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NI Holdings, Inc.

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FY2024 Annual Report · NI Holdings, Inc.
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UNITED
STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
☒      ANNUAL
REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024
or
☐      TRANSITION
REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ____ to _____
Commission file
number 001-37973
 
NI HOLDINGS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
 
NORTH DAKOTA
81-2683619
(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)
 
 
1101 First Avenue North

Fargo, North Dakota
58102
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
(701) 298-4200

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code
Securities registered pursuant to Section
12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Trading Symbol(s) 
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share
NODK 
Nasdaq Capital Market
Securities registered pursuant to Section
12(g) of the Act: NONE
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned
issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. ☐ Yes No ☒
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file
reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. ☐ Yes
No ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed
all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
during the preceding 12 months (or
for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements
for the past 90 days. ☒ Yes No☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically
every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of
Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the
preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).
☒
Yes No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated
filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an
emerging growth company. See the definitions
of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging
growth
company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
☐
Accelerated filer
☒
Non-accelerated filer
☐
Smaller reporting company
☐
 
 
Emerging growth company
☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant
has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new
or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant
to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report
on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control
over financial reporting under Section
404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or
issued its audit report.
☒
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act,
indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the
filing reflect the correction of an error to
previously issued financial statements. ☐
 

 
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are
restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received
by any of the registrant’s executive officers
during the relevant recovery period pursuant to § 240.10D-1(b). ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company
(as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). ☐ Yes No ☒
Based on the closing sales price of the common stock on the Nasdaq
on June 30, 2024, the last business day of the Registrant’s second fiscal quarter, the
aggregate market value of the voting stock
held by non-affiliates of the Registrant was approximately $119 million. All executive officers and directors of
the Registrant, and all
shareholders holding more than 10% of the Registrant’s outstanding voting stock (other than institutional investors, such as
registered
investment companies, eligible to file beneficial ownership reports on Schedule 13G), have been deemed, solely for the purpose of the
foregoing
calculation, to be “affiliates” of the Registrant.
The number of the Registrant’s common shares outstanding on
February 28, 2025 was 20,681,546. No preferred shares are issued or outstanding.
Documents incorporated by
Reference

Portions of the definitive proxy statement relating to the annual meeting of shareholders to be held May 20, 2025 are incorporated
by reference into Part III
of this report.
 

 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
  Page
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
1
PART I
2
Item 1.
Business
2
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
15
Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments
22
Item 1C.
Cybersecurity
23
Item 2.
Properties
23
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings
23
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures
24
PART II
 
25
Item 5.
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
25
Item 6.
[Reserved]
27
Item 7.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
28
Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
44
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
46
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
103
Item 9A.
Controls and Procedures
103
Item 9B.
Other Information
104
Item 9C.
Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections
104
PART III
 
105
Item 10.
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
105
Item 11.
Executive Compensation
105
Item 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
105
Item 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
105
Item 14.
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
105
PART IV
 
106
Item 15.
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
106
Item 16.
Form 10-K Summary
108
Schedule I – Condensed financial information of registrant – NI Holdings, Inc.
109
i 

 
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This report contains, and management may make, certain “forward-looking
statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act
of 1995. All statements, other than statements of
historical facts, may be forward-looking statements. Words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “likely,”
“anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “believes,”
“views,” “estimates,” and similar expressions are used to identify these forward-looking
statements. These statements
include, among other things, statements made by NI Holdings, Inc. (“NI Holdings,” “the Company,” “we,”
“us,” and “our”)
about:
●
our anticipated operating and financial performance, business plans, and prospects;
●
strategic reviews, capital allocation objectives, dividends, and share repurchases;
●
plans for and prospects of acquisitions, dispositions, and other business development activities, and our ability to successfully
capitalize on these
opportunities;
●
the impact of a future pandemic and related economic conditions, including the potential impact on the Company's investments;
●
our ability to enter new markets successfully and capitalize on growth opportunities either through acquisitions or the expansion
of our distribution
network;
●
cyclical changes in the insurance industry, competition, and innovation and emerging technologies;
●
expectations for impact of, or changes to, existing or new government regulations or laws;
●
our ability to anticipate and respond to macroeconomic, geopolitical, health and industry trends, pandemics, acts of war, and other
large-scale
crises;
●
developments in general economic conditions, domestic and global financial markets, interest rates, unemployment, or inflation, that
could affect
the performance of our insurance operations and/or investment portfolio; and
●
our ability to effectively manage future growth, including additional necessary capital, systems, and personnel.
Given their nature, we cannot assure that any outcome expressed
in these or other forward-looking statements will be realized in whole or in part. Actual
outcomes may vary materially from past results
and those anticipated, estimated, implied, or projected. These forward-looking statements may be affected
by underlying assumptions that
may prove inaccurate or incomplete, or by known or unknown risks and uncertainties, including those described in this
section and in the
Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” section in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 (“2024
Annual
Report”). The occurrence of any of the risks identified in the Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” section in this
2024 Annual Report, or other risks currently
unknown, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results
of operations, or we may be required to increase our accruals
for contingencies. It is not possible to predict or identify all such factors.
Consequently, you should not consider such discussion to be a complete
discussion of all potential risks or uncertainties.
Therefore, you are cautioned not to unduly rely
on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this 2024 Annual Report. We undertake
no obligation to update forward-looking
statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable
securities law. You are
advised, however, to consult any further disclosures we make on related subjects.
1 

 
PART I
Item 1.
Business
All dollar amounts,
except per share amounts, are in thousands.
Overview
NI Holdings is a North Dakota business corporation
that is the stock holding company of Nodak Insurance Company and became such in connection with
the conversion of Nodak Mutual Insurance
Company (“Nodak Mutual”) from a mutual to stock form of organization and the creation of a mutual holding
company. The conversion
was completed on March 13, 2017. Immediately following the conversion, all of the outstanding shares of common stock of
Nodak Insurance
Company (“Nodak Insurance,” the successor to Nodak Mutual Insurance Company) were issued to Nodak Mutual Group, Inc. (“Nodak
Mutual Group”), which then contributed the shares to NI Holdings in exchange for 55% of the outstanding shares of common stock of
NI Holdings. Nodak
Insurance then became a wholly-owned stock subsidiary of NI Holdings. Prior to completion of the conversion, NI Holdings
conducted no business and
had no assets or liabilities. As a result of the conversion, NI Holdings became the holding company for Nodak
Insurance and its existing subsidiaries.
Concurrent with the conversion, on March 13, 2017, the Company completed an initial public offering
(“IPO”) of 10,350,000 shares of common stock at a
price of $10.00 per share. The Company received net proceeds of $93,145
from the offering, after deducting the underwriting discounts and offering
expenses. The newly issued shares of NI Holdings were available
for public trading on March 16, 2017.
These consolidated financial statements include the financial
position and results of operations of NI Holdings and the following other entities:
●
Nodak Insurance – a wholly-owned subsidiary of NI Holdings;
●
Nodak Agency, Inc. (“Nodak Agency”) – a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance;
●
American West Insurance Company (“American West”) – a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance;
●
Primero Insurance Company (“Primero”) – an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance;
●
Battle Creek Insurance Company (“Battle Creek”) – a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance, formerly Battle
Creek Mutual
Insurance Company. Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company became affiliated with Nodak Insurance in 2011 and, prior to January
2,
2024, was controlled by Nodak Insurance via a surplus note. The terms of the surplus note allowed Nodak Insurance to appoint two-
thirds
of the Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company Board of Directors. As of January 2, 2024, the North Dakota Secretary of State
approved the
conversion of Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company from a mutual insurance company to a stock insurance company. In
accordance with the
approved plan of conversion, the name of Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company became Battle Creek Insurance
Company, the surplus note
was considered paid in full as of the conversion date, and Battle Creek became a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Nodak Insurance;
●
Direct Auto Insurance Company (“Direct Auto”) – a wholly-owned subsidiary of NI Holdings; and
●
Westminster American Insurance Company (“Westminster”) – a wholly-owned subsidiary of NI Holdings until it was sold
to Scott
Insurance Holdings, LLC (“Scott Insurance Holdings”) on June 30, 2024.
2 

 
A chart of the corporate structure as of December 31, 2024, and a
more complete description of each of the NI Holdings subsidiaries, is included below.
 
NI HOLDINGS, INC.

ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nodak Mutual Group, Inc.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
≥ 60%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ownership
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NI Holdings, Inc.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
100%
 
 
 
100%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ownership
 
 
 
ownership
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Direct Auto Insurance Company
 
Nodak Insurance Company
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
100%
 
 
100%
 
 
100%
 
 
100%
 
 
 
ownership
 
 
ownership
 
 
ownership
 
 
ownership
 
 
 
Nodak Agency, Inc.
 
American West Insurance Company
 
Battle Creek Insurance
Company
 
Tri-State, Ltd
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
100%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ownership
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Primero Insurance Company
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The executive offices of NI Holdings and Nodak
Insurance are located at 1101 First Avenue North, Fargo, North Dakota 58102, and the main office phone
number is 701-298-4200. NI Holdings’
website address is www.niholdingsinc.com. The Company makes available on its website, free of charge, its Annual
Reports on Form
10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to
Section
13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) as soon as reasonably practicable after it electronically
files such
material with, or furnish it to, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Information contained
on such website is not incorporated
by reference into this 2024 Annual Report, and such information should not be considered to be part
of this 2024 Annual Report.
3 

 
Subsidiary and Affiliate Companies
Intercompany
Reinsurance Pooling Arrangement
Effective January 1, 2020, all of our insurance subsidiary and
affiliate companies entered into an intercompany reinsurance pooling agreement. Nodak
Insurance is the lead company of the pool, and assumes
the net premiums, net losses, and underwriting expenses from each of the other four companies.
Nodak Insurance then retrocedes balances
back to each company, while retaining its own share of the pool’s net underwriting results, based on individual
pool percentages
established in the respective pooling agreement. This arrangement allows each insurance company to rely upon the capacity of the pool’s
total statutory capital and surplus. As a result, they are evaluated by A.M. Best Company, Inc. (“AM Best”) on a group basis
and hold a single combined
financial strength rating, long-term issuer credit rating, and financial size category. Subsequent to the June
30, 2024, date of sale, Westminster is no longer
a member of the pool, and the pooling percentages for the remaining insurance subsidiaries
were updated based on their respective surplus as a percentage
of the pool as of December 31, 2023.
Nodak Insurance Company
Nodak Insurance is the largest domestic property and casualty insurance
company based in North Dakota, offering private passenger auto, homeowners,
farmowners, commercial multi-peril, crop hail, and Federal
multi-peril crop insurance coverages through its captive agents in the state.
Nodak Insurance was formed in 1946 to offer property
and casualty insurance to members of the North Dakota Farm Bureau (“NDFB”), and benefits from
a strong marketing affiliation
with that organization. Nodak Insurance’s bylaws provide that a person must be a member and remain a member of the NDFB
in order
to become and remain a policyholder of Nodak Insurance. Nodak Insurance’s bylaws also require that four members of the Board of
Directors of
Nodak Insurance must be members of the NDFB. Similarly, one-third of the members of the Board of Directors of Nodak Mutual
Group must be persons
designated by the NDFB.
The NDFB has granted Nodak Insurance a nonexclusive,
nontransferable license to use the name “Farm Bureau” and the “FB” logo and associated
trademarks to market Nodak
Insurance products. Nodak Insurance has held this license since the insurance company’s inception in 1946, and the current
version
of the license agreement has been in place since 2002. The current license agreement between the NDFB and Nodak Insurance renewed on October
1, 2024, with an expiration date of September 30, 2025. The agreement has historically been renewed annually by a vote of the Nodak Insurance
Board of
Directors. Under the current license agreement, Nodak Insurance is required to pay to the NDFB an annual royalty payment equal
to 1.3% of Nodak
Insurance’s written premiums (excluding multi-peril crop insurance premiums), subject to a minimum annual payment
of $900 and a maximum annual
payment of $1,672. The maximum royalty payment is adjusted annually based upon the June index month for the
Consumer Price Index.
As of December 31, 2024, Nodak Insurance distributed
its insurance products through 63 exclusive agents appointed by Nodak Insurance.
Nodak Agency, Inc.
Nodak Agency is an inactive shell corporation.
Tri-State, Ltd.
Tri-State, Ltd. is an inactive shell corporation.
American West Insurance Company
American West is a property and casualty insurance
company licensed in eight states in the Midwest and Western regions of the United States (“U.S.”).
American West began writing
policies in 2002 and primarily writes private passenger auto, homeowners, and farm coverages in South Dakota. American
West also writes
private passenger auto coverage in North Dakota, as well as crop hail and Federal multi-peril crop insurance coverages in Minnesota and
South Dakota. As of December 31, 2024, American West distributed its products through independent agents in 63 contracted agencies.
Primero Insurance Company
Primero is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tri-State,
Ltd. Tri-State, Ltd. is an inactive shell corporation 100% owned by Nodak Insurance. Primero is a
property and casualty insurance company
writing non-standard automobile coverage in the states of Nevada, Arizona, North Dakota, and South Dakota
during 2024. Primero was acquired
by Nodak Insurance in 2014. As of December 31, 2024, Primero no longer writes coverage in the state of Nevada.
Primero distributed its
policies through independent agents in 216 contracted agencies in the three remaining states.
4 

 
Battle Creek Insurance Company
Battle Creek is a property and casualty insurance
company writing private passenger auto, homeowners, and farm coverages solely in the state of Nebraska.
As of December 31, 2024, Battle
Creek distributed its policies through independent agents in 113 contracted agencies. Battle Creek became affiliated with
Nodak Insurance
in 2011, and Nodak Insurance provides underwriting, claims management, policy administration, and other administrative services to
Battle
Creek.
On January 2, 2024, Battle Creek issued 300,000
shares of its common stock to Nodak Insurance at a $10.00 per share par value and became a wholly-
owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance.
Because we concluded that we controlled Battle Creek prior to January 2, 2024, we consolidated the financial
statements of Battle Creek,
and Battle Creek’s policyholders’ interest in Battle Creek was reflected as a non-controlling interest in shareholders’
equity in
our Consolidated Balance Sheets for NI Holdings (“Consolidated Balance Sheets”) and its net income or loss was excluded
from net income or loss
attributed to NI Holdings in our Consolidated Statements of Operations for NI Holdings (“Consolidated Statements
of Operations”). Subsequent to January
2, 2024, Battle Creek is fully consolidated in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated
Statements of Operations and, as such, no longer reflected
as a non-controlling interest.
Direct Auto Insurance Company
Direct Auto is a property and casualty insurance
company licensed in Illinois. Direct Auto began writing non-standard automobile coverage in 2007, and
was acquired by NI Holdings on August
31, 2018, via a stock purchase agreement. As of December 31, 2024, Direct Auto distributed its policies through
independent agents in
156 contracted agencies, concentrated primarily in the Chicago area.
Westminster American Insurance Company
Westminster is a property and casualty insurance
company licensed in 18 states and the District of Columbia. Westminster is headquartered in Owings
Mills, Maryland and underwrites commercial
multi-peril insurance in the states of Delaware, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, North Carolina,
Pennsylvania, South Carolina,
Tennessee, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Westminster was sold to Scott Insurance Holdings on June 30, 2024.
Subsequent to the
date of sale, Westminster is reflected as discontinued operations within our Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of
Operations. For additional information see Part II, Item 8, Note 20 “Discontinued Operations” of this 2024 Annual Report.
General Information
Nodak Insurance markets and distributes its policies through
its captive agents, while all other companies utilize the independent agent distribution
channel. Additionally, all of the Company’s
insurance subsidiary and affiliate companies are rated “A” Excellent by AM Best.
The same executive management team provides oversight
and strategic direction for the entire organization. Nodak Insurance provides common product
oversight, pricing practices, and underwriting
standards, as well as underwriting and claims administration, to itself, American West, and Battle Creek.
Primero and Direct Auto personnel
manage the day-to-day operations of their respective companies. Westminster personnel managed the day-to-day
operations of their company
prior to the date of sale.
The consolidated financial statements of NI Holdings
presented herein include the financial position and results of operations of NI Holdings, Direct Auto,
Westminster (as discontinued operations),
and Nodak Insurance, including Nodak Insurance’s subsidiaries of American West, Primero and Battle Creek.
Each of the insurance
companies is subject to examination and comprehensive regulation by the insurance department of its state of domicile, North
Dakota.
Market Overview for Continuing Operations
We market our personal lines products in the upper
Midwest states of North Dakota, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Minnesota. We offer non-standard auto
insurance in the states of Illinois,
Arizona, Nevada, South Dakota, and North Dakota. We offer commercial multi-peril insurance in the states of North
Dakota and South Dakota.
The following chart shows our direct premiums written during the last two years and our relative market share within each of
our states
during the year ended December 31, 2023:
5 

 
 
 
Year Ended
December 31, 2024   
Year Ended December 31, 2023
 
 
Direct Premiums 
Written
   
Direct Premiums
Written
   
Market Size    
Rank in 
State
North Dakota
  $
167,713    $
163,505    $
3,827,000     
5th
Illinois
   
78,523     
86,348     
35,939,000     
59th
Nebraska
   
53,244     
50,698     
7,573,000     
32nd
South Dakota
   
32,421     
29,660     
3,970,000     
30th
Arizona
   
5,180     
4,077     
17,959,000     
163rd
Minnesota
   
3,786     
4,008     
17,081,000     
140th
Nevada
   
1,434     
2,938     
8,562,000     
139th
Total direct premiums written
  $
342,301    $
341,234     
      
  
 
   
      
      
      
  
Market size information is not yet available for the year ended December 31, 2024.
Growth Strategy
We believe we have many opportunities to grow
our business. Strategies we employ to achieve this growth include:
●
continued emphasis on our relationship with the NDFB, a key advocacy group for agricultural and rural interests which enjoys a high
profile and favorable reputation throughout North Dakota;
●
expansion and enhancement of independent agency relationships, including the use of technology such as mobile apps, online quoting,
and policy issuance initiatives to make it easy for agents and insureds to do business with us;
●
capitalizing on our excellent claims service for all insureds;
●
selective expansion of our insurance products in states where we currently operate, as well as those states where we hold insurance
licenses; and
●
consideration of strategic acquisitions and investment opportunities in businesses that align with our growth objectives.
Corporate Capital Strategy
Our philosophy is to deploy capital in a manner
that provides long-term protection for our policyholders and creates long-term value for our shareholders.
This philosophy is supported
by a number of underlying strategies implemented across the organization that are focused on preservation of capital,
including:
●
prioritizing the use of data and modeling tools to help estimate the frequency and severity of risks within our insurance portfolio;
●
maintaining a conservatively managed investment portfolio that supports our insurance operations under a wide range of operating and
market conditions;
●
ensuring our reinsurance program is designed to provide sufficient protection against material insurance exposures including, but
not
limited to, catastrophes caused by weather-related events; and
●
relying upon our Enterprise Risk Management framework to identify, quantify, and manage a broad range of risks across the
organization.
We view our capital position to consist of three
layers, each of which has a specific size and purpose:
●
The first layer of capital, which we refer to as “regulatory capital,” is the amount of capital needed to satisfy state
insurance regulatory
requirements while supporting our growth objectives. This capital is held by each of our insurance company subsidiaries.
6 

 
●
The second layer of capital is considered “contingency capital.” While our regulatory capital is, by definition, a cushion
for absorbing
financial consequences of adverse events, such as loss reserve development, litigation, weather catastrophes, and investment
market
corrections, we view that as a base and hold additional capital for even more extreme operating conditions. This capital is generally
also
held by each of our insurance company subsidiaries.
●
The third layer of capital is classified as “excess capital” and represents the excess of the sum of the first two layers.
This capital is
available for deployment by NI Holdings in conjunction with our excess capital deployment priorities.
Our excess capital deployment priorities are to
(1) invest in existing businesses where we see opportunities for profitable growth, (2) make strategic
investments and acquisitions that
enhance our businesses and achieve appropriate risk-adjusted returns over time, and (3) return capital to shareholders
through share repurchases
or shareholder dividends.
Insurance Products by Segment
Our consolidated financial results from continuing
operations include our Private Passenger Auto, Non-Standard Auto, Home and Farm, Crop, and All
Other reporting segments. Information regarding
products and services offered in each segment is included below. Additionally, revenues, underwriting
results, and identifiable assets
and liabilities for each segment are shown in Part II, Item 8, Note 21 “Segment Information.” The financial performance of
each segment is discussed in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations.”
Private Passenger Auto
Nodak Insurance, Battle Creek, and American West
each write private passenger auto insurance to provide protection against liability for bodily injury and
property damage arising from
automobile accidents as well as protection against loss from damage to automobiles owned by the insured. Private passenger
auto accounted
for $97,209 (28.4%) of direct premiums written by the Company on a consolidated basis during 2024.
Non-Standard Auto
Primero and Direct Auto write non-standard auto
insurance with a focus on minimum-limit auto liability coverage. Non-standard auto insurance accounted
for $87,467 (25.6%) of direct premiums
written by the Company on a consolidated basis during 2024.
Home and Farm
Nodak Insurance, Battle Creek, and American West
each write homeowners and farmowners policies to provide coverage for damage to buildings,
equipment, and contents for a variety of perils,
including fire, lightning, wind, hail, and theft. These policies also cover liability arising from injury to other
persons or their property
while on the insured’s premises. Home and farm accounted for $107,203 (31.3%) of direct premiums written by the Company on
a consolidated
basis during 2024.
Crop
Nodak Insurance, American West, and Battle Creek
offer crop hail and multi-peril crop insurance policies. Multi-peril crop insurance is a federal program
that protects against crop yield
losses from all types of natural causes and loss of revenue due to declines in the prices of agricultural products. Crop hail
insurance
is a private insurance product designed to provide protection against losses to farmers’ crops due primarily to hail damage. Collectively,
crop
insurance accounted for $36,421 (10.6%) of direct premiums written by the Company on a consolidated basis during 2024.
All Other
In addition to the products described above, Nodak
Insurance, American West, and Battle Creek write commercial and excess liability coverages.
Collectively, these other coverages accounted
for $14,002 (4.1%) of the direct premiums written by the Company on a consolidated basis during 2024. This
segment also includes an assumed
reinsurance book of business, with $820 of assumed premiums written on a consolidated basis during 2024. The
majority of these assumed
premiums written are related to a domestic and international reinsurance pool for which the Company made the decision to non-
renew its
participation as of January 1, 2022, and the associated assumed premiums represent run-off of this business.
7 

 
Crop Insurance
Crop insurance is purchased by agricultural producers,
including farmers, ranchers, and others to protect themselves against either the loss of their crops
(yield) due to natural disasters
such as hail, freezing, plant disease, drought, and floods, or the loss of revenue due to declines in the prices of agricultural
products.
The two general categories of crop insurance are referred to as “crop-yield insurance” and “crop-revenue insurance.”
Crop-yield insurance
protects against a reduction in the yield per acre from the historical average yield in a specified area, such as
a county or National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration weather grid, while crop-revenue insurance provides protection against declines
in the price of the particular crop. Most of the multi-peril
crop insurance policies written today combine both yield and revenue protection,
with the revenue component providing the policyholder with the option to
calculate price-based losses on the higher of the prevailing
price when the crop is planted or the price at harvest.
Beginning in 1980, the U.S. Congress expanded
the federal crop insurance program to cover more crops and regions of the country. More importantly,
Congress permitted private sector
insurers to market and administer federal insurance policies in exchange for an opportunity to earn a profit while bearing
a portion of
the insurance risk. Congress also authorized a premium subsidy for the farmers and ranchers. As a result, there was a rapid increase in
the acres
insured from approximately 26 million acres in 1980 to 100 million acres in 1990. The Federal Crop Insurance Reform Act of 1994
made participation in
the crop insurance program mandatory for farmers to be eligible to participate in other government support programs
and provided a minimum level of free
catastrophic risk coverage for insured and noninsured crops.
American Farm Bureau Insurance Services (“AFBIS”)
underwrites all of our, as well as several other state Farm Bureau affiliated insurers, multi-peril crop
and crop hail insurance policies.
AFBIS also processes and administers all claims made by policyholders under such policies. We reimburse AFBIS for its
actual loss adjustment
expense with respect to the policies issued by us and pay AFBIS a percentage of the premiums we receive with respect to such
policies.
Marketing and Distribution
Our marketing philosophy is to sell profitable
business using a focused, cost-effective distribution system. Nodak Insurance distributes its insurance
products through exclusive agents
in North Dakota, while American West, Battle Creek, Primero, and Direct Auto rely on independent agents.
We review our agents with respect to both premium
volume and profitability. Our captive agents for Nodak Insurance are hired and trained by our sales
staff in North Dakota, while the independent
agents for our other companies are appointed by the underwriting or marketing staff for each respective
company. We hold regular training
sessions when we introduce new products or product changes, and we identify specific topics that may help our agents
more effectively
market our products.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, no individual
agent was responsible for more than 5% of the Company’s direct premiums written.
Agents are compensated through a fixed base commission
structure. Agents receive commission as a percentage of premiums as their primary
compensation from us. The Risk Management Agency of
the U.S. Department of Agriculture (“RMA”) establishes the maximum commission that can be
paid to agents with respect to crop
insurance policies. Nodak Insurance, Battle Creek, American West, and Direct Auto pay annual profit-sharing
commissions with respect to
all property and casualty (non-crop) business based on company-specific production metrics related to premiums and
profitability.
Our marketing efforts are further supported by
our claims philosophy, which is designed to provide prompt and efficient service and claims processing,
resulting in a positive experience
for agents and policyholders. We believe that these positive experiences contribute to achieving higher policyholder
retention and new
business growth over time. While we rely on our captive and independent agents for distribution and customer support, underwriting and
claim handling responsibilities are retained by us. Many of our agents have had direct relationships with us for a number of years.
Underwriting, Risk Assessment, and Pricing
We strive to be disciplined in our pricing by
pursuing rate increases to maintain or improve our underwriting profitability while still being able to attract
and retain customers.
We utilize pricing reviews that we believe will help us price risks more accurately, maintain appropriate policyholder retention, and
support the production of profitable new business. These pricing reviews involve
8 

 
evaluating our claims experience and loss trends on a
periodic basis to identify changes in the frequency and severity of our claims. We then consider
whether our premium rates are adequate
relative to the level of underwriting risk as well as the sufficiency of our underwriting guidelines.
The nature of our business requires that we remain
sensitive to the marketplace and the pricing strategies of our competitors. Using the market information
as a reference point, we typically
set our prices based on our estimated future costs. From time to time, we may reduce our discounts or apply a premium
surcharge to achieve
an appropriate return. Pricing flexibility allows us to provide a fair rate commensurate with the assumed risk. If our pricing strategy
cannot yield sufficient premium to cover our costs on a particular type of risk, we may choose not to underwrite that risk. It is our
philosophy not to
sacrifice profitability for premium growth.
Enterprise Risk Management
Our Company is subject to significant risks, including
the normal risks of a property and casualty insurance company. These risks are discussed in more
detail in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk
Factors.”
We consider an enterprise-wide risk management
program to be an integral part of managing our business and a key element in our approach to corporate
governance. Our Enterprise Risk
Management Committee (the “ERMC”) is responsible for the alignment of operational risk management strategies as the
coordination
point for enterprise-level direction setting with regard to risk management issues. The multi-disciplinary ERMC regularly monitors risk
reports and metrics regarding a variety of continuing and emerging risks that may adversely affect the Company, its shareholders, its
policyholders, or other
stakeholders. The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors oversees risk management and regularly receives reports
from the ERMC.
Reinsurance
We cede and assume certain premiums and losses to and from various
companies and associations under a variety of reinsurance agreements. We seek to
limit the maximum net loss that can arise from large
risks or risks in concentrated areas of exposure through use of these agreements, either on an
automatic basis under general reinsurance
contracts known as treaties or through facultative contracts on substantial individual risks.
Reinsurance contracts do not relieve us from our obligation to policyholders.
Additionally, failure of reinsurers to honor their obligations could result in
significant losses to us. There can be no assurance that
reinsurance will continue to be available to us to the same extent, and at the same cost, as it has in
the past. We may choose in the
future to reevaluate the use of reinsurance to increase or decrease the amounts of risk ceded to reinsurers.
For additional information, see Part II, Item 8, Note 6 “Reinsurance.”
Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses
We maintain reserves for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses.
Our liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses consists of (1) case
reserves, which are reserves for claims that have been
reported to us, and (2) reserves for claims that have been incurred but not yet been reported and for
the future development of case reserves
(“IBNR”). We determine a provision for the ultimate cost of those claims without regard to how long it takes to
settle them
or the time value of money. The determination of reserves involves actuarial and statistical projections of what we expect to be the cost
of the
ultimate settlement and administration of such claims. The liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses is set based
on facts and circumstances
then known, estimates of future trends in claims severity, and other variable factors such as inflation and
changing judicial theories of liability. Our liability
for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses is not discounted.
For additional information, see Part II, Item 7, “Critical
Accounting Policies” and Part II, Item 8, Note 8 “Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses.”
Investments
The majority of funds available for investments are deployed in
a widely diversified portfolio of high quality, liquid taxable U.S. government, tax-exempt
and taxable U.S. municipal, taxable corporate,
and U.S. agency mortgage-backed bonds. We regularly monitor the effective duration of our fixed income
investments, and our investment
purchases and sales are executed with the objective of having adequate funds available to satisfy our insurance and other
obligations.
Generally, the expected principal and
9 

 
interest payments produced by our fixed income portfolio adequately fund the estimated runoff of
the Company’s insurance reserves. The substantial
amount by which the fair value of the fixed income portfolio exceeds the value
of the net insurance liabilities, as well as the positive cash flow from newly
sold policies and the large amount of high-quality liquid
bonds, contribute to the Company’s ability to fund claim payments without having to sell illiquid
assets or access its credit facilities.
We also invest a much smaller percentage of the portfolio in private
placement debt offerings and equity securities, which have the potential for higher
returns but also involve varying degrees of risk,
including higher volatility and/or less liquidity.
The Investment Committee of NI Holdings’ Board of Directors
reviews and approves the Company’s investment policy periodically. The investment
portfolio is managed by Conning, Inc.
For additional information, see Part II, Item 7, “Critical
Accounting Policies” and Part II, Item 8, Note 4 “Investments.”
Financial Strength
Ratings are an important factor in assessing the
Company’s competitive position in the insurance industry. The Company is reviewed regularly by the
independent rating agency AM
Best, who assigns a financial strength rating to the Company, which reflects its assessment of an insurer’s ability to meet its
financial obligations to policyholders. An insurer’s financial strength rating is one of the primary factors evaluated by those
in the market to purchase
insurance. A poor rating indicates that there is an increased likelihood that the insurer could become insolvent
and therefore not able to fulfill its obligations
under the insurance policies it issues. This rating can also affect an insurer’s
level of written premiums, the lines of business it can write, and, for insurers
like us that are also public registrants, the market
value of its securities.
All of the Company’s insurance subsidiaries
and affiliate companies are rated “A” Excellent by AM Best, which is the third highest out of 15 possible
ratings, under a
group rating due to the intercompany pooling reinsurance agreement. Effective May 10, 2024, AM Best affirmed a stable financial strength
outlook to the group.
Competition
The property casualty and crop insurance markets
are competitive. We compete with stock insurance companies, mutual insurance companies, and other
underwriting organizations. Our largest
competitors in North Dakota for private passenger auto and homeowners include Progressive, State Farm,
American Family, National General,
Farmers Union, and Auto-Owners insurance companies. In South Dakota and Nebraska, we have small market shares
and our competitors are
the large national and regional companies as well as Farmers Mutual of Nebraska. In our non-standard auto markets, which are
primarily
Illinois and Arizona, our primary competitors are regional carriers.
Based on 2023 data, Nodak Insurance is the second
largest writer of farmowners insurance in North Dakota. Our largest competitors include Farmers
Union, North Star Mutual, American Family,
and Liberty Mutual insurance companies. In Nebraska and South Dakota, we have a small farmowners market
share, which is dominated by the
large national and regional carriers.
The principal competitors in our markets for multi-peril
crop insurance include Chubb, QBE Insurance Group, Zurich, AgriSompo, and Great American
Insurance Group. The premium rates for multi-peril
crop insurance are established by the RMA and, accordingly, we compete with other insurance
companies on factors such as agency relationships,
claim service, and market reputation in the crop insurance market. We believe that our relationship with
the NDFB and our leading market
share are significant factors in maintaining our market share of the crop insurance business in North Dakota. The
Company’s multi-peril
crop insurance premiums for North Dakota were $30,641, $39,073, and $45,465 for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and
2022, respectively.
Total North Dakota multi-peril crop premiums for the industry were $1,231,110, $1,491,650, and $1,537,758 for the years ended
December
31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
With respect to writing property and casualty
insurance, competitive factors include pricing, agency relationships, policy support, claim service, and market
reputation. Like other
writers of property and casualty insurance, our policy terms vary from state to state based on state regulations, competition, pricing,
and other factors including the prescribed minimum liability limits in each state. We believe our Company differentiates itself from many
larger companies
competing for this business by focusing on ease of doing business and providing excellent claims service with local,
knowledgeable employees.
To compete successfully in the property and casualty
insurance market, we utilize data-driven insights and a disciplined underwriting approach to assess
and price risks, practice prudent
claims management, reserve appropriately for unpaid claims, and provide quality service and competitive commissions to
our independent
and captive agents.
10 

 
Regulation
General
We are subject to extensive regulation, particularly
at the state level. This regulation varies by state, but generally has its source in statutes and regulations
that establish standards
and requirements for conducting the business of insurance and that delegate regulatory authority to state insurance regulatory
agencies.
In general, such regulation is intended for the protection of those who purchase or use insurance products, not the companies that write
the
policies. These laws and regulations have a significant impact on our business and relate to a wide variety of matters including accounting
methods, agent
and company licensure, claims procedures, corporate governance, examinations, investing practices, policy forms, pricing,
trade practices, reserve
adequacy, and underwriting standards.
State insurance laws and regulations require our
insurance company subsidiaries to file financial statements with state insurance departments everywhere
they do business, and they are
subject to examination by the departments they are domiciled in at any time. Our insurance company subsidiaries prepare
statutory-basis
financial statements in accordance with accounting practices and procedures prescribed or permitted by the state in which they are
domiciled.
Our domiciliary states generally conform to National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) accounting practices
and procedures,
so our examination reports and other filings generally are accepted by other states. As of December 31, 2024, all of our
insurance subsidiaries are
domiciled in North Dakota.
The NAIC provides guidance to the states with
respect to standardized laws and regulations (including the accounting practices and procedures discussed
above), which represent an effort
to standardize insurance industry practices across state lines, oftentimes referred to as “Model Regulations.” It should be
noted that these “model” laws are regulations that have no authority until the individual states pass them as part of the
state legislative process, which may,
or may not, be done as suggested, or with modifications.
Premium rate regulation varies greatly among jurisdictions
and lines of insurance. In the states in which our insurance company subsidiaries write
insurance, premium rates for the various lines
of insurance are subject to either prior approval or limited review upon implementation. The premium rates
for multi-peril crop insurance
are established by the RMA. For additional information, see Part I, Item 1, “Crop Insurance.”
Many jurisdictions have laws and regulations that
limit an insurer’s ability to withdraw from a particular market. For example, states may limit an insurer’s
ability to cancel
or non-renew policies. Laws and regulations that limit cancellation and non-renewal may restrict our ability to exit unprofitable
marketplaces
in a timely manner.
Crop Insurance
The multi-peril crop insurance business is overseen
by the federal government through the RMA. The RMA outlines policy language, establishes premium
rates, and develops loss adjustment procedures
for insurance programs under the federal crop insurance program. In addition, through the Federal Crop
Insurance Corporation (“FCIC”),
the RMA provides premium subsidies to farmers and sets the commission percentages that can be paid to agents. All
participating insurance
carriers are subject to the same Standard Reinsurance Agreement (“SRA”), which outlines items such as reporting requirements
and
claims handling procedures, proportional and non-proportional reinsurance terms, and the level of administrative and operating reimbursement
paid to
insurers. The RMA also provides oversight to the approved insurance providers (“AIPs”). The AIPs are required to use
the policies, premium rates, and
loss adjustment procedures set by the RMA without modification and are required to issue a policy to
any eligible applicant regardless of risk or
profitability. The RMA conducts audits of AIPs with respect to claims and loss adjustment
procedures.
American Agricultural Insurance Company is the
AIP through which we issue multi-peril crop insurance policies and is the holder of the SRA with the
FCIC.
NAIC Risk-Based Capital Requirements
North Dakota and most other states have adopted
the NAIC system of risk-based capital requirements that require insurance companies to calculate and
report information under a risk-based
formula. These risk-based capital requirements attempt to measure statutory capital and surplus needs based on the
risks in a company’s
mix of products and investment portfolio. Under the formula, a company first determines its “authorized control level” risk-based
capital. This authorized control level takes into account (i) the risk with respect to the insurer’s assets; (ii) the risk of adverse
insurance experience with
respect to the insurer’s liabilities and obligations; (iii) the interest rate risk with respect to the
insurer’s business; and (iv) all other business risks and such
other relevant risks as are set forth in the risk-based capital instructions.
A company’s “total adjusted capital” is the sum of statutory capital and surplus and
such other items as the risk-based
capital instructions may provide. The formula is designed to allow state insurance regulators to identify insufficiently
capitalized companies.
11 

 
The requirements provide for four different levels
of regulatory attention. The “company action level” is triggered if a company’s total adjusted capital is
less than
2.0 times its authorized control level but greater than or equal to 1.5 times its authorized control level. At the company action level,
the company
must submit a comprehensive plan to the regulatory authority that discusses proposed corrective actions to improve the capital
position. The “regulatory
action level” is triggered if a company’s total adjusted capital is less than 1.5 times but
greater than or equal to 1.0 times its authorized control level. At the
regulatory action level, the regulatory authority will perform
a special examination of the company and issue an order specifying corrective actions that
must be followed. The “authorized control
level” is triggered if a company’s total adjusted capital is less than 1.0 times but greater than or equal to 0.7
times its
authorized control level. At this level, the regulatory authority may take action it deems necessary, including placing the company under
regulatory control. The “mandatory control level” is triggered if a company’s total adjusted capital is less than 0.7
times its authorized control level. At this
level, the regulatory authority is mandated to place the company under its control. The capital
levels of our insurance subsidiary and affiliate companies all
exceed the authorized control level and have never triggered any of these
regulatory capital levels. We cannot guarantee, however, that the capital
requirements applicable to such companies will not increase
in the future, or that the underlying ratios will not erode.
NAIC Ratios
The NAIC has also developed a set of 13 financial
ratios referred to as the Insurance Regulatory Information System (“IRIS”). Based on statutory-basis
financial statements
filed with state insurance regulators, the NAIC annually calculates these IRIS ratios to assist state insurance regulators in monitoring
the financial condition of insurance companies. The NAIC has established an acceptable range for each of the IRIS financial ratios. If
four or more of its
IRIS ratios fall outside the range deemed acceptable by the NAIC, an insurance company may receive inquiries from
individual state insurance
departments. However, a ratio falling outside the usual range may not necessarily be considered adverse. In
some years, it may not be unusual for
financially sound companies to have several ratios with results outside the usual ranges. During
the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, none of our
insurance company subsidiaries produced results outside the acceptable range for
more than three of the IRIS tests. During the year ended December 31,
2022, our insurance company subsidiaries produced results outside
the acceptable range for as many as six of the IRIS tests, primarily driven by our
significant net loss for the year that negatively impacted
IRIS ratios related to the operating ratio and certain ratios based on policyholders’ surplus.
Enterprise Risk Assessment
In 2012, the NAIC adopted various changes to its
Model Regulations (the “NAIC Amendments”). The NAIC Amendments, when adopted by the various
states, are designed to respond
to perceived gaps in the regulation of insurance holding company systems in the U.S. The NAIC Amendments include a
requirement that an
insurance holding company system’s ultimate controlling person submit annually to its lead state insurance regulator an “enterprise
risk
report.” This enterprise risk report identifies the activities, circumstances, or events involving one or more affiliates of
an insurer that, if not remedied
properly, are likely to have a material adverse effect upon the financial condition or liquidity of the
insurer or its insurance holding company system as a
whole. The Company files a Form F Enterprise Report annually with each domiciliary
state in support of this requirement. The NAIC Amendments also
include provisions requiring a controlling person to submit prior notice
to its domiciliary insurance regulator of its divestiture of control, having detailed
minimum requirements for cost sharing and management
agreements between an insurer and its affiliates, and expanding of the agreements between an
insurer and its affiliates to be filed with
its domiciliary insurance regulator.
In 2012, the NAIC also adopted the Own Risk Solvency
Assessment (“ORSA”) Model Act. The ORSA Model Act, when adopted by the various states,
will require an insurance holding company
system’s chief risk officer to submit at least annually to its lead state insurance regulator a confidential report
detailing its
own internal solvency assessment. Such an assessment is to be tailored to the nature, scale, and complexity of an insurer. This assessment
will
include the material and relevant risks identified by the insurer associated with an insurer’s current business plan and the
sufficiency of capital resources to
support those risks. Although our insurance company subsidiaries are exempt from ORSA because of their
size, we intend to incorporate those elements of
ORSA that we believe constitute “best practices” into our internal enterprise
risk assessment.
Market Conduct Regulation
State insurance laws and regulations include numerous
provisions governing trade practices and the marketplace activities of insurers, including provisions
governing the form and content of
disclosure to consumers, illustrations, advertising, sales practices, and complaint handling. State regulatory authorities
generally enforce
these provisions through periodic market conduct examinations.
Guaranty Fund Laws
All states have guaranty fund laws under which
insurers doing business in the state can be assessed to fund policyholder liabilities of insolvent insurance
companies. Under these laws,
an insurer is subject to assessment depending upon its market share in the state of a given line of business. For the years
ended December
31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, we paid only minimal assessments pursuant to state insurance guaranty association laws. We establish reserves
relating to insurance companies that are subject to insolvency proceedings
12 

 
when it becomes probable that we will be subject to an assessment
and the amount of such assessment can be estimated. We cannot predict the amount and
timing of any future assessments under these laws.
Federal Regulation
The U.S. federal government generally does not
directly regulate the insurance industry except for certain areas of the market, such as insurance for crops,
flood, nuclear, and terrorism
risks. However, the federal government has undertaken initiatives or considered legislation in several areas that may affect the
insurance
industry, including tort reform, corporate governance, and the taxation of reinsurance companies. The Dodd-Frank Act established the Federal
Insurance Office, which is authorized to study, monitor, and report to Congress on the insurance industry and to recommend that the Financial
Stability
Oversight Council designate an insurer as an entity posing risks to the U.S. financial stability in the event of the insurer’s
material financial distress or
failure. In December 2013, the Federal Insurance Office issued a report on alternatives to modernize and
improve the system of insurance regulation in the
U.S., including by increasing national uniformity through either a federal charter or
effective action by the states. Changes to federal legislation and
administrative policies in several areas, including changes in federal
taxation, can also significantly affect the insurance industry and us.
We are also subject to the Fair and Accurate Credit
Transactions Act of 2003 and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, both of
which require us to protect the
privacy of our customers’ information, including health and credit information.
Privacy
We are subject to numerous U.S. federal and state
laws governing the collection, disclosure, and protection of personal and confidential information of our
clients or employees. These
laws and regulations are increasing in complexity and number, change frequently, and may conflict. Congress, state
legislatures, and regulatory
authorities are expected to consider additional regulation relating to privacy and other aspects of customer information.
As mandated by the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (“GLBA”),
states have promulgated laws and regulations that require financial institutions, including
insurance companies, to take steps to protect
the privacy of certain consumer and customer information. The NAIC has adopted several provisions to
facilitate the implementation of
the GLBA, including the Privacy of Consumer Financial and Health Information Model Regulation and the Standards for
Safeguarding Customer
Information Model Regulation. Several states adopted similar provisions regarding the safeguarding of customer information. We
have implemented
procedures to comply with the GLBA’s related privacy requirements.
In October 2017, the NAIC adopted the Insurance
Data Security Model Law (“IDSML”), which requires insurers, insurance agents, and other entities
required to be licensed under
state insurance laws to develop and maintain a written information security program, conduct risk assessments, oversee the
data security
practices of third-party service providers, and other related requirements. Several states in which we operate, including North Dakota,
have
adopted the IDSML. Such enactments and regulations could raise compliance costs and subject us to the risk of regulatory enforcement
actions, penalties,
and reputational harm. Any such events could potentially have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition,
or results of operations.
Office of Foreign Asset Control
The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign
Asset Control (“OFAC”) maintains a list of “Specifically Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons” (the
“SDN
List”). The SDN List identifies persons and entities that the government believes are associated with terrorists, rogue nations,
or drug traffickers.
OFAC’s regulations prohibit insurers, among others, from doing business with persons or entities on the SDN
List. If the insurer finds and confirms a
match, the insurer must take steps to block or reject the transaction, notify the affected person,
and file a report with OFAC.
Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act
of 2012
Until December 31, 2022, we were an emerging growth
company (“EGC”), as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 (the “JOBS
Act”). We previously
took advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not
EGCs,
such as reduced public company reporting, accounting, and corporate governance requirements. However, beginning on December 31, 2022,
we are
no longer an EGC and no longer have the ability to delay adoption of these new or revised accounting standards or to take advantage
of reduced corporate
governance disclosures.
Dividends
As an insurance holding company with no independent
operations or source of revenue, our capacity to pay dividends to our shareholders is based on the
ability of our insurance company subsidiaries
to pay dividends to us. The ability of our subsidiaries to pay dividends to us is regulated by the laws of their
state of domicile. Under
these laws, insurance companies must provide advance
13 

 
informational notice to the domicile state insurance regulatory authority prior to
payment of any dividend or distribution to its shareholders. Prior approval
from the state insurance regulatory authority must be obtained
before payment of an “extraordinary dividend” as defined under the state’s insurance code.
For additional information,
see Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and
Capital Resources,” and Part II, Item 8, Note 22 “Statutory Net Income (Loss), Capital and Surplus, and Dividend Restrictions.”
Holding Company Laws
Most states, including North Dakota, have enacted
legislation that regulates insurance holding company systems. Each insurance company in a holding
company system is required to register
with the insurance supervisory agency of its state of domicile and furnish certain information, including information
concerning the operations
of companies within the holding company group that may materially affect the operations, management, or financial condition of
the insurers
within the group. Pursuant to these laws, the North Dakota Insurance Department requires prior disclosure of material transactions involving
an
insurance company and its affiliates. Under these laws, the North Dakota Insurance Department will have the right to examine us at
any time.
All transactions within our consolidated group
affecting our insurance company subsidiaries must be fair and equitable. Notice of certain material
transactions between NI Holdings and
any person or entity in our holding company system will be required to be given to the Department of Insurance of
the applicable domiciliary
state. Certain transactions cannot be completed without the prior approval of the various Departments of Insurance.
Approval of the state insurance commissioner is
required prior to any transaction affecting the control of an insurer domiciled in that state. In North
Dakota, the acquisition of 10%
or more of the outstanding voting securities of an insurer or its holding company is presumed to be a change in control.
North Dakota
law also prohibits any person or entity from (i) making a tender offer for, or a request or invitation for tenders of, or seeking to acquire
or
acquiring any voting security of a North Dakota insurer if, after the acquisition, the person or entity would be in control of the
insurer, or (ii) effecting or
attempting to effect an acquisition of control of or merger with a North Dakota insurer, unless the offer,
request, invitation, acquisition, effectuation, or
attempt has received the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department.
Human Capital
Our key human capital management objectives are
to attract, retain, and develop talent to deliver on the Company’s strategy. To support these objectives,
our human resources programs
are designed to recruit and retain talented individuals; provide training and development within the Company and the
insurance industry;
reward and support employees through competitive pay and benefit programs; keep employees safe and healthy; and provide
opportunities
for community involvement.
We offer comprehensive compensation and benefits
packages to our employees including a 401(k) Plan, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”),
healthcare and insurance benefits,
health savings and flexible spending accounts, paid time off, and flexible work arrangements. We also offer stock-based
compensation to
certain management personnel as a way to attract and retain key talent. For additional information, see Part II, Item 8, Note 12 “Benefit
Plans” and Note 18 “Share-Based Compensation” for further discussion of our benefit plans and stock-based compensation.
As of December 31, 2024, NI Holdings and its subsidiaries
had 216 total employees, of which 202 were full-time employees. Employee turnover averaged
29.0% during 2024, compared to 22.7% during
2023, and 25.2% during 2022. A significant portion of this turnover is related to Direct Auto, which
generally experiences higher turnover.
14 

