,774 (USD 0.03 per share). 

13- UNEARNED PREMIUMS

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

Gross

Reinsurers’ 
share

Net

Gross

Reinsurers’ 
share

Net

USD

USD

USD

USD

USD

USD

Unearned premiums

78,743,301

(13,427,326)

65,315,975

69,756,299

(10,380,698)

59,375,601

Details of the movements of the provision for unearned premium and the related reinsurers’ 
share are contained in (Note 16). 

14- OUTSTANDING CLAIMS 
The movement in the provision for outstanding claims, and the related reinsurers’ share, 
was as follows: 

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

Gross

Reinsurers’ 
share

Net

Gross

Reinsurers’ 
share

Net

USD

USD

USD

USD

USD

USD

At the beginning of the period/year

Claims incurred

71,042,762 (22,864,403)

48,178,359

49,832,485 

(23,561,963) 

26,270,522 

Claims incurred but not reported

5,500,000

-

5,500,000

3,500,000 

-

3,500,000 

76,542,762 (22,864,403)

53,678,359

53,332,485 

(23,561,963) 

29,770,522 

Insurance claims paid in the period/year

(43,479,641)

11,288,186 (32,191,455)

(37,630,664) 

17,557,698  (20,072,966) 

Provided during the year

107,969,060 (38,095,339)

69,873,721

60,840,941 

(16,860,138 ) 

43,980,803 

At the end of the period/ year

141,032,181 (49,671,556)

91,360,625

76,542,762 

(22,864,403 ) 

53,678,359 

Analysis of outstanding claims

At the end of the period/ year

Claims incurred

110,800,288 (48,439,663)

62,360,625

71,042,762 

(22,864,403 ) 

48,178,359 

Claims incurred but not reported

30,231,893

(1,231,893)

29,000,000

5,500,000 

-

5,500,000 

141,032,181 (49,671,556)

91,360,625

76,542,762 

(22,864,403 ) 

53,678,359 

There  are  no  material  amounts  for  which  amount  and  timing  of  claims  payment  is  not 
resolved within one year of the balance sheet date.

The carrying amounts disclosed above reasonably approximate fair value at balance sheet 
date.

27

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

Claims development (Gross) 

Underwriting year 

2002

USD

2003

USD

2004

USD

2005

USD

2006

USD

2007

USD

2008

USD

Total

USD

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Year 5

Year 6

Year 7

Current estimate of 
cumulative claims 

Cumulative
payment to date 

Total cumulative 
claims recognised 
in the balance 
sheet date 

180,600

34,484

2,450,788

17,460,334

6,958,339

6,103,919 51,128,784

2,857,564

4,844,696

8,425,232

44,966,702

33,226,096

66,650,694

3,468,525

7,641,461

15,253,975

55,308,231

51,338,574

3,805,057

10,529,120

15,690,098

59,106,443

3,566,020

12,452,376

19,212,614

3,471,030

13,005,598

3,493,287

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

3,493,287

13,005,598

19,212,614

59,106,443

51,338,574

66,650,694 51,128,784 263,935,994

3,234,511

8,205,515

12,922,194

43,787,694

25,758,994

25,413,740

3,581,165 122,903,813

273,978

5,075,716

6,553,608

16,621,685

26,511,806

43,691,703 36,303,685 141,032,181

15- OTHER LIABILITIES 

Accounts payable

Related parties payable (note 23)

Accrued expenses 

16- NET INSURANCE PREMIUM REVENUE 

Insurance premiums

Change in unearned premiums

Gross premiums

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

USD

1,299,961

212,677

344,057

1,856,695

USD

231,865

-

749,542

981,407

For the 9 months 
ended 31 December
2008

For the 12 Months 
ended 31 March 
2008

USD

USD

125,286,990

116,935,510

(8,987,002)

(14,961,895)

116,299,988

101,973,615

Reinsurers’ share of insurance premiums

(35,128,029)

(29,869,885)

Reinsurers’ share of change in unearned premiums

3,046,628

3,235,540

Reinsurers’ share of gross premiums 

(32,081,401)

(26,634,345)

84,218,587

75,339,270

28

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

17- CLAIMS  

For the 9 months ended 31 December 2008

For the 12 months ended 31 March 2008

Gross

Reinsurers’ 
share

Net

Gross

Reinsurers’ 
share

Net

USD

USD

USD

USD

USD

USD

Claims paid

43,479,641 (11,288,186)

32,191,455

37,630,664 

(17,557,698) 

