Protecting More
Tomorrows
2015 ANNUAL REPORT
Unum 2015 Annual Report
About Unum
Unum Group (www.unumgroup.com) is a leading provider of financial protection benefits
in the United States and the United Kingdom. Its primary businesses are Unum US, Colonial
Life and Unum UK. Unum’s portfolio includes disability, life, accident and critical illness
coverage, which help protect millions of working people and their families in the event
of an illness or injury. In 2015, the company reported revenues of $10.7 billion and paid
$6.8 billion in benefits.
UNUM US
Unum US is a market leader in group and individual disability
benefits in the United States, and is one of the largest providers
of group life and voluntary workplace benefits.
COLONIAL LIFE
Colonial Life is one of the leading providers of voluntary
worksite benefits, including disability, life, accident,
hospitalization and cancer coverage, in the United States.
UNUM UK
Unum UK is the leading provider of income protection and
critical illness coverage in the United Kingdom, and also offers
life and dental benefits.
CLOSED BLOCK
Closed Block consists of individual disability, group and
individual long-term care, and other benefit products that
are still serviced but no longer actively marketed.
“ We see a tremendous opportunity
to continue to grow this market,
by helping people ‘protect more
tomorrows’ and plan for unforeseen
circumstances rather than hope
against them.”
RICK MCKENNEY
President and
Chief Executive Officer
To Our Shareholders, Customers and Colleagues:
Opportunity.
That’s a word I’ve used often during my first year as Unum’s CEO, and
with good reason. On the heels of a year in which we generated solid
profitable growth throughout the company, we move into 2016 well-
positioned to capitalize on opportunities to further expand our reach.
We look to the future with optimism because the need for what we do
has never been greater. Many workers in the U.S. and U.K. lack access
to benefits that can preserve their financial stability in the face of an
unexpected event. And with government programs short on resources
and solutions, the responsibility for building a personal financial safety
net lands squarely on individuals.
A key to being there when people need us most is the depth and
breadth of our experience in employee benefits. For more than
165 years, we’ve demonstrated the ability to understand and meet the
needs of individuals and their employers – from start-ups to Fortune
500 companies. With the support of 10,000 of the best and most
innovative employees in the industry, our strategy for 2016 and
beyond is straightforward: to provide more people with access to
products and services that protect their financial well-being, while
generating attractive returns for our shareholders. We’ll achieve
this in three ways:
We believe we are uniquely positioned to address this pressing
societal need. With disability, life and a variety of voluntary insurance
benefits offered through the workplace, today we protect more than
33 million individuals and their families against financial hardships
that can derail their stability.
But our view is more expansive. We see a tremendous opportunity
to continue to grow this market, by helping people “protect more
tomorrows” and plan for unforeseen circumstances rather than hope
against them.
• Grow our existing business by enhancing our value proposition,
deepening our relationships with customers, and better reaching
underserved markets;
• Invest in our operations in ways that anticipate and respond to
the changing needs of our customers, while meeting new market
demands; and
• Expand our reach into new geographies, products and
distribution channels where our expertise and capabilities are
competitive advantages.
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Unum 2015 Annual Report STRONG 2015 PERFORMANCE
It is important to start from a position of strength. On that note,
we were pleased with our results for 2015. Despite an operating
environment that remains challenging for insurers, we saw growing
demand across our businesses as our products and services are more
relevant than ever to people of all generations.
Overall, sales and premium each rose 5 percent as our core businesses –
Unum US, Unum UK and Colonial Life – once again performed well.
This is a testament to both our value proposition and the strong
relationships we’ve built in the marketplace.
Perhaps most encouraging is that our people delivered it the right
way: profitable, disciplined growth. Operating earnings per share
increased nearly 4 percent, marking the 10th consecutive year
of operating EPS growth.
The opportunities we seized in 2015 – and those unfolding before
us now – are the result of the disciplined execution and sound
decision-making that we’ve exhibited over those 10 years.
But our success goes well beyond just financial results. I’m proud to
say that our consumer, employer and broker satisfaction scores remain
very strong, a sign that we continue to deliver on our commitment to
providing outstanding service.
Our focus now is on accelerating the momentum we’ve built by
leveraging the Unum and Colonial Life brands – and unique strengths
of each – to capitalize on opportunities to profitably grow. We made a
key acquisition in 2015 with the purchase of National Dental Plan in the
U.K. We believe that dental benefits are a natural fit with our product
offerings, and we hope to capitalize on recent growth in the employee
dental insurance market in the U.K.
“ We look to the future with optimism
because the need for what we do has
never been greater.”
Although our primary focus is on growing our business, we also
continue to carefully manage our Closed Block of legacy products
such as long-term care insurance that we no longer sell but still service.
We’re committed to improving the performance of this block through
disciplined capital management and the effective implementation of
approved rate increases.
to bolster shareholder value. We increased our dividend for the
eighth consecutive year and repurchased more than $425 million of
our shares in 2015, bringing the amount that we have repurchased
since 2007 to $3.2 billion.