 
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
An investment in the Company’s common
shares involves certain risks. The following is a discussion of material risks and uncertainties that may affect the
Company’s business,
financial condition, and future results.
Insurance Risks
Catastrophic or other significant natural
or man-made losses may negatively affect our financial condition and operating results.
As a property and casualty insurer, we are subject
to claims from catastrophes or other natural perils that may have a significant negative impact on our
operating and financial results.
We have experienced catastrophe losses and can be expected to experience catastrophe losses in the future. Catastrophe
losses can be caused
by various events, including snow storms, ice storms, freezing temperatures, tropical storms and hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes,
wind,
hail, fires, and other natural or man-made disasters. In addition, longer-term natural catastrophe trends may be changing, and new types
of
catastrophe losses may be developing due to climate change, a phenomenon that has been associated with extreme weather events linked
to rising
temperatures, and includes effects on global weather patterns, greenhouse gases, sea, land and air temperatures, sea levels,
rain, hail and snow. Climate
change may also impact insurability by impairing our ability to identify and quantify potential hazards that
will result in losses and offer our customers
products at an affordable price. The frequency, number, and severity of these losses are
unpredictable. The extent of losses from a catastrophe is a function
of both the total amount of insured exposure in the area affected
by the event and the severity of the event. Our ability to effectively manage catastrophe
risk is dependent, in part, on the reliance
of various catastrophe models, which may produce unreliable output as a result of inaccurate or incomplete data,
along with the inherent
uncertainty of future frequency and severity of losses. The impact of changing climate conditions on the overall insurance industry
may
also materially affect the availability and cost of reinsurance to us. Our investment portfolio is also subject to the effects of climate
change as
economic shifts alter the return dynamic of long-term investments and reduce valuations.
We write a significant amount of business in North
Dakota. As a result, adverse developments from severe weather events in North Dakota would have a
greater effect on our financial condition
and results of operations than if our business was less geographically concentrated. The incidence and severity of
such events are inherently
unpredictable.
We attempt to reduce our exposure to catastrophe
losses through a disciplined underwriting and risk management approach that emphasizes long-term
profitability over short-term gains in
premiums or market share, geographical diversification of our operations, and the use of reinsurance. However, there
can be no guarantee
that our underwriting and risk management efforts will be successful in mitigating our exposure to catastrophe losses or the impact of
such losses when they occur. In addition, while we maintain reinsurance coverage with a catastrophe excess of loss program, such coverage
may be
insufficient to cover our losses. Our reinsurance coverage includes a catastrophe excess of loss program, which in 2024 limited
our catastrophe exposure to
$20 million retention per event, with $133 million of reinsurance coverage placed in excess of this retention.
For 2025, we expect our catastrophe excess of
loss program will limit our catastrophe exposure to $20 million retention per event, with
$117 million of reinsurance coverage placed in excess of this
retention. If we are not able to effectively mitigate our exposure to catastrophe
losses, whether through our underwriting process or reinsurance coverage,
in the event of such losses our business and results of operations
could be adversely affected.
For additional information, see Part II, Item
8, Note 3 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation” and Note 6 “Reinsurance.”
If actual losses exceed our loss and loss
adjustment expense reserves or if changes in the estimated level of loss and loss adjustment expense
reserves are necessary as a result
of changes in the legal, regulatory, and economic environments in which we operate, our financial results could
be materially and adversely
affected.
We maintain reserves to cover estimated unpaid losses and expenses necessary
to settle claims. The reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses that
we have established are estimates of amounts needed to pay
reported and unreported claims and related expenses, based on facts and circumstances known
to us at the time we established the reserves.
Reserves are actuarially projected based on historical claims information, industry statistics, anticipated trends,
and other factors.
The process of estimating loss reserves involves a high degree of judgment and is subject to a number of variables. While we believe that
our reserves for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses are appropriate, to the extent that such reserves prove to be inadequate or
excessive in the
future, we would adjust them and recognize the change in earnings in the period the reserves are adjusted. There can
be no assurance that the estimates of
such liabilities will not change in the future and any such adjustment could have a material impact
on our financial condition and results of operations. For
additional information, see Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” “Losses and Loss
Adjustment Expenses,” and Part II,
Item 8, Note 8 “Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses.”
15 

 
It is possible that, among other things, past or future steps taken by
the federal government and the Federal Reserve to manage the U.S. economy, including
fiscal and monetary policy measures, could lead to
higher than anticipated levels of inflation, which generally leads to increased loss costs and other
operating expenses. However, our
relatively high concentration in short tail lines of business limits the potential impact of this exposure long-term and
allows us to
price for those increases in future policy periods.
Any downgrade in our financial strength rating
could affect our ability to write new business or renew our existing business, which would lead to
a decrease in revenue and net income.
Third-party rating agencies, such as AM Best,
periodically assess and rate the claims-paying ability of insurers based on criteria established by the rating
agencies. Ratings assigned
by AM Best are an important factor influencing the competitive position of insurance companies. AM Best ratings, which are
reviewed at
least annually, represent independent opinions of financial strength and ability to meet obligations to policyholders and are not directed
toward
the protection of investors. Therefore, our AM Best rating should not be relied upon as a basis for an investment decision to purchase
our common stock.
All of the Company’s insurance subsidiaries
hold a financial strength rating of “A” (Excellent) by AM Best, the third highest rating out of 15 rating
classifications.
Our most recent rating by AM Best was affirmed on May 10, 2024. Financial strength ratings are used by agents, customers, lenders, and
other insurance carriers as a means of assessing the financial strength and quality of insurance companies. If our financial position
deteriorates, we may not
maintain our favorable financial strength rating from AM Best. A downgrade of our rating could severely limit
or prevent us from writing desirable
business or from renewing our existing business. In addition, a downgrade could negatively affect
our ability to implement our strategy because it could
cause our current or potential agents to choose other more highly rated competitors
or reduce our ability to obtain reinsurance. For additional information,
see Part I, Item 1, “Business” and “Financial
Strength.”
Our results may fluctuate as a result of
many factors, including cyclical changes in the insurance industry, competition, and innovation and
emerging technologies.
The property and casualty insurance industry has
historically been characterized by soft markets (periods of relatively high levels of price competition, less
restrictive underwriting
practices, and generally low premium rates) followed by hard markets (periods of capital shortages resulting in a lack of insurance
availability,
relatively low levels of price competition, more selective underwriting of risks, and relatively high premium rates). During soft markets,
we
may lose business to other carriers offering competitive insurance at lower rates. We may also choose to reduce our premiums or limit
premium increases
leading to a reduction in profit margins and revenues. Our industry is also influenced by general economic conditions,
which could reduce overall premium
volume for us and our competitors. Additionally, the industry could be impacted by changes in customer
preferences, including customer demand for
direct, point-of-sale, or other non-traditional distribution channels. Consolidation within
the industry could also influence future growth and profit
potential.
Innovation and emerging technologies continue
to greatly impact the insurance industry. If we are unable to keep pace with the technological changes that
our competitors implement,
we may not be able to attract and retain customers, adequately price risks, or operate as efficiently as our competitors. In
addition,
emerging technologies in the automotive industry such as autonomous vehicles, driver-assistance and accident-avoidance features, sensor
technology, and other forms of automation may reduce the future need for, or decrease the future pricing of, our auto insurance products.
Our success depends primarily on our ability
to underwrite risks effectively and price our insurance products appropriately.
The nature of the insurance business is such that
pricing must be determined before the underlying costs are fully known. This requires significant reliance
on estimates and assumptions
used in pricing our policies. If we fail to appropriately price the risks we insure or if our claims experience is more frequent
or severe
than our underlying risk assumptions, our profitability may be negatively affected. If we overestimate the risks we are exposed to, we
may
overprice our products, and new business growth and retention of existing business may be adversely affected. The ability to effectively
underwrite risks
and price products appropriately is subject to a number of uncertainties, including:
●
availability of sufficient reliable data and our ability to properly analyze available data;
●
market and competitive conditions;
●
regulatory or legislative changes;
●
selection and application of appropriate pricing techniques; and
●
adverse changes in claims experience, such as distracted driving or a more aggressive tort environment.
16 

 
Under the federal crop insurance program, each
insurer is required to accept every application for multi-peril crop insurance that they receive, and the
premiums and the policy terms
are set by the RMA, which is the federal government agency administering the federal crop insurance program.
Accordingly, no policy underwriting
is necessary in connection with our multi-peril crop insurance line of business. Unlike the multi-peril crop business,
we have the ability
to underwrite and price crop hail insurance. We rely on AFBIS to underwrite our crop hail insurance line of business. If we believe the
policy will expose us to too much risk in a particular geographic area or if we are unwilling to insure the crop, we have the ability
to decline to issue the
policy.
Volatility in crop prices and yields, as
a result of weather conditions, trade policies, or other events, could adversely impact our financial condition
and operating results.
Unpredictable weather conditions and other events
such as excessive rain, flooding, droughts, hail, pests, and plant diseases can significantly impact crop
prices and yields, creating
volatility in our crop insurance business. Additionally, international trade policies, including the imposition of tariffs between
major
trading partners such as the United States and China, can create significant fluctuations in crop prices. We are unable to predict the
ultimate result
and duration of any tariff actions by the U.S. government, or countermeasures that may be taken by other nations. These
trade tensions and retaliatory
tariffs may affect agricultural commodity prices and create additional market uncertainty in our crop insurance
business. In addition, the amount of multi-
peril crop insurance business we retain is subject to the terms of the SRA and is dependent
on the actual direct loss ratio experience. A significant decrease
in crop prices and variability in the loss experience, whether caused
by weather events, trade policies, or other events, could have a material negative effect
on our business and results of operations.
Our ability to manage our exposure to underwriting
risks depends on the availability and cost of reinsurance coverage.
We use reinsurance arrangements to manage the
amount of risk we retain, stabilize underwriting results, and increase underwriting capacity. The
availability and cost of reinsurance
are subject to current market conditions and may vary significantly over time. Any decrease in the amount of
reinsurance maintained will
increase our risk of loss. We may be unable to maintain our desired reinsurance coverage or to obtain other reinsurance
coverage in adequate
amounts and/or at favorable rates. If we are unable to maintain appropriate reinsurance coverage, it may be difficult for us to manage
our underwriting risks and operate our business profitably. For additional information, see Part II, Item 8, Note 6 “Reinsurance.”
If we cannot collect loss recoveries from
our reinsurers in accordance with our reinsurance agreements, we may incur additional losses.
Although reinsurance creates a contractual liability
for reinsurers to the extent the risk is transferred, it does not eliminate our liability to policyholders
because we remain liable as
the primary insurer on all reinsured risks. Our reinsurance program strategically spreads exposure among a group of highly-
rated, geographically
diverse, and well-capitalized reinsurers. All of our significant reinsurance partners are rated “A-” (Excellent) or better
by AM Best.
However, we remain subject to credit risk relating to our ability to collect these recoverables. Our reinsurance recoveries
are also subject to the underlying
losses meeting the qualifying conditions and specified limits within the respective contracts. Additionally,
we are subject to the risk that reinsurers may
dispute their obligations to pay our claims. Our inability to collect a material recovery
from a reinsurer on a timely basis, or at all, could have a material
adverse effect on our liquidity, operating results, and financial
condition. For additional information, see Part II, Item 8, Note 6 “Reinsurance.”
Business and Operational Risks
The impact of a future pandemic, and related economic conditions, could
materially affect our results of operations, financial position, and/or
liquidity.
We face risks associated with pandemics, including the impact
of reduced economic activity and unemployment, government actions, and capital markets
disruption. These risks are unpredictable and difficult
to quantify, and could vary significantly depending on the extent and duration of the pandemic and
related economic conditions, along
with potentially impacting each of our business segments and geographic markets differently.
Any future federal, state, and local government actions to address
the impact of a pandemic may adversely affect us. Regulatory restrictions or
requirements could impact pricing, risk selection, and our
rights and obligations with respect to our policies and insureds, including our ability to cancel
policies or our right to collect premiums.
It is also possible that changes in economic conditions and steps taken by federal, state, and local governments
could require an increase
in taxes at the federal, state, and local levels, which would adversely impact our results of operations. Additionally, potential
capital
markets disruption could lead to our fixed income portfolio being adversely impacted by ratings downgrades, increased bankruptcies, declines
in
real estate valuations, and/or declines in fixed income yields, along with increased volatility in our equity portfolio.
17 

 
We may not be able to grow our business if
we cannot retain and expand our captive and independent agent relationships, we cannot provide
competitive products for these agents to
sell, and/or consumers seek other distribution methods offered by our competitors.
Our ability to retain existing agents, and to
attract new agents, is essential to the continued growth of our business. Nodak Insurance utilizes captive agents
who only sell our Company’s
products. Outside of North Dakota, we write business through the independent agent distribution model. If we are not able to
offer competitive
products and a competitive compensation structure to our captive agents and/or if our independent agents find it easier to do business
with our competitors, we may be unable to retain existing business or generate sufficient new business.
While our products are sold through either independent
or captive agents, our competitors may sell insurance through other distribution models, including
the internet, direct marketing, or
other emerging forms of distribution. To the extent that current and potential policyholders change their insurance
shopping preferences,
this may have an adverse effect on our ability to grow, financial position, and results of operations.
Acquisitions could disrupt our business and
harm our financial condition or results of operations.
As part of our growth strategy, we will continue
to evaluate acquisition opportunities. Any acquisitions involve a number of risks that could materially
adversely affect our business
and operating results, including:
●
problems integrating the acquired operations into our existing business;
●
operating and underwriting results of the acquired operations not meeting our expectations;
●
diversion of management’s time and attention from our existing business;
●
higher than anticipated capital requirements;
●
difficulties in retaining business relationships with agents and policyholders of the acquired company;
●
risks associated with entering markets in which we lack extensive prior experience;
●
tax issues associated with acquisitions;
●
acquisition-related disputes, including disputes over contingent consideration and escrows;
●
loss of key employees of the acquired company;
●
impairment of related goodwill and intangible assets; and
●
changes in strategy resulting in the sale of an acquired business which may result in a capital loss.
Our access to capital may be limited or may not be available on favorable
terms.
Our future capital requirements depend on many factors, including rating
agency and regulatory requirements, the performance of our investment portfolio,
strategic initiatives, acquisition opportunities, and
the ability to write business successfully at rate levels sufficient to cover losses. We may need to raise
additional capital in the future
through debt or equity financings. However, we can provide no assurance that we will be successful in raising funds
pursuant to additional
equity or debt financings or that such funds will be raised at prices that do not create substantial dilution for our existing
stockholders.
Any debt financing obtained by us in the future would cause us to incur debt service expenses and could include restrictive covenants
relating
to our capital raising activities and other financial and operational matters, which may make it more difficult for us to obtain
additional capital and pursue
business opportunities. Macroeconomic challenges and volatility in capital markets could limit our ability
to raise capital when needed on terms favorable
to us, or at all. If we cannot obtain adequate capital or sources of credit on favorable
terms, or at all, our business, financial condition, results of operations,
and strategic initiatives could be adversely affected.
18 

 
We may be unable to attract, retain or effectively
manage the succession of key personnel.
The success of our business is dependent, to a
large extent, on our ability to attract and retain key employees, in particular our senior officers and key
management of our insurance
subsidiaries. Our business may be adversely affected if labor market conditions make it difficult for us to retain or, if needed,
replace
our current key officers with individuals having equivalent qualifications and experience at compensation levels competitive for our industry.
While
we believe we offer competitive compensation and benefit arrangements, there can be no guarantee that we will be able to retain
our key employees. There
is significant competition from within the property and casualty insurance industry and from businesses outside
the industry for those in key management
positions, as well as others possessing highly specialized knowledge in areas such as actuarial,
accounting, information technology, and data and analytics.
In addition, our employment and other agreements with our key officers do
not include non-compete covenants or non-solicitation provisions because they
are unenforceable under North Dakota law. If we are not
able to successfully attract, retain, and motivate our employees, our business, financial results, and
reputation could be materially
and adversely affected.
A failure in our operational systems or infrastructure,
or those of our third-party service providers, including operational errors, could disrupt
business, damage our reputation, and cause
losses.
Our operations rely on the secure processing,
storage, and transmission of confidential information, including in our computer systems and networks and
those of third-party service
providers. We rely heavily on our operating systems in connection with issuing policies, paying claims, and providing the
information
we need to conduct our business. We also rely on the operating systems of AFBIS in connection with various processes with respect to our
crop lines of business. Our business depends on effective information security and systems, and we place significant reliance on the integrity
and timeliness
of the data our information systems process to support our business. A breakdown or disruption of any of these systems
could materially adversely affect
our ability to conduct our business and our results of operations.
We are exposed to many other types of operational
risk, including the risk of fraud by employees and outsiders, clerical and recordkeeping errors, and
computer or telecommunications systems
malfunctions. Our business depends on our ability to process a large number of increasingly complex
transactions. If any of our operational,
accounting, or other data processing systems fail or have other significant shortcomings, we could be materially
adversely affected. Similarly,
we depend on our employees. We could be materially adversely affected if one or more of our employees cause a significant
operational
breakdown or failure, either as a result of human error or intentional sabotage or fraudulent manipulation of our operations or systems.
Cyberattacks, security breaches, or similar
events affecting the technologies and systems we rely on to operate our business and to maintain and
protect sensitive Company and customer
data could disrupt our operations, harm our reputation, and result in material losses.
We have implemented administrative and technical
controls, have taken actions to reduce the risk of cyber incidents and to protect our information
technology and assets, and will continue
to modify such procedures as circumstances warrant and negotiate appropriate terms in our agreements with third-
party providers to protect
our assets. However, such measures may be insufficient to prevent unauthorized access, computer viruses, malware or other
malicious code
or cyberattack, business compromise attacks, catastrophic events, system failures and disruptions, employee errors or malfeasance, third-
party
(including outsourced service providers) errors or malfeasance, loss of assets, and other events that could have security consequences.
Such an event
may result in data loss or loss of assets which could result in significant losses, reputational damage, or other adverse
effects on our operations.
In addition, our technologies, systems, and networks
may become the target of cyberattacks or information security breaches that could result in the
unauthorized release, gathering, monitoring,
misuse, loss or destruction of our or our insureds’ confidential, proprietary and other information, or otherwise
disrupt our or
our insureds’ or other third-parties’ business operations, which in turn may result in legal claims, regulatory scrutiny and
liability,
reputational damage, the incurrence of costs to eliminate or mitigate further exposure, and the loss of customers. Although
to date we are not aware of any
information security breaches or losses relating to cyberattacks, there can be no assurance that we will
not suffer such losses in the future. Our risk and
exposure to these matters remains heightened because of, among other things, the evolving
nature and increasing frequency and sophistication of these
threats and the outsourcing of some of our business operations. As a result,
cybersecurity and the continued development and enhancement of our controls,
processes, and practices designed to protect our systems,
computers, software, data, and networks from attack, damage, or unauthorized access remain a
priority. As cyber threats continue to evolve,
we may be required to expend significant additional resources to continue to modify or enhance our protective
measures or to investigate
and remediate any information security vulnerabilities.
The compromise of personal, confidential, or proprietary
information could also subject us to legal liability or regulatory action, including fines, penalties,
or intervention, under evolving
cybersecurity, data protection, and privacy laws and regulations enacted by the U.S. federal and state governments. Such
laws and regulations
have become increasingly widespread and demanding in recent
19 

 
years and may result in increased compliance costs and risk of regulatory
actions or penalties. If incurred, such regulatory actions or penalties could harm
our reputation. Any such events could have an adverse
impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Regulatory Risks
A portion of our written premiums and net
profits are generated from multi-peril crop insurance business, and the loss of such business as a result
of a termination of or substantial
changes to the federal crop insurance program could have an adverse effect on our revenues and net income.
In 2024, 2023, and 2022, our direct premiums written
generated from the multi-peril crop insurance line of business were 9.8%, 10.2%, and 12.8%,
respectively, of total written premiums. Through
the FCIC, the U.S. government subsidizes insurance companies by assuming an increasingly higher
portion of losses incurred by farmers
as a result of weather-related and other perils as well as commodity price fluctuations. The U.S. government also
subsidizes the premium
cost to farmers for multi-peril crop yield and revenue insurance. Without this risk assumption, losses incurred by insurance
companies
would be higher. Without the premium subsidy, the number of farmers purchasing multi-peril crop insurance would decline significantly.
Periodically, members of the U.S. Congress propose to significantly reduce the government’s involvement in the federal crop insurance
program in an
effort to reduce government spending. If legislation is adopted to reduce the amount of risk the government assumes, the
amount of insurance premium
subsidy provided to farmers or otherwise reduce the coverage provided under multi-peril crop insurance policies,
losses would increase and purchases of
multi-peril crop insurance could experience a significant decline nationwide and in our market
area. Such changes could have an adverse effect on our
revenues and income.
Our businesses are heavily regulated by the
jurisdictions in which we conduct business and changes in regulation, including required participation
in pools, premium surcharges, and
higher tax rates, may reduce our profitability and limit our growth.
Most states require insurance companies authorized
to do business in their state to participate in guaranty funds, which require the insurance companies to
bear a portion of the unfunded
obligations of impaired, insolvent, or failed insurance companies. These obligations are funded by assessments, which are
expected to
continue in the future. State guaranty associations levy assessments, up to prescribed limits, on all insurance companies doing business
in the
state based on their proportionate share of premiums written in the lines of business in which the impaired, insolvent, or failed
insurance companies are
engaged. Accordingly, the assessments levied on us may increase as we increase our written premiums. For additional
information, see Part I, Item 1,
“Business” and “Regulation.”
In addition, as a condition to conducting business
in some states, insurance companies are required to participate in residual market programs to provide
insurance to those who cannot procure
coverage from an insurance carrier on a negotiated basis. Insurance companies generally can fulfill their residual
market obligations
by, among other things, participating in a reinsurance pool where the results of all policies provided through the pool are shared by
the
participating insurance companies. Although we price our insurance to account for our potential obligations under these pooling arrangements,
we may not
be able to accurately estimate our liability for these obligations. Accordingly, mandatory pooling arrangements may cause a
decrease in our profits. As we
write policies in new states that have mandatory pooling arrangements, we will be required to participate
in additional pooling arrangements. Further, the
impairment, insolvency, or failure of other insurance companies in these pooling arrangements
would likely increase the liability for other members in the
pool.
The effect of assessments and premium surcharges
or increases in such assessments or surcharges could reduce our profitability in any given period or limit
our ability to grow our business.
In addition, state tax laws that specifically impact the insurance industry, such as premium taxes, or more general tax laws,
such as
U.S. federal corporate income taxes, could be enacted or changed and could have a material adverse impact on us.
We are subject to insurance industry laws
and regulations, as well as claims and legal proceedings, which if determined unfavorably, could have a
material adverse effect on our
profitability.
We are subject to extensive supervision and regulation
by the states in which we operate. The failure to comply with these regulations could subject the
Company to sanctions and fines, including
the cancellation or suspension of our licenses, which could significantly impact our financial condition and
results of operations. State
insurance departments also conduct periodic examinations of the affairs of insurance companies and require the filing of annual
and other
reports relating to financial condition, holding company issues, and other matters.
Additionally, changes in the level of regulation
of the insurance industry or changes in laws or regulations themselves or interpretations by regulatory
authorities could adversely affect
our ability to operate our business. Federal laws and regulations, and
20 

 
the influence of international laws and regulations, may have adverse
effects on our business, potentially including a change from a state-based system of
regulation to a system of federal regulation, the
repeal of the McCarran Ferguson Act, and/or measures under the Dodd-Frank Act that establish the Federal
Insurance Office and provide
for a determination that a non-bank financial company presents systemic risk and therefore should be subject to heightened
supervision
by the Federal Reserve Board. It is not known how this federal office will coordinate and interact with the NAIC and state insurance regulators.
Adoption or implementation of any of these measures may restrict our ability to conduct our insurance business, govern our corporate affairs,
or effectively
manage our cost of doing business.
We also face a risk of litigation in the ordinary
course of operating our businesses including the risk of class action lawsuits. We may become subject to
class actions and individual
suits alleging breach of fiduciary or other duties, including our obligations to indemnify directors and officers in connection
with certain
legal matters. We are also subject to litigation arising out of our general business activities such as contractual and employment relationships
and claims regarding the infringement of the intellectual property of others. Plaintiffs in class action and other lawsuits against us
may seek large or
indeterminate amounts of damages, including punitive and treble damages, which may remain unknown for substantial periods
of time.
New or changes to existing accounting rules and standards could adversely
impact our reported results of operations.
Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”),
as promulgated by the Financial Accounting Standards
Board (“FASB”), subject to the accounting-related rules and interpretations of the SEC. New
accounting rules or changes in
accounting standards or how they apply to our business may impact our reported financial condition or results of operations,
and could
cause increased volatility in reported earnings, which could affect the trading price of our common stock or our credit ratings.
Risks Related to Our Common Stock
Nodak Mutual Group’s majority control
of our common stock will enable it to exercise voting control over most matters put to a vote of
shareholders.
Nodak Mutual Group owns a majority of our outstanding
common stock and, through its Board of Directors, is able to exercise voting control over most
matters put to a vote of shareholders.
The votes cast by Nodak Mutual Group may not be in the best interests of all shareholders. For example, Nodak
Mutual Group may exercise
its voting control to defeat a shareholder nominee for election to the Board of Directors of NI Holdings.
In addition, certain provisions of our Articles
of Incorporation, such as the prohibition of cumulative voting for the election of directors and the prohibition
on any person or group
acquiring and having the right to vote in excess of 10% of our outstanding stock without the prior approval of the Board of
Directors
will make removal of the Company’s management difficult.
Our status as an insurance holding company
with no direct operations could adversely affect our ability to fund operations, execute future share
repurchases, or meet potential future
shareholder dividend and/or debt obligations.
NI Holdings is an insurance holding company that
transacts substantially all of its business through its subsidiaries. A significant source of funds available
to us for the payment of
operating expenses, share repurchases, and potential future dividends to shareholders and/or debt servicing are management fees,
dividends
from our subsidiaries, or other sources of capital. The payment of dividends by our subsidiaries are restricted by North Dakota’s
insurance law. If
we are unable to obtain dividends from our subsidiaries as needed to fund our operations, our business and financial
results could be adversely affected.
Statutory provisions and provisions of our
Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws may discourage takeover attempts of NI Holdings that
shareholders may believe are in their best interests.
We are subject to provisions of North Dakota corporate
and insurance law that hinder a change of control. North Dakota law requires the North Dakota
Insurance Department’s prior approval
of a change of control of an insurance holding company. Under North Dakota law, the acquisition of 10% or more of
the outstanding voting
stock of an insurer or its holding company is presumed to be a change in control. Approval by the North Dakota Insurance
Department may
be withheld even if the transaction would be in the shareholders’ best interest if the North Dakota Insurance Department determines
that
the transaction would be detrimental to policyholders.
Our Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws also
contain provisions that may discourage a change in control. These provisions may serve to entrench
management and may discourage a takeover
attempt that shareholders may consider to be in their best interest or in which they would receive a substantial
premium over the current
market price. These provisions may make it extremely difficult for any one person, entity, or group of affiliated persons or
entities
to acquire voting control of NI Holdings, with the result that it may be
21 

 
extremely difficult to bring about a change in the Board of
Directors or management. Some of these provisions also may perpetuate present management
because of the additional time required to cause
a change in the control of the Board of Directors. Other provisions make it difficult for shareholders
owning less than a majority of
the voting stock to be able to elect even a single director.
General Risks
Our investment portfolio is subject to credit
and interest rate risk, and therefore our revenues and financial results may fluctuate with interest
rates, investment results, equity
market fluctuations, and developments in the capital markets.
Investment income is an important component of
our net income and overall profitability. We invest premiums received from policyholders and other
available cash to generate investment
income and capital appreciation, while also maintaining sufficient liquidity to pay claims and operating expenses.
Changes in interest
rates and credit quality may result in fluctuations in the income derived from, the valuation of, and in the case of declines in credit
quality, payment defaults on our fixed income securities. Such conditions could give rise to significant realized and unrealized investment
losses or the
impairment of securities. Potential higher interest rates could reduce the carrying value of our fixed income and short-term
investments, negatively
impacting the Company’s carrying value in the short-term. Over the long-term, however, higher interest rates
would provide an incremental benefit to our
net investment income as excess cash and the proceeds of maturing bonds are reinvested at
higher rates. We manage our exposure to interest rate increases
by monitoring the duration within our investment portfolio and maintaining
maturities that minimize any forced sales within the portfolio. However, even
with such monitoring efforts, we may be forced to sell securities
at a loss, which would adversely affect our results of operations.
We also invest a portion of our assets in equity
securities, which are subject to greater volatility in their investment returns than fixed income investments.
Unlike fixed income securities,
the changes in the fair value of our equity securities are recognized in net income. General economic conditions, stock
market volatility,
changes in tax laws, and many other factors beyond our control can adversely affect the value of these securities and potentially reduce
our net investment income and/or lead to net investment losses.
Any significant or long-running negative changes
in the fixed income or equity markets could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition,
results of operations, or cash
flows. Our investment portfolio is also subject to credit and cash flow risk, including risks associated with our investments in
asset-backed
and mortgage-backed securities. Because our investment portfolio is the largest component of our assets and a multiple of our shareholders’
equity, adverse changes in economic conditions could result in impairments that are material to our financial condition and operating
results. Such
economic changes could arise from overall changes in the financial markets or specific changes to industries, companies,
or municipalities in which we
maintain investment holdings. See Part II, Item 7A, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About
Market Risk.”
We may not be able to manage our growth effectively.
We intend to continue to grow our business in
the future, which could require additional capital, systems development, and skilled personnel. However,
there are inherent risks associated
with this strategy, including the risks of unsuccessfully identifying profitable business opportunities, managing capital
requirements,
expanding systems and internal controls, maintaining innovative products and technologies, allocating human capital resources, identifying
qualified employees and/or agents, and integrating future acquisitions. The failure to manage our growth effectively could have a material
adverse effect on
our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
We could be adversely affected by a future
unexpected business interruption involving our office buildings, operational systems and
infrastructure, key external vendors, and/or
workforce.
Our business operations could be substantially
interrupted by flooding, snow, ice, wind, and other weather-related incidents, or from fire, pandemics, power
loss, telecommunications
failures, terrorism, or other such events. Our business continuity plans may not sufficiently remediate all risks associated with
future
significant business interruptions. Any damage caused by such a failure or loss may cause interruptions in our business operations that
may
adversely affect our service levels and business.
Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
22 

 
Item 1C.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity risk is an important and evolving
focus for the Company. The increased sophistication and activities of unauthorized parties attempting to
access our systems is an ever-present
risk. Cybersecurity risks may also arise from human error, fraud, or malice on the part of employees or third parties
who have authorized
access to our systems or information.
Our information security program is directly managed by a dedicated Director
of Information Systems, whose team is responsible for enterprise-wide
cybersecurity strategy, policy, standards, architecture, and processes.
Company employees are periodically required to affirm their understanding of several
policies and standards, including those related to
cybersecurity. Our cybersecurity strategy is primarily focused on network security, data security,
vulnerability management, incident
management, and disaster recovery. We utilize internal resources as well as third-party consultants and vendors to
periodically conduct
cybersecurity vulnerability testing, facilitate employee training, perform system assessments, and provide recommendations based on
industry
best practices.
The Director of Information Systems provides periodic reports to our ERMC
related to cybersecurity risks and threats, the status of projects to strengthen
our information security systems and controls, assessments
of the information security program and related third-party service providers, and the emerging
threat landscape. The ERMC provides oversight
and support related to our cybersecurity program and consists of our Chief Executive Officer, Chief
Financial Officer, Director of Information
Systems, and other appropriate members of senior management who possess the relevant expertise to assess and
manage cybersecurity risks
as part of the broader enterprise risk management process. Periodic reports are also provided to appropriate members of senior
management
that include information regarding prevention, detection, mitigation, and remediation efforts related to cybersecurity incidents.
Our Chief Executive Officer and Director of Information Systems also provide
periodic reports to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors regarding
ERMC activities and assessments, including those related to
cybersecurity and cybersecurity incidents. The Audit Committee of the board oversees our risk
management program, which focuses on the
most significant risks we face in the short-, intermediate-, and long-term timeframes. Audit Committee
meetings include discussions of
specific risk areas throughout the year, including, among others, those relating to cybersecurity threats, and reports from
management
on our enterprise risk profile on an annual basis.
As of the date of this 2024 Annual Report, we are not aware of any risks
from cybersecurity threats that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to
materially affect the Company, including our business
strategy, results of operations, or financial condition. Refer to the risk factor captioned
“Cyberattacks, security breaches, or
similar events affecting the technologies and systems we rely on to operate our business and to maintain and protect
sensitive Company
and customer data could disrupt our operations, harm our reputation, and result in material losses” in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk
Factors” for
additional details regarding cybersecurity risks and potential impacts on our business.
Item 2.
Properties
Our headquarters is located at 1101 First Avenue
North, Fargo, North Dakota, which is also the headquarters of Nodak Insurance. Nodak Insurance owns
this building and leases a portion
of the building to the NDFB and to AFBIS.
Battle Creek owns the building in which its offices
are located at 603 South Preece Street, Battle Creek, Nebraska.
Tri-State Ltd. leases the building at 506 5th
Street, Spearfish, South Dakota.
Direct Auto leases office space at 8700 West Bryn
Mawr Avenue, Chicago, Illinois under a lease that expires on August 31, 2029.
We believe that the offices currently occupied
by each of our subsidiaries are sufficient for their needs and any expected internal growth in the near future.
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings
We are party to litigation in the normal course
of business. Based upon information presently available to us, we do not consider any litigation to be
material. However, given the inherent
uncertainties of litigation, we cannot assure you that our results of operations and financial condition will not be
materially adversely
affected by any litigation.
23 

 
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.
24 

 
PART II
Item 5.
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Market Information
The Company’s common shares trade on the
Nasdaq Capital Market (“Nasdaq”) under the symbol “NODK.” As of February 28, 2025, there were
approximately 502
shareholders of record for the Company’s common stock.
Stock Performance Graph
The following graph
shows the cumulative total shareholder return (stock price increase plus dividends) on our common stock from December 31, 2019
through
December 31, 2024, along with the corresponding returns for the Russell 2000 Index (as the broad stock market index) and the Standard
& Poor’s
(S&P) 1500 US P&C Insurance Index (as the published industry index). The graph assumes that the value of the
investment in the common stock and each
index was $100 on December 31, 2019, and that all dividends were reinvested.
 