20,072,966 

Change in provision
  for outstanding claims 

64,489,419 (26,807,153)

37,682,266

23,210,277 

697,560 

23,907,837 

107,969,060 (38,095,339)

69,873,721

60,840,941 

(16,860,138) 

43,980,803 

18- DEFERRED POLICY ACQUISITION COSTS 

31 December 2008.

31 March 2008.

Policy 
acquisition cost

Ceded policy 
acquisition cost

Net

Policy
acquisition cost

Ceded policy 
acquisition cost

Net

USD

USD

USD

USD

USD

USD

Beginning Balance

12,917,781 

917,250

12,000,531

10,494,246

827,548

9,666,698

Additions

22,036,918

4,203,681

17,833,237

18,852,827

1,152,876

17,699,951

Amortizations

16,881,255

1,535,050

15,346,205

16,429,292

1,063,174

15,366,118

Ending Balance

18,073,444

3,585,881

14,487,563

12,917,781

917,250

12,000,531

19- INVESTMENT INCOME 

For the 9 months ended 31 December 2008

For the 12 months ended 31 March 2008

USD

USD

Dividends

Interest

565,331

3,876,510

4,441,841

928,482

6,231,117

7,159,599

20- NET REALISED GAINS ON FINANCIAL ASSETS AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE 

For the 9 months ended 31 December 2008

For the 12 months ended 31 March 2008

USD

USD

Realised gains

Equity securities

800,809

3,904,956

29

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

21- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 
Cash and cash equivalent balances in the statement of cash flows consist of the following 
balances: 

Cash and bank balances

Time and demand deposit

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

USD

USD

10,963,620

7,390,562

98,451,821

108,288,507

Less: Demand deposits maturing after 3 months

(4,085,395)

(11,889,624)

105,330,046

103,789,445

22- COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES 
As  of  the  date  of  the  financial  statements,  the  Company  is  contingently  liable  to  the 
followings:

(cid:129) Letters of Guarantee amounting to USD 3,100 (31 March 2008: USD 10,563) to the 
order of the Jordanian Ministry of Trade and Industry with margin of USD 310 (31 March 
2008: USD1,056).

(cid:129) Letters of Credit amounting to USD 46,205,755 to the order of reinsurance companies(31 

March 2008: USD 23,809,705). 

23- RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS 
The company enters into transactions with its associate and key management personnel 
and board of directors in the normal course of business. The sales to and purchases from 
related barites are main at normal market prices.

Transactions  with  related  parties  (Eastern  Insurance  Brokers  Company)  and  SR  Bishop 
directors included in the financial statements are as follows: 

Balance sheet balances with related parties

Accounts Receivable

Accounts payable

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

USD

 1,363,896

212,677

USD

610,471

-

For the 9 months ended 31 December 2008

For the 12 months ended 31 March 2008

Income statement transactions

Commission paid

USD

240,710

USD

211,228

Compensation  of  key  management  personnel  of  the  Group,  consisting  of  salaries  and 
benefits, was USD 920,990 (31 March 2008: USD 1,179,694). 

30

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

24- RISK MANAGEMENT 
The  risks  faced  by  the  Group  and  the  way  these  risks  are  mitigated  by  management  are 
summarised below. 

Insurance risk
Insurance risk is the risk that actual claims payable to contract holders in respect of insured 
events  exceed  the  carrying  amount  of  insurance  liabilities.  This  could  occur  because  the 
frequency or amounts of claims are more than expected. The Group only issues insurance 
contracts in connection with property and energy (collectively known as fire and accident), 
and marine risks,

Frequency and amounts of claims
The  frequency  and  amounts  of  claims  can  be  affected  by  several  factors.  The  Group 
underwrites  mainly  fire  and  accident  and  marine  risks.  These  are  regarded  as  insurance 
contracts as claims are normally advised. This helps to mitigate insurance risk.

Property and energy
Property  and  energy  insurance  is  designed  to  compensate  contract  holders  for  damage 
suffered to properties or for the value of property lost. Contract holders could also receive 
compensation for the loss of earnings caused by the inability to use the insured properties.

For property and energy insurance contracts the main risks are fire and business interruption. 
In  recent  years  the  Group  has  mostly  underwritten  policies  for  properties  containing  fire 
detection equipment.

These contracts are underwritten by reference to the replacement value of the properties 
and contents insured. The cost of rebuilding properties and obtaining replacement contents 
and the time taken to restart operations which leads to business interruptions are the main 
factors that influence the level of claims.