INCREASING DEMAND FOR OUR PRODUCTS
AND SERVICES
The need for financial protection products has steadily grown in recent
years as financial foundations have shifted, government resources
have become strained, and costs have climbed – leaving consumers,
businesses and governments struggling to adapt.
Studies have found that nearly 90 percent of households say they would
suffer financial hardship if they were disabled and unable to work for
a year. And suffering illness or injury that prevents an individual from
working occurs more than most people expect. In fact, more than one
in four of today’s 20-year-olds will be out of work at some point in their
careers due to a disability.
For most workers, including those at lower and middle income levels,
the workplace is the best place to get this financial protection. At least
90 percent of disability insurance and 60 percent of all life insurance
coverage is acquired in the workplace. That’s because employees can
get the information they need to be educated consumers, as well as
access to affordable protection that would likely not be available to
them elsewhere.
Workplace benefits have advantages for employers as well. They
enable organizations to attract and retain top talent, and the majority
of employers say they feel they have a responsibility to help protect
their employees’ well-being.
In spite of this, too many people remain unprotected. In the U.S.,
only one in three workers has access to disability insurance in the
workplace, leaving more than 75 million without coverage. In the U.K.,
more than 90 percent of workers still lack basic disability coverage.
And with public assistance programs in both countries under increasing
pressure, it’s clear the private sector will need to play a larger role in
providing essential financial protection to workers and their families.
At Unum, we believe we are part of the solution. We start by helping
educate consumers about the need for financial protection and taking steps
to simplify our products and make them more affordable to all workers.
After all, we know we’re helping protect people who are just like us.
We also remain committed to managing our company in ways that
generate long-term shareholder value. Last year, with strong capital
generation from our core businesses, we continued to deploy capital
In at least one case, the products and services we provide even led a
customer to become part of our family. Jamie Fredrickson bought cancer
coverage from Colonial Life in 2009, never imagining she’d need those
benefits until her 2-year-old daughter, Nora, was diagnosed with leukemia.
22
Benefit payments throughout her illness helped cover medical and other
costs and eased some of the financial burden during a time when Jamie
was also caring for her newborn son.
Nora is now a thriving 7-year-old, and Jamie joined Colonial Life in 2014,
sharing her own story to help people understand the “why” behind what
we do. As both a customer and a member of our team, Jamie reflects the
value of our work and the values we practice as a company.
In addition to protecting the financial stability of individuals and families,
our benefits help rebuild careers and lives. We recently received a letter
from a Unum customer who was forced by injury to leave his 17-year
career in law enforcement. His disability benefit payments were vital,
but equally important was the support of our vocational rehabilitation
experts who helped him identify new career opportunities and prepared
him for job interviews in new fields.
Our Investment
Philosophy
Our focused approach is evident in our investment
philosophy. We not only have a disciplined approach
to running our businesses, we have maintained a
prudent investment strategy that steers clear of risky
investments and focuses on supportingour broad
portfolio of products.
With more than $50 billion under active management,
our investment portfolio is designed to match the
long-term nature of our business. The high quality of
our investments means we have a significantly lower
default experience than the market average, and low
exposure to problem areas.
Although today’s stubbornly low interest rates
continue to put pressure on our investment income,
we are able to offset this impact by adjusting the
pricing of many of our products to accommodate
changing economic environments and their impact
on our profitability.
Through it all, we have a responsibility to make
investment decisions that are in the best interests of
our shareholders and customers. That means looking
for sensible opportunities that provide attractive
returns over the long term. It’s a simple but powerful
guiding principle.
“ Embracing change is a central focus for
us, because those organizations that
find ways to adapt faster and more
effectively will have a clear advantage
moving forward.”
The difference our people made is clear in his note: “When I called to
report that I have been re-employed . . . the first thing she did was
congratulate me and express how happy she was for me. It means a lot
when people who you do not even know are just as happy for your
advancement in life as members of your own family.”
Last year alone, we paid more than $6.8 billion in benefits and helped
some 327,000 people return to work. There are stories like these behind
each one of them. They motivate and inspire us, while providing a steady
reminder that our business delivers value that goes well beyond the
bottom line.
KEEPING PACE WITH A CHANGING ENVIRONMENT
Delivering on our strategy will require that we keep pace with the rapid
change that is happening all around us. Embracing change is a central
focus for us, because those organizations that find ways to adapt faster
and more effectively will have a clear advantage moving forward.
At Unum, we’re no strangers to change. From an organizational
perspective, we have had several well-executed transitions at the
senior leadership level, as well as on our Board of Directors, over
the last five years. The stability and continuity that are hallmarks of
our culture played a key role in not only assuring smooth transitions,
but also enabling us to continue to achieve outstanding results amid
these changes.