25 

 
Dividend Policy
Our Board of Directors continues to evaluate a
potential policy of paying regular cash dividends but has not decided on the amounts that may be paid, the
frequency of any payment, or
when any payments may begin. Therefore, the timing and the amount of cash dividends that may be paid to shareholders in
the future is
uncertain. In addition, the Board of Directors may declare and pay periodic special cash dividends in addition to, or in lieu of, regular
cash
dividends. In determining whether to declare or pay any dividends, whether regular or special, the Board of Directors will take into
account our financial
condition and results of operations, income tax considerations, capital requirements, industry standards, and economic
conditions. We cannot guarantee that
we will pay dividends or that, if paid, we will not reduce or eliminate dividends in the future.
If we pay dividends to our shareholders, we also
will be required to pay dividends to Nodak Mutual Group, unless Nodak Mutual Group elects to waive the
receipt of dividends. Because Nodak
Mutual Group has no current plans to utilize any cash dividends that it may receive from us, we anticipate that it will
waive its right
to receive substantially all of the dividends that are paid to it by us or immediately return substantially all of such funds to us as
an equity
contribution. However, because the Board of Directors of Nodak Mutual Group includes persons who are not members of our Board
of Directors, we
cannot provide any assurance that they will take such action with respect to any cash dividend that we may declare. If
we are unable to obtain a
commitment from the Board of Directors of Nodak Mutual Group that it will waive its right to receive any cash
dividend that we intend to declare or that it
will return the funds from such dividend to the Company as an equity contribution, our Board
of Directors may decide not to declare a cash dividend.
We are not currently subject to regulatory restrictions
on the payment of dividends to our shareholders. However, any future dividends may be restricted to
those received from our insurance
subsidiaries. North Dakota law limits the amount of dividends and other distributions that Nodak Insurance and Direct
Auto may pay to
us. For information regarding the regulatory restrictions on dividends our insurance subsidiaries can pay, refer to Part II, Item 7,
“Management’s
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” “Liquidity and Capital Resources,” and Part
II, Item 8, Note
22 “Statutory Net Income (Loss), Capital and Surplus, and Dividend Restrictions.”
Even if we receive dividends from Nodak Insurance
or Direct Auto, we may not declare any dividends to our shareholders due to working capital
requirements. We are not subject to regulatory
restrictions on the payment of dividends to shareholders, but we are subject to the requirements of the North
Dakota Business Corporation
Act. This law generally permits dividends or distributions to be paid, to the extent we still have the ability to pay our debts in
the
ordinary course of business after making the dividend or distribution payments. This law requires our total assets to exceed our total
liabilities plus the
amount that would be needed to satisfy the preferential rights upon dissolution of holders of stock with senior liquidation
rights if we were to be dissolved
at the time the dividend or distribution is paid.
Unregistered Securities
The Company has not sold any unregistered securities
within the past three years.
26 

 
Issuer Stock Purchases
The Company had no common shares outstanding prior
to March 13, 2017.
On August 11, 2021, our Board of Directors approved
an authorization for the repurchase of up to approximately $5,000 of the Company’s outstanding
common stock. During the year ended
December 31, 2021, we completed the repurchase of 81,095 shares of our common stock for $1,554 under this new
authorization. During the
year ended December 31, 2022, we completed the repurchase of 214,937 shares of our common stock for $3,446 to close out this
authorization.
On May 9, 2022, our Board of Directors approved
an authorization for the repurchase of up to approximately $10,000 of the Company’s outstanding
common stock. During the year ended
December 31, 2022, we completed the repurchase of 54,223 shares of our common stock for $734 under this
authorization. During the year
ended December 31, 2023, we repurchased an additional 548,549 shares of our common stock for $7,278, including the
effect from applicable
excise taxes. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we did not repurchase any shares of our common stock. At December 31,
2024, $2,052
remains available under this authorization.
Share repurchase activity during the three months ended December
31, 2024, is presented below:
Period in 2024
 
Total Number of 

Shares

Purchased
   
Average Price

Paid 

Per Share (3)
   
Total Number of 

Shares Purchased 

as Part of Publicly 

Announced Plans 

or Programs (1)
   
Maximum Approximate 
Dollar Value of Shares 

That May Yet Be 

Purchased Under the 

Plans or Programs (2)(3) 

(in thousands)
 
October 1 – 31, 2024
   
—    $
—     
—    $
2,052 
November 1 – 30, 2024
   
—     
—     
—     
2,052 
December 1 – 31, 2024
   
—     
—     
—     
2,052 
Total
   
—    $
—     
—    $
2,052 
(1)
Shares purchased pursuant to the May 9, 2022 publicly announced share repurchase authorization of up to approximately $10,000 of the
Company’s outstanding common stock.
(2)
Maximum dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased consist of up to approximately $2,052 under the May 9, 2022, publicly announced
share repurchase authorization.
(3)
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 imposed a 1% excise tax on the net value of certain share repurchases made after December 31,
2022. All
dollar amounts presented exclude such excise taxes, as applicable.
Item 6.
[Reserved]
27 

 
Item 7.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
The following discussion is intended to provide
a more comprehensive review of our operating results and financial condition than can be obtained from
reading the consolidated financial
statements alone. Unless otherwise noted, the information in the following discussion is being presented for our
continuing operations.
The discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in Part II,
Item
8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.” Some of the information contained in this discussion and analysis or set
forth elsewhere in this
2024 Annual Report constitutes forward-looking information that involves risks and uncertainties. Please see “Forward-Looking
Statements” and Part I,
Item 1A, “Risk Factors” for a discussion of important factors that could cause actual results
to differ materially from the results described, or implied by,
the forward-looking statements contained herein.
Our Management’s Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in this document discusses 2024 and 2023 items
and year-over-year comparisons
between 2024 and 2023 as well as discussions of 2022 items and year-over-year comparisons between 2023 and 2022,
which were included due
to the impacts of discontinued operations for those prior periods.
All dollar amounts, except per share amounts,
are in thousands.
Financial Highlights
2024 Consolidated Results of Continuing Operations
●
Net income of $6,600, or $0.31 per share basic and diluted
●
Net premiums earned of $310,110
●
Net investment income of $10,943
●
Net unfavorable prior year reserve development of $13,517
●
Underwriting loss of $2,321
●
Combined ratio of 100.7%
●
Operating cash flows of $15,082
2024 Consolidated Financial Condition
●
Total cash and investments of $385,094
●
Total assets of $526,545
●
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses of $137,288
●
Total liabilities of $281,914
●
Shareholders’ equity of $244,631
28 

 
Results of Continuing Operations
Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance
with GAAP. Management evaluates our operations by monitoring key measures of growth
and profitability, which may include the disclosure
of certain non-GAAP financial measures. Our results of operations are influenced by numerous factors
affecting the U.S. property and casualty
insurance industry including competition, weather, catastrophic events, innovation and emerging technologies,
changes in regulations,
inflation, general economic conditions, judicial trends, fluctuations in interest rates, and other changes in the financial markets.
Our premium levels and underwriting results have been, and will
continue to be, influenced by market conditions. The property and casualty insurance
industry has historically been characterized by soft
markets (periods of relatively high levels of price competition, less restrictive underwriting practices,
and generally low premium rates)
followed by hard markets (periods of capital shortages resulting in a lack of insurance availability, relatively low levels
of price competition,
more selective underwriting of risks, and relatively high premium rates). During soft markets, we may lose business to other carriers
offering competitive insurance at lower rates. We may also choose to reduce our premiums or limit premium increases leading to a reduction
in profit
margins and revenues. Our industry is also influenced by general economic conditions, which could reduce overall premium volume
for us and our
competitors. Additionally, the industry is impacted by changes in customer preferences, including customer demand for direct,
point-of-sale, or other non-
traditional distribution channels. We regularly monitor our performance and competitive position by line of
business and geographic market to determine
appropriate rate actions.
Premiums in the multi-peril crop insurance business are primarily
influenced by the types of crops planted, number of acres insured, and commodity prices
because the rates are established by the RMA rather
than individual insurance carriers. The expected experience of this business for the calendar year may
also significantly affect the reported
net earned premiums and losses due to the risk-sharing arrangement with the federal government. Multi-peril crop
insurance premiums are
generally written in the second quarter, and earned ratably over the period of risk, which generally extends into the fourth quarter.
Premiums in the crop hail insurance business are also generally written in the second quarter and earned ratably until the end of the
third quarter.
Premiums in our other lines of business are written and earned throughout
the year based on their coverage periods. Losses on this business are also
incurred throughout the year but are usually more frequent
and/or severe during periods of elevated weather-related activity.
Property Claims Service (“PCS”), a division of the Insurance
Services Office, maintains industry loss data related to catastrophe loss events. PCS defines a
catastrophe as an event that causes damage
of $25 million or more in insured property losses and affects a significant number of insureds. When reporting
on our losses from catastrophe
events, we may include losses from those events that were defined as a catastrophe by PCS or those events which may
include losses that
we believe are, or will be, material to our operations, either in amount or in number of claims made. The frequency and severity of
catastrophic
losses we experience in any year may significantly affect our results of operations and financial position. In analyzing the underwriting
performance of our property and casualty insurance business, we evaluate performance both including and excluding catastrophe losses.
Portions of our
catastrophe losses may be recoverable under our catastrophe reinsurance agreements.
For more information on the Company’s results of operations
by segment, see Part II, Item 8, Note 21 “Segment Information.”
29 

 
Years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
The consolidated net income from continuing operations for the Company
was $6,600 for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to net income of
$19,831 for the year ended December 31, 2023, and a net loss
of $38,685 for the year ended December 31, 2022.
The major components of our revenues and net income (loss) for the
three periods are shown below:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Revenues:
   
     
     
 
Net premiums earned
  $
310,110    $
292,117    $
271,740 
Fee and other income
   
1,938     
1,940     
1,381 
Net investment income
   
10,943     
8,034     
6,636 
Net investment gains (losses)
   
2,213     
1,929     
(11,975)
Total revenues
  $
325,204    $
304,020    $
267,782 
 
   
      
      
  
Components of net income (loss):
   
      
      
  
Net premiums earned
  $
310,110    $
292,117    $
271,740 
Losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
207,465     
186,516     
241,750 
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and other underwriting and general
expenses
   
104,966     
96,957     
78,908 
Underwriting gain (loss)
   
(2,321)    
8,644     
(48,918)
 
   
      
      
  
Fee and other income
   
1,938     
1,940     
1,381 
Net investment income
   
10,943     
8,034     
6,636 
Net investment gains (losses)
   
2,213     
1,929     
(11,975)
Goodwill impairment charge
   
(2,628)    
—     
— 
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
   
10,145     
20,547     
(52,876)
Income tax expense (benefit)
   
3,545     
716     
(14,191)
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
  $
6,600    $
19,831    $
(38,685)
30 

 
Net Premiums Earned
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Net premiums earned:
   
      
      
  
Direct premium
  $
341,885    $
325,590    $
299,607 
Assumed premium
   
2,984     
3,570     
6,550 
Ceded premium
   
(34,759)    
(37,043)    
(34,417)
Total net premiums earned
  $
310,110    $
292,117    $
271,740 
Net premiums earned for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased
$17,993, or 6.2%, to $310,110, compared to $292,117 for the year ended December
31, 2023.
Net premiums earned for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased
$20,377, or 7.5%, to $292,117, compared to $271,740 for the year ended December
31, 2022.
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Net premiums earned:
   
      
      
  
Private passenger auto
  $
90,314    $
83,360    $
77,605 
Non-Standard auto
   
95,225     
87,760     
66,911 
Home and farm
   
90,761     
83,389     
78,381 
Crop
   
21,142     
25,817     
34,721 
All other
   
12,668     
11,791     
14,122 
Total net premiums earned
  $
310,110    $
292,117    $
271,740 
Below are comments regarding significant changes in net premiums
earned by business segment:
Private passenger auto – Net premiums earned
for 2024 increased $6,954, or 8.3%, from 2023. Results were driven by new business growth in North
Dakota as well as significant rate
increases in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska, partially offset by lower new business and retention levels in
South Dakota and
Nebraska as a result of underwriting actions taken to improve profitability. Net premiums earned for 2023 increased $5,755, or 7.4%,
from
2022. This increase was driven by significant rate increases in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska, partially offset by lower new
business
production as a result of underwriting actions taken to improve profitability.
Non-Standard auto – Net premiums earned for
2024 increased $7,465, or 8.5%, from 2023. Results were driven by prior period new business growth in
Illinois and Arizona as well as
significant rate increases in the Chicago market where our non-standard auto business is concentrated, partially offset by
lower retention
compared to the prior year and the decision to exit Nevada. Net premiums earned for 2023 increased $20,849, or 31.2%, from 2022. This
increase was driven by new business growth, improved retention, and significant rate increases in the Chicago market.
Home and farm – Net premiums earned for 2024
increased $7,372, or 8.8%, from 2023. Results were driven by new business growth in North Dakota, rate
increases, and increased insured
property values, which were primarily the result of higher inflationary factors. These increases were partially offset by
lower retention
rates and new business levels in Nebraska and South Dakota as a result of underwriting actions taken to improve profitability. Net
premiums
earned for 2023 increased $5,008, or 6.4%, from 2022. This increase was driven by rate increases along with increased insured property
values,
which were primarily the result of higher inflationary factors. These premium increases were partially offset by lower levels
of new business production as
a result of underwriting actions taken to improve profitability
Crop – Net premiums earned for 2024 decreased
$4,675, or 18.1%, from 2023. This decrease was driven by a reduction in acres insured and lower
commodity prices, which are a key determinant
of premiums on a Federal multi-peril crop insurance policy, in the current year. Net premiums earned for
2023 decreased $8,904, or 25.6%,
from 2022. This decrease was driven by lower commodity prices and lower muti-peril crop insurance rates in 2023,
combined with fewer acres
insured compared to the prior year. In addition, the strong multi-peril crop results for 2023 resulted in higher ceded premiums as
required
by the SRA.
All other – Net premiums earned for 2024 increased
$877, or 7.4%, from 2023. Results were driven by rate and insured value increases for the commercial
and excess lines of business, partially
offset by the continued run-off of our participation in an assumed domestic and international reinsurance pool of
business. Net premiums
earned for 2023 decreased $2,331, or 16.5%, from 2022. This
31 

 
decrease was driven by the decision to non-renew our participation in an assumed
domestic and international reinsurance pool of business as of January 1,
2022.
Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses:
   
      
      
  
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
220,991    $
195,138    $
255,187 
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
784     
1,140     
2,369 
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
(14,310)    
(9,762)    
(15,806)
Total net losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
207,465    $
186,516    $
241,750 
The Company’s net losses and loss adjustment expenses for
the year ended December 31, 2024 increased $20,949, or 11.2%, to $207,465, compared to
$186,516 for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The Company’s net losses and loss adjustment expenses for
the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased $55,234, or 22.8%, to $186,516, compared to
$241,750 for the year ended December 31, 2022.
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses:
   
      
      
  
Private passenger auto
  $
51,869    $
60,204    $
65,420 
Non-Standard auto
   
76,130     
63,041     
39,400 
Home and farm
   
64,561     
50,935     
107,823 
Crop
   
9,071     
10,793     
19,418 
All other
   
5,834     
1,543     
9,689 
Total net losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
207,465    $
186,516    $
241,750 
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio:
   
      
      
  
Private passenger auto
   
57.4%     
72.2%     
84.3% 
Non-Standard auto
   
79.9%     
71.8%     
58.9% 
Home and farm
   
71.1%     
61.1%     
137.6% 
Crop
   
42.9%     
41.8%     
55.9% 
All other
   
46.1%     
13.1%     
68.6% 
Total loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio
   
66.9%     
63.8%     
89.0% 
Below are comments regarding significant changes in net losses and
loss adjustment expenses, and the net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratios by
business segment:
Private passenger auto – The net loss and loss
adjustment expenses ratio decreased 14.8 percentage points in 2024 compared to 2023. This decrease was
driven by lower levels of weather-related
losses in the current year due to the mild winter in the Midwest compared to elevated winter weather-related
losses in the prior year
as well as favorable prior year loss reserve development. Both periods were positively affected by earned premium growth. The net
loss
and loss adjustment expenses ratio decreased 12.1 percentage points in 2023 compared to 2022. This decrease was the result of recent significant
rate
increases, lower loss frequency compared to the prior year, and favorable prior year loss reserve development, partially offset by
elevated loss costs due to
high levels of inflation.
Non-Standard auto – The net loss and loss adjustment
expenses ratio increased 8.1 percentage points in 2024 compared to 2023. This increase was driven
by unfavorable prior year loss reserve
development related to elevated bodily injury losses, partially offset by earned premium growth resulting from new
business growth and
significant rate increases. We continue to take significant underwriting actions as a result of these elevated losses and challenging
market conditions. The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio increased 12.9 percentage points in 2023 compared to 2022. This increase
was driven by
elevated loss severity as a result of inflationary factors as well as unfavorable prior year loss reserve development, partially
offset by significant rate
increases.
32 

 
Home and farm – The net loss and loss adjustment
expenses ratio increased 10.0 percentage points in 2024 compared to 2023. This increase was driven by
higher loss severity and higher
non-catastrophe weather-related losses in North Dakota and Nebraska during 2024 compared to the prior year, partially
offset by earned
premium growth in the current year. The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio decreased 76.5 percentage points in 2023 compared
to
2022. This decrease was driven by the much-improved loss experience as a result of having no catastrophe losses during 2023 compared
to 2022, combined
with improved non-catastrophe weather losses and the significant rate increases and underwriting actions we implemented
to address the profitability on
these lines of business. Catastrophe losses, net of reinsurance, for the Home and Farm segment accounted
for 72.1 percentage points of the net loss and loss
adjustment expense ratio for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Crop – The net loss and loss adjustment expenses
ratio increased 1.1 percentage points in 2024 compared to 2023. The strong results for 2024 were the
result of favorable crop growing
conditions, similar to the prior year. The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio decreased 14.1 percentage points in
2023 compared
to 2022. This decrease was due to improved crop growing conditions in 2023 in comparison to 2022.
All other – The net loss and loss adjustment
expenses ratio increased 33.0 percentage points in 2024 compared to 2023. This increase was driven by
elevated large loss experience compared
to the prior year and an inter-segment reclassification of a large loss during 2023. The net loss and loss adjustment
expenses ratio decreased
55.5 percentage points in 2023 compared to 2022. This decrease was driven by improved loss experience related to the
commercial and excess
liability lines of business.
Underwriting and General Expenses and Expense Ratio
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Underwriting and general expenses:
   
      
      
  
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
  $
71,257    $
67,631    $
53,605 
Other underwriting and general expenses
   
33,709     
29,326     
25,303 
Total underwriting and general expenses
  $
104,966    $
96,957    $
78,908 
 
   
      
      
  
Expense ratio
   
33.8%     
33.2%     
29.0% 
The expense ratio is calculated by dividing other underwriting and
general expenses and amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs by net premiums
earned. The expense ratio measures a company’s
operational efficiency in producing, underwriting, and administering its insurance business. The overall
expense ratio increased 0.6 percentage
points in the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. The increase in the amortization
of deferred policy acquisition
costs is due to higher deferrable costs resulting from significant earned premium growth compared to the prior year, including
significant
growth in the Non-Standard Auto segment which generally pays higher agent commissions than our other segments. The increase in the other
underwriting and general expenses is due to the costs incurred in the current year associated with the execution of separation agreements
with our former
Chief Executive Officer and former Senior Vice President of Operations. The overall expense ratio increased 4.2 percentage
points in the year ended
December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. The increase in amortization of deferred policy acquisition
costs was driven by higher deferrable
costs resulting from overall premium growth compared to the prior year, including significant growth
in the non-standard auto segment which generally
pays higher agent commissions than our other segments. The increase in other underwriting
and general expenses was due to the impact of continued high
levels of inflation and 2022 expenses being favorably impacted by multi-peril
crop insurance final settlements.
33 

 
Underwriting Gain (Loss) and Combined Ratio
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Underwriting gain (loss):
   
      
      
  
Private passenger auto
  $
10,407    $
(1,536)   $
(9,548)
Non-Standard auto
   
(17,637)    
(12,860)    
508 
Home and farm
   
(2,373)    
7,557     
(52,644)
Crop
   
7,189     
8,702     
12,236 
All other
   
93     
6,781     
530 
Total underwriting gain (loss)
  $
(2,321)   $
8,644    $
(48,918)
 
   
      
      
  
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Combined ratio:
   
      
      
  
Private passenger auto
   
88.4%     
101.8%     
112.3% 
Non-Standard auto
   
118.5%     
114.6%     
99.3% 
Home and farm
   
102.6%     
91.0%     
167.2% 
Crop
   
66.0%     
66.3%     
64.7% 
All other
   
99.3%     
42.5%     
96.2% 
Total combined ratio
   
100.7%     
97.0%     
118.0% 
 
   
      
      
  
Underwriting gain (loss) measures the pre-tax profitability of our
insurance operations. It is derived by subtracting losses and loss adjustment expenses,
amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs,
and other underwriting and general expenses from net premiums earned. The combined ratio represents
the sum of these losses and expenses
as a percentage of net premiums earned and measures our overall underwriting profit.
The total underwriting gain (loss) decreased $10,965, or 126.9%,
for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. The total
underwriting gain (loss) increased $57,562, or 117.7%,
for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. These results were
driven by the factors discussed in the Losses
and Loss Adjustment Expenses and the Underwriting and General Expenses and Expense Ratio sections
above.
The overall combined ratio increased 3.7 percentage points in the
year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. The overall
combined ratio decreased 21.0 percentage points in the
year ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. These results were driven by
the factors discussed in the Losses and
Loss Adjustment Expenses and the Underwriting and General Expenses and Expense Ratio sections above.
Fee and Other Income
We had fee and other income of $1,938 for the year ended December
31, 2024, compared to $1,940 for the year ended December 31, 2023, and $1,381 for
the year ended December 31, 2022. Fee income is largely
attributable to the Non-Standard Auto segment and is a key component in measuring its
profitability. Fee and other income on this business
decreased to $1,219 for the year ended December 31, 2024, from $1,293 for the year ended December
31, 2023, due to elevated other income
in the prior year. Fee and other income for non-standard auto increased to $1,293 for the year ended December 31,
2023, from $831 for
the year ended December 31, 2022, due to an increase in policies that generate fee income.
Goodwill Impairment Charge
We had a goodwill impairment charge of $2,628 for the year ended
December 31, 2024, compared to $6,756 for the years ended December 31, 2023, and
$0 for the year ended December 31, 2022. See Part II,
Item 8, Note 10 “Goodwill and Other Intangibles” for additional information.
34 

 
Net Investment Income
The following table shows our average cash and invested assets,
net investment income, and return on average cash and invested assets for the reported
periods for continuing operations:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Average cash and invested assets
  $
371,110    $
335,821    $
391,584 
Net investment income
  $
10,943    $
8,034    $
6,636 
 
   
      
      
  
Gross return on average cash and invested assets
   
3.9%     
3.5%     
2.5% 
Net return on average cash and invested assets
   
3.0%     
2.6%     
1.7% 
 
   
      
      
  
Net investment income increased $2,909 for the year ended December
31, 2024, compared to the year ended December 31, 2023. This increase was
primarily driven by the higher interest rate environment which
resulted in higher reinvestment rates in our fixed income portfolio as well as higher yields
on our cash and cash equivalents, partially
offset by higher investment expenses. Net investment income increased $1,398 for the year ended December 31,
2023, compared to the year
ended December 31, 2022. This increase was primarily driven by higher reinvestment rates as well as a strategic increased
allocation to
fixed income securities in our investment portfolio.
Gross and net return on average cash and invested assets increased
year-over-year from 2023 to 2024, primarily driven by the favorable interest rate
environment that resulted in significantly higher net
investment income on an increased average balance of fixed income securities as well as cash and cash
equivalents (measured at fair value).
In addition, the increase in investments in high dividend yield equities resulted in relatively consistent year-over-year
dividend income
despite a reduction in the average equities balance (measured at fair value). The increase in average cash and invested assets was driven
by additional investments in fixed income securities as a result of positive operating cash flows during 2024.
Gross and net return on average cash and invested assets increased
year-over-year from 2022 to 2023, driven by the higher net investment income and a
higher proportion of the equity portfolio being invested
in high dividend yield equities in 2023, along with a decrease in average cash and invested assets
(measured at fair value). This decrease
in average cash and invested assets was driven by challenging equity market conditions, particularly during the
middle and later stages
of 2022, combined with investment sales as a result of an unusually high number of weather-related losses in 2022.
Net Investment Gains (Losses)
Net investment gains (losses) consisted of the following:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Gross realized gains
  $
1,341    $
13,841    $
7,083 
Gross realized losses, excluding credit impairment losses
   
(790)    
(1,745)    
(5,099)
Net realized gains
   
551     
12,096     
1,984 
Change in net unrealized gain on equity securities
   
1,662     
(10,167)    
(13,959)
Net investment gains (losses)
  $
2,213    $
1,929    $
(11,975)
 
   
      
      
  
We had net realized gains of $551 for the year ended December 31,
2024, compared to $12,096 for the year ended December 31, 2023, and $1,984 for the
year ended December 31, 2022. The elevated net realized
gains for the year ended December 31, 2023, were the result of a strategic liquidation of a
portfolio of equity securities. The gross
realized gains from the sale of these securities were largely offset by the elimination of the unrealized gain position
of these securities.
No credit impairment losses were reported during any of the periods presented.
We experienced an increase in net unrealized gains on equity securities
of $1,662 during the year ended December 31, 2024, attributable to overall
favorable equity markets during the current year. The change
in net unrealized gains on equity securities for 2023 was driven by the equity portfolio
liquidation noted above and the impact of changes
in fair value attributable to equity market volatility. The 2022 decreases were driven by the impact of
changes in fair value attributable
to unfavorable equity markets. We had net realized gains on the sale of equity securities of $750, $12,619, and $2,051
during the years
ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
35 

 
Our fixed income securities are classified as available for sale
because we will, from time to time, execute sales of securities that are not impaired,
consistent with our investment goals and policies.
The fixed income portion of the portfolio experienced net unrealized losses of $191 during the year
ended December 31, 2024, compared
to net unrealized gains of $9,168 during the year ended December 31, 2023. The changes were primarily the result of
changes in U.S. interest
rates. The change in the fair value of fixed income securities is not reflected in net income; rather it is reflected as a separate
component
(net of income taxes) of other comprehensive income. The fixed income portfolio experienced net unrealized losses of $39,971 during the
year
ended December 31, 2022.
Income (Loss) before Income Taxes
We had pre-tax income of $10,145 for the year ended December 31,
2024, a pre-tax income of $20,547 for the year ended December 31, 2023, and pre-tax
loss of $52,876 for the year ended December 31, 2022.
The year-over-year decrease in 2024 compared to 2023 was largely attributable to higher loss
severity and non-catastrophe weather-related
losses for Home and Farm in the states of North Dakota and Nebraska, unfavorable prior year loss reserve
development for Non-Standard
Auto, a goodwill impairment charge for Non-Standard Auto, and expenses incurred related to the separation agreements
with our former Chief
Executive Officer and former Senior Vice President of Operations, partially offset by net earned premium growth, improved loss
experience
for Private Passenger Auto, and higher net investment income. The year-over-year improvement in 2023 compared to 2022 was largely
attributable
to the significant catastrophe losses and significantly higher investment losses during 2022.
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
We recorded income tax expense of $3,545 for the year ended December
31, 2024, income tax expense of $716 for the year ended December 31, 2023, and
an income tax benefit of $14,191 for the year ended December
31, 2022. Including the impacts of discontinued operations and the loss on sale of
discontinued operations, we recorded an income tax
benefit of $3,192 for the year ended December 31, 2024, income tax expense of $963 for the year
ended December 31, 2023, and an income
tax benefit of $15,254 for the year ended December 31, 2022. Including the impacts of discontinued operations
and the loss on sale of
discontinued operations, our effective tax rate for 2024 was 35.2% compared to an effective tax rate of (22.6)% and 22.1% for 2023
and
2022, respectively. Our 2024 effective tax rate was impacted by several factors, but the loss on sale of discontinued operations, non-taxable
compensation-related expenses, and non-taxable goodwill impairment charge were the most significant drivers of the variance from the statutory
rate. Our
2023 effective tax rate was impacted by several factors, but the 2023 non-taxable goodwill impairment charge was the most significant
driver of the
variance from the statutory rate. Our 2022 effective tax rate was impacted by several factors, but the change in valuation
allowance and non-taxable
executive compensation were the most significant drivers of the variance from the statutory rate. The valuation
allowance against certain deferred income
tax assets was $2,506 as of December 31, 2024, $505 as of December 31, 2023, and $694 as of December
31, 2022.
Net Income (Loss)
We had net income before non-controlling interest of $6,600 for
the year ended December 31, 2024, net income of $19,831 for the year ended December
31, 2023, and a net loss of $38,685 for the year ended
December 31, 2022. The year-over-year decrease in 2024 compared to 2023 was largely attributable
to higher loss severity and non-catastrophe
weather-related losses for Home and Farm in the states of North Dakota and Nebraska, unfavorable prior year
loss reserve development for
Non-Standard Auto, a goodwill impairment charge for Non-Standard Auto, and expenses incurred related to the separation
agreements with
our former Chief Executive Officer and former Senior Vice President of Operations, partially offset by net earned premium growth,
improved
loss experience for Private Passenger Auto, and higher net investment income. The year-over-year improvement in 2023 compared to 2022
was
largely attributable to the significant catastrophe losses and significantly higher investment losses during 2022.
Return on Average Equity
For the year ended December 31, 2024, we had annualized return on
average equity, after non-controlling interest, of 2.8%, compared to annualized return
on average equity, after non-controlling interest,
of 7.9% and (13.6)% for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Average equity is calculated as the average between beginning and
ending equity, excluding non-controlling interest, for the period.
36 

 
Principal Revenue Items
Revenue is primarily derived from net premiums earned, net investment
income, and net investment gains (losses).
Gross and Net Premiums Written
Gross premiums written is equal to direct premiums
written and assumed premiums before the effect of ceded reinsurance. Gross premiums written are
recognized upon sale of new insurance
contracts or renewal of existing contracts. Net premiums written is equal to gross premiums written less premiums
ceded to reinsurers.
Premiums Earned
Premiums earned is the earned portion of net premiums written. Insurance
premiums on property and casualty policies are recognized in proportion to the
underlying risk insured and are earned ratably over the
duration of the policies or, in the case of crop insurance, over the period of risk to the Company. At
the end of each accounting period,
the portion of the premiums that is not yet earned is included in unearned premiums and is realized as revenue in
subsequent periods over
the remaining term of the policy or period of risk. Our property and casualty policies, other than some of our auto lines and the
non-standard
auto policies, typically have a term of twelve months.
Due to the nature of the crop planting and harvesting cycle and
the deadlines for filing and processing claims under the federal crop insurance program,
insurance premiums for multi-peril crop insurance
are recognized and earned during the period of risk, which usually begins in spring and ends with
harvest in the fall. Under the federal
crop insurance program, farmers must purchase crop insurance with respect to spring planted crops by March 15. By
July 15, the farmer
must report the number of acres planted in each crop. On September 1, the insurer bills the farmer for the insurance premium, which is
due and payable by the farmer by October 1. If the farmer does not pay the premium by such date, the insurer will charge interest at a
rate of 15% because
the insurer is required to pay the farmer’s portion of the premium to the FCIC by November 15, regardless of
whether the farmer pays the premium to the
insurer. Except for claims occurring in the spring (primarily for prevented planting and required
replanting claims), claims are required to be filed with the
FCIC by December 15. A different cycle exists for crops planted in the fall,
such as winter wheat, but the vast majority of crop insurance we write covers
crops planted in the spring.
Net Investment Income and Net Investment
Gains (Losses)
We invest our excess cash in fixed income and equity securities.
Investment income includes interest and dividends earned on invested assets and is
reported net of investment-related expenses. Net investment
gains (losses) are reported separately from net investment income. We recognize realized gains
when investments are sold for an amount
greater than their cost or amortized cost (in the case of fixed income securities) and realized losses when
investments are sold for an
amount less than their cost or amortized cost or when credit impairments are recorded, as applicable. We recognize changes in
unrealized
gains and losses of equity securities in net income as part of net investment gains (losses). These gains and losses may be significant
given the
fair market value of the equity portfolio and the inherent volatility in equity markets. The changes in unrealized gains and
losses on fixed income securities
are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes. Therefore, these changes have
no impact on net income but do impact
shareholders’ equity.
The portfolio of investments for NI Holdings and its insurance subsidiaries
is managed by Conning, Inc., which has discretion to buy and sell securities in
accordance with the investment policy approved by our
Board of Directors.
Principal Expense Items
Our expenses consist primarily of losses and loss adjustment expenses,
amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, other underwriting and general
expenses, and income taxes.
Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses
Losses and loss adjustment expenses represent the largest expense
item and include (1) claim payments made, (2) estimates for future claim payments and
changes in those estimates from prior periods, and
(3) costs associated with investigating, defending, and adjusting claims, including legal fees.
Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Other
Underwriting and General Expenses
Expenses incurred to underwrite risks are referred to as policy
acquisition costs. Policy acquisition costs consist of commission expenses, state premium
taxes, and certain other underwriting expenses
that vary with and are primarily related to the writing and
37 

 
acquisition of new and renewal business. These policy acquisition costs are
deferred and amortized over the effective period of the related insurance
policies. Other underwriting and general expenses consist of
salaries, professional fees, office supplies, depreciation, and all other operating expenses not
otherwise classified separately.
Income Taxes
Current income taxes represent amounts paid or
owed to the federal government and certain states whose payment is based upon net income (subject to
regulatory adjustments) generated
by the Company. The generation of net losses may result in income tax benefits. As noted above, it does not include state
premium taxes
that are based purely on the collection of policyholder premiums.
We use the asset and liability method of accounting
for deferred income taxes. Deferred income taxes arise from the recognition of temporary differences
between financial statement carrying
amounts and the income tax bases of its assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely
than not that
some portion of the deferred income tax asset will not be realized. The effect of a change in tax rates is recognized in the period of
the
enactment date. Total income taxes reflect both current income taxes and the change in the net deferred income tax asset or liability,
excluding amounts
attributed to accumulated other comprehensive income.
Critical Accounting Policies
General
The preparation of financial statements in accordance
with GAAP requires both the use of estimates and judgment relative to the application of appropriate
accounting policies. We are required
to make estimates and assumptions in certain circumstances that affect amounts reported in our consolidated financial
statements and related
footnotes. We evaluate these estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis based on historical developments, market conditions,
industry
trends, and other information that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. There can be no assurance that actual results
will conform
to these estimates and assumptions and that reported results of operations would not be materially adversely affected by
the need to make accounting
adjustments to reflect changes in these estimates and assumptions from time to time. We believe the following
policies are the most sensitive to estimates
and judgments.
Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses
How reserves are established
With respect to our traditional property and casualty insurance
products, we maintain reserves for the payment of claims (indemnity losses) and expenses
related to adjusting those claims (loss adjustment
expenses). Our liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses consists of (1) case reserves,
which are reserves for claims that
have been reported to us, and (2) IBNR, which represents reserves for claims that have been incurred but have not yet
been reported and
for the future development of reported claims. As some claims may not be reported for several years, the liability for unpaid losses and
loss adjustment expenses may include significant estimates for IBNR based on the time necessary to settle the claim.
Loss adjustment expenses consist of two components – allocated
loss adjustment expenses and unallocated loss adjustment expenses. Allocated loss
adjustment expenses are the expenses for defense and
cost containment, including legal fees, court costs, and investigation fees, which are linked to the
settlement of specific individual
claims or losses. Unallocated loss adjustment expenses are expenses that generally cannot be associated with a specific
claim, including
internal costs such as salaries and other overhead costs. Estimates of future costs to administer reported and unreported claims for both
allocated and unallocated expenses are included in IBNR.
When a claim is reported to one of the insurance companies, its
claims personnel establish a case reserve for the estimated amount of the ultimate payment
to the extent it can be determined or estimated,
in many cases a default reserve is utilized until the claims personnel can determine a more claim specific
amount. The amount of the loss
reserve for the reported claim is based primarily upon an evaluation of coverage, liability, damages suffered, and any other
information
considered pertinent to estimating the exposure presented by the claim. Each claim is contested or settled individually based upon its
merits,
and some property and casualty claims may take years to resolve, especially in situations where legal action may be involved.
Case reserves are reviewed
on a regular basis and are updated as new information becomes available.
When a catastrophe occurs, which in our case usually involves the
weather perils of wind and hail, we utilize mapping technology, through geographic
coding of our property risks, to overlay the path of
the storm. This enables us to establish estimated damage amounts based on the wind speed and size of
the hail for case or per claim loss
amounts. This process allows us to determine within a
38 

 
reasonable time (5-7 days) an estimated number of claims and estimated losses from
the storm. We have also begun reviewing the results of the predicted
cost of the claim generated by the catastrophe models as a reasonability
check on the anticipated cost of the storm. If we estimate the damages to be in
excess of half of the retained catastrophe amount, reinsurers
are notified immediately of a potential loss so that we can quickly recover reinsurance
payments once the retention is exceeded.
We estimate multi-peril crop insurance losses on a quarterly basis
based upon historical loss patterns, current crop conditions, current weather patterns, and
input from crop loss adjusters. These estimates
have proven to be reasonably accurate indicators of our anticipated losses for this line of business.
Our actuaries assist with the estimation of the liability for unpaid
losses and loss adjustment expenses. The actuaries prepare estimates by first deriving an
actuarially based estimate of the ultimate cost
of total losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred as of the financial statement date based on established
actuarial methods as described
below. We then reduce the estimated ultimate loss and loss adjustment expenses by loss and loss adjustment expenses
payments and case
reserves carried as of the financial statement date. The actuarially determined estimate is based upon indications from various actuarial
methodologies including paid chain-ladder, incurred chain-ladder, Bornhuetter-Ferguson, weighted averages of the methods, and judgment.
The specific
method used to estimate the ultimate losses varies depending on the judgment of the actuaries as to what is the most appropriate
for the line of business.
Management reviews these estimates and supplements the actuarial analysis with information not fully incorporated
into the actuarially based estimate,
such as changes in the external business environment and internal company processes. Management may
adjust the actuarial estimates based on this
supplemental information in order to arrive at the amount recorded in the consolidated financial
statements.
A further discussion of the actuarial methodologies used follows:
Bornhuetter-Ferguson Method - The Bornhuetter-Ferguson
Method is a blended method that explicitly considers both actual loss development to date
and expected future loss emergence. This method
is applied on both a paid loss basis and an incurred loss basis. This method uses selected loss
development patterns to calculate the
expected percentage of losses unpaid (or unreported). The expected future loss component of the method is calculated
by multiplying earned
premium for the given exposure period by a selected a priori (i.e. deductive) loss ratio. The resulting dollars are then multiplied by
the expected percentage of unpaid (or unreported) losses described above. This provides an estimate of future paid (or reported) losses
that is then added to
actual paid (or incurred) loss data to produce the estimated ultimate loss.
Paid and Case Incurred Loss Development (Chain-Ladder) Method
- The Paid and Case Incurred Loss Development Method utilizes ratios of
cumulative paid losses, case incurred losses, or paid loss adjustment
expenses at each age of development as a percent of the preceding development age.
Selected ratios are then multiplied together to produce
a set of loss development factors which when applied to the most current data value, by accident
period, develop the estimated ultimate
losses or loss adjustment expenses. Ultimate losses or loss adjustment expenses are then selected for each accident
year from the various
methods employed.
Ratio of Paid Allocated Loss Adjustment Expenses to Paid Loss
Method - The Ratio of Paid Allocated Loss Adjustment Expenses to Paid Loss Method
utilizes the ratio of paid allocated loss adjustment
expenses to paid losses and is similar to the Paid and Case Incurred Loss Development (Chain-Ladder)
Method described above, except that
the data projected are the ratios of paid allocated loss adjustment expenses to paid losses. The projected ultimate ratio
is then multiplied
by the selected ultimate losses, by accident year, to yield the ultimate allocated loss adjustment expenses. Allocated loss adjustment
expenses reserves are calculated by subtracting paid losses from ultimate allocated loss adjustment expenses.
The process of estimating loss reserves involves a high degree of
judgment and is subject to a number of variables. These variables can be affected by both
internal and external events, such as changes
in claims handling procedures/staffing, inflation, weather, legal trends, and regulatory and legislative changes.
The impact of many of
these items on ultimate costs for losses and loss adjustment expenses is difficult to estimate. Loss reserve estimation is also affected
by the volume of claims, the potential severity of individual claims, the determination of occurrence date for a claim, and reporting
lags (the time between
the occurrence of the policyholder event and when it is actually reported to the insurer). Informed judgment is
applied throughout the process, including the
application of various individual experiences and expertise to multiple sets of data and
analyses. We continually refine our estimates of unpaid losses and
loss adjustment expenses in a regular ongoing process as historical
loss experience develops and additional claims are reported and settled. We consider all
significant facts and circumstances known at
the time the liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses are established.
There is an inherent amount of uncertainty in the establishment
of liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses. This uncertainty is greatest in
the current and most recent accident years
due to the more recent nature of the claims being reported and relatively small percentage of these claims that
have been reported, investigated,
and adjusted by our claims staff. Therefore, the reserves carried in these more recent accident years are generally more
conservative
than those carried for older accident years. As we have the opportunity to investigate and adjust the reported claims, both the case and
IBNR
reserves are adjusted to more closely reflect the ultimate expected loss.
39 

 
Other factors that may have an impact on our case and IBNR reserves
include, but are not limited to, those described below.
Changes in liability law and public attitudes regarding damage
awards
Laws governing liability claims and judicial interpretations thereof
can change over time, which can expand the scope of coverage anticipated by insurers
when initially establishing reserves for claims.
In addition, public attitudes regarding damage awards can result in judges and juries granting higher
recoveries for damages than expected
by claims personnel when reserves are established. In addition, these changes can result in both increased claim
frequency and severity
as both plaintiffs and their legal counsel perceive the opportunity for higher damage awards. Reserves established for claims that
occurred
in prior years would not have anticipated these legal changes and, therefore, could prove to be inadequate for the ultimate losses paid
by the
Company, causing us to experience adverse development and higher loss payments in future years.
Change in claims handling and/or setting case reserves
Changes in Company personnel and/or the approach to how claims are
reported, adjusted, and reserved may affect the reserves we establish. As discussed
above, the setting of IBNR reserves is not an exact
science and involves the expert judgment of an actuary. One actuary’s reserve opinion may differ
slightly from another actuary’s
opinion. This is the primary reason why the IBNR reserve estimate is customarily reported as a range by a company’s
actuary, which
provides a company with an acceptable range to use in establishing its best estimate for IBNR reserves.
Economic inflation
A sudden and extreme increase in the economic inflation rate could
have a significant impact on our case and IBNR reserves. When establishing case
reserves, claims personnel generally establish an amount
that in their opinion will provide a conservative amount to settle the loss. If the time to settle the
claim extends over a period of
years, which is possible but unlikely as we usually settle claims in less than a year on average, the initial reserve may not
anticipate
an economic inflation rate that is significantly higher than the current inflation rate. This can also apply to IBNR reserves. Should
the economic
inflation rate increase significantly, we may not anticipate the need to adjust the IBNR reserves accordingly, which could
lead to deficient IBNR reserves.
Increases or decreases in claim severity for reasons other than
inflation
Factors exist that can drive the cost to settle claims for reasons
other than standard inflation. For example, demand surge caused by a significant
catastrophe, such as a derecho, has an impact on not
only the availability and cost of building materials such as roofing and other materials, but also the
availability and cost of labor.
Numerous other factors could also cause claim severity to increase beyond what our historic reserves would reflect. In
addition, unexpected
increases in labor, healthcare, or building material costs and other factors may cause fluctuations in the ultimate development of the
case reserves.
Actual settlement experience different from historical data trends
When establishing IBNR reserves, our actuaries consider many of
the factors discussed above. One of the more important factors that is considered when
setting reserves is the past or historical claim
settlement experience. Our actuaries consider factors such as the number of files entering litigation, payment
patterns, length of time
it takes our claims personnel to settle the claims, and average payment amounts when estimating reserve amounts. Should future
settlement
patterns change due to the legal environment, our claims handling philosophy, or personnel, it may have an impact on the future claims
payments, which could cause existing reserves to either be redundant (excessive) or deficient (below) compared to the actual loss amount.
Change in Reporting Lag
As discussed above, we utilize historical patterns to provide an
accurate estimate of what will take place in the future. Should we experience an unexpected
delay in reporting time (claims are slower
to be reported than in the past), we may underestimate the anticipated number of future claims, which could
cause the ultimate loss we
may experience to be underestimated. A lag in reporting may be caused by changes in how claims are reported, the types or lines
of business
we write, our distribution system, and the geographic area where we choose to insure risk.
Due to the inherent uncertainty underlying loss reserve estimates,
final resolution of the estimated liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
may be higher or lower than the related loss
reserves at the reporting date. Therefore, actual paid losses, as claims are settled in the future, may be
materially higher or lower
in amount than current loss reserves. We reflect adjustments to the liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses in the
results
of operations during the period in which the estimates are changed.
40 

 
Investments
Our fixed income securities and equity securities are classified
as available-for-sale and carried at estimated fair value as determined by management based
upon quoted market prices or a recognized
independent pricing service at the reporting date for those or similar investments. Changes in unrealized
investment gains or losses on
the fixed income securities, net of applicable income taxes, are reflected directly in shareholders’ equity as a component of
other
comprehensive income (loss) and, accordingly, have no effect on net income (loss). Changes in unrealized investment gains or losses on
equity
securities are reported in net income (loss). Investment income from fixed income securities is recognized when earned, and realized
investment gains
(losses) are recognized when investments are sold, the fair value of equity securities change, or credit impairments
are recognized.
For additional information on our investments,
see Part II, Item 8, Note 4 “Investments” and Note 5 “Fair Value Measurements.”
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
Certain direct policy acquisition costs consisting of commissions,
state premium taxes, and other direct underwriting expenses that vary with and are
primarily related to the production of business are
deferred and amortized over the effective period of the related insurance policies as the underlying policy
premiums are earned.
At December 31, 2024 and 2023, deferred policy
acquisition costs (“DAC”) and the related liability for unearned premiums were as follows:
 
 
December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
 
Deferred policy acquisition costs
  $
26,300    $
26,790 
Liability for unearned premiums
   
126,498     
126,100 
The method followed in computing DAC limits the
amount of deferred costs to their estimated realizable value, which gives effect to the premium to be
earned, related investment income,
losses and loss adjustment expenses, and certain other costs expected to be incurred as the premium is earned. Future
changes in estimates,
the most significant of which is expected losses and loss adjustment expenses, may require adjustments to DAC. If the estimation of
net
realizable value indicates that DAC are not recoverable, they would be written off or a premium deficiency reserve would be established.
Income Taxes
Current income taxes represent amounts paid or
owed to the federal government and certain states whose payment is based upon net income (subject to
regulatory adjustments) generated
by the Company. The generation of net losses may result in income tax benefits, a portion of which may be in the form
of refunds of prior
income taxes paid to taxing authorities. We use the asset and liability method of accounting for deferred income taxes. Deferred income
taxes arise from the recognition of temporary differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the income tax bases of our
assets and
liabilities. A valuation allowance is established when it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred income
tax asset will not be realized. Total
income taxes reflect both current income taxes and the change in the net deferred income tax asset
or liability, excluding amounts attributed to accumulated
other comprehensive income.
We had gross deferred income tax assets of $15,946
at December 31, 2024, and $18,172 at December 31, 2023, arising primarily from unearned premiums,
loss reserve discounting, net unrealized
investment losses, and net operating loss carryforwards. A valuation allowance is required to be established for any
portion of the deferred
income tax asset for which we believe it is more likely than not that it will not be realized. A valuation allowance of $2,506 and
$505 was
maintained at December 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively.
We had gross deferred income tax liabilities of $6,116 at December
31, 2024, and $9,254 at December 31, 2023, arising primarily from deferred policy
acquisition costs and other intangible assets.
We exercise significant judgment in evaluating
the amount and timing of recognition of the resulting income tax liabilities and assets. These judgments
require us to make projections
of future taxable income. The judgments and estimates we make in determining our deferred income tax assets, which are
inherently subjective,
are reviewed on a continual basis as regulatory and business factors change. Any reduction in estimated future taxable income may
require
us to record a valuation allowance against our deferred income tax assets.
As of December 31, 2024, we had no material unrecognized
income tax benefits or accrued interest and penalties. Federal income tax returns for the years
2020 through 2023 remain subject to examination.
41 