Marine
Marine insurance is designed to compensate contract holders for damage and liability arising 
through loss or damage to marine craft and accidents at sea resulting in the total or partial 
loss of cargoes.

For  marine  insurance  the  main  risks  are  loss  or  damage  to  marine  craft  and  accidents 
resulting in the total or partial loss of cargoes.

The underwriting strategy for the marine class of business is to ensure that policies are well 
diversified in terms of vessels and shipping routes covered.

Geographical concentration of risks
Approximately, 38%, 19% , 15% and 28% of the Group’s insurance risk relates to policies 
written in the Middle/Far East and Asia, Europe, USA and the rest of the world respectively. 
(31 March 2008 : 51%, 15%, 15% and 19%)

Reinsurance risk
In common with other insurance companies, in order to minimise financial exposure arising 
from large claims, the Group, in the normal course of business, enters into contracts with 
other parties for reinsurance purposes. Such reinsurance arrangements provide for greater 
diversification of business, allow management to control exposure to potential losses arising 
from  large  risks,  and  provide  additional  capacity  for  growth.  A  significant  portion  of  the 
reinsurance is effected under treaty, facultative and excess-of-loss reinsurance contracts.

To minimise its exposure to significant losses from reinsurer insolvencies, the Group evaluates 

31

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

the financial condition of its reinsurers. The Group only deals with reinsurers approved by the 
board of directors, which are generally rated A or above by international rating agencies.

Financial risk
The Group’s principal financial instruments are financial assets available-for-sale, financial 
assets held for trading financial assets held to maturity receivables arising from insurance 
and reinsurance contracts, trading investments and cash and cash equivalents.

The Group does not enter into derivative transactions.

The main risks arising from the Group’s financial instruments are interest rate risk, foreign 
currency risk, credit risk, market price risk and liquidity risk. The board reviews and agrees 
policies for managing each of these risks and they are summarised below.

Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk arises from the possibility that changes in interest rates will affect future 
profitability or the fair values of financial instruments. The Group is exposed to interest rate 
risk on certain of its investments and cash and cash equivalents. The Group limits interest 
rate  risk  by  monitoring  changes  in  interest  rates  in  the  currencies  in  which  its  cash  and 
interest bearing investments and borrowings are denominated. 

Details of maturities of the major classes of financial assets are as follows: 

31 December 2008 

Less than
1 year 

1 to 
5 years 

USD

-

USD

-

Non-
interest 
bearing 
items 

USD

Total 

USD

3,889,747

3,889,747

Financial assets held for trading

Financial assets available-for-sale

2,815,946 41,948,211

47,664,218

92,428,375

Financial assets held to maturity 

-

1,690,141

Cash and short term deposits

109,415,441

-

-

-

1,690,141

109,415,441

112,231,387 43,638,352

51,553,965

207,423,704

31 March 2008 

Effective  
Interest Rate 
on interest 
bearing assets 

%

5.40

9.50

2.40

Less than
1 year 

1 to 
5 years 

Non-
interest 
bearing 
items 

USD

USD

USD

Effective  
Interest Rate 
on interest 
bearing assets 

%

Total 

USD

Financial assets available-for-sale 

Financial assets held to maturity 

-

-

Cash and short term deposits

115,679,069 

-

50,301,287 

54,875,390 

105,176,677 

5.00 

1,690,141 

-

-

1,690,141 

115,679,069 

9.50 

5.45 

115,679,069  51,991,428 

54,875,390 

222,545,887 

32

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

There is no significant difference between contractual repricing or maturity dates. 

The following table demonstrates the sensitivity of income statement to reasonably possible 
changes in interest rates, with all other variables held constant.

The sensitivity of the income statement is the effect of the assumed changes in interest 
rates  on  the  Group’s  profit  for  the  year,  based  on  the  floating  rate  financial  assets  and 
financial liabilities held at 31 March 2008.

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

Increase/ decrease
in basis points

Effect on profit
for the year

+ 25

- 50

+ 25

- 50

USD

273,538

(547,077)

289,187

(578,395)

Foreign currency risk 
Foreign currency risk is the risk that the value of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to 
changes in foreign exchange rates.

Management believes that there is minimal risk of significant losses due to exchange rate 
fluctuations since most of there transactions are in US Dollars and consequently the Group 
does not hedge its foreign currency exposure. 

Credit risk 
Credit risk is the risk that one party to a financial instrument will fail to discharge an obligation 
and cause the other party to incur a financial loss. For all classes of financial assets held by 
the Group, the maximum credit risk exposure to the Group is the carrying value as disclosed 
in the balance sheet.