 
Changing Climate Conditions
Longer-term natural catastrophe trends may be changing, and new
types of catastrophe losses may be developing due to climate change, a phenomenon that
has been associated with extreme weather events
linked to rising temperatures, and includes effects on global weather patterns, greenhouse gases, sea, land
and air temperatures, sea
levels, rain, hail, and snow. The frequency, number, and severity of these losses are unpredictable. The extent of losses from a
catastrophe
is a function of both the total amount of insured exposure in the area affected by the event and the severity of the event. Our ability
to
effectively manage catastrophe risk is dependent, in part, on our reliance on various catastrophe models, which may produce unreliable
output as a result of
inaccurate or incomplete data, along with the inherent uncertainty of future frequency and severity of losses. The
impact of changing climate conditions on
the overall insurance industry may also materially affect the availability and cost of reinsurance
to us. In addition, these changes could impact the
creditworthiness of issuers of securities in which we invest, subjecting our investment
portfolio to increased credit and interest rate risk, with the potential
for reduced investment returns and/or material realized or unrealized
losses.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We expect to generate sufficient funds from our operations and maintain
a high degree of liquidity in our investment portfolio to meet the demands of claim
settlements and operating expenses for the foreseeable
future. Our primary sources of funds are premium collections, investment earnings, and fixed
income maturities.
We also have a $3,000 line of credit with Wells
Fargo Bank, N.A. The terms of the line of credit include a floating interest rate of 2.50% above the daily
simple secured overnight financing
rate. There were no outstanding amounts during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, or 2022. This line of credit
is scheduled to expire
on December 13, 2025.
The changes in cash and cash equivalents for continuing
and discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022 were as
follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Net cash flows from operating activities
  $
38,506    $
51,028    $
(15,294)
Net cash flows from investing activities
   
(4,541)    
(8,813)    
25,048 
Net cash flows from financing activities
   
(3,643)    
(7,466)    
(18,281)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
  $
30,322    $
34,749    $
(8,527)
For the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash provided by operating
activities totaled $38,506 compared to $51,028 net cash provided by operating
activities a year ago. This change was primarily driven
by the severance payments to our former Chief Executive Officer and former Senior Vice President
of Operations in the current year as
well as the receipt of a significant income tax refund during 2023.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash used by investing
activities totaled $4,541 compared to $8,813 net cash used by investing activities a year
ago. This change was primarily attributable
to the proceeds from the sale of Westminster as well as a decrease in the net cash outflows for fixed income
securities in the current
year, partially offset by a decrease in the cash inflows from equity securities in the current year.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash used by financing
activities totaled $3,643 compared to $7,466 a year ago. This decrease in cash used was
attributable to a reduction in share repurchases
in the current year partially offset by the final pooling settlement between Nodak Insurance and
Westminster.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, net cash provided by operating
activities totaled $51,028 compared to $15,294 net cash used by operating activities
during 2022. This change was primarily driven by
lower claim payments and the receipt of a significant income tax refund during 2023.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, net cash used by investing
activities totaled $8,813 compared to $25,048 net cash provided by investing activities
during 2022. This change was primarily attributable
to a decrease in maturities and sales of fixed income securities and an increase in purchases of fixed
income securities during 2023 compared
to 2022, partially offset by an increase in sales of equity securities and a decrease in purchases of equity securities.
42 

 
For the year ended December 31, 2023, net cash used by financing
activities totaled $7,466 compared to $18,281 during 2022. This decrease in cash used
was attributable to installment payments on the
Westminster consideration payable during 2022, partially offset by an increase in share repurchases during
2023 compared to 2022.
As a holding company, a principal source of long-term liquidity
will be dividend payments from our directly-owned subsidiaries.
Nodak Insurance is restricted by the insurance laws of North Dakota
as to the amount of dividends or other distributions it may pay to NI Holdings. North
Dakota law sets the maximum amount of dividends
that may be paid by Nodak Insurance during any twelve-month period after notice to, but without prior
approval of, the North Dakota Insurance
Department. This amount cannot exceed the lesser of (i) 10% of the Company’s surplus as regards policyholders
as of the preceding
December 31, or (ii) the Company’s statutory net income for the preceding calendar year (excluding realized investment gains), less
any
prior dividends paid during such twelve-month period. In addition, any insurance company other than a life insurance company may carry
forward net
income from the preceding two calendar years, not including realized investment gains, less any dividends actually paid during
those two calendar years.
Dividends in excess of this amount are considered “extraordinary” and are subject to the approval
of the North Dakota Insurance Department.
The amount available for payment of dividends from Nodak Insurance
to NI Holdings during 2025 without the prior approval of the North Dakota
Insurance Department is approximately $8,273 as of December
31, 2024. No dividends were declared or paid by Nodak Insurance during the years ended
December 31, 2024 and 2023. The Nodak Insurance
Board of Directors declared and paid dividends of $3,000 to NI Holdings during the year ended
December 31, 2022.
The amount available for payment of dividends from Direct Auto to
NI Holdings during 2025 without the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance
Department is approximately $3,146 as of December 31,
2024. No dividends were declared or paid by Direct Auto during the years ended December 31,
2024, 2023, or 2022.
Prior to its payment of any dividend, Nodak Insurance will be required
to provide notice of the dividend to the North Dakota Insurance Department. This
notice must be provided to the North Dakota Insurance
Department 30 days prior to the payment of an extraordinary dividend and 10 days prior to the
payment of an ordinary dividend. The North
Dakota Insurance Department has the power to limit or prohibit dividend payments if an insurance company is
in violation of any law or
regulation. These restrictions or any subsequently imposed restrictions may affect our future liquidity.
Westminster was sold on June 30, 2024, and therefore no dividends
are available to be paid to NI Holdings subsequent to that date. No dividends were
declared or paid by Westminster during the years ended
December 31, 2024, 2023 or 2022. See Part II, Item 8, Note 20 “Discontinued Operations” for
additional information.
Contractual Obligations
The primary contractual obligations of the Company
include gross loss and loss adjustment expenses payments as well as operating and finance lease
obligations.
The Company’s unpaid losses and loss adjustment
expenses were $137,288 as of December 31, 2024. Historical payment experience indicates that
approximately 46% of this amount will be
paid during 2025 and another 37% will be paid over the subsequent two years. The actual timing and amounts of
these payments in the future
may vary.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
For a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements,
see Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting Pronouncements.”
43 

 
Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Market
Risk
Market risk is the risk that a company will incur
losses due to adverse changes in the fair value of financial instruments. We have exposure to three
principal types of market risk through
our investment activities: interest rate risk, credit risk, and equity risk. Our primary market risk exposure is to
changes in interest
rates. We have not entered, and do not plan to enter, into any derivative financial instruments for hedging, trading, or speculative
purposes.
Interest Rate Risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that a company
will incur economic losses due to adverse changes in interest rates. Our exposure to interest rate changes
primarily results from our
significant holdings of fixed income securities. Fluctuations in interest rates have a direct impact on the fair value of these
securities.
We develop our investment strategies based on
a number of factors, including estimated duration of reserve liabilities, short and long-term liquidity needs,
general economic conditions,
expected rates of inflation and regulatory requirements. The portfolio duration of the fixed income securities in our
investment portfolio
at December 31, 2024 was 4.77 years. These fixed income securities include U.S. government bonds, securities issued by government
agencies,
obligations of state and local governments and governmental authorities, and corporate bonds, most of which are exposed to changes in
prevailing
interest rates. These fixed income securities may experience significant fluctuations in fair value resulting from changes
in interest rates and are carried as
available for sale. We manage the exposure to risks associated with interest rate fluctuations through
active management and consultation with our outside
fixed income portfolio manager.
Higher interest rates, oftentimes correlated to
inflation, reduce the carrying value of our fixed income and short-term investments, negatively impacting the
Company’s book value
in the short-term. Over the long-term, however, higher interest rates provide an incremental benefit to our net investment income
over
time as excess cash and proceeds of maturing bonds are reinvested at higher rates. We manage our exposure to interest rate increases by
monitoring
the duration within our investment portfolio and maintaining maturities that minimize forced sales within the portfolio.
Additionally, we hold certain fixed income securities
that have call features. In a potential declining interest rate environment, these securities may be
called by their issuer and replaced
with securities bearing lower interest rates.
If we are required to sell fixed income securities
in a rising interest rate environment, we may recognize investment losses.
The table below shows the interest rate sensitivity
of our fixed income securities (including both continuing and discontinued operations) measured in
terms of fair value (which is equal
to the carrying value for all of our investment securities that are subject to interest rate changes) at December 31, 2024
and 2023:
 
 
As of December 31, 2024
   
As of December 31, 2023
 
Hypothetical Change in Interest Rate
 
Estimated Change 
in Fair Value
   
Fair Value
   
Estimated Change 
in Fair Value
   
Fair Value
 
200 basis point increase
  $
(28,085)   $
279,627    $
(31,125)   $
316,606 
100 basis point increase
   
(14,687)    
293,025     
(15,826)    
331,905 
No change
   
—     
307,712     
—     
347,731 
100 basis point decrease
   
13,509     
321,221     
16,199     
363,930 
200 basis point decrease
   
27,977     
335,689     
32,572     
380,303 
The interest
rate exposure of our portfolio was proportionately consistent in the current year compared to the prior year, which is expected given
the
generally consistent composition and duration of the fixed income portfolio over this time.
44 

 
Credit Risk
Credit risk is the potential economic loss principally
arising from adverse changes in the financial condition of a specific debt issuer. We address this risk
by investing primarily in fixed
income securities that are rated investment grade by Moody’s Investors Services, Inc. or an equivalent rating quality. We
also work
in conjunction with our outside fixed income portfolio manager to monitor the financial condition of all of the issuers of fixed income
securities
in the portfolio. Additionally, our investment policy includes diversification rules that limit the credit exposure to any
single issuer or asset class.
Equity Risk
Equity price risk is the risk that we will incur
economic losses due to adverse changes in equity prices. Our equity portfolio is subject to a variety of risk
factors, including general
economic conditions which influence the performance of the underlying industries and companies within those industries.
Industry and company-specific
risks also have the potential to substantially affect the value of our portfolio. Our investment policy helps mitigate these
risks by
diversifying the portfolio and establishing parameters to help manage exposures.
45 

 
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
REPORT
OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors
NI Holdings, Inc. 
Opinions on the Consolidated Financial Statements and Internal
Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated
balance sheet of NI Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2024, and the
consolidated statements
of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year ended December 31,
2024,
and the schedule listed in Item 15(a)(2) (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). We also have
audited the Company’s
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal
Control – Integrated Framework: (2013) issued
by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
In our opinion, the consolidated financial
statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of
December 31, 2024,
and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in
the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial
reporting as of
December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework: (2013) issued
by COSO.
We also have audited the adjustments to the Company’s
2023 and 2022 consolidated financial statements to retrospectively apply the change in accounting
for (a) discontinued operations described
in Note 3 and Note 20, and (b) the adoption of ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280) – Improvements to
Reportable Segment Disclosures
described in Note 21. In our opinion, such adjustments are appropriate and have been properly applied. We were not
engaged to audit, review,
or apply any procedures to the 2023 or 2022 consolidated financial statements of the Company other than with respect to the
adjustments,
and, accordingly, we do not express an opinion or any other form of assurance on the 2023 or 2022 consolidated financial statements taken
as
a whole.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible
for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting,
and for its assessment
of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on
Internal
Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s
consolidated financial statements and an opinion
on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We are a public accounting firm registered
with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be
independent with respect
to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and
Exchange
Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the
standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable
assurance about whether the consolidated
financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective
internal control over financial
reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audit of the consolidated financial statements
included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements,
whether due to error or fraud,
 and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence
regarding the amounts
and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and
significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal
control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk
that a material weakness
exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed
risk. Our audit also included performing
such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit
provides a reasonable basis for our opinions.
Definitions and Limitations of Internal
Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process
designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting
and the preparation of reliable consolidated
financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally
46 

 
accepted accounting principles. A company’s
 internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1)  pertain to the
maintenance of records that,
in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide
reasonable
 assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management
 and
directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition,
use, or disposition of
the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal
control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of
effectiveness to future
 periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or that the degree of
compliance
with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matters communicated below
 are matters arising from the current-period audit of the consolidated financial statements that were
communicated or required to be communicated
to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated
financial statements
and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not
alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical
audit matters below,
providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.
Evaluation of Losses and Loss Adjustment
Expenses Reserves
Critical Audit Matter Description
On December 31, 2024, the Company’s liability
for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses was approximately $137 million. As described in Note 3
and 8, the Company’s property
and casualty insurance loss and loss expenses reserves (referred to as “losses and loss expenses reserves”), are determined
by the Company using actuarial methods, models, assumptions, and judgment to estimate the reserves required to pay for and settle all
outstanding insured
claims as of the consolidated financial statement date. There is significant uncertainty inherent in determining management’s
best estimate of the losses and
loss expenses reserves, requiring the use of informed actuarially based estimates and management’s
judgment. The actuarial estimate of losses and loss
expenses reserves is subject to review and adjustment by Company management.
Losses and loss expenses are inherently uncertain
as to timing and amount and the recorded losses and loss expense reserves may vary materially from the
actual ultimate cost of claims.
Given the subjectivity in estimating ultimate losses and loss expenses, due to uncertainties concerning the future emergence
of losses
and loss expenses, inflation trends, and the judicial environment, among other factors, auditing losses and loss expenses reserves involved
an
especially high degree of auditor judgment, including the need to involve an actuarial specialist.
How the Critical Matter Was Addressed in the
Audit
We obtained an understanding, evaluated the design,
 and tested the operating effectiveness of certain internal controls over the Company’s reserving
process for losses and loss adjustment
expenses reserves.
To test the Company’s estimate of losses
and loss adjustment expenses reserves, our audit procedures included among others:
●
With the assistance of the actuarial specialist,
we used the Company’s claims data and other inputs, to develop a range of independent estimates for the
losses and loss expenses
reserves. We used these independent estimates to assess the reasonableness of the Company’s reserves by comparing our
estimates
to the Company’s recorded losses and loss expenses reserves.
●
We tested the underlying data that served as
the basis for the actuarial analysis, including historical claims data, to test the reasonableness of key inputs
to the actuarial estimate.
 
/s/ Forvis Mazars, LLP  
 
PCAOB ID 686
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2024.
New York, New York
March 7, 2025
 
47 

 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING
FIRM
 
To the Board of Directors
and
Shareholders of NI Holdings, Inc.
 
Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements
 
We have audited,
before the effects of the adjustments to retrospectively apply the change in accounting for (a) discontinued operations described in Note
3
and Note 20, and (b) the adoption of ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280) – Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures
described in Note
21, the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of NI Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”)
as of December 31, 2023, and the
related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in shareholders’
equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the
two-year period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes and the schedule listed
in Item 15(a)(2) (collectively referred to as the “consolidated
financial statements”). The consolidated financial statements,
before the effects of the adjustments to retrospectively apply the change in accounting for (a)
discontinued operations described in Note
3 and Note 20, and (b) the adoption of ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280) – Improvements to
Reportable Segment Disclosures
described in Note 21, are not presented herein.
 
In our opinion,
 the consolidated financial statements referred to above, before the effects of the adjustments to retrospectively apply the change in
accounting for (a) discontinued operations described in Note 3 and Note 20, and (b) the adoption of ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic
280) –
Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures described in Note 21, present fairly, in all material respects, the financial
position of the Company as of
December 31, 2023, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the two-year
 period ended December 31, 2023, in
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
 
We were not
engaged to audit, review, or apply any procedures to the adjustments to retrospectively apply the change in accounting for (a) discontinued
operations described in Note 3 and Note 20, and (b) the adoption of ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280) – Improvements to
Reportable Segment
Disclosures described in Note 21, and, accordingly, we do not express an opinion or any other form of assurance about
whether such adjustments are
appropriate and have been properly applied. Those adjustments were audited by Forvis Mazars, LLP.
 
Basis for Opinion
  
These consolidated financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s
consolidated financial
statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with
respect
 to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission and the PCAOB.
 
We conducted our audits in accordance with the
standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable
assurance about whether the consolidated
 financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included
performing procedures to assess
the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing
procedures
 that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the
consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as
well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide
a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
 
/s/ Mazars USA
LLP
 
PCAOB ID 339
We have served as the
Company’s auditor from 2016 to 2024.
Fort Washington, Pennsylvania
March 15, 2024
48 

 
NI Holdings, Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 2024 and 2023
(dollar amounts in thousands, except par value) 
 
 
2024
   
2023
 
Assets:
   
      
  
Cash and cash equivalents
  $
50,930    $
41,037 
Fixed income securities, at fair value (net of allowance for expected credit losses of $0 at December 31, 2024
and 2023)
   
307,712     
289,399 
Equity securities, at fair value
   
24,640     
21,983 
Other investments
   
1,812     
2,006 
Total cash and investments
   
385,094     
354,425 
 
   
      
  
Premiums and agents' balances receivable (net of allowance for expected credit losses of $337 at December 31,
2024 and $394 at December 31, 2023)
   
52,907     
56,154 
Deferred policy acquisition costs
   
26,300     
26,790 
Reinsurance premiums receivable (payable)
   
746     
(1,403)
Reinsurance recoverables on losses (net of allowance for expected credit losses of $0 at December 31, 2024 and
2023)
   
12,561     
6,460 
Income tax recoverable
   
7,017     
— 
Accrued investment income
   
2,629     
2,325 
Property and equipment, net
   
7,547     
7,452 
Deferred income taxes
   
7,324     
9,228 
Receivable from Federal Crop Insurance Corporation
   
13,223     
17,404 
Goodwill and other intangibles
   
100     
2,728 
Other assets
   
11,097     
10,866 
Assets of discontinued operations
   
—     
162,457 
Total assets
  $
526,545    $
654,886 
 
   
      
  
Liabilities:
   
      
  
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
137,288    $
119,185 
Unearned premiums
   
126,498     
126,100 
Income tax payable
   
—     
147 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
18,128     
17,758 
Liabilities of discontinued operations
   
—     
141,297 
Total liabilities
   
281,914     
404,487 
 
   
      
  
Shareholders’ equity:
   
      
  
Common stock, $0.01 par value, authorized 25,000,000 shares, 
issued: 23,000,000 shares; and 
outstanding: 2024 – 20,673,268 shares, 2023 – 20,599,908 shares
   
230     
230 
Additional paid-in capital
   
95,796     
96,294 
Unearned employee stock ownership plan shares
   
(455)    
(698)
Retained earnings
   
201,584     
208,376 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes
   
(18,231)    
(21,384)
Treasury stock, at cost, 2024 – 2,281,252 shares, 2023 – 2,330,297 shares
   
(34,293)    
(35,177)
Non-controlling interest
   
—     
2,758 
Total shareholders’ equity
   
244,631     
250,399 
 
   
      
  
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  $
526,545    $
654,886 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements. 
49 

 
NI Holdings, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Operations
Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
(dollar amounts in thousands, except per share data) 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Revenues:
   
      
      
  
Net premiums earned
  $
310,110    $
292,117    $
271,740 
Fee and other income
   
1,938     
1,940     
1,381 
Net investment income
   
10,943     
8,034     
6,636 
Net investment gains (losses)
   
2,213     
1,929     
(11,975)
Total revenues
   
325,204     
304,020     
267,782 
 
   
      
      
  
Expenses:
   
      
      
  
Losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
207,465     
186,516     
241,750 
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
   
71,257     
67,631     
53,605 
Other underwriting and general expenses
   
33,709     
29,326     
25,303 
Goodwill impairment charge
   
2,628     
—     
— 
Total expenses
   
315,059     
283,473     
320,658 
 
   
      
      
  
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
   
10,145     
20,547     
(52,876)
Income tax expense (benefit)
   
3,545     
716     
(14,191)
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
   
6,600     
19,831     
(38,685)
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest
   
—     
250     
(679)
Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.
   
6,600     
19,581     
(38,006)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
   
(1,512)    
(25,057)    
(15,090)
Loss on sale of discontinued operations, net of income taxes
   
(11,148)    
—     
— 
Net loss
  $
(6,060)   $
(5,476)   $
(53,096)
 
   
      
      
  
Earnings (loss) per common share from continuing operations:
   
      
      
  
Basic
  $
0.31    $
0.93    $
(1.78)
Diluted
  $
0.31    $
0.92    $
(1.78)
 
   
      
      
  
Earnings (loss) per common share:
   
      
      
  
Basic
  $
(0.29)   $
(0.26)   $
(2.49)
Diluted
  $
(0.29)   $
(0.26)   $
(2.49)
 
   
      
      
  
Share data:
   
      
      
  
Weighted average common share outstanding used in basic per common share calculations
   
20,968,545     
21,159,073     
21,333,389 
Dilutive securities
   
120,626     
76,532     
— 
Weighted average common shares used in diluted per common share calculations
   
21,089,171     
21,235,605     
21,333,389 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements. 
50 

 
NI Holdings, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(Loss)
Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
(dollar amounts in thousands) 
 
 
2024
 
 
 
Attributable to
NI Holdings, Inc.   
Attributable to
Non-Controlling
Interest
   
Total
 
Net income (loss)
  $
(6,060)   $
—    $
(6,060)
 
   
      
      
  
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes:
   
      
      
  
Holding gains (losses) on investments
   
(482)    
—     
(482)
Reclassification adjustment for net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)
   
233     
—     
233 
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes
   
(249)    
—     
(249)
Income tax benefit (expense) related to items of other comprehensive income (loss)
   
96     
—     
96 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
   
(153)    
—     
(153)
 
   
      
      
  
Comprehensive income (loss)
  $
(6,213)   $
—    $
(6,213)
 
   
      
      
  
 
 
2023
 
 
 
Attributable to
NI Holdings, Inc.   
Attributable to
Non-Controlling 
Interest
   
Total
 
Net income (loss)
  $
(5,476)   $
250    $
(5,226)
 
   
      
      
  
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes:
   
      
      
  
Holding gains (losses) on investments
   
9,709     
363     
10,072 
Reclassification adjustment for net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)
   
582     
—     
582 
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes
   
10,291     
363     
10,654 
Income tax benefit (expense) related to items of other comprehensive income (loss)
   
(2,389)    
(85)    
(2,474)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
   
7,902     
278     
8,180 
 
   
      
      
  
Comprehensive income (loss)
  $
2,426    $
528    $
2,954 
 
 
 
2022
 
 
 
Attributable to
NI Holdings, Inc.   
Attributable to
Non-Controlling
Interest
   
Total
 
Net income (loss)
  $
(53,096)   $
(679)   $
(53,775)
 
   
      
      
  
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes:
   
      
      
  
Holding gains (losses) on investments
   
(44,810)    
(1,703)    
(46,513)
Reclassification adjustment for net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)
   
131     
20     
151 
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes
   
(44,679)    
(1,683)    
(46,362)
Income tax benefit (expense) related to items of other comprehensive income (loss)
   
10,156     
383     
10,539 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
   
(34,523)    
(1,300)    
(35,823)
 
   
      
      
  
Comprehensive income (loss)
  $
(87,619)   $
(1,979)   $
(89,598)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements. 
51 

 
NI Holdings, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’
Equity
Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
(dollar amounts in thousands) 
 
 
Common
Stock
   
Additional
Paid-in 
Capital
   
Unearned
Employee 
Stock
Ownership 
Plan Shares    
Retained
Earnings
   
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss),
Net of Income
Taxes
   
Treasury
Stock
   
Non-
Controlling 
Interest
   
Total
Shareholders’ 
Equity
 
Balance, 
January 1, 2022
  $
230    $
98,166    $
(1,184)   $
267,207    $
5,237     
(26,452)   $
4,209    $
347,413 
Battle Creek
demutualization
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
— 
Net income (loss)    
—     
—     
—     
(53,096)    
—     
—     
(679)    
(53,775)
Impact of
Westminster
unrealized
investment
gains/losses
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
— 
Other
comprehensive
income (loss), net
of income taxes
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
(34,523)    
—     
(1,300)    
(35,823)
Purchase of
treasury stock
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
(4,180)    
—     
(4,180)
Share-based
compensation
   
—     
(40)    
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
(40)
Issuance of vested
award shares
   
—     
(2,592)    
—     
10     
—     
1,814     
—     
(768)
Distribution of
employee stock
ownership plan
shares
   
—     
137     
243     
—     
—     
—     
—     
380 
Balance, 
December 31, 2022    
230     
95,671     
(941)    
214,121     
(29,286)    
(28,818)    
2,230     
253,207 
Battle Creek
demutualization
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
— 
Net income (loss)    
—     
—     
—     
(5,476)    
—     
—     
250     
(5,226)
Impact of
Westminster
unrealized
investment
gains/losses
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
— 
Other
comprehensive
income (loss), net
of income taxes
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
7,902     
—     
278     
8,180 
Purchase of
treasury stock
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
(7,278)    
—     
(7,278)
Share-based
compensation
   
—     
1,366     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
1,366 
Issuance of vested
award shares
   
—     
(822)    
—     
(269)    
—     
919     
—     
(172)
Distribution of
employee stock
ownership plan
shares
   
—     
79     
243     
—     
—     
—     
—     
322 
Balance, 
December 31, 2023    
230     
96,294     
(698)    
208,376     
(21,384)    
(35,177)    
2,758     
250,399 
Battle Creek
demutualization
   
—     
—     
—     
3,832     
(1,074)    
—     
(2,758)    
— 
Net income (loss)    
—     
—     
—     
(6,060)    
—     
—     
—     
(6,060)
Impact of
Westminster
unrealized
investment
gains/losses
   
—     
—     
—     
(4,380)    
4,380     
—     
—     
— 
Other
comprehensive
income (loss), net
of income taxes
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
(153)    
—     
—     
(153)
Purchase of
treasury stock
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
      
—     
—     
— 
Share-based
compensation
   
—     
238     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
238 
Issuance of vested
award shares
   
—     
(858)    
—     
(184)    
—     
884     
—     
(158)

Distribution of
employee stock
ownership plan
shares
   
—     
122     
243     
—     
—     
—     
—     
365 
Balance, 
December 31, 2024   $
230    $
95,796    $
(455)   $
201,584     
(18,231)    
(34,293)    
—    $
244,631 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements. 
52 

 
NI Holdings, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
(dollar amounts in thousands) 
 
 
2024
 
2023
 
2022
Cash flows from operating activities:
   
      
      
  
Net loss
  $
(6,060)   $
(5,226)   $
(53,775)
Less net loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
   
(1,512)    
(25,057)    
(15,090)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash flows from operating activities:
   
      
      
  
Net investment gains
   
(2,213)    
(1,929)    
11,975 
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)
   
1,901     
(1,876)    
(3,825)
Depreciation of property and equipment
   
681     
692     
604 
Amortization of intangibles
   
—     
33     
50 
Goodwill impairment charge
   
2,628     
—     
— 
Distribution of employee stock ownership plan shares
   
365     
322     
380 
Share-based compensation
   
238     
1,366     
(40)
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
   
71,257     
67,631     
53,605 
Deferral of policy acquisition costs
   
(70,767)    
(71,746)    
(57,233)
Net amortization of premiums and discounts on investments
   
607     
928     
1,435 
Gain on sale of property and equipment
   
(64)    
(52)    
(164)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
   
      
      
  
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable
   
3,247     
(8,808)    
(9,453)
Reinsurance premiums receivable / payable
   
(2,149)    
(424)    
936 
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
   
(6,101)    
2,126     
3,892 
Accrued investment income
   
(304)    
(179)    
109 
Federal Crop Insurance Corporation receivable / payable
   
4,181     
(1,942)    
(20,424)
Other assets
   
(231)    
(1,506)    
938 
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
18,103     
4,889     
6,296 
Unearned premiums
   
398     
15,174     
15,237 
Income tax recoverable / payable
   
(7,164)    
14,105     
(13,275)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
469     
(215)    
7,336 
Net cash flows from operating activities – continuing operations
   
15,082     
18,589     
(1,621)
Net cash flows from operating activities – discontinued operations
   
10,493     
12,608     
25,012 
Net cash flows from operating activities – loss on sale of discontinued operations
   
17,479     
—     
— 
Total adjustments
   
43,054     
31,197     
23,391 
Net cash flows from operating activities
   
38,506     
51,028     
(15,294)
 
   
      
      
  
Cash flows from investing activities:
   
      
      
  
Proceeds from maturities and sales of fixed income securities
   
43,633     
33,888     
75,031 
Proceeds from sales of equity securities
   
7,587     
39,020     
25,260 
Purchases of fixed income securities
   
(62,561)    
(56,318)    
(47,620)
Purchases of equity securities
   
(7,833)    
(11,741)    
(12,979)
Purchases of property and equipment
   
(991)    
(661)    
(878)
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment
   
280     
147     
646 
Proceeds from disposition of Westminster
   
12,272     
—     
— 
Other
   
194     
—     
— 
Net cash flows from investing activities – continuing operations
   
(7,419)    
4,335     
39,460 
Net cash flows from investing activities – discontinued operations
   
2,878     
(13,148)    
(14,412)
Net cash flows from investing activities
   
(4,541)    
(8,813)    
25,048 
 
   
      
      
  
Cash flows from financing activities:
   
      
      
  
Purchases of treasury stock
   
—     
(7,278)    
(4,180)
Pooling (payments) receipts
   
(10,444)    
(28,114)    
4,085 
Installment payment on Westminster consideration payable
   
—     
—     
(13,333)
Principal repayments of finance leases
   
(99)    
(16)    
— 
Issuance of vested award shares
   
(158)    
(172)    
(768)
Net cash flows from financing activities – continuing operations
   
(10,701)    
(35,580)    
(14,196)
Net cash flows from financing activities – discontinued operations
   
7,058     
28,114     
(4,085)
Net cash flows from financing activities
   
(3,643)    
(7,466)    
(18,281)
 
   
      
      
  
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
   
30,322     
34,749     
(8,527)
(Increase) decrease in cash and cash equivalents – discontinued operations
   
(20,429)    
(27,574)    
(6,515)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents – continuing operations
   
9,893     
7,175     
(15,042)
 
   
      
      
  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period – continuing operations
   
41,037     
33,862     
48,904 
 
 
 
      
  
 
 
  
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period – continuing operations
  $
50,930    $
41,037    $
33,862 
 
   
      
      
  
Federal and state income taxes paid (net of refunds received)
  $
2,853    $
(11,102)   $
2,175 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of
these consolidated financial statements.
53 


 
NI Holdings, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
(dollar amounts in thousands)
1.       Organization
NI Holdings is a North Dakota business corporation
that is the stock holding company of Nodak Insurance and became such in connection with the Nodak
conversion, whereby Nodak Mutual converted
from a mutual to stock form of organization and the creation of a mutual holding company. The Nodak
conversion was consummated on March
13, 2017. Immediately following the Nodak conversion, all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Nodak
Insurance were issued to
Nodak Mutual Group, which then contributed the shares to NI Holdings in exchange for 55% of the outstanding shares of
common stock of
NI Holdings. Nodak Insurance then became a wholly-owned stock subsidiary of NI Holdings. Prior to completion of the Nodak
conversion,
NI Holdings conducted no business and had no assets or liabilities. As a result of the Nodak conversion, NI Holdings became the holding
company for Nodak Insurance and its existing subsidiaries.
These consolidated financial statements include the financial
position and results of operations of NI Holdings and the following other entities:
Nodak Insurance Company
Nodak Insurance is the largest domestic property and
casualty insurance company in North Dakota, offering private passenger auto, homeowners,
farmowners, commercial multi-peril, crop hail,
and Federal multi-peril crop insurance coverages through its captive agents in the state.
Nodak Agency, Inc.
Nodak Agency is an inactive shell corporation.
American West Insurance Company
American West is a property and casualty insurance company
licensed in eight states in the Midwest and Western regions of the U.S. American West began
writing policies in 2002 and primarily writes
private passenger auto, homeowners, and farm coverages in South Dakota. American West also writes private
passenger auto coverage in North
Dakota, as well as crop hail and Federal multi-peril crop insurance coverages in Minnesota and South Dakota.
Primero Insurance Company
Primero is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tri-State,
Ltd. Tri-State, Ltd. is an inactive shell corporation 100% owned by Nodak Insurance. Primero is a
property and casualty insurance company
writing non-standard auto coverage in the states of Nevada, Arizona, North Dakota, and South Dakota during
2024. As of December 31, 2024,
Primero no longer writes coverage in the state of Nevada. Primero was acquired by Nodak Insurance in 2014.
Battle Creek Insurance Company
Battle Creek is a property and casualty insurance company
writing private passenger auto, homeowners, and farm coverages solely in the state of Nebraska.
Battle Creek became affiliated with Nodak
Insurance in 2011 and, prior to January 2, 2024, was controlled by Nodak Insurance via a surplus note. On
January 2, 2024, Battle Creek
issued 300,000 shares of its common stock to Nodak Insurance at a $10.00 per share par value and became a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Nodak
Insurance. Because we concluded that we controlled Battle Creek prior to January 2, 2024, we consolidated the financial statements of
Battle Creek, and Battle Creek’s policyholders’ interest in Battle Creek was reflected as a non-controlling interest in shareholders’
equity in our
Consolidated Balance Sheets and its net income or loss was excluded from net income or loss attributed to NI Holdings in
our Consolidated Statements of
Operations. Subsequent to January 2, 2024, Battle Creek is fully consolidated in our Consolidated Balance
Sheets and Consolidated Statements of
Operations and, as such, no longer reflected as a non-controlling interest.
54 

 
Direct Auto Insurance Company
Direct Auto is a property and casualty insurance company
licensed in Illinois. Direct Auto began writing non-standard auto coverage in 2007, and was
acquired by NI Holdings on August 31, 2018,
via a stock purchase agreement.
Westminster American Insurance Company
Westminster is a property and casualty insurance company
licensed in 18 states and the District of Columbia. Westminster is headquartered in Owings
Mills, Maryland and underwrites commercial
multi-peril insurance in the states of Delaware, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, North Carolina,
Pennsylvania, South Carolina,
Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Westminster was sold to Scott Insurance Holdings on June
30, 2024. Subsequent
to the date of sale, Westminster is reflected as discontinued operations within our Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated
Statements
of Operations. For additional information see Part II, Item 8, Note 20 “Discontinued Operations” of this 2024 Annual Report.
Organizational Structure and Credit Ratings
Nodak Insurance markets and distributes its policies
through its captive agents, while all other companies utilize the independent agent distribution
channel. Additionally, all of the Company’s
insurance subsidiary and affiliate companies as of December 31, 2024, are rated “A” Excellent by AM Best.
The same executive management team provides oversight
and strategic direction for the entire organization. Nodak Insurance personnel provide common
product oversight, pricing practices, and
underwriting standards, as well as underwriting and claims administration, to Nodak Insurance, American West,
and Battle Creek. Primero
and Direct Auto personnel manage the day-to-day operations of their respective companies. Westminster personnel managed the
day-to-day
operations of their company prior to the date of sale.
2.       Recent
Accounting Pronouncements
Adopted
Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company adopted the annual
and interim disclosure requirements of ASU 2023-07, “Segment Reporting (Topic 280):
Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures”
issued by the FASB in November 2023. The amendments expand a public business entity's segment
disclosures by requiring disclosure of significant
segment expenses that are regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”),
clarifying when an entity may
report one or more additional measures to assess segment performance, requiring enhanced interim disclosures, providing
new disclosure
requirements for entities with a single reportable segment, and requiring other new disclosures. See Item II, Part 8, Note 21 “Segment
Information” section of this Annual Report for applicable disclosures required by this guidance.
Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments
In December 2022, the Company adopted amended guidance from
the FASB that applies a new credit loss model (current expected credit losses or
“CECL”) for determining credit-related impairments
for financial instruments measured at amortized cost and requires an entity to estimate the credit
losses expected over the life of an
exposure or pool of exposures. The expected credit losses, and subsequent adjustments to such losses, are recorded
through an allowance
account that is deducted from the amortized cost basis of the financial asset, with the net carrying value of the financial asset
presented
on the Consolidated Balance Sheet at the amount expected to be collected. The updated guidance also amended the previous other-than-
temporary
impairment model for available-for-sale fixed income securities by requiring the recognition of impairments relating to credit losses
through an
allowance account and limiting the amount of credit loss to the difference between a security’s amortized cost basis
and its fair value. In addition, the
length of time a security has been in an unrealized loss position no longer impacts the determination
of whether a credit loss exists.
The Company adopted the updated guidance for the year ended
December 31, 2022. The adoption of this guidance resulted in an allowance for expected
credit losses of $425 for premiums and agents'
balances receivable in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2022. Based on the results of
the receivable analyses and management’s
review of our available-for-sale fixed income securities, it was determined that no allowance was required for
reinsurance recoverables
or available-for-sale fixed income
55 

 
securities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2022. See Item II, Part 8, Note 4 “Investments”
section of this Annual Report for
applicable disclosures required by this guidance.
Leases
Effective for the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company
adopted the updated guidance for leases and elected to utilize a cumulative-effect
adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings
for the year of adoption, if necessary. Accordingly, the Company’s reporting for the comparative
periods prior to adoption continue
to be presented in the consolidated financial statements in accordance with previous lease accounting guidance. The
Company also elected
to apply all practical expedients applicable to the Company in the updated guidance for transition for leases in effect at adoption,
including
using hindsight to determine the lease term of existing leases, the option to not reassess whether an existing contract is a lease or
contains a
lease, and whether the lease is an operating or finance lease. The adoption of the updated guidance resulted in the Company
recognizing a right-of-use
asset of $1,637 as part of other assets, a lease liability of $1,837 as part of accrued expenses and other
liabilities, and an elimination of the $200 deferred
rent liability in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2022. The cumulative
effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings
was zero. The adoption of the updated guidance did not affect the Company’s
results of operations or cash flows. See Item II, Part 8, Note 15 “Leases”
section of this Annual Report for applicable disclosures
required by this guidance.
Income Taxes – Simplifying the Accounting for Income
Taxes
In December 2022, the Company adopted amended guidance
from the FASB relating to accounting for income taxes. The modifications primarily remove
or amend several exceptions contained in existing
guidance to simplify income tax matters. The adoption of this guidance did not materially impact the
Company’s financial position,
results of operations, or cash flows.
Not Yet Adopted
Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, “Income
Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures.” This guidance requires that
an entity, on an annual basis, disclose
additional income tax information, primarily related to the rate reconciliation and income taxes paid. The guidance
is intended to enhance
the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures. The amendments in this update are effective for annual periods
beginning
after December 15, 2024. We are currently evaluating the impact of the new standard on our consolidated financial statements, which is
expected to result in enhanced disclosures.
Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses
In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU 2024-03, “Income Statement
- Reporting Comprehensive Income - Expense Disaggregation Disclosures
(Subtopic 220-40): Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses.”
This guidance is intended to improve disclosures about a public business entity's
expenses and address requests from investors for more
detailed information about the types of expenses in commonly presented expense captions. Such
information should allow investors to better
understand an entity's performance, assess future cash flows, and compare performance over time and with
other entities. The amendments
will require public business entities to disclose in the notes to the financial statements, at each interim and annual
reporting period,
specific information about certain costs and expenses, including purchases of inventory, employee compensation, depreciation, and
intangible
asset amortization included in each expense caption presented on the face of the statement of operations, and the total amount of an entity's
selling expenses. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2026, and interim reporting periods
beginning
after December 15, 2027, and may be applied either prospectively or retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. The Company
is currently evaluating
the impact of adopting this guidance on the consolidated financial statements.
3.       Summary
of Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation
Basis of Consolidation
Our consolidated financial statements, which we
have prepared in accordance with GAAP, include our accounts and those of our wholly-owned
subsidiaries, including Battle Creek, which
was consolidated as a variable interest entity (“VIE”) with an associated non-controlling interest prior to
January 2, 2024.
We have eliminated all significant intercompany accounts and transactions in consolidation.
56 

 
Use of Estimates
In preparing our consolidated financial statements,
management makes estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities
at the date of the balance sheet,
and revenues and expenses for the periods then ended. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.
We make estimates and assumptions that can have
a significant effect on amounts and disclosures we report in our consolidated financial statements. The
most significant estimates relate
to our reserves for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses, earned premiums for crop insurance, valuation of
investments, determination
of credit impairments, valuation allowances for deferred income tax assets, deferred policy acquisition costs, as well as
valuation and
impairments of goodwill and other intangible assets. While we believe our estimates are appropriate, the ultimate amounts may differ from
the estimates provided. We regularly review our methods for making these estimates as well as the continued appropriateness of the estimated
amounts, and
we reflect any adjustment we consider necessary in our current results of operations.
Variable-Interest Entities
Any company deemed to be a VIE is required to
be consolidated by the primary beneficiary of the VIE.
We assess our investments in other entities at
inception to determine if any meet the qualifications of a VIE. We consider an investment in another company
to be a VIE if: (a) the total
equity investment at risk is not sufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial
support,
(b) the characteristics of a controlling financial interest are missing (either the ability to make decisions through voting or other
rights, the
obligation to absorb expected losses of the entity, or the right to receive the expected residual returns of the entity),
or (c) the voting rights of the equity
holders are not proportional to their obligations to absorb the expected losses of the entity and/or
the rights to receive the expected residual returns of the
entity, and substantially all of the entity’s activities either involve
or are conducted on behalf of an investor that has disproportionately few voting rights.
Upon the occurrence of certain events, we would
reassess our initial determination of whether the investment is a VIE.
We evaluate whether we are the primary beneficiary
of each VIE and we consolidate the VIE if we have both (1) the power to direct the economically
significant activities of the entity and
(2) the obligation to absorb losses of, or the right to receive benefits from, the entity. We consider the contractual
agreements that
define the ownership structure, distribution of profits and losses, risks, responsibilities, indebtedness, voting rights, and board
representation
of the respective parties in determining whether we qualify as the primary beneficiary. Our assessment of whether we are the primary
beneficiary
of a VIE is performed at least annually.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash, money
market accounts, and certain investments in highly liquid debt instruments. Cost approximates fair value
for these short-term investments.
Investments
The Company’s fixed income securities and equity securities
are classified as available-for-sale and carried at estimated fair value as determined by
management based upon quoted market prices or
a recognized independent pricing service at the reporting date for those or similar investments. Changes in
unrealized investment gains
or losses on the fixed income securities, net of applicable income taxes, are reflected directly in shareholders’ equity as a
component
of other comprehensive income (loss) and, accordingly, have no effect on net income (loss). Changes in unrealized investment gains or
losses
on equity securities are reported in net income (loss). Investment income from fixed income securities is recognized when earned,
and realized investment
gains (losses) are recognized when investments are sold, the fair value of equity securities change, or credit
impairments are recognized.
Fair values are based on quoted market prices or independent pricing
services, if available. If a quoted market price is not available, fair value is estimated
using quoted market prices for similar securities.
Amortization of premium and accretion of discount are computed using the effective interest method. Net
investment income includes interest
and dividend income together with amortization of purchase premiums and discounts and is net of investment
management and custody fees.
Realized gains and losses on investments are determined using the specific identification method and are included in net
investment gains
(losses), along with the change in unrealized gains and losses on equity securities. Other invested assets that do not have observable
inputs
and little or no market activity are carried on a cost basis, which approximates fair value. The carrying value of these other
invested assets was $1,812 at
December 31, 2024 and $2,006 at December 31, 2023.
Beginning on December 31, 2022, credit losses are recognized through
an allowance account. See Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting
Pronouncements” for additional information. We, along
with our investment advisors, frequently review our investment portfolio for declines in fair value
that could be indicative of credit
losses. The available-for-sale impairment model requires an
57 

 
estimate of expected credit losses only when the fair value of the available-for-sale
fixed income security is below its amortized cost basis. The Company
considers a number of factors when determining if an allowance for
credit losses is necessary including payment and default history, credit spreads, credit
ratings and rating actions, and probability of
default. The Company determines the credit loss component of fixed income securities by utilizing discounted
cash flow modeling to determine
the present value of the security and comparing the present value with the amortized cost of the security. If the amortized
cost is greater
than the present value of the expected cash flows, the difference is considered a credit loss and recognized as an impairment loss in
net
realized investment gains (losses). Credit impairments are recognized as an allowance on the Consolidated Balance Sheet with a corresponding
adjustment
to earnings.
For fixed income securities that the Company does not intend to
sell or for which it is more likely than not that the Company would not be required to sell
before an anticipated recovery in value, the
Company separates the credit loss component of the impairment from the amount related to all other factors and
reports the credit loss
component in net realized investment gains (losses). The impairment related to all other factors (non-credit factors) is reported in
other
comprehensive income. The allowance is adjusted for any additional credit losses and subsequent recoveries. Upon recognizing a credit
loss, the cost
basis is not adjusted.
For fixed income securities that the Company intends to sell or
for which it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell before an
anticipated recovery in value, the full amount
of the impairment is included in net investment gains (losses). The new cost basis of the investment is the
previous amortized cost basis
less the impairment recognized in net investment gains (losses). The new cost basis is not adjusted for any subsequent
recoveries in fair
value.
The Company reports investment income accrued separately from fixed
income investments, available for sale, and has elected not to measure an
allowance for credit losses for investment income accrued. Investment
income accrued is written off through net realized investment gains (losses) at the
time the issuer of the bond defaults or is expected
to default on payments.
For more information on investment valuation measurements, see Part
II, Item 8, Note 5 “Fair Value Measurements.”
Revenue Recognition
We record premiums written at policy inception and recognize them
as revenue on a pro rata basis over the policy term or, in the case of crop insurance,
over the period of risk. The portion of premiums
that could be earned in the future is deferred and reported as unearned premiums. When policies lapse, the
Company reverses the unearned
portion of the written premium and removes the applicable unearned premium. Policy-related fee income is recognized
when collected.
The period of risk for our crop insurance program, which is comprised
of primarily spring-planted crops, typically runs from April 1 (the approximate time
when farmers can begin to work their fields) through
December 15 (last date claims can be made for the most recent planting season).
Premiums and Agents’ Balances
Receivable
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable include both direct
and agent billed premiums as well as crop notes receivable related to the multi-peril crop and
crop hail insurance.
Accounts billed directly to the policyholder are provided grace
payment and cancellation notice periods per state insurance regulations.
Direct Auto also provides for agency billing for a portion of their
agents. Accounts billed to agents are due within 60 days of the statement date. The agent
is responsible for all past due balances. As
part of its agent appointment, Direct Auto requires a personal guarantee for all balances due to Direct Auto from
the principal of the
contracted agency.
Beginning on December 31, 2022, the premium and agents’ receivable
balances are reported net of an allowance for expected credit losses. See Part II,
Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting Pronouncements”
for additional information. We recognized $425 of credit losses for these receivables at the time of
adoption of CECL. Therefore, there
was no beginning balance of credit losses as of January 1, 2022, and all 2022 activity was the result of adoption. As a
result of the
transition from the previous accounting treatment, we did not record a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings at the time of
adoption. Given the nature of these receivables, the Company has elected to use a loss-rate method to determine the expected credit losses.
The allowance
is based upon the Company’s ongoing review of amounts outstanding and write-offs. Management may also evaluate current
economic conditions and
reasonable/supportable forecasts to adjust this calculation as deemed necessary.
58 