The  Group  only  enters  into  insurance  and  reinsurance  contracts  with  recognised,  credit 
worthy third parties. It is the Group’s policy that all customers who wish to trade on credit 
terms are subject to credit verification procedures. In addition, receivables from insurance 
and reinsurance contracts are monitored on an ongoing basis in order to reduce the Group’s 
exposure to bad debts.

The  Group  portfolio  is  managed  by  the  Vice-Chairman  and  CEO  in  accordance  with  the 
investment policy established by the board of directors.

The Group’s bank balances are maintained with a range of international and local banks in 
accordance with limits set by the board of directors.  

There  are  no  significant  concentrations  of  credit  risk  within  the  Group.  The  table  below 
provides information regarding the credit risk exposure of the Group by classifying assets 
according to the Group’s credit rating of counterparties: 

33

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

31 December 2008 

Neither past due nor impaired 

Non
investment
grade
(satisfactory) 

Non
investment
grade
(un-satisfactory) 

Past due 
or
impaired

investment
grade

USD

USD

USD

USD

Financial assets available- for-sale 
Financial assets held for trading
Financial assets held to maturity
Receivables arising from 
insurance and reinsurance contracts 

43,353,223
-
-

49,075,152
3,889,747
1,690,141

-

114,963,834

Reinsurers’ share of unearned premium 
Reinsurers’ share of outstanding claims 

-
44,231,566

13,427,326
5,439,990

Cash and short term deposits 

63,049,775

46,365,666

150,634,564 234,851,856

-
-
-

-

-
-

-

-

-
-
-

-

-
-

-

-

31 March 2008 

Neither past due nor impaired 

Non
investment
grade
(satisfactory) 

Non
investment
grade
(un-satisfactory) 

Past due 
or
impaired

investment
grade

USD

USD

USD

USD

Financial assets available- for-sale 
Financial assets held to maturity 
Receivables arising from 
insurance and reinsurance contracts 

Reinsurers’ share of unearned premium 
Reinsurers’ share of outstanding claims 

50,301,287 

-

-

-

21,054,522 

54,875,390 
1,690,141 

93,963,104 

10,380,698 
1,809,881 

Cash and short term deposits 

55,225,009 

60,454,060

126,580,818  223,173,274

-
-

-

-
-

-

-

-
-

-

-
-

-

-

Total 

USD

92,428,375
3,889,747
1,690,141

114,963,834

13,427,326
49,671,556

109,415,441

385,486,420

Total 

USD

105,176,677 
1,690,141 

93,963,104 

10,380,698 
22,864,403 

115,679,069 

349,754,092 

The  following  table  provides  an  aging  analysis  of  receivables  arising  from  insurance  and 
reinsurance contracts past due but not impaired: 

Past due but not impaired

Neither past due 
nor impaired

Up to
90 days 

91 to
180 days

181 to
270 days

271 to 
360 days

USD

USD

USD

USD

USD

Total

USD

31 December 2008

72,885,553

26,326,627

6,148,074

3,172,082

6,431,498

114,963,834

31 March 2008 

63,544,785

14,597,258

13,934,188 

672,494

1,214,379

93,963,104

For assets to be classified as ‘past due and impaired’ contractual payments are in arrears for 
more than 360 days and an impairment adjustment is recorded in the income statement for 
this. When the credit exposure is adequately secured, arrears more than 360 days might still 
be classified as ‘past due but not impaired”, with no impairment adjustment recorded. 

Market price risk 
Market price risk is the risk that the value of a financial instrument will fluctuate as a result 
of changes in market prices (other than those arising from interest rate risk or currency risk), 
whether those changes are caused by factors specific to the individual security, or its issuer, 
or factors affecting all securities traded in the market.

34

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

The  company’s  equity  price  risk  exposure  relates  to  financial  assets  whose  values  will 
fluctuate as a result of changes in market prices.
The following table demonstrates the sensitivity of the profit for the period and the cumulative 
changes in fair value to reasonably possible changes in equity prices, with all other variables 
held constant.  The effect of decreases in equity prices is expected to be equal and opposite 
to the effect of the increases shown. 