 
Policy Acquisition Costs
We defer our policy acquisition costs, consisting
primarily of commissions, premium taxes, and certain other underwriting costs, reduced by ceding
commissions, which vary with and relate
directly to the production of business. We amortize these deferred policy acquisition costs over the period in
which we earn the premiums.
The method we follow in computing deferred policy acquisition costs limits the amount of such deferred costs to their
estimated realizable
value, which gives effect to the premium to be earned, related investment income, losses and loss adjustment expenses, and certain
other
costs we expect to incur as we earn the premium.
Property and Equipment
We report property and equipment at cost less
accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is typically computed using the straight-line method based upon
estimated useful lives of the assets.
Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses
Liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses are estimates
at a given point in time of the amounts we expect to pay with respect to
policyholder claims based on facts and circumstances then known.
At the time of establishing our estimates, we recognize that our ultimate liability for
losses and loss adjustment expenses may differ
from these estimates. We base our estimates of liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses on
assumptions as to future
loss trends, expected claims severity, judicial theories of liability, and other factors. During the loss adjustment period, we may
learn
additional facts regarding certain claims, and, consequently, it often becomes necessary for us to refine and adjust our estimates of
the liability. We
reflect any adjustments to our liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses in our operating results in
the period in which we determine the
need for a change in the estimates.
We maintain liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
with respect to both reported and unreported claims. We establish these liabilities for
the purpose of covering the ultimate costs of
settling all losses incurred through the reporting date, including investigation and litigation costs. We base the
amount of our liability
for reported losses primarily upon a case-by-case evaluation of the type of risk involved, knowledge of the circumstances
surrounding
each claim, and the insurance policy provisions relating to the type of loss our policyholder incurred. We determine the amount of our
liability
for unreported losses and loss adjustment expenses on the basis of historical information by line of insurance. Inflation is
not explicitly selected in the loss
reserve analysis. However, historical inflation is embedded in the estimated loss development factors.
We closely monitor our liabilities and update them
periodically using new information on reported claims and a variety of statistical
techniques. We do not discount our liabilities for unpaid losses and loss
adjustment expenses.
Reserve estimates can change over time because of unexpected changes
in assumptions related to our external environment and, to a lesser extent,
assumptions as to our internal operations. Assumptions related
to our external environment include the potential impact of significant changes in tort law
and the legal environment which may impact
liability exposure, the trends in judicial interpretations of insurance coverage and policy provisions, and the
rate of loss cost inflation.
Internal assumptions include consistency in the recording of premium and loss data, consistency in the recording of claims,
payment and
case reserving methodologies, accurate measurement of the impact of rate changes and changes in policy provisions, consistency in the
quality and characteristics of business written within a given line of business, and consistency in reinsurance coverage and collectability
of reinsured losses,
among other items. To the extent we determine that underlying factors impacting our assumptions have changed, we
attempt to make appropriate
adjustments for such changes in our reserves. Accordingly, our ultimate liability for unpaid losses and loss
adjustment expenses will likely differ from the
amount recorded.
Income Taxes
Insurance companies typically pay state premium taxes rather than
state income taxes. However, Direct Auto is subject to state income taxes in the state of
Illinois, in addition to state premium taxes.
Additionally, NI Holdings, on a stand-alone basis, pays state income taxes to the state of North Dakota for
income or losses generated
as a separate financial entity. State premium taxes are included as a part of amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs.
State
income taxes are reported along with federal income taxes as income tax expense (benefit).
The Company did not have any material uncertain tax positions as
of December 31, 2024 and 2023. The Company’s policy is to recognize tax-related
interest and penalties accrued related to unrecognized
benefits as a component of income tax expense. The Company did not recognize any tax-related
interest and penalties, nor did it have any
tax-related interest or penalties accrued as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
We account for deferred income taxes using the asset and liability
method. The objective of the asset and liability method is to establish deferred income
tax assets and liabilities for the temporary differences
between the financial reporting basis and the income
59 

 
tax basis of our assets and liabilities at enacted tax rates expected to be in effect
when we realize or settle such amounts.
We re-measure existing deferred income tax assets (including loss
carryforwards) and liabilities when a change in tax rate occurs and record an offset for
the net amount of the change as a component of
income tax expense from continuing operations in the period of enactment. We also record any change to a
previously recorded valuation
allowance as a result of re-measuring existing temporary differences and loss carryforwards as a component of income tax
expense from
continuing operations.
The Company has elected to reclassify any tax effects stranded in
accumulated other comprehensive income as a result of a change in income tax rates to
retained earnings.
Earnings Per Share
Earnings per share are computed by dividing net income available
to common shareholders for the period by the weighted average number of common
shares outstanding for the same period. Unearned shares
related to the Company’s ESOP are not considered outstanding until they are released and
allocated to plan participants. Unearned
shares related to the Company’s Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) and Performance Share Units (“PSUs”) are
not
considered outstanding until they are earned by award participants. See Part II, Item 8, Note 12 “Benefit Plans” and Note
18 “Share-Based Compensation.”
Credit Risk
Our primary investment objective is to earn competitive
returns by investing in a diversified portfolio of securities. Our portfolio of fixed income securities
and, to a lesser extent, short-term
investments, is subject to credit risk. We define this risk as the potential loss in fair value resulting from adverse changes
in the
borrower’s ability to repay the debt. We manage this risk by performing an analysis of prospective investments and through regular
reviews of our
portfolio by our management team and investment advisors. We also limit the amount of our total investment portfolio that
we invest in any one security.
Property and liability insurance coverages are
marketed through captive agents in North Dakota and through independent insurance agencies located
throughout all other operating areas.
All business, except for the majority of Direct Auto’s business, is billed directly to the policyholders.
We maintain cash balances primarily at one bank,
which are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) up to $250. During the normal
course of business,
balances are maintained above the FDIC insurance limit. The Company maintains short-term investment balances in investment grade
money
market accounts that are insured by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (“SIPC”) up to $500. During the normal
course of business,
balances for these accounts are often maintained in excess of the SIPC insurance limit.
Reinsurance
The Company limits the maximum net loss that can
arise from large risks or risks in concentrated areas of exposure by reinsuring (ceding) certain levels of
risks to reinsurers, either
on an automatic basis under general reinsurance contracts known as treaties or through facultative contracts placed on substantial
individual
risks. Ceded reinsurance is treated as the risk and liability of the assuming companies.
The ceding of insurance does not legally discharge
us from primary liability under our policies, and we must pay the loss if the reinsurer fails to meet its
obligation.
Amounts recoverable from reinsurers are estimated
in a manner consistent with the associated claim liability. Beginning on December 31, 2022, credit
losses are recognized through an allowance
account developed using the CECL model. See Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting Pronouncements”
for additional information.
The allowance is based upon the Company’s ongoing review of amounts outstanding, length of collection periods, changes in
reinsurer
credit standing, disputes, applicable coverage defenses and other relevant factors. Management has concluded that it is not necessary
to record an
allowance for expected credit losses related to reinsurance recoverables. All of our significant reinsurance partners are
rated “A-” (Excellent) or better by
AM Best, and there is no history of write-offs.
Goodwill and Other Intangibles
Goodwill assets arise from business combinations and consist of
the excess of the fair value of consideration paid over the tangible and intangible assets
acquired and liabilities assumed. We evaluate
goodwill and other intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if events or
changes in circumstances indicate
that it is more likely than not that the carrying amount of goodwill and other intangible assets may exceed their fair
value.
60 

 
When performing our goodwill impairment analyses, we typically first
assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair
value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying
amount. In making our assessment, we evaluate a number of factors including operating results, key
changes in the reporting unit, business
plans, macroeconomic conditions, and industry considerations. Inherent uncertainties exist with respect to these
factors and to our judgment
in applying them when we make our assessment, and impairment of goodwill and other intangibles could result from changes
in economic and
operating conditions in future periods. We may also choose to bypass the qualitative assessment in any period for any reporting unit and
proceed directly to performing the quantitative assessment.
If our qualitative assessment indicates it is more likely than not that
the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount or we choose to bypass
the qualitative assessment, we will perform
a quantitative assessment that compares the reporting unit’s carrying value with its estimated fair value. The
determination of
the fair value of our reporting units is based a market approach that considers benchmark company market multiples, an income approach
that utilizes discounted cash flows, or another generally accepted method. The cash flows used to determine fair value are dependent on
a number of
significant management assumptions such as our expectations of future performance and the expected future economic environment,
which are partly based
upon our historical experience. Our estimates are subject to change given the inherent uncertainty in predicting
future results. While we believe such
assumptions and estimates are reasonable, the actual results may differ materially from the projected
amounts. Should the carrying value exceed the
estimated fair value, a goodwill impairment charge will be recognized in the amount by which
the reporting unit’s carrying amount exceeds its fair value,
not to exceed the total goodwill assigned to the reporting unit.
For the goodwill arising from the acquisition of Primero in 2014,
we determined that it was appropriate to perform a quantitative assessment during the
fourth quarter of 2024. Based on our quantitative
assessment as described above, we concluded that the goodwill related to Primero was fully impaired as
of December 31, 2024, primarily
due to Primero’s expected future performance being well below initial projections and expectations as a result of strategic
initiatives.
We did not record any impairments of goodwill for this reporting unit during the years ended December 31, 2023 or 2022.
For the goodwill arising from the acquisition of Westminster in
2020, we determined that it was appropriate to perform a quantitative assessment during the
fourth quarter of 2023. Based on our quantitative
assessment as described above, we concluded that the goodwill related to Westminster was fully impaired
as of December 31, 2023, primarily
due to Westminster’s actual and expected future performance being well below initial projections and expectations. We
did not record
any impairments of goodwill for this reporting unit during the year ended December 31, 2022.
Intangible assets arising from the acquisition of Direct Auto in
2018 represent the estimated fair values of certain intangible assets, including a favorable
lease contract, a state insurance license,
the value of the Direct Auto trade name, and the value of business acquired (“VOBA”). The state insurance license
asset has
an indefinite life, while the Direct Auto trade name was amortized over five years from the August 31, 2018 acquisition/valuation date.
The
favorable lease contract and VOBA assets have been fully amortized. We did not record any impairments of the intangible assets for
this reporting unit
during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 or 2022.
Other intangible assets arising from the acquisition of Westminster
represented the estimated fair values of certain intangible assets, including state
insurance licenses, the value of Westminster’s
distribution network, the value of the Westminster trade name, and the VOBA. The state insurance license
asset had an indefinite life,
while the distribution networks asset and Westminster trade name were being amortized over twenty years and ten years,
respectively, from
the January 1, 2020 acquisition/valuation date until the date of sale on June 30, 2024. The VOBA asset had been fully amortized at the
date of the sale of Westminster. We did not record any impairments of the other intangible assets for this reporting unit during the years
ended December
31, 2023 or 2022.
Discontinued Operations
On May 7, 2024, NI Holdings entered into a Stock
Purchase Agreement (“Purchase Agreement”) to sell its subsidiary, Westminster, to Scott Insurance
Holdings, a privately owned
Maryland limited liability company. Scott Insurance Holdings is affiliated with John Scott, Sr., the father of the president of
Westminster,
John Scott, Jr. The sale closed on June 30, 2024. The Purchase Agreement included a cash purchase price of $10,500, subject to certain
post-
closing adjustments, including a post-closing payment to NI Holdings for the amount by which the ending statutory surplus balance
for Westminster
exceeded $20,000. The post-closing payment received from Scott Insurance Holdings during the third quarter of 2024 was
$1,772 and has been included as
an adjustment to the purchase price for the calculation of the loss on the sale of Westminster. The sale
of Westminster, which represented the majority of
our Commercial segment in prior periods, was a strategic shift that has had a major
effect on our operations and financial results. Therefore, Westminster
has been reported as discontinued operations in the Consolidated
Balance Sheets, Consolidated Statements of Operations, and Consolidated Statements of
Cash Flows for all periods presented in this 2024
Annual Report. All current and prior periods reflected in this 2024 Annual Report have been presented as
continuing and discontinued operations,
unless otherwise noted. For additional information see Part II, Item 8, Note 20 “Discontinued Operations” of this
2024 Annual
Report.
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Restatement
NI Holdings filed Amendment No. 1 to our Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q/A to amend certain information included in the Company's Quarterly Report
on Form 10-Q for the three- and six-month periods ended
June 30, 2024, which was filed with the SEC on August 8, 2024, due to errors resulting from the
incorrect accounting for, and presentation
of, the previously announced sale of Westminster. Specifically, the Company failed to record certain receivables
on Westminster’s
closing balance sheet as well as the corresponding payable for Nodak Insurance for amounts owed to Westminster related to the final
settlement
of the intercompany reinsurance pooling agreement after the date of sale. Failure to include this receivable in Westminster’s closing
net assets
and liabilities also caused an understatement of the loss on sale of discontinued operations, which also understated the Company’s
total net loss. The impact
of the corrections related to this error on the consolidated financial statements as of and for the three-
and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024, are as
follows:
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
 
 
As of June 30, 2024
 
 
 
As Reported
   
Adjustment
   
As Restated
 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
  $
24,368    $
3,386    $
27,754 
Total liabilities
  $
331,537    $
3,386    $
334,923 
Retained earnings
  $
197,827    $
(3,386)   $
194,441 
Total shareholders’ equity
  $
239,450    $
(3,386)   $
236,064 
 
   
      
      
  
Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30, 2024
   
Six Months Ended June 30, 2024
 
 
  As Reported     Adjustment    
As

Restated
    As Reported    Adjustment    
As

Restated
 
Loss on sale of discontinued operations, net of taxes   $
(7,762)   $
(3,386)   $
(11,148)   $
(7,762)   $
(3,386)   $
(11,148)
Net loss
  $
(16,236)   $
(3,386)   $
(19,622)   $
(9,817)   $
(3,386)   $
(13,203)
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Loss per common share:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Basic
  $
(0.77)   $
(0.17)   $
(0.94)   $
(0.47)   $
(0.16)   $
(0.63)
Diluted
  $
(0.77)   $
(0.17)   $
(0.94)   $
(0.47)   $
(0.16)   $
(0.63)
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited)
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30, 2024
   
Six Months Ended June 30, 2024
 
 
  As Reported     Adjustment    
As

Restated
    As Reported    Adjustment    
As

Restated
 
Net loss
  $
(16,236)   $
(3,386)   $
(19,622)   $
(9,817)   $
(3,386)   $
(13,203)
Comprehensive loss
  $
(16,950)   $
(3,386)   $
(20,336)   $
(11,931)   $
(3,386)   $
(15,317)
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
(Unaudited)
 
 
As of and for the Three Months Ended
June 30, 2024
   
As of and for the Six Months 

Ended June 30, 2024
 
 
  As Reported     Adjustment    
As 

Restated
    As Reported    Adjustment    
As

Restated
 
Net loss
  $
(16,236)   $
(3,386)   $
(19,622)   $
(9,817)   $
(3,386)   $
(13,203)
Retained earnings
  $
197,827    $
(3,386)   $
194,441    $
197,827    $
(3,386)   $
194,441 
Total shareholders’ equity
  $
239,450    $
(3,386)   $
236,064    $
239,450    $
(3,386)   $
236,064 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
62 

 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
 
 
Six Months Ended June 30, 2024
 
 
  As Reported     Adjustment     As Restated  
Net income (loss)
  $
(9,817)   $
(3,386)   $
(13,203)
Net cash flows from operating activities – loss on sale of discontinued operations
  $
15,865    $
3,386    $
19,251 
Total adjustments
  $
43,065    $
3,386    $
46,451 
 
   
      
      
  
The notes to the consolidated financial statements as well as Management’s
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations were
also amended as necessary as a result of the restatements
outlined above.
63 

 
4.       Investments
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed income
securities, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued
operations, as of December 31, 2024, and December
31, 2023, were as follows:
 
 
December 31, 2024
 
 
 
Cost or

Amortized 

Cost
   
Allowance for
Expected 

Credit Losses   
Gross

Unrealized 

Gains
   
Gross 

Unrealized 

Losses
   
Fair Value  
Fixed income securities:
   
      
      
      
      
  
U.S. Government and agencies
  $
12,601    $
—    $
8    $
(335)   $
12,274 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
48,559     
—     
184     
(4,920)    
43,823 
Corporate securities
   
123,585     
—     
206     
(7,517)    
116,274 
Residential mortgage-backed securities
   
53,714     
—     
44     
(4,981)    
48,777 
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
   
30,062     
—     
65     
(2,943)    
27,184 
Asset-backed securities
   
59,046     
—     
386     
(3,301)    
56,131 
Redeemable preferred stocks
   
3,737     
—     
—     
(488)    
3,249 
Total fixed income securities
  $
331,304    $
—    $
893    $
(24,485)   $
307,712 
 
   
      
      
      
      
  
 
 
 
December 31, 2023
 
 
 
Cost or 

Amortized

Cost
   
Allowance for
Expected 

Credit Losses   
Gross 

Unrealized 

Gains
   
Gross 

Unrealized 

Losses
   
Fair Value  
Fixed income securities:
   
      
      
      
      
  
U.S. Government and agencies
  $
10,998    $
—    $
—    $
(736)   $
10,262 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
55,769     
—     
408     
(4,716)    
51,461 
Corporate securities
   
152,630     
—     
442     
(10,856)    
142,216 
Residential mortgage-backed securities
   
66,362     
—     
180     
(5,379)    
61,163 
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
   
33,532     
—     
148     
(4,241)    
29,439 
Asset-backed securities
   
52,692     
—     
142     
(3,805)    
49,029 
Redeemable preferred stocks
   
4,747     
—     
—     
(586)    
4,161 
Total fixed income securities
  $
376,730    $
—    $
1,320    $
(30,319)   $
347,731 
 
   
      
      
      
      
  
The reconciliation of the amortized cost and estimated fair value
of fixed income securities for continuing and discontinued operations as of December 31,
2024, and December 31, 2023, were as follows:
 
 
December 31, 2024
 
 
 
Cost or

Amortized 
Cost
   
Allowance for 
Expected

Credit Losses    
Gross

Unrealized 

Gains
   
Gross 

Unrealized 

Losses
   
Fair Value  
Fixed income securities:
   
      
      
      
      
  
Continuing operations
  $
331,304    $
—    $
893    $
(24,485)   $
307,712 
Discontinued operations
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
— 
Total fixed income securities
  $
331,304    $
—    $
893    $
(24,485)   $
307,712 
 
 
 
December 31, 2023
 
 
 
Cost or 

Amortized

Cost
   
Allowance for
Expected 

Credit Losses   
Gross 

Unrealized 

Gains
   
Gross 

Unrealized 

Losses
   
Fair Value  
Fixed income securities:
   
      
      
      
      
  
Continuing operations
  $
313,182    $
—    $
1,116    $
(24,899)   $
289,399 
Discontinued operations
   
63,548     
—     
204     
(5,420)    
58,332 
Total fixed income securities
  $
376,730    $
—    $
1,320    $
(30,319)   $
347,731 
 
   
      
      
      
      
  
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed income
securities by contractual maturity, presented on a consolidated basis, including both
continuing and discontinued operations, are shown
below. Actual maturities could differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to
call or prepay these securities.
64 

 
 
 
December 31, 2024
 
 
  Amortized Cost   
Fair Value
 
Due to mature:
   
      
  
One year or less
  $
5,750    $
5,696 
After one year through five years
   
57,986     
55,882 
After five years through ten years
   
79,544     
74,070 
After ten years
   
41,465     
36,723 
Mortgage / asset-backed securities
   
142,822     
132,092 
Redeemable preferred stocks
   
3,737     
3,249 
Total fixed income securities
  $
331,304    $
307,712 
 
 
 
December 31, 2023
 
 
  Amortized Cost   
Fair Value
 
Due to mature:
   
      
  
One year or less
  $
9,612    $
9,436 
After one year through five years
   
75,794     
72,602 
After five years through ten years
   
86,185     
79,281 
After ten years
   
47,806     
42,620 
Mortgage / asset-backed securities
   
152,586     
139,631 
Redeemable preferred stocks
   
4,747     
4,161 
Total fixed income securities
  $
376,730    $
347,731 
 
   
      
  
Fixed income securities with a fair value of $5,634 at December 31,
2024, and $6,403 at December 31, 2023, were deposited with various state regulatory
agencies as required by law. The Company has not pledged
any assets to secure any obligations.
The investment category and duration of the Company’s
gross unrealized losses on fixed income securities, presented on a consolidated basis, including
both continuing and discontinued operations,
are shown below. Investments with unrealized losses are categorized with a duration of greater than 12
months when all positions of a
security have continually been in a loss position for at least 12 months.
 
 
December 31, 2024
 
 
 
Less than 12 Months
   
Greater than 12 months
   
Total
 
 
 
Fair

Value
   
Unrealized

Losses
   
Fair

Value
   
Unrealized

Losses
   
Fair

Value
   
Unrealized

Losses
 
Fixed income securities:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
U.S. Government and agencies
  $
5,443    $
(109)   $
4,177    $
(226)   $
9,620    $
(335)
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
8,465     
(143)    
29,428     
(4,777)    
37,893     
(4,920)
Corporate securities
   
25,790     
(481)    
76,364     
(7,036)    
102,154     
(7,517)
Residential mortgage-backed securities
   
20,827     
(451)    
23,159     
(4,530)    
43,986     
(4,981)
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
   
1,409     
(50)    
19,442     
(2,893)    
20,851     
(2,943)
Asset-backed securities
   
10,926     
(122)    
20,579     
(3,179)    
31,505     
(3,301)
Redeemable preferred stocks
   
—     
—     
3,249     
(488)    
3,249     
(488)
Total fixed income securities
  $
72,860    $
(1,356)   $
176,398    $
(23,129)   $
249,258    $
(24,485)
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
 
65 

 
 
 
December 31, 2023
 
 
 
Less than 12 Months
   
Greater than 12 months
   
Total
 
 
 
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fixed income securities:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
U.S. Government and agencies
  $
—    $
—    $
9,018    $
(736)   $
9,018    $
(736)
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
5,239     
(359)    
36,194     
(4,357)    
41,433     
(4,716)
Corporate securities
   
8,018     
(93)    
110,117     
(10,763)    
118,135     
(10,856)
Residential mortgage-backed securities
   
12,054     
(104)    
33,341     
(5,275)    
45,395     
(5,379)
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
   
2,678     
(5)    
23,713     
(4,236)    
26,391     
(4,241)
Asset-backed securities
   
4,463     
(18)    
30,200     
(3,787)    
34,663     
(3,805)
Redeemable preferred stocks
   
—     
—     
4,161     
(586)    
4,161     
(586)
Total fixed income securities
  $
32,452    $
(579)   $
246,744    $
(29,740)   $
279,196    $
(30,319)
The reconciliation for continuing and discontinued operations
by duration of the Company’s gross unrealized losses on fixed income securities are shown
below.
 
 
December 31, 2024
 
 
 
Less than 12 Months
   
Greater than 12 months
   
Total
 
 
 
Fair

Value
   
Unrealized

Losses
   
Fair

Value
   
Unrealized

Losses
   
Fair

Value
   
Unrealized

Losses
 
Fixed income securities:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Continuing operations
  $
72,860    $
(1,356)   $
176,398    $
(23,129)   $
249,258    $
(24,485)
Discontinued operations
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
— 
Total fixed income securities
  $
72,860    $
(1,356)   $
176,398    $
(23,129)   $
249,258    $
(24,485)
 
 
December 31, 2023
 
 
 
Less than 12 Months
   
Greater than 12 months
   
Total
 
 
 
Fair

Value
   
Unrealized

Losses
   
Fair

Value
   
Unrealized

Losses
   
Fair

Value
   
Unrealized

Losses
 
Fixed income securities:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Continuing operations
  $
24,049    $
(509)   $
211,367    $
(24,390)   $
235,416    $
(24,899)
Discontinued operations
   
8,403     
(70)    
35,377     
(5,350)    
43,780     
(5,420)
Total fixed income securities
  $
32,452    $
(579)   $
246,744    $
(29,740)   $
279,196    $
(30,319)
We, along with our investment advisor, frequently
review our investment portfolio for declines in fair value that could be indicative of credit losses.
Beginning on December 31, 2022,
credit losses are recognized through an allowance account. We consider a number of factors when determining if an
allowance for credit
losses is necessary, including payment and default history, credit spreads, credit ratings and rating actions, and probability of default.
We determine the credit loss component of fixed income investments by utilizing discounted cash flow modeling to determine the present
value of the
security and comparing the present value with the amortized cost of the security. We did not recognize any credit losses
for fixed income securities at the
time of adoption of the new credit loss accounting standard and have not recognized any credit losses
for fixed income securities since adoption of the
credit loss standard. Therefore, there were no beginning or ending balances of credit
losses during the years ended December 31, 2024 or 2023. See Item II,
Part 8, Note 3 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
and Basis of Presentation” section for additional information.
66 

 
Net investment income for continuing and discontinued operations
consisted of the following:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Continuing operations:
   
      
      
  
Fixed income securities
  $
11,401    $
9,418    $
8,216 
Equity securities
   
904     
874     
1,260 
Real estate
   
355     
391     
384 
Cash and cash equivalents
   
1,699     
456     
23 
Total gross investment income
   
14,359     
11,139     
9,883 
Investment expenses
   
3,416     
3,105     
3,247 
Net investment income – continuing operations
   
10,943     
8,034     
6,636 
Net investment income – discontinued operations
   
1,419     
2,422     
1,184 
Net investment income
  $
12,362    $
10,456    $
7,820 
 
   
      
      
  
Net investment gains (losses) for continuing and discontinued operations
consisted of the following:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Continuing Operations:
   
      
      
  
Gross realized gains:
   
      
      
  
Fixed income securities
  $
12    $
1    $
116 
Equity securities
   
1,329     
13,840     
6,967 
Total gross realized gains
   
1,341     
13,841     
7,083 
 
   
      
      
  
Gross realized losses, excluding credit impairment losses:
   
      
      
  
Fixed income securities
   
(211)    
(524)    
(183)
Equity securities
   
(579)    
(1,221)    
(4,916)
Total gross realized losses, excluding credit impairment losses
   
(790)    
(1,745)    
(5,099)
 
   
      
      
  
Net realized gains
   
551     
12,096     
1,984 
 
   
      
      
  
Change in net unrealized gains on equity securities
   
1,662     
(10,167)    
(13,959)
Net investment gains (losses) – continuing operations
   
2,213     
1,929     
(11,975)
Net investment gains (losses) – discontinued operations
   
116     
195     
(1,151)
Net investment gains (losses)
  $
2,329    $
2,124    $
(13,126)
 
   
      
      
  
5.       Fair
Value Measurements
The Company uses fair value measurements to record fair value
adjustments to certain assets to determine fair value disclosures. Investment securities
available for sale are recorded at fair value
on a recurring basis. Additionally, from time to time, we may be required to record other assets or liabilities at
fair value on a nonrecurring
basis. These nonrecurring fair value adjustments typically involve application of lower-of-cost-or-market accounting or write-
downs of
individual assets. Accounting guidance on fair value measurements and disclosures establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes
the inputs to
valuation methods used to measure fair value. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:
Level 1:
Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.
Level 2:
Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term
of the asset or liability.  Level 2 includes fixed income securities with quoted prices that are traded less frequently than exchange
traded instruments.  Valuation techniques include matrix pricing which is a mathematical technique used widely in the industry to
value fixed income securities without relying exclusively on quoted market prices for the specific securities but rather by relying on
the securities’ relationship to other benchmark quoted prices.
Level 3:
Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e.,
supported with little or no market activity).
67 

 
The Company bases its fair values on the price that would be
received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market
participants at the measurement date.
It is our policy to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when
developing fair value measurements,
in accordance with the fair value hierarchy. Fair value measurements for assets where there exists limited or no
observable market data
and, therefore, are based primarily upon the estimates of the Company or other third-parties, are often calculated based on the
characteristics
of the asset, the economic and competitive environment, and other such factors. Management uses its best judgment in estimating the fair
value of the Company’s financial instruments; however, there are inherent limitations in any estimation technique. Therefore, for
substantially all financial
instruments, the fair value estimates herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts which could have
been realized in a sale transaction on the dates
indicated. The estimated fair value amounts have been measured as of their respective
period-end and have not been re-evaluated or updated for purposes
of our consolidated financial statements subsequent to those respective
dates. As such, the estimated fair values of these financial instruments subsequent
to the respective reporting dates may be different
than the amounts reported at each period-end. Additionally, changes in the underlying assumptions used,
including discount rates and estimates
of future cash flows, could significantly affect the results of current or future valuations.
The Company uses quoted values and other data provided by an
independent pricing service in its process for determining fair values of its investments.
The evaluations of such pricing services represent
an exit price and a good faith opinion as to what a buyer in the marketplace would pay for a security in a
current sale. This pricing
service provides us with one quote per instrument. For fixed income securities that have quoted prices in active markets, market
quotations
are provided. For fixed income securities that do not trade on a daily basis, the independent pricing service prepares estimates of fair
value using
a wide array of observable inputs including relevant market information, benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities,
sector groupings, and matrix
pricing. The observable market inputs that the Company’s independent pricing service utilizes may include
benchmark yields, reported trades, broker-
dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, market bids/offers,
and other reference data on markets, industry, and the economy.
Additionally, the independent pricing service uses an option-adjusted
spread model to develop prepayment and interest rate scenarios.
Should the independent pricing service be unable to provide
a fair value estimate, we would first attempt to obtain a fair value estimate from our third-
party investment advisor who utilizes different
independent pricing services. If unsuccessful, we would attempt to obtain a non-binding fair value estimate
from a number of broker-dealers
and would review this estimate in conjunction with a fair value estimate reported by an independent business news service
or other sources.
In instances where only one broker-dealer provides a fair value for a fixed income security, we would use that estimate. In instances
where the Company would be able to obtain fair value estimates from more than one broker-dealer, we would review the range of estimates
and select the
most appropriate value based on the facts and circumstances. Should neither the independent pricing service nor a broker-dealer
provide a fair value
estimate, we would develop a fair value estimate based on cash flow analyses and other valuation techniques that
utilize certain unobservable inputs.
Accordingly, the Company classifies such a security as a Level 3 investment.
The fair value estimates of our investments provided by the
independent pricing service at each period-end were utilized, among other resources, in
reaching a conclusion as to the fair value of
its investments.
Management reviews the reasonableness of the pricing provided
by the independent pricing service by employing various analytical procedures. We also
use information from our third-party investment
advisor who utilizes different independent pricing services to further validate the reasonableness of the
valuation of our fixed income
portfolio. If, after this review, management does not believe the pricing for any security is a reasonable estimate of fair value,
then
it will seek to resolve the discrepancy through discussions with the independent pricing service. In its review, management did not identify
any such
discrepancies and no adjustments were made to the estimates provided by the independent pricing service for the years ended December
31, 2024, 2023, or
2022. The classification within the fair value hierarchy is then confirmed based on the final conclusions from the
pricing review.
The valuation of money market accounts and equity securities
are generally based on Level 1 inputs, which use the market-approach valuation technique.
The valuation of certain cash equivalents and
our fixed income securities generally incorporates significant Level 2 inputs using the market and income
approach techniques. We may
assign a lower level to inputs typically considered to be Level 2 based on our assessment of liquidity and relative level of
uncertainty
surrounding inputs. There were no assets or liabilities classified at Level 3 at December 31, 2024, or 2023.
68 

 
The following tables set forth our assets which
are measured on a recurring basis by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which fair value
measurements fall:
 
 
December 31, 2024
 
 
 
Total
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
 
Fixed income securities:
   
      
      
      
  
U.S. Government and agencies
  $
12,274    $
—    $
12,274    $
— 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
43,823     
—     
43,823     
— 
Corporate securities
   
116,274     
—     
116,274     
— 
Residential mortgage-backed securities
   
48,777     
—     
48,777     
— 
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
   
27,184     
—     
27,184     
— 
Asset-backed securities
   
56,131     
—     
56,131     
— 
Redeemable preferred stock
   
3,249     
—     
3,249     
— 
Total fixed income securities
   
307,712     
—     
307,712     
— 
 
   
      
      
      
  
Equity securities:
   
      
      
      
  
Common stock
   
24,640     
24,640     
—     
— 
Non-redeemable preferred stock
   
—     
—     
—     
— 
Total equity securities
   
24,640     
24,640     
—     
— 
 
   
      
      
      
  
Money market accounts and cash equivalents
   
10,950     
10,950     
—     
— 
Total assets at fair value
  $
343,302    $
35,590    $
307,712    $
— 
 
 
December 31, 2023
 
 
 
Total
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
 
Fixed income securities:
   
      
      
      
  
U.S. Government and agencies
  $
10,262    $
—    $
10,262    $
— 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
51,461     
—     
51,461     
— 
Corporate securities
   
142,216     
—     
142,216     
— 
Residential mortgage-backed securities
   
61,163     
—     
61,163     
— 
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
   
29,439     
—     
29,439     
— 
Asset-backed securities
   
49,029     
—     
49,029     
— 
Redeemable preferred stocks
   
4,161     
—     
4,161     
— 
Total fixed income securities
   
347,731     
—     
347,731     
— 
 
   
      
      
      
  
Equity securities:
   
      
      
      
  
Common stock
   
25,890     
25,890     
—     
— 
Non-redeemable preferred stocks
   
1,877     
1,877     
—     
— 
Total equity securities
   
27,767     
27,767     
—     
— 
 
   
      
      
      
  
Money market accounts and cash equivalents
   
25,596     
19,412     
6,184     
— 
Total assets at fair value
  $
401,094    $
47,179    $
353,915    $
— 
 
   
      
      
      
  
69 

 
The following tables are a reconciliation for both continuing
and discontinued operations of the presentation of our assets which are measured on a
recurring basis by the level within the fair value
hierarchy in which fair value measurements fall:
 
 
December 31, 2024
 
 
 
Total
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
 
Fixed income securities:
   
      
      
      
  
Continuing operations
  $
307,712    $
—    $
307,712    $
— 
Discontinued operations
   
—     
—     
—     
— 
Total fixed income securities
   
307,712     
—     
307,712     
— 
 
   
      
      
      
  
Equity securities:
   
      
      
      
  
Continuing operations
   
24,640     
24,640     
—     
— 
Discontinued operations
   
—     
—     
—     
— 
Total equity securities
   
24,640     
24,640     
—     
— 
 
   
      
      
      
  
Money market accounts and cash equivalents
   
      
      
      
  
Continuing operations
   
10,950     
10,950     
—     
— 
Discontinued operations
   
—     
—     
—     
— 
Total money market accounts and cash equivalents
   
10,950     
10,950     
—     
— 
Total assets at fair value
  $
343,302    $
35,590    $
307,712    $
— 
 
 
December 31, 2023
 
 
 
Total
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
 
Fixed income securities:
   
      
      
      
  
Continuing operations
  $
289,399    $
—    $
289,399    $
— 
Discontinued operations
   
58,332     
—     
58,332     
— 
Total fixed income securities
   
347,731     
—     
347,731     
— 
 
   
      
      
      
  
Equity securities:
   
      
      
      
  
Continuing operations
   
21,983     
21,983     
—     
— 
Discontinued operations
   
5,784     
5,784     
—     
— 
Total equity securities
   
27,767     
27,767     
—     
— 
 
   
      
      
      
  
Money market accounts and cash equivalents
   
      
      
      
  
Continuing operations
   
16,239     
16,239     
—     
— 
Discontinued operations
   
9,357     
3,173     
6,184     
— 
Total money market accounts and cash equivalents
   
25,596     
19,412     
6,184     
— 
Total assets at fair value
  $
401,094    $
47,179    $
353,915    $
— 
There were no liabilities measured
at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2024 or 2023.
6.       Reinsurance
External Reinsurance
The Company’s consolidated financial statements reflect
the effects of assumed and ceded reinsurance transactions. Assumed reinsurance refers to the
acceptance of certain insurance risks that
other insurance companies have underwritten. Ceded reinsurance involves transferring certain insurance risks
(along with the related written
and earned premiums) the Company has underwritten to other insurance companies who agree to share these risks. The
Company reinsures a
portion of the risks it underwrites, through these ceded reinsurance agreements, in order to control its exposure to losses. Our ceded
reinsurance is placed either on an automatic basis under general reinsurance contracts known as treaties or through facultative contracts
placed on
substantial individual risks. These contracts do not relieve the Company from its obligations to policyholders. Treaty reinsurance
contracts are typically
effective from January 1 through December 31 each year.
70 

 
During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company
maintained property catastrophe reinsurance protection covering $133,000 in excess of a $20,000
retention. With the exception of Westminster,
a per risk excess of loss treaty provides coverage of $4,000 in excess of $1,000 for property risks and $11,000
in excess of $1,000 for
casualty risks. For Westminster, a per risk excess of loss treaty provided coverage of $3,000 in excess of $2,000 for property risks
and
$10,000 in excess of $2,000 for casualty risks until July 1, 2024. Additionally, a property per-risk facultative contract is in place
to provide coverage up
to $20,000 in excess of $5,000 per property. Aggregate stop loss reinsurance agreements are also in place for both
crop hail and multi-peril crop coverage.
The crop hail aggregate attaches at a 100% net loss ratio providing 50 points of cover. The multi-peril
crop aggregate attaches at a 105% net loss ratio
providing 45 points of cover. In addition to the aggregate covers, underlying multi-peril
crop reinsurance is provided through the FCIC.
Effective July 1, 2024, the Company’s reinsurance contracts
were modified to exclude any Westminster losses occurring on or after that date, while
maintaining all other existing limits, retentions,
and attachment points.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company’s
catastrophe retention and retention limit were consistent with those for the year ended December
31, 2024. In addition, limits, retentions,
and attachment points in our other reinsurance contracts were also consistent with those for the year ended
December 31, 2024 (with the
exception of Westminster for which per risk excess of loss treaties provided coverage of $4,000 in excess of $1,000 for
property risks
and $11,000 in excess of $1,000 for casualty risks).
During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company
maintained property catastrophe reinsurance protection covering $125,000 in excess of a $15,000
retention. Additionally, per risk excess
of loss treaties provided coverage of $4,000 in excess of $1,000 for property risks and $11,000 in excess of $1,000
for casualty risks,
with facultative contracts in place to provide coverage up to $20,000 in excess of $5,000 per property. Aggregate stop loss reinsurance
agreements were placed for both crop hail and multi-peril crop coverage. The crop hail aggregate attached at a 100% net loss ratio providing
50 points of
cover. The multi-peril crop aggregate attached at a 105% net loss ratio providing 45 points of cover. In addition to the
aggregate covers, underlying multi-
peril crop reinsurance was provided through the FCIC.
The Company experienced multiple catastrophe events
during 2022 which resulted in reinsurance recoveries of $5,648 through December 31, 2024.
For 2025, the Company’s catastrophe retention
will remain consistent with 2024 at $20,000 and the reinsurance protection will cover $117,000. The lower
limit for 2025 was primarily
due to the sale of Westminster, which drove the top end of the catastrophe modeling results. There were no changes made to
limits, retentions,
or attachment points in our other reinsurance contracts.
The Company actively monitors and evaluates the financial
condition of the reinsurers and develops estimates of the uncollectible amounts due from
reinsurers. Beginning on December 31, 2022, credit
losses are recognized through an allowance account developed using a new CECL model. See the Part
II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting
Pronouncements” for additional information. Credit loss estimates are made based on periodic evaluation of
balances due from reinsurers,
changes in reinsurer credit standing, judgments regarding reinsurers’ solvency, known disputes, reporting characteristics of
the
underlying reinsured business, historical experience, current economic conditions, and the state of reinsurer relations in general. Collection
risk is
mitigated by entering into reinsurance arrangements only with reinsurers that have strong credit ratings and statutory surplus
above certain levels. At
December 31, 2024 and 2023, management has concluded that it is not necessary to record an allowance for expected
credit losses related to reinsurance
recoverables. All of our significant reinsurance partners are rated “A-” (Excellent)
or better by AM Best, and there is no history of write-offs.
A reconciliation of direct to net premiums on both a written
and an earned basis, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and
discontinued operations, is as follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
 
 
Premiums 

Written
   
Premiums 

Earned
   
Premiums 

Written
   
Premiums

Earned
   
Premiums 

Written
   
Premiums 

Earned
 
Direct premium
  $
383,933    $
380,968    $
418,399    $
401,945    $
389,706    $
368,886 
Assumed premium
   
2,967     
2,984     
3,098     
3,570     
6,299     
6,550 
Ceded premium
   
(43,503)    
(42,786)    
(54,848)    
(54,378)    
(46,993)    
(47,146)
Net premiums
  $
343,397    $
341,166    $
366,649    $
351,137    $
349,012    $
328,290 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
71 

 
The reconciliations of the Company’s direct to net
premiums on both a written and an earned basis for the current year-to-date and comparable prior year-
to-date amounts, segregated between
continuing and discontinued operations, are shown below.
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
 
 
Premiums 

Written
   
Premiums 

Earned
   
Premiums 

Written
   
Premiums

Earned
   
Premiums

Written
   
Premiums

Earned
 
Continuing operations:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Direct premium
  $
342,301    $
341,885    $
341,234    $
325,590    $
315,095    $
299,607 
Assumed premium
   
2,967     
2,984     
3,098     
3,570     
6,299     
6,550 
Ceded premium
   
(34,760)    
(34,759)    
(37,043)    
(37,043)    
(34,417)    
(34,417)
Net premiums
  $
310,508    $
310,110    $
307,289    $
292,117    $
286,977    $
271,740 
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
 
 
Premiums 

Written
   
Premiums 

Earned
   
Premiums

Written
   
Premiums 

Earned
   
Premiums

Written
   
Premiums 

Earned
 
Discontinued operations:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Direct premium
  $
41,632    $
39,083    $
77,165    $
76,355    $
74,611    $
69,279 
Assumed premium
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
— 
Ceded premium
   
(8,743)    
(8,027)    
(17,805)    
(17,335)    
(12,576)    
(12,729)
Net premiums
  $
32,889    $
31,056    $
59,360    $
59,020    $
62,035    $
56,550 
A reconciliation of direct to net losses and loss adjustment
expenses, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued
operations, is as follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
249,344    $
293,978    $
333,397 
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
784     
1,140     
2,369 
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
(19,157)    
(50,706)    
(41,334)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
230,971    $
244,412    $
294,432 
The reconciliations for current and prior year continuing and discontinued
operations of direct to net losses and loss adjustment expenses is as follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Continuing Operations:
   
      
      
  
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
220,991    $
195,138    $
255,187 
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
784     
1,140     
2,369 
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
(14,310)    
(9,762)    
(15,806)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
207,465    $
186,516    $
241,750 
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Discontinued Operations:
   
      
      
  
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
28,353    $
98,840    $
78,210 
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
—     
—     
— 
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
(4,847)    
(40,944)    
(25,528)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
23,506    $
57,896    $
52,682 
72 

 
Intercompany Reinsurance Pooling Arrangement
Effective January 1, 2020, all of our insurance subsidiary and affiliate
companies entered into an intercompany reinsurance pooling agreement. Nodak
Insurance is the lead company of the pool, and assumes the
net premiums, net losses, and underwriting expenses from each of the other five companies.
Nodak Insurance then retrocedes balances back
to each company, while retaining its own share of the pool’s net underwriting results, based on individual
pool percentages established
in the respective pooling agreement. This arrangement allows each insurance company to rely upon the capacity of the pool’s
total
statutory capital and surplus. As a result, they are evaluated by AM Best on a group basis and hold a single combined financial strength
rating, long-
term issuer credit rating, and financial size category. Subsequent to the June 30, 2024, date of sale, Westminster is no
longer a member of the pool, and the
pooling percentages for the remaining insurance subsidiaries were updated based on their respective
surplus as a percentage of the pool as of December 31,
2023.
7.       Deferred
Policy Acquisition Costs
Expenses directly related to successfully acquired insurance
policies, primarily commissions, premium taxes and underwriting costs, are deferred and
amortized over the terms of the policies. We update
our acquisition cost assumptions periodically to reflect actual experience, and we evaluate the costs for
recoverability. The table below,
presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, shows the deferred policy
acquisition costs
and asset reconciliation:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Balance, beginning of year
  $
34,120    $
29,768    $
24,947 
Deferral of policy acquisition costs
   
79,363     
87,343     
71,624 
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
   
(79,185)    
(82,991)    
(66,803)
Westminster balance disposed in sale
   
(7,998)    
—     
— 
Balance, end of year
  $
26,300    $
34,120    $
29,768 
 
   
      
      
  
The tables for current and prior year continuing and discontinued
operations showing the deferred policy acquisition costs and assets reconciliation are
shown below:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Continuing operations:
   
      
      
  
Balance, beginning of year
  $
26,790    $
22,675    $
19,047 
Deferral of policy acquisition costs
   
70,767     
71,746     
57,233 
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
   
(71,257)    
(67,631)    
(53,605)
Balance, end of year
  $
26,300    $
26,790    $
22,675 
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Discontinued operations:
   
      
      
  
Balance, beginning of period
  $
7,330     
7,093     
5,900 
Deferral of policy acquisition costs
   
8,596     
15,597     
14,391 
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
   
(7,928)    
(15,360)    
(13,198)
Westminster balance disposed in sale
   
(7,998)    
—     
— 
Balance, end of year
  $
—    $
7,330    $
7,093 
73 

 
8.       Unpaid
Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses
Activity in the liability for unpaid losses and
loss adjustment expenses is summarized as follows for both continuing and discontinued operations:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Balance, beginning of year:
   
     
     
 
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
217,119    $
190,459    $
139,662 
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
   
48,969     
37,575     
21,200 
Net balance, beginning of year
   
168,150     
152,884     
118,462 
 
   
      
      
  
Incurred related to:
   
      
      
  
Current year
   
218,063     
223,960     
293,283 
Prior years
   
12,908     
20,452     
1,149 
Total incurred
   
230,971     
244,412     
294,432 
 
   
      
      
  
Paid related to:
   
      
      
  
Current year
   
131,570     
138,600     
197,250 
Prior years
   
80,636     
90,548     
62,760 
Total paid
   
212,206     
229,148     
260,010 
 
   
      
      
  
Westminster balances disposed in sale:
   
      
      
  
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
107,508     
—     
— 
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
   
45,320     
—     
— 
Net balance, date of sale
   
62,188     
—     
— 
 
   
      
      
  
Balance, end of year:
   
      
      
  
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
137,288     
217,119     
190,459 
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
   
12,561     
48,969     
37,575 
Net balance, end of year
  $
124,727    $
168,150    $
152,884 
 
   
      
      
  
During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company’s
incurred reported losses and loss adjustment expense included $12,908 of net unfavorable
development on prior accident years. This was
primarily attributable to unfavorable development for the Direct Auto non-standard auto business, partially
offset by favorable development
in Battle Creek, American West, Primero, and Nodak Insurance. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the
Company’s incurred reported
losses and loss adjustment expenses included $20,452 of net unfavorable development on prior accident years, primarily
attributable to
unfavorable development for the Westminster commercial and Direct Auto non-standard auto businesses partially offset by favorable
development
for Battle Creek, American West, and Nodak Insurance. During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company’s incurred reported losses
and loss adjustment expenses included $1,149 of net unfavorable development on prior accident years, primarily attributable to unfavorable
development
for the Westminster commercial business partially offset by favorable development for Battle Creek and Nodak Insurance. During
2024, Westminster was
sold and all associated liabilities were included in the sale.
Changes in unpaid losses and loss adjustment expense
reserves are generally the result of ongoing analysis of recent loss development trends. As additional
information becomes known regarding
individual claims, original estimates are increased or decreased accordingly.
74 

 
The tables for current and prior year continuing and discontinued
operations showing the liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expense are shown
below:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Continuing operations:
   
      
      
  
Balance, beginning of year:
   
      
      
  
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
119,185    $
114,296    $
108,000 
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
   
6,460     
8,586     
12,478 
Net balance, beginning of year
   
112,725     
105,710     
95,522 
 
   
      
      
  
Incurred related to:
   
      
      
  
Current year
   
193,948     
184,210     
247,635 
Prior years
   
13,517     
2,306     
(5,885)
Total incurred
   
207,465     
186,516     
241,750 
 
   
      
      
  
Paid related to:
   
      
      
  
Current year
   
126,006     
121,466     
181,434 
Prior years
   
69,457     
58,036     
50,128 
Total paid
   
195,463     
179,502     
231,562 
 
   
      
      
  
Balance, end of year:
   
      
      
  
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
137,288     
119,185     
114,296 
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
   
12,561     
6,460     
8,586 
Net balance, end of year
  $
124,727    $
112,725    $
105,710 
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Discontinued operations:
   
      
      
  
Balance, beginning of year:
   
      
      
  
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
97,934    $
76,163    $
31,662 
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
   
42,509     
28,989     
8,722 
Net balance, beginning of year
   
55,425     
47,174     
22,940 
 
   
      
      
  
Incurred related to:
   
      
      
  
Current year
   
24,115     
39,750     
45,648 
Prior years
   
(609)    
18,146     
7,034 
Total incurred
   
23,506     
57,896     
52,682 
 
   
      
      
  
Paid related to:
   
      
      
  
Current year
   
5,564     
17,132     
15,816 
Prior years
   
11,179     
32,512     
12,632 
Total paid
   
16,743     
49,644     
28,448 
 
   
      
      
  
Westminster balances disposed in sale:
   
      
      
  
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
107,508     
—     
— 
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
   
45,320     
—     
— 
Net balance, date of sale
   
62,188     
—     
— 
 
   
      
      
  
Balance, end of year:
   
      
      
  
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
—     
97,934     
76,163 
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
   
—     
42,509     
28,989 
Net balance, end of year
  $
—    $
55,425    $
47,174 
75 

 
The tables on the following pages present information,
organized by our primary operating segments, about incurred and paid claims development as of
December 31, 2024, net of reinsurance, as
well as cumulative claim frequency and the total of IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported
claims. The cumulative number
of reported claims represents open claims, claims closed with payment, and claims closed without payment. It does not
include an estimated
amount for unreported claims. The number of claims is measured by claim event (such as a car accident or storm damage) and an
individual
claim event may result in more than one reported claim (such as a car accident with both property and liability damages). The Company
considers a claim that does not result in a liability as a claim closed without payment. The segment information presented in the tables
is prior to the effects
of the intercompany reinsurance pooling arrangement.
The tables include unaudited information about
incurred and paid claims development for the year ended December 31, 2015 for the Private Passenger
Auto, Home and Farm, and Crop segments
and from the year ended December 31, 2015 through 2017 for the Non-Standard Auto information, which we
present as supplementary information.
Private 

Passenger 

Auto
 
Incurred Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance

For the Year Ended December 31,
   
At December 31, 2024
 
Accident

Year
  2015 (1)   
2016    
2017    
2018    
2019    
2020    
2021    
2022
   
2023
   
2024
   
Total IBNR

Plus Expected
Development 

on Reported 

Claims
   
Cumulative
Number of 

Reported 

Claims
 
(in thousands, except
claim counts)
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
  
2015
  $32,438    $31,532    $30,461    $30,503    $30,679    $30,455    $ 30,379    $ 30,370    $ 30,351    $ 30,362    $
(1)    
11,688 
2016
   
—      40,227      39,260      39,057      39,314      38,535      38,416      38,601      38,566     
38,536     
(3)    
14,325 
2017
   
—     
—      40,779      40,199      40,120      40,427      40,488      40,520      40,471     
40,449     
—     
13,753 
2018
   
—     
—     
—      44,925      43,428      43,641      43,575      43,807      43,733     
43,896     
310     
14,675 
2019
   
—     
—     
—     
—      53,769      53,328      53,364      52,802      52,749     
52,535     
56     
16,540 
2020
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      46,247      48,519      47,403      47,174     
46,713     
107     
13,541 
2021
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      57,316      57,176      57,431     
57,215     
205     
15,321 
2022
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      66,711      65,132     
64,180     
552     
16,146 
2023
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      62,357     
61,917     
768     
13,888 
2024
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
54,082     
1,935     
10,593 
Total    $ 489,885     
      
  
 
(1) Prior years unaudited
     
Private 

Passenger 

Auto
 
Paid Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance

For the Year Ended December 31,
 
 
Accident

Year
  2015 (1)    
2016
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
   
2020
   
2021
   
2022
   
2023
   
2024
 
2015
  $ 23,401    $ 27,171    $ 28,933    $ 29,598    $ 29,795    $ 30,120    $ 30,355    $ 30,355    $ 30,355    $ 30,363 
2016
   
—     
29,009     
35,845      37,307      38,108      37,833      38,173      38,303      38,539     
38,539 
2017
   
—     
—     
31,033      37,050      38,331      39,738      40,111      40,294      40,315     
40,398 
2018
   
—     
—     
—      34,358      40,213      41,479      42,820      43,074      43,225     
43,337 
2019
   
—     
—     
—     
—      42,414      48,414      50,370      51,556      52,060     
52,437 
2020
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      35,495      42,585      45,670      46,211     
46,204 
2021
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      42,326      52,256      54,243     
56,030 
2022
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      49,911      59,556     
61,679 
2023
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      45,452     
55,548 
2024
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
39,617 
Total    $ 464,152 
All outstanding liabilities prior to 2015, net of reinsurance     
12 
Liabilities for Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses, net of reinsurance     
25,745 
 
(1) Prior years unaudited
   
76 

 
 
 
Non-
Standard
Auto
 
Incurred Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
   
At December 31, 2024
 
Accident
Year
  2015 (1)    2016(1)     2017(1)    
2018    
2019    
2020    
2021
   
2022
   
2023
   
2024
   
Total IBNR
Plus Expected
Development 
on Reported 
Claims
   
Cumulative
Number of 
Reported 
Claims
 
(in thousands, except
claim counts)
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
  
2015
  $27,644    $24,304    $22,698    $20,229    $20,345    $20,567    $ 20,199    $ 20,039    $ 20,341    $ 20,357    $
7   
10,852   
2016
   
—      30,514      24,708      23,606      23,989      22,884      22,267      21,947      22,095     
22,168     
9   
12,878   
2017
   
—     
—      32,098      27,275      24,414      23,189      22,221      21,903      22,224     
22,327     
9   
13,190   
2018
   
—     
—     
—      36,236      34,466      33,743      32,307      32,038      32,741     
33,020     
78   
16,718   
2019
   
—     
—     
—     
—      37,196      36,864      35,810      36,100      36,659     
36,646     
92   
12,424   
2020
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      33,054      31,743      32,507      34,657     
34,475     
360   
14,356   
2021
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      40,652      40,612      45,337     
46,412     
1,752   
15,895   
2022
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      39,514      43,372     
51,912     
2,676   
14,061   
2023
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      50,415     
57,445     
6,821   
14,784   
2024
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
59,465     
21,260   
10,850   
Total    $ 384,227     
      
   
 
(1) Prior years unaudited
   
Non-Standard 
Auto
 
Paid Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
 
Accident
Year
  2015 (1)    
2016(1)    
2017(1)    
2018
   
2019
   
2020
   
2021
   
2022
   
2023
   
2024
 
2015
 
$8,302   
$13,887   
$16,536    $17,884    $19,180    $19,679    $19,799    $19,988    $20,292   
$20,300 
2016
   
—     
8,935     
15,154      18,349      20,515      21,032      21,495      21,794      21,984     
22,044 
2017
   
—     
—     
8,733      14,641      18,238      19,826      20,604      21,528      22,063     
22,173 
2018
   
—     
—     
—      11,526      22,821      26,820      28,489      30,489      32,202     
32,663 
2019
   
—     
—     
—     
—      16,503      26,221      29,953      32,370      34,915     
35,916 
2020
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      14,077      23,046      27,160      30,419     
32,688 
2021
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      18,611      30,155      36,890     
41,590 
2022
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      14,966      29,533     
42,122 
2023
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      18,300     
38,279 
2024
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
18,873 
Total    $ 306,648 
All outstanding liabilities prior to 2015, net of reinsurance     
1 
Liabilities for Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses, net of reinsurance    $ 77,580 
 
(1) Prior years unaudited
 
77 

 
Home and
Farm
 
Incurred Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
   
At December 31, 2024
 
Accident
Year
  2015 (1)   
2016    
2017    
2018    
2019    
2020    
2021    
2022
   
2023
   
2024
   
Total IBNR
Plus Expected
Development
on Reported 
Claims
   
Cumulative
Number of
Reported 
Claims
 
(in thousands, except
claim counts)
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
      
 
2015
  $32,740    $31,804    $31,300    $31,577    $31,446    $31,612    $ 31,600    $ 31,601    $ 31,599    $ 31,944    $
—     
3,924 
2016
   
—      45,713      44,513      44,945      44,597      44,728      44,745     
44,809     
44,788     
44,787     
—     
6,354 
2017
   
—     
—      42,112      41,593      41,882      41,779      41,804     
41,640     
41,590     
41,646     
5     
4,955 
2018
   
—     
—     
—      42,486      43,840      43,747      43,682     
43,712     
43,731     
43,681     
—     
4,596 
2019
   
—     
—     
—     
—      45,334      45,828      45,471     
45,352     
45,106     
45,050     
4     
5,523 
2020
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      36,264      35,668     
34,656     
34,761     
34,813     
28     
4,118 
2021
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      53,079     
50,322     
50,759     
50,592     
179     
5,381 
2022
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      112,049      105,409      105,328     
883     
8,401 
2023
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
57,205     
56,985     
1,010     
4,302 
2024
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
65,092     
1,572     
3,967 
Total    $ 519,918     
      
  
 
(1) Prior years unaudited
   
Home and
Farm
 
Paid Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
 
Accident
Year
  2015 (1)    
2016
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
   
2020
   
2021
   
2022
   
2023
   
2024
 
2015
  $ 27,204    $ 30,165    $ 30,350    $ 30,573    $ 31,383    $ 31,597    $ 31,597    $ 31,599    $ 31,599    $ 31,944 
2016
   
—     
37,655      44,942      44,270      44,529      44,583      44,650      44,690     
44,736     
44,787 
2017
   
—     
—      34,657      38,928      40,441      40,941      41,414      41,504     
41,506     
41,516 
2018
   
—     
—     
—      37,880      42,814      43,178      43,549      43,634     
43,688     
43,681 
2019
   
—     
—     
—     
—      38,718      43,253      44,119      44,847     
45,053     
45,046 
2020
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      29,273      33,988      34,243     
34,688     
34,784 
2021
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      41,096      48,890     
50,117     
50,403 
2022
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      92,482      101,957      104,321 
2023
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
46,607     
54,304 
2024
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
54,904 
Total    $ 505,690 
All outstanding liabilities prior to 2015, net of reinsurance     
— 
Liabilities for Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses, net of reinsurance    $ 14,228 
 
(1) Prior years unaudited
 
78 

 
Crop
 
Incurred Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
   
At December 31, 2024
 
Accident
Year
  2015 (1)   
2016    
2017    
2018    
2019    
2020    
2021
   
2022
   
2023
   
2024
   
Total IBNR
Plus Expected
Development 
on Reported 
Claims
   
Cumulative
Number of
Reported 
Claims
 
(in thousands, except
claim counts)
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
 
2015
  $13,813    $13,849    $13,849    $13,849    $13,849    $13,849    $ 13,849    $ 13,849    $ 13,849    $ 13,849    $
—     
2,427 
2016
   
—      20,209      19,582      19,487      19,487      19,487      19,487      19,487      19,487     
19,487     
—     
2,806 
2017
   
—     
—      33,734      34,181      34,181      34,181      34,181      34,181      34,181     
34,181     
—     
2,968 
2018
   
—     
—     
—      12,506      11,730      11,730      11,730      11,730      11,730     
11,730     
—     
2,147 
2019
   
—     
—     
—     
—      33,913      37,629      37,629      37,629      37,630     
37,629     
—     
3,101 
2020
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      28,688      28,759      28,759      28,760     
28,759     
—     
2,442 
2021
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      28,574      28,144      28,146     
28,143     
—     
2,726 
2022
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      21,834      20,745     
20,740     
4     
2,021 
2023
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      12,728     
11,399     
12     
1,640 
2024
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
12,463     
16     
1,289 
Total    $ 218,380     
      
  
 
(1) Prior years unaudited
   
Crop
 
Paid Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
Accident
Year
  2015 (1)    
2016
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
   
2020
   
2021
   
2022
   
2023
   
2024
 
2015
  $ 12,866    $ 13,849    $ 13,849    $ 13,849    $ 13,849    $ 13,849    $ 13,849    $ 13,849    $ 13,849    $ 13,849 
2016
   
—     
16,444     
19,487      19,487      19,487      19,487      19,487      19,487      19,487     
19,487 
2017
   
—     
—     
32,768      34,181      34,181      34,181      34,181      34,181      34,181     
34,181 
2018
   
—     
—     
—      10,737      11,730      11,730      11,730      11,730      11,730     
11,730 
2019
   
—     
—     
—     
—      26,208      37,629      37,629      37,629      37,629     
37,629 
2020
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      27,952      28,759      28,759      28,759     
28,759 
2021
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      29,424      28,143      28,143     
28,143 
2022
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      20,279      20,735     
20,735 
2023
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—      10,202     
11,387 
2024
   
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
11,169 
Total    $ 217,069 
All outstanding liabilities prior to 2015, net of reinsurance     
— 
Liabilities for Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses, net of reinsurance    $
1,311 
 
(1) Prior years unaudited  
79 

 
The following table presents a reconciliation
of the net incurred and paid claims development tables to the liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment
expenses in our Consolidated
Balance Sheet:
 
  December 31, 2024 
Liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses:
   
  
Private passenger auto
  $
28,103 
Non-Standard auto
   
77,580 
Home and farm
   
16,162 
Crop
   
1,789 
All other
   
13,654 
Total liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
137,288 
 
   
  
Reinsurance recoverables on losses:
   
  
Private passenger auto
   
2,358 
Non-Standard auto
   
— 
Home and farm
   
1,934 
Crop
   
478 
All other
   
7,791 
Total reinsurance recoverables on losses
   
12,561 
 
   
  
Net liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
124,727 
 
   
  
The following table presents required supplementary information
about average historical claims duration as of December 31, 2024:
 
 
Average Annual Percentage Payout of Incurred Claims by Age, Net of Reinsurance
 
Years
 
1
   
2
   
3
   
4
   
5
   
6
   
7
   
8
   
9
   
10
 
Private Passenger Auto   
50.5%     
20.5%     
11.1%     
6.5%     
4.5%     
3.4%     
3.1%     
0.3%     
0.1%     
— 
Non-Standard Auto
   
45.1%     
23.1%     
13.9%     
8.2%     
4.5%     
2.1%     
1.4%     
1.0%     
0.6%     
0.1% 
Home and Farm
   
67.2%     
15.0%     
8.9%     
4.3%     
1.3%     
0.7%     
0.7%     
0.7%     
1.2%     
— 
Crop
    100.0%     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
—     
— 
80 

 
9.       Property
and Equipment
Property and equipment, presented on a consolidated
basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, consisted of the following:
 
 
December 31,
   
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
Estimated Useful 

Life
Cost:
   
      
    
 
Land
  $
1,249    $
1,403   
indefinite
Building and improvements
   
12,497     
14,538   
10 – 43 years
Electronic data processing equipment
   
1,444     
1,441   
5 – 7 years
Furniture and fixtures
   
2,762     
2,953   
5 – 7 years
Automobiles
   
1,280     
1,319   
2 – 3 years
Gross cost
   
19,232     
21,654   
 
 
   
      
    
 
Accumulated depreciation
   
(11,685)    
(11,757)  
 
Total property and equipment, net
  $
7,547    $
9,897   
 
 
   
      
    
 
Depreciation expense was $770, $826, and $708
during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. Depreciation expense for
continuing operations was $681, $692,
and $604 during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
Property and equipment for current and prior year continuing
and discontinued operations consisted of the following:
 
  December 31, 2024 
Cost:
   
  
Continuing operations
  $
19,232 
Discontinued operations
   
— 
Total cost
   
19,232 
 
   
  
Accumulated depreciation
   
  
Continuing operations
   
(11,685)
Discontinued operations
   
— 
Total accumulated depreciation
   
(11,685)
 
   
  
Total property and equipment, net
  $
7,547 
 
   
  
 
  December 31, 2023 
Cost:
   
  
Continuing operations
  $
18,756 
Discontinued operations
   
2,898 
Total cost
   
21,654 
 
   
  
Accumulated depreciation
   
  
Continuing operations
   
(11,304)
Discontinued operations
   
(453)
Total accumulated depreciation
   
(11,757)
 
   
  
Total property and equipment, net
  $
9,897 
 
   
  
81 

 
10.       Goodwill
and Other Intangibles
Goodwill
The following table presents, on a consolidated basis, including
both continuing and discontinued operations, the carrying amount of the Company’s
goodwill and related impairment by segment:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
 
 
Non-

Standard 

Auto
   
Com-

mercial    
Total
   
Non-

Standard 

Auto
   
Com-

mercial    
Total
   
Non-

Standard 

Auto
   
Com-

mercial    
Total
 
Goodwill, beginning of year   $
2,628    $
—    $
2,628    $
2,628    $
6,756    $
9,384    $
2,628    $
6,756    $
9,384 
Impairment recognized
during the period
   
(2,628)    
—     
(2,628)    
—     
(6,756)    
(6,756)    
—     
—     
— 
Goodwill, end of year
  $
—    $
—    $
—    $
2,628    $
—    $
2,628    $
2,628    $
6,756    $
9,384 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
      
      
      
  
We performed a quantitative assessment
of the goodwill related to the Primero acquisition during the fourth quarter of 2024, which is allocated to our Non-
Standard Auto segment,
and concluded that the goodwill was fully impaired as of December 31, 2024, resulting in a non-cash impairment charge of $2,628
in the
current year. The determination of the fair value of the reporting unit was based on an income approach that utilized discounted cash
flows. Under
the income approach, we determined fair value based on the present value of the most recent cash flow projections for the
reporting unit as of the date of
the analysis and calculated a terminal value utilizing a terminal growth rate. The significant assumptions
under this approach include, among others:
income projections, operating expenses, the discount rate, and the terminal growth rate. The
cash flows used to determine fair value are dependent on a
number of significant management assumptions such as our expectations of future
performance and the expected future economic environment, which are
partly based upon our historical experience. Our estimates are subject
to change given the inherent uncertainty in predicting future results. Additionally, the
discount rate and the terminal growth rate are
based on our judgment of the rates that would be utilized by a hypothetical market participant.
We performed a quantitative assessment
of the goodwill related to the Westminster acquisition during the fourth quarter of 2023, which was allocated to
our former Commercial
segment, and concluded that the goodwill was fully impaired as of December 31, 2023, resulting in a non-cash impairment charge
of $6,756
in 2023. The determination of the fair value of the reporting unit was based on a combination of a market approach that considered benchmark
company market multiples, and an income approach that utilized discounted cash flows. Under the income approach, we determined fair value
based on the
present value of the most recent cash flow projections for the reporting unit as of the date of the analysis and calculated
a terminal value utilizing a terminal
growth rate. The significant assumptions under this approach included, among others: income projections,
new product introductions, customer behavior,
competitor pricing, operating expenses, the discount rate, and the terminal growth rate.
The cash flows used to determine fair value were dependent on a
number of significant management assumptions such as our expectations
of future performance and the expected future economic environment, which
were partly based upon our historical experience. Additionally,
the discount rate and the terminal growth rate were based on our judgment of the rates that
would be utilized by a hypothetical market
participant.
82 

 
Other Intangible Assets
The following table presents on a consolidated basis, including
both continuing and discontinued operations, the carrying amount of the Company’s other
intangible assets:
December 31, 2024
 
Gross Carrying

Amount
   
Accumulated

Amortization
   
Net
 
Subject to amortization:
   
      
      
  
Trade names
  $
—    $
—    $
— 
Distribution network
   
—     
—     
— 
Total subject to amortization
   
—     
—     
— 
Not subject to amortization:
   
      
      
  
State insurance licenses
   
100     
—     
100 
Total
  $
100    $
—    $
100 
 
   
      
      
  
December 31, 2023
 
Gross Carrying

Amount
   
Accumulated

Amortization
   
Net
 
Subject to amortization:
   
      
      
  
Trade names
  $
748    $
448    $
300 
Distribution network
   
6,700     
1,489     
5,211 
Total subject to amortization
   
7,448     
1,937     
5,511 
Not subject to amortization
   
      
      
  
State insurance licenses
   
1,900     
—     
1,900 
Total
  $
9,348    $
1,937    $
7,411 
 
   
      
      
  
The following table presents the current and
prior year continuing and discontinued carrying amounts of the Company’s other intangible assets:
December 31, 2024
 
Gross Carrying

Amount
   
Accumulated

Amortization
   
Net
 
Subject to amortization:
   
      
      
  
Continuing operations
  $
—    $
—    $
— 
Discontinued operations
   
—     
—     
— 
Total subject to amortization
   
—     
—     
— 
 
   
      
      
  
Not subject to amortization
   
      
      
  
Continuing operations
   
100     
—     
100 
Discontinued operations
   
—     
—     
— 
Total not subject to amortization
  $
100    $
—    $
100 
 
   
      
      
  
December 31, 2023
 
Gross Carrying

Amount
   
Accumulated

Amortization
   
Net
 
Subject to amortization:
   
      
      
  
Continuing operations
  $
248    $
248    $
— 
Discontinued operations
   
7,200     
1,689     
5,511 
Total subject to amortization
   
7,448     
1,937     
5,511 
 
   
      
      
  
Not subject to amortization
   
      
      
  
Continuing operations
   
100     
—     
100 
Discontinued operations
   
1,800     
—     
1,800 
Total not subject to amortization
  $
9,348    $
1,937    $
7,411 
83 

 
We determined during our reviews that there
were no impairments of other indefinite-lived intangible assets or finite-lived intangible assets during the
years ended December 31,
2024, 2023, and 2022.
Amortization expense was $211, $455, and $472
during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. Amortization expense for
continuing operations was $0, $33, and
$50 during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
11.       Royalties,
Dividends, and Affiliations
North Dakota Farm Bureau
Nodak Insurance was organized by the NDFB
to provide insurance protection for its members. We have a royalty agreement with the NDFB that
recognizes the use of their trademark
and provides royalties to the NDFB based on the premiums written on Nodak Insurance’s policies. Royalties paid to
the NDFB were
$1,647, $1,603, and $1,453 during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. Royalty amounts payable of $146
and
$131 were accrued as a liability to the NDFB at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Dividends
State insurance laws require our insurance
subsidiaries to maintain certain minimum capital and surplus amounts on a statutory basis. Our insurance
subsidiaries are subject to regulations
that restrict the payment of dividends from statutory surplus and may require prior approval from their domiciliary
insurance regulatory
authorities. Our insurance subsidiaries are also subject to risk-based capital requirements that may further affect their ability to pay
dividends. Our insurance subsidiaries statutory capital and surplus at December 31, 2024, exceeded
the amount of statutory capital and surplus necessary to
satisfy risk-based capital requirements by a significant margin.
The amount available for payment of dividends from Nodak Insurance
to NI Holdings during 2025 without the prior approval of the North Dakota
Insurance Department is approximately $8,273 as of December
31, 2024. No dividends were declared or paid by Nodak Insurance during the years ended
December 31, 2024 and 2023. The Nodak Insurance
Board of Directors declared and paid dividends of $3,000 to NI Holdings during the year ended
December 31, 2022.
The amount available for payment of dividends from Direct Auto to
NI Holdings during 2025 without the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance
Department is approximately $3,146 as of December 31,
2024. No dividends were declared or paid by Direct Auto during the years ended December 31,
2024, 2023, or 2022.
Prior to its payment of any dividend, Nodak Insurance will be required
to provide notice of the dividend to the North Dakota Insurance Department. This
notice must be provided to the North Dakota Insurance
Department 30 days prior to the payment of an extraordinary dividend and 10 days prior to the
payment of an ordinary dividend. The North
Dakota Insurance Department has the power to limit or prohibit dividend payments if an insurance company is
in violation of any law or
regulation. These restrictions or any subsequently imposed restrictions may affect our future liquidity.
Westminster was sold on June 30, 2024, and
therefore no dividends are available to be paid to NI Holdings subsequent to that date. No dividends were
declared or paid by Westminster
during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 or 2022. See Part II, Item 8, Note 20 “Discontinued Operations” for
additional
information.
84 

 
Battle Creek
Prior to January 2, 2024, we consolidated the financial statements
of Battle Creek, and Battle Creek’s policyholders’ interest in Battle Creek was reflected
as a non-controlling interest in
shareholders’ equity in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Subsequent to January 2, 2024, Battle Creek is fully consolidated
in our
Consolidated Balance Sheets. The following table discloses the standalone balance sheet of Battle Creek, prior to intercompany eliminations,
to
illustrate the impact of including Battle Creek in our December 31, 2023, Consolidated Balance Sheet prior to demutualization:
 
  December 31, 2023 
Assets:
   
  
Cash and cash equivalents
  $
2,621 
Investments
   
15,394 
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable
   
5,953 
Deferred policy acquisition costs
   
682 
Reinsurance recoverables on losses (2)
   
6,918 
Accrued investment income
   
85 
Income tax recoverable
   
225 
Deferred income taxes
   
706 
Property and equipment
   
306 
Other assets
   
97 
Total assets
  $
32,987 
 
   
  
Liabilities:
   
  
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
4,276 
Unearned premiums
   
3,269 
Notes payable (1)
   
3,000 
Pooling payable (1)
   
5,932 
Reinsurance losses payable (2)
   
13,275 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
477 
Total liabilities
   
30,229 
 
   
  
Equity:
   
  
Non-controlling interest
   
2,758 
Total equity
   
2,758 
 
   
  
Total liabilities and equity
  $
32,987 
 
(1)       
Amount fully eliminated in consolidation.
(2)       
Amount partly eliminated in consolidation.
 
12.       Benefit
Plans
Nodak Insurance sponsors a 401(k) plan with
an automatic and matching contribution for eligible employees at Nodak Insurance, Primero, and Direct
Auto. Nodak Insurance also contributes
an additional elective amount of employee compensation as a profit-sharing contribution for eligible employees.
Westminster also sponsored
a separate 401(k) plan until the company was sold on June 30, 2024. American West and Battle Creek have no employees. The
Company reported
expenses related to these plans totaling $782, $806, and $693 during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
All fees associated with the plans are deducted
from the eligible employee accounts.
The Company also offers a non-qualified deferred
compensation plan to key executives of the Company (as designated by the Board of Directors). The
Company’s policy is to fund the
plan by amounts that represent the excess of the maximum contribution allowed by the Employee Retirement Income
Security Act over the
key executives’ allowable 401(k) contribution. The plan also allows employee-directed deferral of key executives’ compensation
or
incentive payments. The Company reported expenses related to this plan totaling $360, $368, and $325 during the years ended December
31, 2024, 2023,
and 2022, respectively.
In connection with our IPO in March 2017, the Company established
its ESOP within the meaning of Internal Revenue Code Section 4975(e)(7) and
invests solely in common stock of the Company.
85 

 
Upon establishment of the ESOP, Nodak Insurance
loaned $2,400 to the ESOP’s related trust (the “ESOP Trust”). The ESOP loan was for a period of ten
years, bearing
interest at the long-term Applicable Federal Rate effective on the closing date of the offering (2.79% annually). The ESOP Trust used
the
proceeds of the loan to purchase shares in our IPO, which resulted in the ESOP Trust owning approximately 1.0% of the Company’s
authorized shares. The
ESOP has purchased the shares for investment and not for resale.
The shares purchased by the ESOP Trust in the offering are held
in a suspense account as collateral for the ESOP loan. Nodak Insurance makes semi-
annual cash contributions to the ESOP in amounts no
smaller than the amounts required for the ESOP Trust to make its loan payments to Nodak Insurance.
While the ESOP makes two loan payments
per year, a pre-determined portion of the shares are released from the suspense account and allocated to
participant accounts at the end
of the calendar year. This release and allocation occurs on an annual basis over the ten-year term of the ESOP loan. Nodak
Insurance has
a lien on the shares of common stock of the Company held by the ESOP to secure repayment of the loan from the ESOP to Nodak Insurance.
If the ESOP is terminated as a result of a change in control of the Company, the ESOP may be required to pay the costs of terminating
the plan.
It is anticipated that the only assets held by the ESOP will be
shares of the Company’s common stock. Participants in the ESOP cannot direct the
investment of any assets allocated to their accounts.
The ESOP participants are employees of Nodak Insurance. The employees of Primero, Direct Auto,
and Westminster do not participate in the
ESOP.
Each employee of Nodak Insurance automatically becomes a participant
in the ESOP if such employee is at least 21 years old, has completed a minimum
of one thousand hours of service with Nodak Insurance,
and has completed an Eligibility Computation Period. Employees are not permitted to make any
contributions to the ESOP. Participants in
the ESOP receive annual reports from the Company showing the number of shares of common stock of the
Company allocated to the participants’
accounts and the market value of those shares. The shares are allocated to participants based on compensation as
provided for in the ESOP.
In connection with the establishment of the ESOP, the Company created
a contra-equity account on the Consolidated Balance Sheet equal to the ESOP’s
basis in the shares. The basis of those shares was
set at $10.00 per share as part of the IPO. As shares are released from the ESOP suspense account, the
contra-equity account is credited,
which reduces the impact of the contra-equity account on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets over time. The
Company records
compensation expense related to the shares released, equal to the number of shares released from the suspense account multiplied by the
average market value of the Company’s stock during the period.
The Company recognized compensation expense
related to the ESOP of $365, $322, and $380 during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022,
respectively.
Through December 31, 2024, the Company had
released and allocated 194,520 ESOP shares to participants, with a remainder of 45,480 ESOP shares in
suspense at December 31, 2024. Using
the Company’s year-end market price of $15.70 per share, the fair value of the unearned ESOP shares was $714 at
December 31, 2024.
13.       Line
of Credit
NI Holdings has a $3,000 line of credit with Wells
Fargo Bank, N.A. The terms of the line of credit include a floating interest rate of 2.50% above the daily
simple secured overnight financing
rate. There were no outstanding amounts during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, or 2022. This line of credit
is scheduled to expire
on December 13, 2025.
14.       Income
Taxes
The components of our provision for income tax
expense (benefit) were as follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Current income tax expense (benefit)
   
      
      
  
Federal
  $
(4,682)   $
2,567    $
(11,280)
State
   
215     
278     
(2)
Total current
   
(4,467)    
2,845     
(11,282)
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)
   
1,275     
(1,882)    
(3,972)
Total income tax expense (benefit)
  $
(3,192)   $
963    $
(15,254)
 
   
      
      
  
86 

 
The provision for income tax expense (benefit)
differs from the amount that would be computed by applying the statutory federal rate to income (loss)
before income taxes as a result
of the following, including both continuing and discontinued operations:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Loss before income taxes
  $
(9,056)   $
(4,263)   $
(69,029)
 
   
      
      
  
Expected provision for federal income taxes at 21%
  $
(1,902)   $
(895)   $
(14,496)
 
   
      
      
  
State income taxes, net of federal impact
   
277     
90     
(2)
Tax-exempt interest
   
(130)    
(204)    
(187)
Dividends received deduction
   
(104)    
(118)    
(147)
Section 832(b)(5)(B) proration amount
   
26     
77     
78 
Compensation-related expenses
   
892     
27     
213 
Westminster sale/goodwill impairment
   
(2,661)    
1,419     
— 
Demutualization of Battle Creek
   
793     
—     
— 
Research and development credit
   
—     
(59)    
(70)
Change in valuation allowance
   
2,035     
(189)    
(314)
State carryovers
   
(2,412)    
—     
— 
Other
   
(6)    
815     
(329)
Total income tax expense (benefit)
  $
(3,192)   $
963    $
(15,254)
 
   
      
      
  
Reconciliation of consolidated federal income tax expense (benefit) from:
   
      
      
  
Continuing operations
  $
3,545    $
716    $
(14,191)
Discontinued operations
   
(405)    
247     
(1,063)
Loss on sale of discontinued operations
   
(6,332)    
—     
— 
Consolidated federal income tax expense (benefit)
  $
(3,192)   $
963    $
(15,254)
 
   
      
      
  
We re-measure existing deferred income tax assets
(including loss carryforwards) and liabilities when a change in tax rate occurs and record an offset for
the net amount of the change
as a component of income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations in the period of enactment. We record any change
to a previously
recorded valuation allowance as a result of re-measuring existing temporary differences and loss carryforwards as a component of income
tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations. The valuation allowance against certain deferred income tax assets was $2,506, $505, and
$694 at
December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
87 

 
The income tax effects of temporary differences
that give rise to significant portions of our deferred income tax assets and deferred income tax liabilities at
December 31, 2024 and
2023, including both continuing and discontinued operations, were as follows:
 
 
December 31,
 
 
2024
 
2023
Deferred income tax assets:
   
      
  
Unearned premium
  $
5,749    $
7,371 
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
1,286     
1,681 
Net unrealized losses on investments
   
4,762     
6,421 
Loss carryovers
   
2,506     
851 
Deferred compensation
   
603     
579 
Other
   
1,040     
1,269 
Total deferred income tax assets
   
15,946     
18,172 
 
   
      
  
Deferred income tax liabilities:
   
      
  
Deferred policy acquisition costs
   
5,976     
7,693 
Intangibles
   
—     
1,243 
Other
   
140     
318 
Total deferred income tax liabilities
   
6,116     
9,254 
 
   
      
  
Net deferred income tax asset
   
9,830     
8,918 
 
   
      
  
Valuation allowance
   
(2,506)    
(505)
Deferred income tax asset, net
  $
7,324    $
8,413 
 
   
      
  
At December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had no unrecognized
tax benefits, no accrued interest and penalties, and no significant uncertain tax positions. No
interest and penalties were recognized
during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, or 2022.
At December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company had no
income tax related carryforwards for alternative minimum tax credits or capital losses.
At December 31, 2024, the Company had $2.5 million
in state net operating loss deferred tax assets, all of which are offset by a valuation allowance due to
the Company’s judgment
that it is more likely than not that it will be unable to realize the benefits.
Battle Creek, which was required to file its federal
income tax returns on a stand-alone basis until the demutualization on January 2, 2024, had net
operating loss carryforwards of $3,756
and $3,963 at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Subsequent to the demutualization, Battle Creek will be
included in the NI Holdings
consolidated tax return. As a result of the demutualization, the Battle Creek net operating loss carryforwards were written off
in 2024
as they will not be available to offset income within the NI Holdings consolidated tax return, and the $505 associated valuation allowance
was no
longer necessary.
Westminster, which became part of the Company’s
consolidated federal income tax return beginning in 2020, had $1,270 of net operating loss carryforward
at December 31, 2022. This net
operating loss carryforward expired in 2023.
88 

 
15.       Leases
Primero leases a facility in Spearfish, South Dakota under
a non-cancellable operating lease expiring in 2028. Direct Auto leases a facility in Chicago,
Illinois under a non-cancellable operating
lease expiring in 2029. Nodak Insurance leases a facility in Fargo, North Dakota under a non-cancellable
operating lease expiring in 2029.
In addition, Nodak Insurance leases server equipment under a non-cancellable finance lease expiring in 2026.
Effective for the year ended December 31, 2022,
the Company adopted the updated guidance for leases. See Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting
Pronouncements” for additional
information. We determine whether a contract is or contains a lease at the inception of the contract. A contract will be
deemed to be
or contain a lease if the contract conveys the right to control and directs the use of identified property or equipment for a period of
time in
exchange for consideration. We generally must also have the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from the
use of the property and
equipment. Lease assets and liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value
of lease payments over the lease term. To
determine the present value of lease payments not yet paid, we estimate incremental borrowing
rates based on the floating interest rate on our Line of
Credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. at the lease commencement date, as rates are
not implicitly stated in most leases. Lease liabilities are included in
accrued expenses and other liabilities and right-of-use assets
are included in other assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
There were expenses of $484, $407, and $391 related
to these leases during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
Additional information regarding the Company’s
leases are as follows:
 
 
As of and For the Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Operating lease cost
  $
383    $
389    $
391 
Finance lease cost:
   
      
      
  
Amortization of right-of-use assets
   
80     
14     
— 
Interest on lease liabilities
   
21     
4     
— 
Finance lease cost
   
101     
18     
— 
Total lease cost
  $
484    $
407    $
391 
 
   
      
      
  
Other information on leases:
   
      
      
  
Cash payments included in operating cash flows from operating leases
  $
406    $
408    $
340 
Cash payments included in operating cash flows from finance leases
   
21     
4     
— 
Cash payments included in financing cash flows from finance leases
   
99     
16     
— 
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities
   
185     
247     
— 
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities
   
—     
319     
— 
Weighted average discount rate – operating leases
   
4.48%     
3.94%     
3.25% 
Weighted average discount rate – finance leases
   
8.50%     
8.50%     
— 
Weighted average remaining lease term in years – operating leases
   
4.5 years     
5.3 years      
6.3 years 
Weighted average remaining lease term in years – finance leases
   
1.8 years     
2.8 years     
— 
89 

 
The following table presents the contractual maturities of the Company’s
lease liabilities for each of the five years in the period ending December 31, 2029,
and thereafter, reconciled to our lease liability
at December 31, 2024:
Year ending December 31,
  Operating Leases    
Finance Leases    
Total
 
2025
  $
393    $
120    $
513 
2026
   
396     
100     
496 
2027
   
401     
—     
401 
2028
   
376     
—     
376 
2029
   
212     
—     
212 
Thereafter
   
—     
—     
— 
Total undiscounted lease payments
   
1,778     
220     
1,998 
Less: present value adjustment
   
160     
15     
175 
Lease liability at December 31, 2024
  $
1,618    $
205    $
1,823 
 
   
      
      
  