31 December 2008

31 March 2008

Change in
equity price
USD

+5%
+5%
+5%
+5%

Effect on 
equity
USD

595,181
399,670
70,546

Effect on 
profit

-
-
-

506,429 194,487

Change in
equity price
USD
+5%
+5%
+5%
+5%

Effect on
equity
USD
712,879
1,040,319
70,755
54,377

Effect on 
profit

-
-
-
-

Amman Stock Exchange
Saudi Arabia
Dubai International Financial Exchange
Other quoted

The Company also has unquoted investments carried at cost where the impact of changes 
in equity prices will only be reflected when the investment is sold or deemed to be impaired, 
when the statement of income will be impacted.
The  Group  limits  market  risk  by  maintaining  a  diversified  portfolio  and  by  monitoring  of 
developments in equity markets.  

Liquidity risk 
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its commitments associated 
with insurance contracts and financial liabilities as they fall due.
Liquidity  requirements  are  monitored  on  a  monthly  basis  and  management  ensures  that 
sufficient liquid funds are available to meet any commitments as they arise.
All liabilities are non-interest bearing liabilities.
The table below summarizes the maturity profile of the company’s financial liabilities at 31 
December 2008 based on contractual undiscounted payments: 

Period ended 31 December 2008
Liabilities arising from insurance contracts

Unearned premiums
Outstanding claims

Other liabilities
Reinsurance payable
Reinsurance deposits
Deferred ceded commission

Total liabilities

Year ended 31 March 2008
Liabilities arising from insurance contracts

Unearned premiums
Outstanding claims

Other liabilities
Reinsurance payable
Reinsurance deposits
Deferred ceded commission

Total liabilities

Less than 
one year
USD 

More than 
one year
USD 

No term
USD

Total
USD

66,931,806
91,899,136
1,856,695
34,332,781
-

3,047,999

11,811,495
49,133,045
-
-
13,808,875
537,882

198,068,417

75,291,297

-
-
-
-
-
-

-

78,743,301
141,032,181
1,856,695
34,332,781
13,808,875
3,585,881

273,359,714

Less than 
one year
USD 

More than 
one year
USD 

No term
USD

Total
USD

59,292,854
57,407,072
981,407
28,408,347
-

779,662

10,463,445
19,135,690
-
-
11,116,376
137,588

146,869,342

40,853,099

-
-
-
-
-
-

-

69,756,299
76,542,762
981,407
28,408,347
11,116,376
917,250

187,722,441

35

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

Maturity analysis of assets and liabilities
The table below shows analysis of assets and liabilities analysed according to when they are 
expected to be recovered or settled:

31 December 2008

Less than
one year 

More than
one year 

No term

Total 

ASSETS 

Premises and equipment 

Intangible assets 

Investment in associated companies 

Investment property

Financial assets held to maturity 

-

-

-

-

-

1,657,747

560,480

10,197,712

-

-

-

1,657,747

560,480

10,197,712

-

7,905,040

7,905,040

1,690,141

-

-

1,690,141

3,889,747

Financial assets hold for Trading 

3,889,747

-

Financial assets available-for-sale

2,815,946

41,948,211

47,664,218

92,428,375

Deferred policy acquisition costs 

15,362,427

2,711,017

Receivables arising from insurance contracts 

88,173,971

26,789,863

Other receivables 

2,817,514

-

Reinsurers’ share of unearned premiums 

11,010,407

2,416,919

Reinsurers’ share of outstanding claims 

37,750,383

11,921,173

Cash and short term deposits 

109,415,441

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

18,073,444

114,963,834

2,817,514

13,427,326

49,671,556

109,415,441

TOTAL ASSETS 

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

Equity 

Share capital

Foreign currency translation adjustment 

Cumulative changes in fair values 

Retained earnings 

Total equity

Minority interest 

Total equity 

Liabilities 

Liabilities arising from insurance contracts

  Unearned premiums

  Outstanding claims 

Other liabilities 

Reinsurance payable 

Reinsurance deposit 

Deferred ceded commission 

Total liabilities 

271,235,836

99,893,263

55,569,258

426,698,357

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

143,375,678

143,375,678

(231,658)

(231,658)

(5,010,043)

(5,010,043)