16.       Contingencies
We are, from time to time, party to routine litigation incidental
to the normal course of our business. Based upon information presently available to us, we
do not consider any litigation to be material.
However, given the uncertainties attendant to litigation, we cannot assure you that our results of operations
and financial condition
will not be materially adversely affected by any litigation. Contingent liabilities arising from litigation, income taxes, and other
matters
are not considered to be material to our financial position.
17.       Common
and Preferred Stock
Common Stock
Changes in the number of common stock shares outstanding
were as follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Shares outstanding, beginning of period
   
20,599,908     
21,076,255     
21,219,808 
Treasury shares repurchased through stock repurchase authorization
   
—     
(548,549)    
(269,160)
Issuance of treasury shares for vesting of restricted stock units
   
49,045     
47,887     
101,292 
Issuance of shares related to employee stock ownership plan
   
24,315     
24,315     
24,315 
Shares outstanding, end of period
   
20,673,268     
20,599,908     
21,076,255 
 
   
      
      
  
The changes in the number of common shares outstanding
excludes certain non-forfeitable stock award shares that are included in the weighted average
common shares outstanding used in basic
earnings per common share calculations. The net loss per diluted common share for the year ended December 31,
2024, excluded the weighted
average effects of 120,626 shares of stock awards since the impacts of these potential shares of common stock were anti-
dilutive. The
net loss per diluted common share for the year ended December 31, 2023, excluded the weighted average effects of 76,532 shares of stock
awards since the impacts of these potential shares of common stock were anti-dilutive. The net loss per diluted common share for the year
ended December
31, 2022, excluded the weighted average effects of 155,463 shares of stock awards since the impacts of these potential
shares of common stock were anti-
dilutive.
On August 11, 2021, our Board of Directors approved
an authorization for the repurchase of up to approximately $5,000 of the Company’s outstanding
common stock. During the year ended
December 31, 2021, we completed the repurchase of 81,095 shares of our common stock for $1,554 under this
authorization. During the year
ended December 31, 2022, we completed the repurchase of 214,937 shares of our common stock for $3,446 to close out this
authorization.
On May 9, 2022, our Board of Directors approved
an authorization for the repurchase of up to approximately $10,000 of the Company’s outstanding
common stock. During the year ended
December 31, 2023, we completed the repurchase of 54,223 shares of our common stock for $734 under this
authorization. During the year
ended December 31, 2023, we completed the repurchase of 548,549 shares of our common stock for $7,278, including the
applicable excise
tax discussed below. During the year ended
90 

 
December 31, 2024, we did not repurchase any shares of our common stock. At December 31, 2024,
$2,052 remains available under this authorization.
The cost of this treasury stock is a reduction
of shareholders’ equity within our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
On August 16, 2022, the U.S. government enacted
the Inflation Reduction Act (“IRA”) which, among other changes, created a new corporate alternative
minimum tax (“AMT”)
based on adjusted financial statement income and imposes a 1% excise tax on corporate stock repurchases, subject to certain
adjustments.
The effective date of these provisions was January 1, 2023. The Company is not currently subject to the AMT based on our reported GAAP
earnings for the past three years. For periods subsequent to the effective date of the IRA, the cost of treasury stock acquired will include
any 1% excise tax
imposed by the IRA. The Company does not expect the IRA to have a material impact on the Company’s financial position
and results of operations.
Preferred Stock
The Company’s Articles of Incorporation
provide authority to issue up to five million shares of preferred stock. No preferred shares are issued or
outstanding.
18.       Share-Based
Compensation
The NI Holdings, Inc. 2020 Stock and Incentive
Plan (the “Plan”) is designed to promote the interests of the Company and its shareholders by aiding the
Company in attracting
and retaining employees, officers, consultants, independent contractors, advisors, and non-employee directors capable of assuring
the
future success of the Company, to offer such persons incentives to put forth maximum efforts for the success of the Company’s business
and to afford
such persons an opportunity to acquire an ownership interest in the Company, thereby aligning the interests of such persons
with the Company’s
shareholders.
The Plan provides for the grant of nonqualified
stock options, incentive stock options, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), stock appreciation rights, dividend
equivalents,
and performance share units (“PSUs”) to employees, officers, consultants, advisors, non-employee directors, and independent
contractors
designated by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Compensation Committee”). Awards made
under the Plan are based upon,
among other things, a participant’s level of responsibility and performance within the Company.
The total aggregate number of shares of common
stock that may be issued under the Plan shall not exceed 1,000,000 shares, subject to adjustments as
provided in the Plan. No eligible
participant may be granted any awards for more than 100,000 shares in the aggregate in any calendar year, subject to
adjustment in accordance
with the Plan. The aggregate amount payable pursuant to all performance awards denominated in cash to any eligible person in
any calendar
year is limited to $1,000 in value. Directors who are not also employees of the Company may not be granted awards denominated in shares
that exceed $150 in any calendar year.
Restricted Stock Units
The Compensation Committee has awarded RSUs to
non-employee directors and select executives. RSUs are promises to issue actual shares of common
stock at the end of a vesting period.
The RSUs granted to executives under the Plan are based on salary. RSUs granted prior to 2024 vest equally over a
five-year period. Effective
for executive grants in 2024, the RSUs vest equally over a three-year period. The RSUs granted to non-employee directors vest
100% on
the date of the next annual meeting of shareholders following the grant date. Dividend equivalents on RSUs are accrued during the vesting
period
and paid in cash at the end of the vesting period but are subject to forfeiture until the underlying shares become vested. Participants
do not have voting
rights with respect to RSUs.
The Company recognizes stock-based compensation
costs for RSUs based on the grant date fair value. The compensation costs are normally expensed over
the vesting periods to each vesting
date; however, the cost of RSUs granted to executives are expensed immediately if the executive has met certain
retirement criteria and
the RSUs become non-forfeitable. Estimated forfeitures are included in the determination of compensation costs. No forfeitures are
currently
estimated.
91 

 
A summary of the Company’s outstanding and
unearned RSUs is presented below:
 
 
RSUs
   
Weighted-Average

Grant-Date 

Fair Value 

Per Share
 
Units outstanding and unearned at January 1, 2022
   
108,380    $
16.86 
RSUs granted during 2022
   
59,600     
17.61 
RSUs earned during 2022
   
(52,620)    
17.39 
Units outstanding and unearned at December 31, 2022
   
115,360     
17.00 
 
   
      
  
RSUs granted during 2023
   
85,000     
13.76 
RSUs earned during 2023
   
(53,780)    
16.32 
Units outstanding and unearned at December 31, 2023
   
146,580     
15.37 
 
   
      
  
RSUs granted during 2024
   
119,398     
14.67 
RSUs earned during 2024
   
(69,420)    
14.82 
Forfeitures (1)
   
(92,160)    
15.18 
Units outstanding and unearned at December 31, 2024
   
104,398    $
15.11 
 
(1) Represents RSU forfeitures primarily related to the execution of the separation agreements with the former Chief Executive Officer and former Senior
Vice President of Operations.
   
The following table shows the impact of RSU activity to the Company’s
financial results:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
RSU compensation expense
  $
502    $
1,095    $
952 
Income tax benefit
   
(113)    
(249)    
(216)
RSU compensation expense, net of income taxes
  $
389    $
846    $
736 
 
   
      
      
  
Total grant-date fair value of vested RSUs at end of period
  $
1,028    $
872    $
915 
 
   
      
      
  
At December 31, 2024, there was $741 of unrecognized
compensation cost related to outstanding RSUs. That cost is expected to be recognized over a
weighted-average period of 1.83 years.
Performance Share Units
The Compensation Committee has awarded PSUs to
select executives. PSUs are promises to issue actual shares of common stock at the end of a vesting
period, if certain performance conditions
are met. The PSUs granted to employees under the Plan are based on salary and, prior to 2024, include a three-
year adjusted book value
cumulative growth target with threshold and stretch goals. Effective for grants made in 2024, the performance metric is calculated
based
on an adjusted return on equity over a three-year period, with annual resets. They will vest on the third anniversary of the grant date,
subject to the
participant’s continuous employment through the vesting date and the level of performance achieved. Dividend equivalents
on PSUs are accrued and paid
in cash at the end of the performance period in accordance with the level of performance achieved but are
subject to forfeiture until the underlying shares
become vested. Participants do not have voting rights with respect to PSUs.
The Company recognizes stock-based compensation
costs for PSUs based on the grant date fair value over the performance period of the awards. Estimated
forfeitures are included in the
determination of compensation costs. The current cost estimates represent the Company’s forecasted performance against
cumulative
growth targets.
92 

 
A summary of the Company’s outstanding PSUs
is presented below:
 
 
PSUs
   
Weighted-Average

Grant-Date 

Fair Value 

Per Share
 
Units outstanding at January 1, 2022
   
190,600    $
16.06 
PSUs granted during 2022 (at target)
   
61,800     
18.10 
PSUs earned during 2022
   
(86,684)    
15.21 
Performance adjustment (1)  
   
31,200     
15.21 
Forfeitures
   
(6,916)    
15.21 
Units outstanding at December 31, 2022
   
190,000     
17.00 
 
   
      
  
PSUs granted during 2023 (at target)
   
87,400     
13.85 
PSUs earned during 2023
   
—     
— 
Performance adjustment (1)  
   
(63,600)    
14.26 
Forfeitures
   
—     
— 
Units outstanding at December 31, 2023
   
213,800     
16.53 
 
   
      
  
PSUs granted during 2024 (at target)
   
79,800     
14.19 
PSUs earned during 2024
   
—     
— 
Performance adjustment (1)  
   
(147,173)    
16.14 
Forfeitures (2)
   
(120,100)    
15.23 
Units outstanding at December 31, 2024
   
26,327    $
17.50 
 
(1)  Represents
the change in PSUs issued based upon the attainment of performance goals established by the Company.
(2)  Represents
PSU forfeitures primarily related to the execution of the separation agreements with the former Chief Executive Officer and former Senior
Vice President of Operations.
 
The following table shows the impact of PSU activity to the Company’s
financial results:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
PSU compensation expense (benefit)
  $
(264)   $
206    $
(1,022)
Income tax benefit (expense)
   
60     
(47)    
232 
PSU compensation expense (benefit), net of income taxes
  $
(204)   $
159    $
(790)
 
   
      
      
  
Total grant-date fair value of vested PSUs at end of period
  $
—    $
—    $
1,319 
 
   
      
      
  
The cost estimates for PSU grants represent initial
target awards until we can reasonably forecast the financial performance of each PSU award grant. At
the end of the performance period,
we will reflect a performance adjustment, which may be either an increase or decrease from the initial target awards.
The actual number
of shares to be issued at the end of the performance period will range from 0% to 200% of the initial target awards. During the year
ended
December 31, 2024, the previously recognized compensation expense related to the PSU awards granted during 2024 was reduced as a result
of a
performance adjustment, and the compensation expense related to the PSU awards granted during 2023 was eliminated due to the Company's
expectation
that the threshold performance goal will not be met. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the previously recognized compensation
expense related to
the PSU awards granted during 2022 was eliminated due to the Company's expectation that the threshold performance goal
will not be met. During the year
ended December 31, 2022, the previously recognized compensation expense related to the PSU awards granted
during 2020 and 2021 was eliminated due
to the Company’s expectation that the threshold performance goal will not be met, and the
compensation expense related to the PSU awards granted during
2022 was decreased to the threshold level due to Company’s expectations
that the target goal will likely not be achieved.
At December 31, 2024, there was $255 of unrecognized
compensation cost related to outstanding PSUs. That cost is expected to be recognized over a
weighted-average period of 2.16 years.
93 

 
19.      Allowance for Expected Credit Losses
Premiums Receivable
Beginning on December 31, 2022, credit losses
are recognized through an allowance account developed using the CECL model. The adoption of this
guidance resulted in an allowance for
expected credit losses of $425 for premiums and agents' balances receivable as of December 31, 2022. See Part II,
Item 8, Note 2 “Recent
Accounting Pronouncements” for additional information. The following table presents the balances of premiums and agents’
receivable
balances, net of the allowance for expected credit losses as of December 31, 2024, and the changes in the allowance for expected credit
losses
for the year ended December 31, 2024.
 
 
Year Ended
December 31, 2024
 
 
 
Premiums and 

Agents’ Balances

Receivable, Net of

Allowance for

Expected Credit 

Losses
   
Allowance for 

Expected Credit 

Losses
 
Continuing operations
   
      
  
Balance, beginning of period
  $
56,154    $
394 
 
   
      
  
Current period charge for expected credit losses
   
      
210 
Write-offs of uncollectible premiums receivable
   
      
(267)
 
   
      
  
Balance, end of period
  $
52,907    $
337 
 
   
      
  
 
 
Year Ended
December 31, 2024
 
 
 
Premiums and 

Agents’ Balances

Receivable, Net of 

Allowance for 

Expected Credit 

Losses
   
Allowance for 

Expected Credit 

Losses
 
Discontinued operations
   
      
  
Balance, beginning of period
  $
17,904    $
8 
 
   
      
  
Current period charge for expected credit losses
   
      
4 
Write-offs of uncollectible premiums receivable
   
      
(4)
Westminster balances disposed in sale
  $
16,030    $
(8)
 
   
      
  
Balance, end of period
  $
—    $
— 
 
   
      
  
94 

 
The following table presents the balances of premiums
and agents’ receivable balances, net of the allowance for expected credit losses as of December 31,
2023, and the changes in the
allowance for expected credit losses for the year ended December 31, 2023.
 
 
Year Ended
December 31, 2023
 
 
 
Premiums and 

Agents’ Balances 

Receivable, Net of

Allowance for 

Expected Credit 

Losses
   
Allowance for 

Expected Credit 

Losses
 
Continuing operations
   
      
  
Balance, beginning of period
  $
47,346    $
417 
 
   
      
  
Current period charge for expected credit losses
   
      
327 
Write-offs of uncollectible premiums receivable
   
      
(350)
 
   
      
  
Balance, end of period
  $
56,154    $
394 
 
   
      
  
 
 
Year Ended
December 31, 2023
 
 
 
Premiums and 

Agents’ Balances

Receivable, Net of 

Allowance for 

Expected Credit 

Losses
   
Allowance for

Expected Credit 

Losses
 
Discontinued operations
   
      
  
Balance, beginning of period
  $
14,827    $
8 
 
   
      
  
Current period charge for expected credit losses
   
      
8 
Write-offs of uncollectible premiums receivable
   
      
(8)
 
   
      
  
Balance, end of period
  $
17,904    $
8 
95 

 
 
20.       Discontinued Operations
On May 7, 2024, we entered into a definitive agreement
to sell our subsidiary, Westminster, to Scott Insurance Holdings, for a cash purchase price of
$10,500, as well as a $1,772 post-closing
adjustment pursuant to the purchase agreement, for a net amount of $12,272. The sale closed on June 30, 2024,
and we reported an after-tax
loss on the sale of discontinued operations of $11,148. For additional information see Part II, Item 8, Note 3 “Summary of
Significant
Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation.”
The assets and liabilities associated with discontinued
operations prior to the closing of the sale have been presented separately in our Consolidated Balance
Sheets. The Company’s Consolidated
Statements of Cash Flows presents operating, investing, and financing cash flows of the discontinued operations
separately. The major
assets and liability categories were as follows as of the dates indicated:
 
  December 31, 2024    December 31, 2023 
Assets:
   
      
  
Cash and cash equivalents
  $
—    $
15,656 
Fixed income securities, at fair value
   
—     
58,332 
Equity securities, at fair value
   
—     
5,784 
Total cash and investments
   
—     
79,772 
 
   
      
  
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable
   
—     
17,904 
Deferred policy acquisition costs
   
—     
7,330 
Reinsurance premiums receivable
   
—     
5,464 
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
   
—     
42,509 
Accrued investment income
   
—     
438 
Property and equipment, net
   
—     
2,445 
Deferred income taxes
   
—     
(815)
Goodwill and other intangibles
   
—     
7,311 
Other assets
   
—     
99 
Total assets of discontinued operations
  $
—    $
162,457 
 
   
      
  
Liabilities:
   
      
  
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $
—    $
97,934 
Unearned premiums
   
—     
38,000 
Income tax payable (receivable)
   
—     
(59)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
—     
5,422 
Total liabilities of discontinued operations
  $
—    $
141,297 
 
   
      
  
Summary operating results of discontinued operations
were as follows for the periods indicated:
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Revenues:
 
    
    
  
Net premiums earned
  $
31,056    $
59,020    $
56,552 
Fee and other income
   
14     
39     
72 
Net investment income
   
1,419     
2,422     
1,181 
Net investment gains (losses)
   
116     
195     
(1,152)
Total revenues
   
32,605     
61,676     
56,653 
 
   
      
      
  
Expenses
   
      
      
  
Losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
23,506     
57,896     
52,682 
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
   
7,928     
15,360     
13,199 
Other underwriting and general expenses
   
3,088     
6,474     
6,925 
Goodwill impairment charge
   
—     
6,756     
— 
Total expenses
   
34,522     
86,486     
72,806 
 
   
      
      
  
Loss before income taxes
   
(1,917)    
(24,810)    
(16,153)
Income tax benefit
   
(405)    
247     
(1,063)
Net loss
  $
(1,512)   $
(25,057)   $
(15,090)
 
   
      
      
  
Loss per common share from discontinued operations:
   
      
      
  
Basic
  $
(0.07)   $
(1.18)   $
(0.71)
Diluted
  $
(0.07)   $
(1.18)   $
(0.71)
96 

 
21.       Segment
Information
We have five reportable operating segments of
our continuing operations, which consist of Private Passenger Auto, Non-Standard Auto, Home and Farm,
Crop, and All Other (which primarily
consists of commercial, assumed reinsurance, and our excess liability business). Prior to the sale of Westminster on
June 30, 2024, we
also reported a Commercial segment that consisted primarily of Westminster’s balances and results. Subsequent to the sale, Westminster
is reported as part of discontinued operations, which is not included in our segment information. The commercial business that remains
a part of our
continuing operations has been included in the All Other segment for the current and prior periods presented. We operate
only in the U.S., and no single
customer or agent provides 10 percent or more of our revenues. The following tables provide available
information of these segments for the years ended
December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022.
Our CODM is currently our President and Chief
Executive Officer (CEO). The primary profitability measurement used by the CEO to review segment
operating results is underwriting gain
(loss). The CEO uses segment underwriting gain (loss) to allocate resources (including employees, financial and
capital resources) for
each segment predominantly in the annual planning process. Segment underwriting gain (loss) is used to monitor segment results
compared
to prior period, forecasted results, and the annual plan. For purposes of evaluating profitability of the Non-Standard Auto segment, we
combine
the policy fees paid by the insured with the underwriting gain or loss as its primary profitability measure. As a result, these
fees are allocated to the Non-
Standard Auto segment (included in fee and other income) in the tables below. The remaining fee and other
income amounts are not allocated to any
segment.
We do not assign or allocate all line items in
our Consolidated Statement of Operations or Consolidated Balance Sheets to our operating segments. Those
line items include net investment
income, net investment gains (losses), fee and other income excluding Non-Standard Auto, and income tax expense
(benefit) within the Unaudited
Consolidated Statement of Operations. For the Consolidated Balance Sheets, those items include cash and investments,
property and equipment,
other assets, accrued expenses and other liabilities, income taxes recoverable or payable, and shareholders’ equity.
97 

 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2024
 
 
 
Private 

Passenger Auto   
Non-Standard
Auto
   
Home and

Farm
   
Crop
   
All Other    
Total
 
Direct premiums earned
  $
94,865    $
95,502    $
102,073    $
36,421    $
13,024    $
341,885 
Assumed premiums earned
   
—     
—     
—     
2,147     
837     
2,984 
Ceded premiums earned
   
(4,551)    
(277)    
(11,312)    
(17,426)    
(1,193)    
(34,759)
Net premiums earned
   
90,314     
95,225     
90,761     
21,142     
12,668     
310,110 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
54,340     
76,130     
66,968     
12,310     
11,243     
220,991 
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
—     
—     
—     
537     
247     
784 
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
(2,471)    
—     
(2,407)    
(3,776)    
(5,656)    
(14,310)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
51,869     
76,130     
64,561     
9,071     
5,834     
207,465 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Gross margin
   
38,445     
19,095     
26,200     
12,071     
6,834     
102,645 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs    
17,177     
30,395     
17,970     
3,465     
2,250     
71,257 
Other underwriting and general expenses (1)
   
10,861     
6,337     
10,603     
1,417     
4,491     
33,709 
       Underwriting and general expenses
   
28,038     
36,732     
28,573     
4,882     
6,741     
104,966 
Underwriting gain (loss)
   
10,407     
(17,637)    
(2,373)    
7,189     
93     
(2,321)
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Fee and other income
   
      
1,219     
      
      
      
1,938 
 
   
      
(16,418)    
      
      
      
  
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Goodwill impairment charge
   
      
(2,628)    
      
      
      
(2,628)
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Net investment income
   
      
      
      
      
      
10,943 
Net investment gains (losses)
   
      
      
      
      
      
2,213 
Income (loss) before income taxes
   
      
      
      
      
      
10,145 
Income tax expense (benefit)
   
      
      
      
      
      
3,545 
Net income (loss)
   
      
      
      
      
      
6,600 
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling
interest
   
      
      
      
      
      
— 
Net income (loss) attributable to NI Holdings,
Inc.
   
      
      
      
      
     $
6,600 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Operating Ratios:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Loss and loss adjustment expense ratio
   
57.4%     
79.9%     
71.1%     
42.9%     
46.1%     
66.9% 
Expense ratio
   
31.0%     
38.6%     
31.5%     
23.1%     
53.2%     
33.8% 
Combined ratio
   
88.4%     
118.5%     
102.6%     
66.0%     
99.3%     
100.7% 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Balances at December 31, 2024:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable
  $
25,843    $
13,757    $
10,560    $
103    $
2,644    $
52,907 
Deferred policy acquisition costs
   
6,535     
9,135     
9,437     
—     
1,193     
26,300 
Reinsurance recoverables on 

losses
   
2,358     
—     
1,934     
478     
7,791     
12,561 
Receivable from Federal Crop Insurance
Corporation
   
—     
—     
—     
13,223     
—     
13,223 
Goodwill and other intangibles
   
—     
100     
—     
—     
—     
100 
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
28,103     
77,580     
16,162     
1,789     
13,654     
137,288 
Unearned premiums
   
37,711     
28,391     
53,319     
—     
7,077     
126,498 
 
(1) Other underwriting and general
expenses for each segment include expenses related to compensation, vendor services, and other administrative items.
98 

 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2023
 
 
 
Private 

Passenger Auto   
Non-Standard
Auto
   
Home and

Farm
   
Crop
   
All Other    
Total
 
Direct premiums earned
  $
87,431    $
88,170    $
93,130    $
45,273    $
11,586    $
325,590 
Assumed premiums earned
   
—     
—     
—     
2,262     
1,308     
3,570 
Ceded premiums earned
   
(4,071)    
(410)    
(9,741)    
(21,718)    
(1,103)    
(37,043)
Net premiums earned
   
83,360     
87,760     
83,389     
25,817     
11,791     
292,117 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
59,385     
63,041     
52,455     
17,669     
2,588     
195,138 
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
—     
—     
—     
787     
353     
1,140 
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
819     
—     
(1,520)    
(7,663)    
(1,398)    
(9,762)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
60,204     
63,041     
50,935     
10,793     
1,543     
186,516 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Gross margin
   
23,156     
24,719     
32,454     
15,024     
10,248     
105,601 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs    
15,797     
29,585     
16,446     
3,828     
1,975     
67,631 
Other underwriting and general expenses (1)
   
8,895     
7,994     
8,451     
2,494     
1,492     
29,326 
       Underwriting and general expenses
   
24,692     
37,579     
24,897     
6,322     
3,467     
96,957 
Underwriting gain (loss)
   
(1,536)    
(12,860)    
7,557     
8,702     
6,781     
8,644 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Fee and other income
   
      
1,293     
      
      
      
1,940 
 
   
      
(11,567)    
      
      
      
  
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Goodwill impairment charge
   
      
      
      
      
      
— 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Net investment income
   
      
      
      
      
      
8,034 
Net investment gains (losses)
   
      
      
      
      
      
1,929 
Income (loss) before income taxes
   
      
      
      
      
      
20,547 
Income tax expense (benefit)
   
      
      
      
      
      
716 
Net income (loss)
   
      
      
      
      
      
19,831 
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling
interest
   
      
      
      
      
      
250 
Net income (loss) attributable to NI Holdings,
Inc.
   
      
      
      
      
     $
19,581 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Operating Ratios:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Loss and loss adjustment expense ratio
   
72.2%     
71.8%     
61.1%     
41.8%     
13.1%     
63.8% 
Expense ratio
   
29.6%     
42.8%     
29.9%     
24.5%     
29.4%     
33.2% 
Combined ratio
   
101.8%     
114.6%     
91.0%     
66.3%     
42.5%     
97.0% 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Balances at December 31, 2023:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable
  $
24,152    $
19,853    $
9,755    $
89    $
2,305    $
56,154 
Deferred policy acquisition costs
   
5,834     
11,966     
8,005     
—     
985     
26,790 
Reinsurance recoverables on 

losses
   
15     
—     
2,949     
1,343     
2,153     
6,460 
Receivable from Federal Crop Insurance
Corporation
   
—     
—     
—     
17,404     
—     
17,404 
Goodwill and other intangibles
   
—     
2,728     
—     
—     
—     
2,728 
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
28,037     
61,272     
18,205     
3,884     
7,787     
119,185 
Unearned premiums
   
35,367     
36,426     
48,210     
—     
6,097     
126,100 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
(1) Other underwriting and general expenses for each segment include
expenses related to compensation, vendor services, and other administrative items.
99 

 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2022
 
 
 
Private 

Passenger Auto   
Non-Standard 
Auto
   
Home and 

Farm
   
Crop
   
All Other    
Total
 
Direct premiums earned
  $
80,410    $
67,178    $
88,143    $
53,215    $
10,661    $
299,607 
Assumed premiums earned
   
—     
—     
—     
2,254     
4,296     
6,550 
Ceded premiums earned
   
(2,805)    
(267)    
(9,762)    
(20,748)    
(835)    
(34,417)
Net premiums earned
   
77,605     
66,911     
78,381     
34,721     
14,122     
271,740 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
66,250     
39,400     
114,195     
27,146     
8,196     
255,187 
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
—     
—     
—     
634     
1,735     
2,369 
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
(830)    
—     
(6,372)    
(8,362)    
(242)    
(15,806)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
65,420     
39,400     
107,823     
19,418     
9,689     
241,750 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Gross margin
   
12,185     
27,511     
(29,442)    
15,303     
4,433     
29,990 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs    
13,584     
20,831     
14,764     
2,667     
1,759     
53,605 
Other underwriting and general expenses (1)
   
8,149     
6,172     
8,438     
400     
2,144     
25,303 
Underwriting and general expenses
   
21,733     
27,003     
23,202     
3,067     
3,903     
78,908 
Underwriting gain (loss)
   
(9,548)    
508     
(52,644)    
12,236     
530     
(48,918)
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Fee and other income
   
      
831     
      
      
      
1,381 
 
   
      
1,339     
      
      
      
  
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Goodwill impairment charge
   
      
      
      
      
      
— 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Net investment income
   
      
      
      
      
      
6,636 
Net investment gains (losses)
   
      
      
      
      
      
(11,975)
Income (loss) before income taxes
   
      
      
      
      
      
(52,876)
Income tax expense (benefit)
   
      
      
      
      
      
(14,191)
Net income (loss)
   
      
      
      
      
      
(38,685)
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling
interest
   
      
      
      
      
      
(679)
Net income (loss) attributable to NI Holdings,
Inc.
   
      
      
      
      
     $
(38,006)
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Operating Ratios:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Loss and loss adjustment expense ratio
   
84.3%     
58.9%     
137.6%     
55.9%     
68.6%     
89.0% 
Expense ratio
   
28.0%     
40.4%     
29.6%     
8.8%     
27.6%     
29.0% 
Combined ratio
   
112.3%     
99.3%     
167.2%     
64.7%     
96.2%     
118.0% 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Balances at December 31, 2022:
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable
  $
20,669    $
14,884    $
9,388    $
381    $
2,024    $
47,346 
Deferred policy acquisition costs
   
5,040     
9,378     
7,376     
—     
881     
22,675 
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
   
1,440     
—     
5,732     
589     
825     
8,586 
Receivable from Federal Crop Insurance
Corporation
   
—     
—     
—     
15,462     
—     
15,462 
Goodwill and other intangibles
   
—     
2,761     
—     
—     
—     
2,761 
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
   
27,439     
46,231     
27,989     
2,145     
10,492     
114,296 
Unearned premiums
   
30,721     
29,301     
44,957     
—     
5,947     
110,926 
 
   
      
      
      
      
      
  
(1) Other underwriting and general expenses for each segment include
expenses related to compensation, vendor services, and other administrative items.
100 

 
22.       Statutory
Net Income (Loss), Capital and Surplus, and Dividend Restrictions
The following table presents selected information,
as filed with insurance regulatory authorities, for our insurance subsidiaries as determined in accordance
with accounting practices prescribed
or permitted by such insurance regulatory authorities as of and for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and
2022:
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Nodak Insurance:
   
      
      
  
Statutory capital and surplus
  $
189,694    $
176,783    $
175,673 
Statutory unassigned surplus
   
184,694     
171,783     
170,673 
Statutory net income (loss)
   
8,492     
7,839     
(29,978)
 
   
      
      
  
American West:
   
      
      
  
Statutory capital and surplus
   
16,315     
15,423     
14,957 
Statutory unassigned surplus
   
10,314     
9,422     
8,956 
Statutory net income (loss)
   
1,001     
(38)    
(3,228)
 
   
      
      
  
Primero:
   
      
      
  
Statutory capital and surplus
   
9,056     
8,585     
8,677 
Statutory unassigned surplus
   
(203)    
(675)    
(582)
Statutory net income (loss)
   
395     
(136)    
(1,211)
 
   
      
      
  
Battle Creek:
   
      
      
  
Statutory capital and surplus
   
6,132     
6,047     
5,660 
Statutory unassigned surplus
   
3,132     
3,047     
2,660 
Statutory net income (loss)
   
162     
146     
(1,189)
 
   
      
      
  
Direct Auto:
   
      
      
  
Statutory capital and surplus
   
36,875     
32,843     
32,054 
Statutory unassigned surplus
   
33,875     
29,843     
29,054 
Statutory net income (loss)
   
3,325     
90     
(6,074)
 
   
      
      
  
Westminster:
   
      
      
  
Statutory capital and surplus
   
—     
21,328     
20,090 
Statutory unassigned surplus
   
—     
16,328     
15,090 
Statutory net income (loss)
   
—     
1,200     
(3,861)
State insurance laws require our insurance subsidiaries
to maintain certain minimum capital and surplus amounts on a statutory basis. Our insurance
subsidiaries are subject to regulations that
restrict the payment of dividends from statutory surplus and may require prior approval from their domiciliary
insurance regulatory authorities.
Our insurance subsidiaries are also subject to risk-based capital requirements that may further affect their ability to pay
dividends.
Our insurance subsidiaries statutory capital and surplus at December 31, 2024 and 2023 exceeded
the amount of statutory capital and surplus
necessary to satisfy risk-based capital requirements by a significant margin.
Amounts available for distribution in 2025 to
Nodak Insurance as dividends from its insurance subsidiaries without prior approval of the North Dakota
Insurance Department are $1,001
from American West, $324 from Primero, and $158 from Battle Creek. No dividends were paid to Nodak Insurance from
any of these entities
during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, or 2022.
The amount available for payment of dividends from Nodak Insurance
to NI Holdings during 2025 without the prior approval of the North Dakota
Insurance Department is approximately $8,273 as of December
31, 2024. No dividends were declared or paid by Nodak Insurance during the years ended
December 31, 2024 and 2023. The Nodak Insurance
Board of Directors declared and paid dividends of $3,000 to NI Holdings during the year ended
December 31, 2022.
101 

 
The amount available for payment of dividends from Direct Auto to
NI Holdings during 2025 without the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance
Department is approximately $3,146 as of December 31,
2024. No dividends were declared or paid by Direct Auto during the years ended December 31,
2024, 2023, or 2022.
Prior to its payment of any dividend, each insurance company will
be required to provide notice of the dividend to the North Dakota Insurance Department.
This notice must be provided to the North Dakota
Insurance Department 30 days prior to the payment of an extraordinary dividend and 10 days prior to the
payment of an ordinary dividend.
The North Dakota Insurance Department has the power to limit or prohibit dividend payments if an insurance company is
in violation of
any law or regulation. These restrictions or any subsequently imposed restrictions may affect our future liquidity.
Westminster was sold on June 30, 2024, and therefore no dividends
are available to be paid to NI Holdings subsequent to that date. No dividends were
declared or paid by Westminster during the years ended
December 31, 2024, 2023 or 2022. See Part II, Item 8, Note 20 “Discontinued Operations” for
additional information.
102 

 
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
There have been no changes or disagreements with
accountants on accounting and financial disclosure.
Item 9A.
Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company’s Chief Executive Officer and
Chief Financial Officer have reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls
and procedures (“DCPs”),
as required by Rules 13a-15(b) and 15d-15(b) under the Exchange Act, as of December 31, 2024. Based on that evaluation, the
Chief Executive
Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period
covered by this report, were designed and functioning effectively to provide reasonable assurance that the information required to be
disclosed in our
periodic reports filed under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods
specified in the SEC’s rules and
forms, and that such material information is accumulated and communicated to the Chief Executive
Officer and Chief Financial Officer to allow timely
decisions regarding required disclosures. We believe that a control system, no matter
how well designed and operated, cannot provide absolute assurance
that the objectives of the control system are met, and no evaluation
of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud,
if any, within a company have been detected.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial
Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing
and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Under the supervision and with the
participation of our Chief Executive
Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, our management has reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of our internal
control over financial
reporting based on the framework and criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the
Committee
of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the “COSO Framework”). Because of its inherent limitations, internal
control over
financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.
Based on our evaluation under the COSO Framework,
the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s current
internal control over financial
reporting is effective at December 31, 2024, and that our consolidated financial statements we include in this 2024 Annual
Report present
fairly, in all material respects, our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows in accordance with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America.
Forvis Mazars, LLP, our independent registered
public accounting firm, has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial
reporting as of December
31, 2024. This audit report appears in Part II, Item 8 “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this 2024 Annual Report.
Material Weakness in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies,
in internal control over financial reporting (“ICFR”), such that there is a reasonable
possibility that a material misstatement
of the Company's annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.
As previously disclosed in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A for
the quarter ended June 30, 2024, the Company did not design and maintain effective
controls over its accounting for intercompany reinsurance
pooling activity. Specifically, it lacked an effectively designed internal control related to the
evaluation of pooling payable/receivable
balances, including when a pool member is sold. This material weakness resulted in a material error and the
restatement of the Company's
consolidated financial statements for the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024. Additionally, this material
weakness could
result in misstatements of the aforementioned accounts or disclosures that would result in a material misstatement to the annual or interim
consolidated financial statements that would not be prevented or detected.
Remediation Plan for Material Weakness
Upon identification of the material weakness, management developed
a remediation plan, which included designing and implementing a new quarterly
intercompany pooling reconciliation and review process to
fully evaluate pooling payable/receivable balances in support of financial reporting for GAAP
purposes. The material weakness is considered
remediated as of the end of the period covered by this report as the remediation plan has been implemented
and there has been sufficient
time for the Company to conclude through testing that the controls are operating effectively. As the Company's management,
under the oversight
of the Audit Committee, continues to evaluate and improve the Company's ICFR, management may decide to take additional measures
to address
103 

 
control deficiencies or determine to modify, or in appropriate circumstances not to complete, certain of the remediation measures identified.
We can offer
no assurance that these initiatives will ultimately have the intended effects.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
In the ordinary course of business, we periodically
review our system of internal control over financial reporting to identify opportunities to improve our
controls and increase efficiency,
while ensuring that we maintain an effective internal control environment. Except for the identified material weakness
above, there have
not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and
15d-15(f)
under the Exchange Act) during the annual period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely
to materially affect, the
Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B.
Other Information
10b5-1 Trading Plans
During the fourth quarter of
2024, none of our directors or executive officers (as defined in Rule 16a-1(f) under the Exchange Act)
adopted or terminated any
“Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” or “non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” (as each term is defined in Item 408(a)
of
Regulation S-K).
Item 9C.
Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections
Not applicable.
104 

 
PART III
Item 10.
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
We incorporate the response to this Item 10 by
reference to our proxy statement we will file with the SEC on or about April 9, 2025 relating to our Annual
Meeting of Shareholders that
we will hold on May 20, 2025 (our “Proxy Statement”).
We have posted a copy of our Code of Ethics and
Business Conduct on the Governance Highlights page of the Corporate Governance section of our
website, www.niholdingsinc.com, which you
can access free of charge. Information contained on the website is not incorporated by reference in, or
considered part of, this 2024
Annual Report. We intend to disclose on our website any amendments to, or waivers from, our Code of Ethics and Business
Conduct that are
required to be disclosed by SEC rules or Nasdaq Listing Rules.
Item 11.
Executive Compensation
We incorporate the response to this Item 11 by
reference to our Proxy Statement.
Item 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
We incorporate the response to this Item 12 by
reference to our Proxy Statement.
Item 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
We incorporate the response to this Item 13 by
reference to our Proxy Statement.
Item 14.
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
We incorporate the response to this Item 14 by
reference to our Proxy Statement.
105 

 
PART IV
Item 15.
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
List of Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules
(a)
The following documents are filed as a part of this report:
(1)
Financial Statements and
(2)
Financial Statement schedules required to be filed by Item 8 of this report.
Schedule I       Condensed financial information
of registrant – NI Holdings, Inc.
All other financial schedules are not required under the related
instructions, as they are inapplicable or the information has been included in the
consolidated financial statements, and therefore have
been omitted.
(3)
The following exhibits are required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K and are included as part of this Form 10-K:
EXHIBIT NO.
DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT
2.1
Plan of Mutual Property and Casualty Insurance Company Conversion and Minority Offering of Nodak Mutual Insurance
Company, dated as of January 21, 2016 (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-
214057) filed with the SEC on October 11, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference).
2.2
Stock Purchase Agreement, dated May 7, 2024 (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 8,
2024, and incorporated herein by reference).
3.1
Articles of Incorporation of NI Holdings, Inc. (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No.
333-214057) filed with the SEC on October 11, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference).
3.2
Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation, dated May 24, 2023. (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K filed
with the SEC on May 25, 2023, and incorporated herein by reference).
3.3
Amended and Restated Bylaws of NI Holdings, Inc., dated May 24, 2023. (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K filed
with the SEC on May 25, 2023, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.1
Form of certificate evidencing shares of common stock of NI Holdings, Inc. (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration
Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-214057) filed with the SEC on October 11, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.2
Description of Securities Registered Under Section 12 of the Exchange Act (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-K filed
with the SEC on March 10, 2021, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.1
2017 NI Holdings, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September
18, 2017, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.2
Nodak Mutual Insurance Company Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration
Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-214057) filed with the SEC on October 11, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.3#
Employment Agreement dated as of April 28, 2016, between Michael J. Alexander and Nodak Mutual Insurance Company and NI
Holdings, Inc. (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-214057) filed with the
SEC on October 11, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.4#*
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated as of December 1, 2024, between Seth C. Daggett and Nodak Insurance
Company and NI Holdings, Inc.
 
106 

 
10.5#
Employment Agreement dated as of April 28, 2016, between Patrick W. Duncan and Nodak Mutual Insurance Company and NI
Holdings, Inc. (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-214057) filed with the
SEC on October 11, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.6
Trademark License Agreement dated as of October 1, 2016 between North Dakota Farm Bureau and Nodak Mutual Insurance
Company (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-214057) filed with the SEC on
October 11, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.7
Multiple Peril Crop/Livestock Insurance Full Service Agency Agreement among American Farm Bureau Insurance Services, Inc.
and Nodak Mutual Insurance Company, American West Insurance Company and Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company for
Crop Year 2016 (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-214057) filed with the
SEC on October 11, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.8
Crop Hail Insurance Full Service Agency Agreement among American Farm Bureau Insurance Services, Inc. and Nodak Mutual
Insurance Company, American West Insurance Company and Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company for Crop Year 2016 (filed
as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-214057) filed with the SEC on October 11,
2016, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.9#
Nodak Mutual Insurance Company Cash Incentive Bonus Plan (filed as an exhibit to Amendment No. 4 to the Company’s
Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-214057) filed with the SEC on January 12, 2017, and incorporated herein by
reference).
10.10#
NI Holdings, Inc. Employee Stock Ownership Plan (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1
(File No. 333-214057) filed with the SEC on October 11, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.11
Affiliation Agreement dated as of December 30, 2010 between Nodak Mutual Insurance Company and Battle Creek Mutual
Insurance Company (filed as an exhibit to Amendment No. 1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No.
333-214057) filed with the SEC on November 14, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.12
Form of Time-Based Restricted Stock Unit Agreement for Non-Employee Directors (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-
K filed with the SEC on May 29, 2020, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.13
NI Holdings, Inc. 2020 Stock and Incentive Plan (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 29,
2020, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.14#
Form of Time-Based Restricted Stock Unit Agreement for Executives (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-K filed with
the SEC on March 9, 2022, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.15#
Form of NI Holdings, Inc. Growth in Book Value Per Share Performance Share Unit Agreement (filed as an exhibit to the
Company’s Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 9, 2022, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.16#
2022 NI Holdings, Inc. Short-Term Incentive Bonus (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on May
6, 2022, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.17#
Form of NI Holdings, Inc. Adjusted Return on Equity Performance Share Unit Agreement (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s
Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 15, 2024, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.18#
2024 NI Holdings, Inc. Short-Term Incentive Bonus (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-K filed with the SEC on
March 15, 2024, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.19#
Employment Agreement dated August 26, 2024, between the Company and Cindy L. Launer (filed as an exhibit to the Company’s
Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed August 26, 2024).
10.20#
Separation Agreement, dated September 16, 2024, between NI Holdings, Inc. and Michael J. Alexander (filed as an exhibit to the
Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 19, 2024).
 
107 

 
10.21#
Separation Agreement, dated November 27, 2024, between NI Holdings, Inc. and Patrick W. Duncan (filed as an exhibit to the
Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 3, 2024).
19*
NI Holdings, Inc. Policy on Insider Trading, adopted August 20, 2024.
21.1*
Subsidiaries of NI Holdings, Inc.
23.1*
Consent of Forvis Mazars, LLP, New York, NY, PCAOB ID 686
23.2*
Consent of Mazars USA LLP, Fort Washington, PA, PCAOB ID 339
31.1*
Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2*
Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32**
Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted
Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
97
NI Holdings, Inc. Incentive Compensation Recovery Policy, adopted December 1, 2023 (Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s
Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 15, 2024, and incorporated herein by reference.)
101.INS***
Inline XBRL Instance Document – the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are
embedded within the Inline XBRL document
101.SCH**
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Linkbase Document
101.CAL**
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF**
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB**
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE**
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104
Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)
*       Filed herewith.
**       Furnished herewith.
***       Inline XBRL (Extensible
Business Reporting Language) information is furnished and not filed or a part of a registration statement or prospectus for
purposes of
Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange
Act of
1934, as amended, and otherwise is not subject to liability under these sections.
#       Management contract or
compensatory plan or arrangement.
Item 16.
Form 10-K Summary
None.
108 

 
Schedule I – Condensed financial information of registrant
– NI Holdings, Inc.
Condensed Balance Sheets
 
 
December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
 
Assets:
   
      
  
Cash and cash equivalents
  $
3,345    $
308 
Fixed income securities, at fair value (net of allowance for expected credit losses of $0 at December 31,
2024 and 2023)
   
3,999     
810 
Equity securities, at fair value
   
14     
13 
Total cash and investments
   
7,358     
1,131 
 
   
      
  
Income tax recoverable
   
7,126     
844 
Accrued investment income
   
60     
1 
Investment in wholly-owned subsidiaries
   
230,311     
246,360 
Deferred income taxes
   
476     
427 
Total assets
  $
245,331    $
248,763 
 
   
      
  
Liabilities:
   
      
  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
  $
700    $
1,122 
Total liabilities
   
700     
1,122 
 
   
      
  
Shareholders’ equity
   
244,631     
247,641 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  $
245,331    $
248,763 
109 

 
Condensed Statements of Operations
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
   
2024
     
2023
     
2022
 
Revenues:
   
      
      
  
Net investment income (loss)
  $
(223)   $
(122)   $
143 
Net investment gains (losses)
   
1     
(217)    
(492)
Total revenues
   
(222)    
(339)    
(349)
 
   
      
      
  
Expenses:
   
      
      
  
Other underwriting and general expenses
   
6,460     
4,612     
3,002 
Total expenses
   
6,460     
4,612     
3,002 
 
   
      
      
  
Loss before income taxes and equity in undistributed net income (loss) of
subsidiaries
   
(6,682)    
(4,951)    
(3,351)
Income tax benefit
   
(665)    
(111)    
(1,124)
Loss before equity in undistributed net income (loss) of subsidiaries
   
(6,017)    
(4,840)    
(2,227)
 
   
      
      
  
Equity in undistributed net income (loss) of subsidiaries
   
11,105     
(636)    
(50,869)
Loss on sale of discontinued operations, net of tax
   
(11,148)    
—     
— 
Net loss attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.
  $
(6,060)   $
(5,476)   $
(53,096)
 
 
Condensed Statements of Comprehensive Income
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Net loss attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.
  $
(6,060)   $
(5,476)   $
(53,096)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:
   
      
      
  
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments
   
7     
15     
(165)
Unrealized gain (loss) attributed to subsidiaries
   
(160)    
7,887     
(34,358)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
   
(153)    
7,902     
(34,523)
Comprehensive income (loss)
  $
(6,213)   $
2,426    $
(87,619)
110 

 
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2024
   
2023
   
2022
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
   
      
      
  
Net income (loss) attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.
  $
(6,060)   $
(5,476)   $
(53,096)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) attributable to NI Holdings, Inc. to net
cash flows from operating activities:
   
      
      
  
Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries
   
(11,105)    
636     
50,869 
Loss on sale of Westminster
   
17,479     
—     
— 
Other
   
(6,220)    
2,603     
359 
Net adjustments
   
154     
3,239     
51,228 
Net cash flows from operating activities
   
(5,906)    
(2,237)    
(1,868)
 
   
      
      
  
Cash flows from investing activities:
   
      
      
  
Proceeds from maturities and sales of fixed income securities
   
789     
223     
9,942 
Proceeds from sales of equity securities
   
—     
6,863     
4,278 
Purchases of fixed income securities
   
(3,960)    
—     
— 
Purchases of equity securities
   
—     
(882)    
(2,023)
Proceeds from disposition of Westminster
   
12,272     
—     
— 
Net cash flows from investing activities
   
9,101     
6,204     
12,197 
 
   
      
      
  
Cash flows from financing activities:
   
      
      
  
Dividend from subsidiaries
   
—     
—     
3,000 
Purchase of treasury stock
   
—     
(7,278)    
(4,180)
Installment payment on Westminster consideration payable
   
—     
—     
(13,333)
Issuance of vested award shares
   
(158)    
(172)    
(768)
Net cash flows from financing activities
   
(158)    
(7,450)    
(15,281)
 
   
      
      
  
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
   
3,037     
(3,483)    
(4,952)
 
   
      
      
  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
308     
3,791     
8,743 
 
   
      
      
  
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $
3,345    $
308    $
3,791 
 
   
      
      
  
Note A – Basis of Presentation
In the parent-company-only financial statements, the Company’s
investment in subsidiaries is stated at cost plus equity in undistributed earnings of
subsidiaries since inception. The parent-company-only
financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial
statements.
Note B – Dividends from Subsidiaries
The Company received no cash dividends from its subsidiaries during
the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. A cash dividend of $3,000 was
received from Nodak Insurance during the year ended December
31, 2022.
111 

 
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized
on March 7, 2025.
NI HOLDINGS, INC.
/s/ Seth C. Daggett	

Seth C. Daggett

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
this report has been signed below on March 7, 2025, by the following persons on
behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated.
Signature
 
Capacity
 
Date
/s/ Seth C. Daggett
 
President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer),
Director
 
March 7, 2025
Seth C. Daggett
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Matthew J. Maki
 
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal
Accounting Officer)
 
March 7, 2025
Matthew J. Maki
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Eric K. Aasmundstad
 
Director
 
March 7, 2025
Eric K. Aasmundstad
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ William R. Devlin
 
Director
 
March 7, 2025
William R. Devlin
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Duaine C. Espegard
 
Director
 
March 7, 2025
Duaine C. Espegard
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Cindy L. Launer
 
Director
 
March 7, 2025
Cindy L. Launer
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Stephen V. Marlow
 
Director
 
March 7, 2025
Stephen V. Marlow
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Prakash Mathew
 
Director
 
March 7, 2025
Prakash Mathew
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Jeffrey R. Missling
 
Director
 
March 7, 2025
Jeffrey R. Missling
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Exhibit 10.4
AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
(“Agreement”) is made effective as of the 1st day of December, 2024
(the “Effective Date”), between NI
Holdings, Inc., a North Dakota business corporation, (the “Corporation”), NODAK Insurance Company, a North
Dakota insurance
company (the “Company”), and Seth C. Daggett, an adult individual (“Executive”). This Agreement
amends and replaces the prior
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated August 8, 2023.
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the Corporation, the Company,
and Executive desire to enter into an agreement providing for the terms of Executive’s continued
employment with the Corporation
and the Company.
AGREEMENT
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto, intending
to be legally bound, agree as follows:
1.                 
Employment. The Corporation and the Company employ Executive and Executive hereby accepts employment with the
Corporation and the
Company, on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
2.                 
Duties of Employee. Executive shall serve as Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation and the Company and shall
report directly to the
Corporation Board (as defined below). Executive shall devote his full time, attention and energies to the business
of the Corporation and the Company
during the Employment Period (as defined in Section 3 of this Agreement); provided, however, that
this Section 2 shall not be construed as preventing
Executive from (a) engaging in activities incident or necessary to personal
investments, (b) acting as a member of the board of directors of any non-profit
association or corporation, or (c) being involved
in any other business activity with the prior approval of the Board of Directors of the Corporation (the
“Corporation Board”).
Executive shall not engage in any business or commercial activities, duties or pursuits which compete with the business or
commercial
activities of the Corporation or the Company, nor may Executive serve as a director or officer or in any other capacity in a company which
competes with the Corporation or the Company.
3.                 
Term of Agreement.
a)
Employment Period. This Agreement shall be for a period (the “Employment Period”) beginning on the Effective
Date, and if not previously
terminated pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, continuing until the second anniversary hereof; provided,
however, that on a daily basis,
one additional day shall be added to the term of this Agreement, so that the Employment Period shall always
be two (2) years, unless either
the Executive or the Corporation shall have provided the other with written notice of its intention
to cease extending the term of this
Agreement.
b)
Notwithstanding anything herein contained to the contrary, nothing in this Agreement shall mandate or prohibit a continuation of Executive’s
employment following the expiration of the term of this Agreement upon such terms as the Corporation Board and Executive may mutually
agree.
c)
Termination for Cause. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 3(a) of this Agreement, this Agreement may be terminated
by the
Corporation and the Company for Cause (as defined herein). As used in this Agreement, “Cause” shall mean any
of the following:
1.                 
Executive willfully fails or refuses to substantially perform the Executive’s responsibilities under this Agreement,
after demand for substantial performance has been given by the Corporation Board that specifically identifies how the Executive has
failed
to perform such responsibilities;
 

 
2.                 
Executive engages in gross misconduct which is materially and demonstrably injurious to the Corporation or the
Company;
3.                 
Executive violates any of the Corporation’s or Company’s policies relating to sexual harassment;
4.                 
Executive is convicted of a felony or pleads guilty or nolo contendere to a felony;
5.                 
Executive materially breaches Section 6 of this Agreement;
6.                 
Executive engages in any act of fraud (including misappropriation of the Corporation’s or the Company’s funds
or
property) in connection with the business of the Corporation or the Company which is materially and demonstrably injurious to the
Corporation
or the Company; or
7.                 
Executive is disqualified or barred by any governmental or self-regulatory authority from serving in the capacity
contemplated
by this Agreement.
If this Agreement is terminated for Cause, all
of Executive’s rights under this Agreement shall cease as of the effective date of
such termination, except that:
1.
the Company shall pay to Executive the unpaid portion, if any, of his Annual Base Salary through the date of termination; and
2.                 
the Company shall provide to Executive such post-employment benefits, if any, as may be provided for under the
terms of
the employee benefit plans of the Company then in effect.
d)
Death. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 3(a) of this Agreement, this Agreement shall terminate automatically
upon Executive’s
death and Executive’s rights under this Agreement shall cease as of the date of such termination, except
that (i) the Company shall pay to
Executive’s spouse, personal representative, or estate the unpaid portion, if any, of his
Annual Base Salary through date of death and (ii) the
Company shall provide to Executive’s dependents any benefits due under the
Company’s employee benefit plans.
e)
Disability. Executive, the Corporation and the Company agree that if Executive becomes Disabled, within the meaning of Section 409A
of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder, and becomes eligible
for employer-provided
short-term and/or long-term disability benefits, or worker’s compensation benefits, then the Company’s
obligation to pay Executive his
Annual Base Salary shall be reduced by the amount of the disability or worker’s compensation benefits
received by Executive.
Executive, the Corporation and the Company agree
that if, in the judgment of the Corporation Board, Executive is unable, as a result of
illness or injury, to perform the essential functions
of his position on a full-time basis with or without a reasonable accommodation and without posing a
direct threat to himself or others
for a period of six months, the Company will suffer an undue hardship in continuing Executive’s employment as set forth
in this
Agreement. Accordingly, this Agreement shall terminate at the end of the six-month period, and all of Executive’s rights under this
Agreement shall
cease, with the exception of any unpaid Annual Base Salary through the date of termination and those rights which Executive
may have under the
Company’s employee benefit plans.
f)
Resignation from Other Positions. In the event Executive’s employment under this Agreement is terminated for any reason,
if Executive is
then serving in any other capacity, such as an officer or director for any of the Corporation, the Company or any their
respective affiliates or
subsidiaries, such service shall also be deemed to immediately terminate and Executive shall be deemed to have
resigned from all such other
positions.
 

 
4.                 
Employment Period Compensation, Benefits and Expenses.
a)
Annual Base Salary. For services performed by Executive under this Agreement, the Company shall pay Executive an annual base
salary
during the Employment Period at the rate of $700,000 per year, minus applicable withholdings and deductions, payable at the same
times as
salaries are payable to other executive employees of the Company (the “Annual Base Salary”). The Annual Base
Salary shall be reviewed
annually by the Corporation Board and the Corporation Board may, from time to time, increase Executive’s
Annual Base Salary, and any and
all such increases shall be deemed to constitute amendments to this Section 4(a) to reflect the increased
amounts, effective as of the date
established for such increases.
b)
Bonus. The Executive shall participate in any equity incentive plan and short-term performance plan generally made available
to executive
officers of the Company.
c)
Vacations, Holidays, etc. During the term of this Agreement, Executive shall be entitled to paid annual vacation in accordance
with the
policies as established from time to time by the Company. Executive shall also be entitled to all paid holidays, sick days and
personal days
provided by the Company to its regular full-time employees and senior executive officers.
d)
Employee Benefit Plans. During the term of this Agreement, Executive shall be entitled to participate in or receive the benefits
of any
employee benefit plan currently in effect at the Company, subject to the eligibility and terms of each such plan, until such time
that the
Company authorizes a change in such benefits.
e)
Business Expenses. During the term of this Agreement, Executive shall be entitled to receive prompt reimbursement for all customary
and
usual expenses incurred by him, which are properly accounted for, in accordance with the policies and procedures established by the
Company.
5.                 
Rights in Event of Termination of Employment.
a)
If Executive terminates his employment with the Company without Good Reason (as defined below), Executive’s rights under this
Agreement
shall cease as of the date of such termination, except that (i) the Company shall pay to Executive the unpaid portion,
if any, of his Annual
Base Salary through date of termination, and (ii) the Company shall provide to Executive’s dependents any
benefits due under the Company’s
employee benefit plans then in effect.
b)
If Executive’s employment is involuntarily terminated by the Corporation and the Company without Cause (other than for death
or
Disability), or the Executive voluntarily terminates employment for Good Reason (as defined below), Executive shall be entitled to
receive
the compensation and benefits set forth below:
1.                 
Executive shall be entitled to receive an amount equal to (A) his Annual Base Salary plus (B) the target short-term
incentive bonus for the year in which he is involuntarily terminated without Cause (other than for death or Disability), or the Executive
voluntarily terminates employment for Good Reason. Such annual amount shall be multiplied by the number of full calendar months
remaining
in the Employment Period divided by twelve (12). The resulting amount shall be paid by the Company in one lump sum
following Executive’s
execution of the release (provided such release is not rescinded) described in Section 7.
2.                 
Also, in such event, Executive shall, for the remaining Employment Period, continue to participate in any benefit
plans
of the Company that provide health (including medical and dental) coverage, upon terms no less favorable than the most favorable
terms
provided to senior executives of the Company during such period. In the event that the Company is unable to provide such
coverage by reason
of Executive no longer being an employee, the Company shall provide Executive an amount equal to the total after-tax
cost to Employee,
for each month that is then remaining in the Employment Period, of obtaining such coverage.
 

 
c)
“Good Reason” shall mean (i) a material diminution in salary, (ii) a material diminution in authority, duties
or responsibilities, (iii) a
reassignment which assigns full-time employment duties to Executive at a location more than twenty (20) miles
from the Company’s principal
executive office on the date of this Agreement, in all cases after notice from Executive to the Company
within ninety (90) days after the initial
existence of any such condition that the condition constitutes Good Reason and the failure
of the Company to cure such situation within thirty
(30) days after said notice, or (iv) a change in Executive’s title accompanied
by any of the circumstances described in clauses (i), (ii) or (iii)
above.
d)
Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for in this Section 5 by seeking other employment
or
otherwise, nor shall the amount of payment or the benefit provided for in this Section 5 be reduced by any compensation earned
by Executive
as the result of employment by another employer or by reason of Executive’s receipt of or right to receive any retirement
or other benefits
after the date of termination of employment or otherwise,
 
 

 
 
6.                 
Unauthorized Disclosure. During the term of his employment hereunder, or at any later time, Executive shall not,
without the written consent
of the Corporation Board or a person authorized thereby (except as may be required pursuant to a subpoena
or other legal process), knowingly disclose to
any person, other than an employee of the Company or a person to whom disclosure is reasonably
necessary or appropriate in connection with the
performance by Executive of his duties as an executive of the Company, any material confidential
information obtained by him while in the employ of the
Company with respect to any of the Company’s, the Corporation’s or
any of their subsidiaries’ services, products, improvements, formulas, designs or
styles, processes, customers, methods of business
or any business practices the disclosure of which could be or will be damaging to the Company or the
Corporation; provided, however, that
confidential information shall not include any information known generally to the public (other than as a result of
unauthorized disclosure
by Executive or any person with the assistance, consent or direction of Executive) or any information of a type not otherwise
considered
confidential by persons engaged in the same business or a business similar to that conducted by the Company or any information that must
be
disclosed as required by law.
7.                 
Requirement of Release. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, Executive’s entitlement to any
payments under Section 5 shall be
contingent upon Executive’s prior agreement with and signature to a complete release agreement
in the form as mutually agreed by the parties, which
release is not rescinded by Executive. Such release agreement shall be executed,
if at all, and the applicable payments and benefits contingent upon the
execution of such agreement shall be provided or commence being
provided, if at all, within sixty (60) days following the date of termination; provided,
however, that if such sixty (60) day
period begins in one taxable year and ends in a second taxable year, the payments and benefits will be provided or
commence being provided,
if at all, in the second taxable year.
8.                 
Notices. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, any notice required or permitted to be given under this
Agreement shall be deemed
properly given if in writing and if mailed by United States registered or certified mail, postage prepaid with
return receipt requested, to Executive’s address,
in the case of notices to Executive, and to the principal executive office of
the Company, in the case of notice to the Company.
9.                 
Waiver. No provision of this Agreement may be modified, waived or discharged unless such waiver, modification
or discharge is agreed to in
writing and signed by Executive and an executive officer of the Corporation and the Company specifically
designated by the respective Board. No waiver
by either party hereto at any time of any breach by the other party hereto of, or compliance
with, any condition or provision of this Agreement to be
performed by such other party shall be deemed a waiver of similar or dissimilar
provisions or conditions at the same or at any prior or subsequent time.
10.             
Assignment. This Agreement shall not be assignable by any party, except by the Company to any successor in interest
to its business.
11.             
Entire Agreement. This Agreement contains the entire agreement of the parties relating to the subject matter
of this Agreement and supersedes
and replaces any prior written or oral agreements between them respecting the within subject matter.
12.             
Successors; Binding Agreement.
a)
The Corporation and the Company will require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation, or otherwise)
to
all or substantially all of the business and/or assets of the Corporation or the Company to expressly assume and agree to perform this
Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Corporation and Company would be required to perform it if no such
succession
had taken place. As used in this Agreement, “Corporation” and “Company” shall mean the Corporation and the Company
as
defined previously and any successor to their respective business and/or assets as aforesaid which assumes and agrees to perform this
Agreement by operation of law or otherwise.
 

 
b)
This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Executive’s personal or legal representatives, executors,
administrators,
heirs, distributees, devisees or legatees. If Executive should die following termination of Executive’s employment
without Cause, and any
amounts would be payable to Executive under this Agreement if Executive had continued to live, all such amounts
shall be paid in accordance
with the terms of this Agreement to Executive’s devisee, legatee, or other designee, or, if there is
no such designee, to Executive’s estate.
13.             
Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this Agreement shall not affect the validity
or enforceability of any other
provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.
14.             
Applicable Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of
North Dakota, without regard
to its conflict of laws principles.
15.             
Headings. The section headings of this Agreement are for convenience only and shall not control or affect the
meaning or construction or limit
the scope or intent of any of the provisions of this Agreement.
16.             
Limitations on Payments.
a)
Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, in the event the payments and benefits payable hereunder to or on behalf
of
Executive, when added to all other amounts and benefits payable to or on behalf of Executive, would result in the imposition of an
excise tax
under Section 4999 of the Code, the amounts and benefits payable hereunder shall be reduced to such extent as may be necessary
to avoid
such imposition. All calculations required to be made under this subsection will be made by the Company’s independent public
accountants,
subject to the right of Executive’s representative to review the same. The parties recognize that the actual implementation
of the provisions of
this subsection are complex and agree to deal with each other in good faith to resolve any questions or disagreements
arising hereunder.
b)
All payments made to the Executive pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise, are subject to and conditioned upon their compliance with
applicable laws and any regulations promulgated thereunder.
17.             
Recovery of Bonuses and Incentive Compensation. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, all
bonuses and incentive
compensation, but not Annual Base Salary or payments due Executive under Section 5, paid hereunder (whether
in equity or in cash) shall be subject to
recovery by the Company in the event that such bonuses or incentive compensation are based on
materially inaccurate financial statements or other
materially inaccurate performance metric criteria; provided that except as set forth
in the next sentence, a determination as to the recovery of a bonus or
incentive compensation shall be made within twenty-four (24) months
following the date such bonus or incentive compensation was paid. Notwithstanding
anything to the contrary herein, all compensation payable
to Executive shall be subject to any policy adopted by the Company designed to comply with
Section 10D of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934, as amended, related rules and the listing standards of The Nasdaq Stock Market, including, but not
limited to, the Corporation’s
Incentive Compensation Recovery Policy, originally adopted on December 1, 2023. In the event that the Corporation Board
determines that
a bonus or incentive compensation payment to Executive is recoverable, in its sole discretion, Executive shall reimburse all or a portion
of
such bonus or incentive compensation, to the fullest extent permitted by law, as soon as practicable following written notice to Executive
by the Company
of the same.
18.             
Application of Code Section 409A.
a)
Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, the receipt
of any benefits under this Agreement as a result of a termination of
employment shall be subject to satisfaction of the condition precedent
that Executive undergo a “separation from service” within the meaning
of Treas. Reg. § 1.409A-1(h) or any successor
thereto. In addition, if Executive is deemed to be a “specified employee” within the meaning of
that term under Code Section 409A(a)(2)(B),
then with regard to any payment or the provisions of any benefit that is required to be delayed
pursuant to Code
 
 

 
 
 
Section 409A(a)(2)(B), such payment or benefit shall not be made or
provided prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6) month
period measured from the date of Executive’s
“separation from service” (as such term is defined in Treas. Reg. § 1.409A-1(h)), or (ii) the date
of Executive’s
death (the “Delay Period”). Within ten (10) days following the expiration of the Delay Period, all payments and
benefits
delayed pursuant to this Section (whether they would have otherwise been payable in a single sum or in installments in the absence
of such
delay) shall be paid or reimbursed to Executive in a lump sum, and any remaining payments and benefits due under this Agreement
shall be
paid or provided in accordance with the normal payment dates specified for them herein. Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the
extent that the
foregoing applies to the provision of any ongoing welfare benefits to Executive that would not be required to be delayed
if the premiums
therefore were paid by Executive, Executive shall pay the full costs of premiums for such welfare benefits during the
Delay Period and the
Company shall pay Executive an amount equal to the amount of such premiums paid by Executive during the Delay Period
within ten
(10) days after the conclusion of such Delay Period.
b)
Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, to the extent any expense reimbursement or other in-kind benefit is determined to be
subject to
Code Section 409A, the amount of any such expenses eligible for reimbursement or in-kind benefits in one calendar year
shall not affect the
expenses eligible for reimbursement or in-kind benefits in any other taxable year (except under any lifetime limit
applicable to expenses for
medical care), in no event shall any expenses be reimbursed or in-kind benefits be provided after the last
day of the calendar year following
the calendar year in which Executive incurred such expenses or received such benefits, and in no event
shall any right to reimbursement or in-
kind benefits be subject to liquidation or exchange for another benefit.
c)
Any payments made pursuant to Section 5, to the extent of payments made from the date of termination through March 15th of the
calendar
year following such date, are intended to constitute separate payments for purposes of Treas. Reg. §1.409A-2(b)(2) and thus
payable pursuant
to the “short-term deferral” rule set forth in Treas. Reg. §1.409A-1(b)(4); to the extent such payments
are made following said March 15th,
they are intended to constitute separate payments for purposes of Treas. Reg. §1.409A-2(b)(2)
made upon an involuntary termination from
service and payable pursuant to Treas. Reg. §1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii), to the maximum extent
permitted by said provision.
d)
To the extent it is determined that any benefits described in Section 5(a)(ii) are taxable to Executive, they are intended to
be payable pursuant
to Treas. Reg. §1.409A-1(b)(9)(v), to the maximum extent permitted by said provision.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have
executed this Agreement as of the Effective Date.
 
NODAK INSURANCE COMPANY
 
By:
/s/ Eric Aasmundstad
 
Name:
Eric Aasmundstad
 
Title:
Board Chair
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
NI HOLDINGS, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Eric Aasmundstad
 
Name:
Eric Aasmundstad
 
Title:
Board Chair
 
SETH C. DAGGETT
 
/s/ Seth C. Daggett
 
 
 
 

Exhibit 19
 
NI HOLDINGS,
INC.
POLICY
ON INSIDER TRADING
 
Last
Approved: August 20, 2024
 
 
 
This Insider Trading Policy describes the
standards of NI Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) on trading, and causing the trading of, the
Company's
securities or securities of certain other publicly traded companies while in possession of confidential information. This Policy is divided
into
two parts: the first part prohibits trading in certain circumstances and applies to all directors, officers, and employees of the
Company and their respective
immediate family members and the second part imposes special additional trading restrictions and applies
to all (i) directors of the Company, (ii) executive
officers of the Company, (iii) the employees listed on Appendix A, and (iv) certain
other employees that the Company may designate from time to time as
“Covered Persons” because of their position, responsibilities,
or their actual or potential access to material information (collectively, “Covered Persons”).
 
One of the principal purposes of the federal securities
laws is to prohibit so-called “insider trading.” Simply stated, insider trading occurs when a person
uses material nonpublic
information obtained through involvement with the Company to make decisions to purchase, sell, give away, or otherwise trade the
Company's
securities or the securities of certain other companies or to provide that information to others outside the Company. The prohibitions
against
insider trading apply to trades, tips, and recommendations by virtually any person, including all persons associated with the
Company, if the information
involved is “material” and “nonpublic.” These terms are defined in this Policy under
Part I, Section 3 below. The prohibitions would apply to any director,
officer, or employee who buys or sells Company stock on the basis
of material nonpublic information that he or she obtained about the Company, its
customers, suppliers, partners, competitors, or other
companies with which the Company has contractual relationships or may be negotiating transactions.
PART I
 
I.
APPLICABILITY
This Policy applies to all trading or other transactions,
including gifts, in (i) the Company's securities, including common stock, options and any other
securities that the Company may issue,
such as preferred stock, notes, bonds, and convertible securities, as well as to derivative securities relating to any of
the Company's
securities, whether or not issued by the Company and (ii) the securities of certain other companies, including common stock, options,
and
other securities issued by those companies as well as derivative securities relating to any of those companies’ securities,
where the person trading used
information obtained while working for the Company.
This Policy applies
to all employees of the Company, all officers of the Company, and all members of the Company's board of directors, as well as family
members and other persons who reside with such person and any other person whose transactions in Company securities are directed by such
person or are
subject to such person’s influence or control (such as parents or children who consult with such person before they
trade in Company securities).
 
 

 
II. GENERAL POLICY: NO TRADING OR CAUSING TRADING WHILE IN POSSESSION OF
MATERIAL NONPUBLIC INFORMATION
(a)
No director, officer, or employee or any of their immediate family members may purchase or sell, or offer to purchase or sell, any Company
security, whether or not issued by the Company, while in possession of material nonpublic information about the Company. (The terms “material”
and “nonpublic” are defined in Part I, Section 3(a) and (b) below.)
(b)
No director, officer, or employee or any of their immediate family members who knows of any material nonpublic information about the
Company
may communicate that information to (“tip”) any other person, including family members and friends, or otherwise disclose
such
information without the Company’s authorization.
(c)
No director, officer, or employee or any of their immediate family members may purchase or sell any security of any other company while
in
possession of material nonpublic information about that company that was obtained in the course of his or her involvement with the
Company. No
director, officer, or employee who knows of any such material nonpublic information may communicate that information to, or
tip, any other
person, including family members and friends, or otherwise disclose such information without the Company's authorization.
(d)
For compliance purposes, you should never trade, tip, or recommend securities (or otherwise cause the purchase or sale of securities)
while in
possession of information that you have reason to believe is material and nonpublic unless you first consult with, and obtain
the advance approval
of, the Compliance Officer (which is defined in Part I, Section 3(c) below).
(e)
Covered Persons must “pre-clear” all trading in securities of the Company in accordance with the procedures set forth in Part
II, Section 3
below.
 
III. DEFINITIONS
(a)
Material. Insider trading restrictions come into play only if the information you possess is “material.” Materiality,
however, involves a
relatively low threshold. Information is generally regarded as “material” if it has market significance,
that is, if its public dissemination is likely to
affect the market price of securities, or if it otherwise is information that a reasonable
investor would want to know before making an investment
decision.
Information dealing with the following subjects
is reasonably likely to be found material in particular situations:
(i) significant changes in the Company's
prospects;
(ii) significant write-downs in assets
or increases in reserves;
(iii) developments regarding significant
litigation or government agency investigations;
(iv) liquidity problems;
(v) changes in earnings estimates or unusual
gains or losses in major operations;
 

 
(vi) major changes in the Company’s
management or board of directors;
(vii) changes in dividends;
(viii) extraordinary borrowings;
(ix) major changes in accounting methods
or policies;
(x) award or loss of a significant contract;
(xi) cybersecurity risks and incidents,
including vulnerabilities and breaches;
(xii) changes in debt ratings;
(xiii) proposals, plans or agreements, even
if preliminary in nature, involving mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, recapitalizations,
strategic alliances, or purchases or sales
of substantial assets;
(xiv) offerings of Company securities;
and
(xv) pending statistical reports.
Material information is not limited to historical
facts but may also include projections and forecasts. With respect to a future event, such as a
merger, acquisition, or introduction of
a new product, the point at which negotiations or product development are determined to be material is
determined by balancing the probability
that the event will occur against the magnitude of the effect the event would have on a company's
operations or stock price should it
occur. Thus, information concerning an event that would have a large effect on stock price, such as a merger,
may be material even if
the possibility that the event will occur is relatively small. When in doubt about whether particular nonpublic information
is material,
you should presume it is material. If you are unsure whether information is material, you should either consult the Compliance
Officer
before making any decision to disclose such information (other than to persons who need to know it) or to trade in or recommend
securities
to which that information relates or assume that the information is material.
 
(b)
Nonpublic. Insider trading prohibitions come into play only when you possess information that is material and “nonpublic.”
The fact that
information has been disclosed to a few members of the public does not make it public for insider trading purposes. To be
“public”, the
information must have been disseminated in a manner designed to reach investors generally, and the investors
must be given the opportunity to
absorb the information. Even after public disclosure of information about the Company, you must wait
until the close of business on the second
trading day after the information was publicly disclosed before you can treat the information
as public.
Nonpublic information may include:
(i) information available to a select
group of analysts or brokers or institutional investors;
(ii) undisclosed facts that are the subject
of rumors, even if the rumors are widely circulated; and
 

 
(iii) information that has been entrusted
to the Company on a confidential basis until a public announcement of the information has been
made and enough time has elapsed for the
market to respond to a public announcement of the information (normally two trading days).
As with questions of materiality, if
you are not sure whether information is considered public, you should either consult with the
Compliance Officer or assume that the information
is nonpublic and treat it as confidential.
 
(c)
Compliance Officer. The Company has appointed the Chief Financial Officer as the Compliance Officer for this Policy. The
duties of the
Compliance Officer include, but are not limited to, the following:
(i) assisting with implementation and
enforcement of this Policy;
(ii) circulating this Policy to all employees
and ensuring that this Policy is amended as necessary to remain up-to-date with insider trading
laws;
(iii) pre-clearing all trading in securities
of the Company by Covered Persons in accordance with the procedures set forth in Part II,
Section 3 below;
(iv) providing approval of any Rule 10b5-1
plans under Part II, Section 1(c) below and any prohibited transactions under Part II, Section
4 below; and
(v) providing a reporting system with
an effective whistleblower protection mechanism.
 
IV. EXCEPTIONS
The trading restrictions of this Policy do not
apply to exercising stock options granted under the Company’s equity incentive plans for cash or the delivery
of previously owned
Company stock. However, the sale of any shares issued on the exercise of Company-granted stock options and any cashless exercise
of Company-granted
stock options are subject to trading restrictions under this Policy.
 
V.
VIOLATIONS OF INSIDER TRADING LAWS
Penalties for trading on or communicating material
nonpublic information can be severe, both for individuals involved in such unlawful conduct and their
employers and supervisors, and may
include jail terms, criminal fines, civil penalties, and civil enforcement injunctions. Given the severity of the potential
penalties,
compliance with this Policy is absolutely mandatory.
(a)
Legal Penalties. A person who violates insider trading laws by engaging in transactions in a company's securities when
he or she has material
nonpublic information can be sentenced to a substantial jail term and required to pay a criminal penalty of several
times the amount of profits
gained or losses avoided.
In addition, a person who tips others may
also be liable for transactions by the tippees to whom he or she has disclosed material nonpublic
information. Tippers can be subject
to the same penalties and sanctions as the tippees, and the SEC has imposed large penalties even when the
tipper did not profit from the
transaction.
 

 
The SEC can also seek substantial civil
penalties from any person who, at the time of an insider trading violation, “directly or indirectly controlled
the person who committed
such violation,” which would apply to the Company and/or management and supervisory personnel. Even for
violations that result in
a small or no profit, the SEC can seek penalties from a company and/or its management and supervisory personnel as
control persons.
(b)
Company-imposed Penalties. Compliance with the policies of the Company is a condition of continued employment or service
with the
Company of each employee, officer and director. An employee’s failure to comply with the Company’s insider trading
policy will subject the
employee to Company-imposed sanctions, which may include dismissal for cause, whether or not the employee’s
failure to comply results in a
violation of law. Any exceptions to the Policy, if permitted, may only be granted by the Compliance Officer
and must be provided before any
activity contrary to the above requirements takes place. The Company reserves the right to determine,
in its own discretion and on the basis of the
information available to it, whether this Policy has been violated. The Company may also
determine that specific conduct violates this Policy
whether or not the conduct also violates the law. It is not necessary for the Company
to wait for the filing or conclusion of a civil or criminal
action against the alleged violator before taking disciplinary action.
 
VI. INQUIRIES
If you have any
questions regarding any of the provisions of this Policy, please contact the Compliance Officer Seth Daggett at [***************],
or
1101 1st Avenue North, Fargo, North Dakota 58102 for written inquiries.
PART II
 
I.
BLACKOUT PERIODS
All Covered Persons are prohibited from trading
in the Company's securities during blackout periods as defined below.
(a)
Quarterly Blackout Periods. Trading in the Company's securities is prohibited during the period beginning at the close
of the market two
weeks before the end of each fiscal quarter and ending at the close of business on the second day following the date
the Company's financial
results are publicly disclosed. During these periods, Covered Persons generally possess or are presumed to possess
material nonpublic information
about the Company's financial results.
 
(b)
Other Blackout Periods. From time to time, other types of material nonpublic information regarding the Company (such as
negotiation of
mergers, acquisitions, or dispositions) may be pending and not be publicly disclosed. While such material nonpublic information
is pending, the
Company may impose special blackout periods during which Covered Persons are prohibited from trading in the Company's
securities. If the
Company imposes a special blackout period, it will notify the Covered Persons affected.
 

 
(c)
Exception. These trading restrictions do not apply to transactions under a pre-existing written plan, contract, instruction,
or arrangement under
Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (an “Approved 10b5-1 Plan”) that meets the
requirements described in Rule 10b5-1 and
the following requirements:
(i) it has been reviewed and approved by
the Compliance Officer at least one month in advance of being entered into (or, if revised or
amended, such revisions or amendments have
been reviewed and approved by the Compliance Officer at least one month in advance of
being entered into);
(ii) it provides that no trades may occur
thereunder until expiration of the applicable cooling-off period specified in Rule 10b5-1(c)(ii)(B),
and no trades occur until after that
time. The appropriate cooling-off period will vary based on the status of the Covered Person. For
directors and officers, the cooling-off
period ends on the latter of (x) ninety days after adoption or certain modifications of the 10b5-1 plan;
or (y) two business days following
disclosure of the Company’s financial results in a Form 10-Q or Form 10-K for the quarter in which the
10b5-1 plan was adopted.
In no case will the cooling-off period for directors and officers exceed 120 days. For all other Covered Persons,
if a cooling-off period
is required under Rule 10b5-1, the cooling-off period ends 30 days after adoption or modification of the 10b5-1 plan.
(iii) it is entered into in good faith by
the Covered Person, and not as part of a plan or scheme to evade the prohibitions of Rule 10b5-1, at a
time when the Covered Person is
not in possession of material nonpublic information about the Company; and, if the Covered Person is a
director or officer, the 10b5-1
plan must include representations by the Covered Person certifying to that effect;
(iv) it gives a third party the discretionary
authority to execute such purchases and sales, outside the control of the Covered Person, so long
as such third party does not possess
any material nonpublic information about the Company; or explicitly specifies the security or securities
to be purchased or sold, the
number of shares, the prices and/or dates of transactions, or other formula(s) describing such transactions; and
(v) it is the only outstanding Approved
10b5-1 Plan entered into by the Covered Person (subject to the exceptions set out in Rule 10b5-1(c)
(ii)(D)).
No Approved 10b5-1 Plan may be adopted during a blackout period.
 
If you are considering entering into, modifying, or terminating an Approved
10b5-1 Plan or have any questions regarding Approved 10b5-1 Plans, please
contact the Compliance Officer. You should consult your own
legal and tax advisors before entering into, or modifying or terminating, an Approved 10b5-1
Plan. A trading plan, contract, instruction,
or arrangement will not qualify as an Approved 10b5-1 Plan without the prior review and approval of the
Compliance Officer as described
above.
 
 
II. TRADING WINDOW
Covered Persons are permitted to trade in the
Company's securities when no blackout period is in effect. However, even during this trading window, a
Covered Person who is in possession
of any material nonpublic information should not trade in the Company's securities until the information has been
made publicly available
or is no longer material. In addition, the Company may close this trading window if a special blackout period under Part II, Section
1(b)
above is imposed and will re-open the trading window once the special blackout period has ended.
 
 

 
III. PRE-CLEARANCE OF SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
(a)
Because Covered Persons are likely to obtain material nonpublic information on a regular basis, the Company requires all such persons
to
refrain from trading, even during a trading window under Part II, Section 2 above, without first pre-clearing all transactions in the
Company's
securities.
(b)
Subject to the exemption in subsection (c) below, no Covered Person may, directly or indirectly, purchase or sell (or otherwise make any
transfer, gift, pledge, or loan of) any Company security at any time without first obtaining prior approval from the Compliance Officer.
These
procedures also apply to transactions by family members or other persons who reside with such person and any other person whose
transactions in
Company securities are directed by such person or are subject to such person’s influence or control (such as parents
or children who consult with
such person before they trade in Company securities), and to transactions by entities over which such person
exercises control.
(c)
The Compliance Officer shall record the date each request is received and the date and time each request is approved or disapproved.
Unless
revoked, a grant of permission will normally remain valid until the close of trading two business days following the day on which it
was
granted. If the transaction does not occur during the two-day period, pre-clearance of the transaction must be re-requested.
(d)
Pre-clearance is not required for purchases and sales of securities under an Approved 10b5-1 Plan once the applicable cooling-off period
has
expired. No trades may be made under an Approved 10b5-1 Plan until expiration of the applicable cooling-off period. With respect to
any
purchase or sale under an Approved 10b5-1 Plan, the third party effecting transactions on behalf of the Covered Person should be instructed
to
send duplicate confirmations of all such transactions to the Compliance Officer.
 
IV. PROHIBITED TRANSACTIONS
(a)
Directors and executive officers of the Company are prohibited from trading in the Company's equity securities during a blackout period
imposed under an “individual account” retirement or pension plan of the Company, during which at least 50% of the plan participants
are unable
to purchase, sell, or otherwise acquire or transfer an interest in equity securities of the Company, due to a temporary suspension
of trading by the
Company or the plan fiduciary.
(b)
Covered Persons, including any person's spouse, other persons living in such person's household, and minor children, and entities over
which
such person exercises control, are prohibited from engaging in the following transactions in the Company's securities unless advance
approval is
obtained from the Compliance Officer:
(i) Short-term trading. Covered Persons
who purchase Company securities may not sell any Company securities of the same class for at
least six months after the purchase;
 

 
(ii) Short sales. Covered Persons
may not sell the Company's securities short;
(iii) Options trading. Covered Persons
may not buy or sell puts or calls or other derivative securities on the Company's securities;
(iv) Trading on margin or pledging.
Covered Persons may not hold Company securities in a margin account or pledge Company securities
as collateral for a loan; and
(v) Hedging. Covered Persons may
not enter into hedging or monetization transactions or similar arrangements with respect to Company
securities.
 
V.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND CERTIFICATION
All employees and directors are required to sign
the attached acknowledgment and certification.
 

 
 
 
 
ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND CERTIFICATION
The undersigned does hereby acknowledge receipt of the Company's
Insider Trading Policy. The undersigned has read and understands (or has had
explained) such Policy and agrees to be governed by
such Policy at all times in connection with the purchase and sale of securities and the confidentiality
of nonpublic information.
 
 
__________________________________
(Signature)
 
 
__________________________________
(Please print name)
 
 
Date: _____________________________
 
 

 
APPENDIX A
 
 
NI Holdings Board Members
 
Leadership Team
Chief Executive Officer
EVP, Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer
SVP Operations
VP, Corporate Administration & Secretary
VP, Financial Planning & Analysis
VP, Corporate Controller
VP, Claims
VP, Underwriting & Reinsurance
Chief Actuary
Director of Actuarial
Direct Auto President
Direct Auto VP Claims
Primero VP Underwriting
Primero VP Claims
 
Key Financial Employees
Director of Accounting
Senior Financial Consultant
Senior Accountant
Staff Accountant
Financial Reporting Coordinator
Senior Accounting Specialist
Director of Finance
Finance Manager
Director of Financial Planning & Analysis
 
 
 

Exhibit 21.1
SUBSIDIARIES OF NI HOLDINGS, INC.
 
Company
 
State of Organization
 
Percentage of Equity Owned
Directly or Indirectly
 
Nodak Insurance Company
 
North Dakota
 
100%
 
American West Insurance Company
 
North Dakota
 
100%
 
Tri-State Ltd.
 
South Dakota
 
100%
 
Primero Insurance Company
 
North Dakota
 
100%
 
Nodak Agency, Inc.
 
North Dakota
 
100%
 
Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company
 
North Dakota
 
100%
 
Direct Auto Insurance Company
 
North Dakota
 
100%
 
 
 
 

Exhibit 23.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING
FIRM
 
We consent to the incorporation by reference in
the Registration Statements on Forms S-8 (Nos. 333-221630 and 333-239645, etc.) of our report dated
March 7, 2025, with respect to the
consolidated financial statements, and financial statement schedule of NI Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries as of December
31, 2024, and
for the year then ended, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, as of December 31, 2024, which is included
in this
Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 
/s/ Forvis Mazars, LLP
 
New York, New York
March 7, 2025
 
 
 
 

Exhibit 23.2
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference
in the registration statements on Form S-8 (File Nos. 333-221630 and 333-239645) of our report dated
March 15, 2024 relating to the consolidated
financial statements, and financial statement schedule of NI Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries listed in Item 15(a)
(2), appearing in this
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024.
 
/s/ Mazars USA LLP
 
Fort Washington, PA
March 7, 2025
 
 
 

Exhibit 31.1
CERTIFICATION OF PERIODIC REPORT UNDER SECTION
302 OF THE

SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
I, Seth C. Daggett, certify that:
1.
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of NI Holdings, Inc.
2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary
to
make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the
period
covered by this report;
3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material
respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this
report;
4.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures
(as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules
13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our
supervision,
to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known
to us by others
within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed
under
our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of
financial statements
for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions
about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such
evaluation;
and
(d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the
registrant’s
most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially
affected,
or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over
financial
reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons
performing the equivalent
functions):
(a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which
are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information;
and
(b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s
internal control over financial reporting.
March 7, 2025
/s/ Seth C. Daggett
 
 
Seth C. Daggett
 
 
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 (Principal Financial Officer)
 
 
 

Exhibit 31.2
CERTIFICATION OF PERIODIC REPORT UNDER SECTION
302 OF THE

SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
I, Matthew J. Maki, certify that:
1.
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of NI Holdings, Inc.
2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary
to
make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the
period
covered by this report;
3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material
respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this
report;
4.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures
(as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules
13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our
supervision,
to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known
to us by others
within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed
under
our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of
financial statements
for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions
about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such
evaluation;
and
(d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the
registrant’s
most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially
affected,
or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over
financial
reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons
performing the equivalent
functions):
(a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which
are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information;
and
(b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s
internal control over financial reporting.
March 7, 2025
/s/ Matthew J. Maki
 
 
Matthew J. Maki
 
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 (Principal Financial Officer)
 
 
 

Exhibit 32
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the annual report of NI Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”)
on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2024, as filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”),
we, Seth C. Daggett, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Matthew J. Maki,
Chief Financial Officer, of the Company, certify,
pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002, that, to our knowledge:
(1)
The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2)
The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations
of the
Company.
March 7, 2025
/s/ Seth C. Daggett
 
 
Seth C. Daggett
 
 
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 (Principal Financial Officer)
 
 
March 7, 2025
/s/ Matthew J. Maki
 
 
Matthew J. Maki
 
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 (Principal Financial Officer)