14,674,685

14,674,685

152,808,662

152,808,662

529,981

529,981

153,338,643

153,338,643

66,931,806

11,811,495

91,899,136

49,133,045

1,856,695

34,332,781

-

-

-

13,808,875

3,047,999

537,882

198,068,417

75,291,297

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

78,743,301

141,032,181

1,856,695

34,332,781

13,808,875

3,585,881

273,359,714

TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 

198,068,417

75,291,297

153,338,643

426,698,357

36

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  31 December 2008 

ASSETS 

Premises and equipment 

Intangible assets 

Investment in associated companies 

31 March 2008 

Less than
one year 

More than
one year 

No term

Total 

-

-

-

1,292,975 

622,312 

7,417,111 

-

-

-

1,292,975 

622,312 

7,417,111 

Financial assets available-for-sale 

16,760,238 

52,064,334 

36,352,105  105,176,677 

Financial assets held to maturity 

-

1,690,141 

Deferred policy acquisition costs 

10,980,114 

1,937,667 

Receivables arising from insurance contracts 

66,644,042 

27,319,062 

Other receivables 

2,384,242 

-

Reinsurers’ share of unearned premiums 

8,512,000 

1,868,698 

Reinsurers’ share of outstanding claims 

17,526,433 

5,337,970 

Cash and short term deposits 

115,679,069 

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,690,141 

12,917,781 

93,963,104 

2,384,242 

10,380,698 

22,864,403 

115,679,069 

TOTAL ASSETS 

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

Equity 

Paid in capital 

Foreign currency translation adjustment 

Cumulative changes in fair values 

Retained earnings 

Minority interest 

Total equity 

Liabilities 

Liabilities arising from insurance contracts
   Unearned premiums 

Outstanding claims 

Other liabilities 

Reinsurance payable 

Reinsurance deposit 

Deferred ceded commission 

Total liabilities 

238,486,138 

99,550,270

36,352,105  374,388,513 

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

143,375,678  143,375,678 

8,764 

8,764 

15,560,227 

15,560,227 

27,217,954 

27,217,954 

186,162,623  186,162,623 

503,449 

503,449 

186,666,072  186,666,072 

59,292,854 

10,463,445 

57,407,072 

19,135,690 

981,407 

28,408,347 

-

-

-

11,116,376 

779,662 

137,588 

146,869,342 

40,853,099 

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

69,756,299 

76,542,762 

981,407 

28,408,347 

11,116,376 

917,250 

187,722,441 

TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 

146,869,342 

40,853,099 

186,666,072  374,388,513

Capital management 
The Group manages its capital by ‘Enterprise Risk Management’ techniques, using a dynamic 
financial  analysis  model.  The  Asset  Liability  match  is  reviewed  and  monitored  on  regular 
basis to maintain a strong credit rating and healthy capital adequacy ratios to support its 
business objectives and maximise shareholders’ value.
Adjustments  to  capital  levels  are  made  in  light  of  changes  in  market  conditions  and  risk 
characteristics of the Group’s activities. 

37

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

OFFICERS

CORPORATE OFFICERS

Mr. Wasef S. Jabsheh 
Vice Chairman & CEO

Mr. Paul K. Munday 
President

Mr. Waleed W. Jabsheh 
Executive Vice President

Ms. Rachel A Butler 
Senior Vice President Operations

Mr. Mark M Jeffrey 
Senior Vice President Underwriting

Mr. Soumitra Biswas
Senior Vice President Finance 

Mr. Rod Smith
Business Development Manager

38

INTE RNATIONA L GENERAL  INSURA N CE  H OLDIN GS LTD .

OFFICES

International General Insurance Holdings Limited

Office Location: 
Dubai International Financial Centre, 
Unit 101, Level 1, Gate Village 1, Dubai
Postal Address: 
P.O. Box 506646 
Dubai    
United Arab Emirates
Telephone: +971 4 363 3520

International General Insurance Company Limited
Office:   
44 Church Street 
Hamilton HM 12
Bermuda
Telephone: +441 295 3688 
Facsimile: +441 295 2584

International General Insurance Underwriting Company Limited
Office Location: 
47 Al-Ameer Shaker Bin Zeid St. 
Shmeisani, Amman
Postal Address: 
P.O. Box 941428 
Amman 11194   
Jordan
Telephone: +962 6 566 2082
Facsimile: +962 6 566 2085

International General Insurance Company (Labuan Branch) Limited
Office:   
Level 1, LOT 7, Block F, Saguking Commercial Building, 
Jalan Patau- Patau
87000 Labuan
Malaysia
Telephone: +908 7 417672
Facsimile: +908 7 417675

Representative Office:
29.03, 29th Floor, Menara TA One
Jalan P Ramlee 50250
Kuala Lumpur
Telephone: +60 32 166 1786
Facsimile: +60 32 171 1786

Auditor:

Loss Reserve Specialist

Ernst & Young
P.O. Box 9267
Al Attar Business Tower, 28th Floor
Sheikh Zayed Road
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Ernst & Young
Reid Hall
3 Reid Street
Hamilton HM BX
Bermuda

39

2 0 0 8   A N N U A L   R E P O R T