We also find ourselves adapting to fast-evolving consumer expectations
about service and responsiveness. No longer is “the competition”
limited to other insurers. When it comes to customer service, consumers
today are less likely to differentiate between industries. Instead
they expect a high level of service whether they are talking to their
insurance company, making an online purchase or buying a latte at
the coffee shop.
In a relatively short time, nearly everything about the ways all
of us shop, bank, even plan our vacations, has moved to an online,
on-demand, one-stop-shop approach. In response, we need to
think more broadly and remain open to new business approaches.
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Unum 2015 Annual Report But while we are constantly evolving to reflect a new reality, what
remains unchanged is our commitment to protecting the financial
stability of millions of working people and their families.
OUR BRAND
I’ve always believed that a good brand is a promise made, but
a great brand is a promise kept.
We strive to be a company viewed not just for its financial
performance but as a thought leader in our industry, as a good
corporate citizen, and as an employer of choice. Most importantly,
we want to be viewed as a company that keeps its promises.
“ Our brand starts with our people.
Our ability to deliver on the promises
we make to our customers and
shareholders rests with them.”
OUTLOOK FOR 2016
Thomas Edison once said: “Opportunity is missed by most people
because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.”
In recent years, we have elevated our stature as a leading voice for
our industry. Largely due to our efforts, the need for and value of
financial protection benefits are growing topics of conversation, and
we’ve built partnerships with industry groups and policymakers
in both the U.S. and U.K. that can move us closer to our goal of
protecting the financial security of more working people and
their families.
At Unum, we understand that it takes good old-fashioned hard work
to capitalize on opportunities. Fortunately, we have developed a
culture where the value of hard work is ingrained at every level of
the organization. It shows up in the form of smart strategic decision-
making, focused execution and consistent performance and results.
We aim to further our momentum in 2016, as we anticipate continued
top-line growth while maintaining solid operating margins and
significant financial flexibility to support the needs of our businesses.
At the same time, our commitment to making our communities
better is a cornerstone of our business. The primary focus of our
community outreach is public education, because we firmly believe
that by helping develop stronger individuals we create stronger
communities and a better prepared workforce. In 2015, we contributed
nearly $13 million and our employees volunteered more than
88,000 hours to charitable organizations throughout the U.S., U.K.
and Ireland.
Our brand starts with our people. Our ability to deliver on the
promises we make to our customers and shareholders rests with
them. I can’t thank our employees enough for what they do every
day to support the needs of all of our stakeholders. It’s for this
reason that we take pride in our efforts to provide a rewarding work
environment, recognizing that our employees can only be at their
best if they have the opportunity to grow and learn. As a result,
we’ve been recognized as a top employer both nationally as well
as in our home states.
These efforts not only benefit our employees, but they also ensure
that we live up to our commitments to the people who rely on us
during some of the most trying times of their lives.
Looking ahead, we see plenty of opportunities to grow our business –
and we intend to capitalize on them. Each day, more and more
people are counting on us for help protecting their livelihoods
and quality of life, and we’re committed to being there when they
need us.
In summary, we are in good operating businesses with strong
market positions, and we have built a solid financial foundation. By
continuing to anticipate the needs of our customers, and by remaining
disciplined in everything we do, we’ll be well-positioned to deliver
even greater value to our shareholders in the future.
As I approach my first anniversary as CEO, every day I am thankful
for the opportunity to lead a company with such an accomplished
past and an extremely promising future. I truly believe we are not
only stronger today than ever before, but that we are uniquely
positioned for growth and continued financial success.
Thank you for the confidence and trust you place in all of us at
Unum. We will do everything possible to continue to earn it.
Richard (Rick) McKenney
President and CEO
44
Operating Earnings Per Share
Book Value Per Share (Excludes AOCI)
$3.64
$3.51
$3.28
$3.13
$2.98
$35.90
$32.25
$33.12
$29.52
$26.33
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‘12
‘13
‘14
‘15
‘11
‘12
‘13
‘14
‘15
Last year alone, we paid more than
Annual Dividend Per Share
$6.8B
in benefits and helped some
327,000
people return to work
$0.700
$0.620
$0.550
$0.470
$0.395
$0.350
$0.300
$0.315
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
‘13
‘14
‘15
Unum 2015 Annual Report
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Unum 2015 Annual Report Unum US
6
“ Our success is a direct reflection of our commitment
to our customers, our partners, our investors and
our employees. The values we reflect in our work,
and the value we deliver to the people who rely on
us, are the foundation of that success – now and in
the future.”
Mike Simonds
President and CEO, Unum US
Unum US grew faster in 2015 than at any other time in over
a decade. More importantly, the business grew profitably, with
a focus on consumers, clients and collaborative partnerships.
Our technology investments are bringing us closer to consumers
in the ways they want to interact with us. Our new consumer-
focused communications and education are making insurance
more human, sharing the value of the benefits we provide in
straightforward terms.
We’re simplifying the administration of our benefits for our
employer clients, making it easier for them to choose Unum
benefits for their employees, while delivering experiences
that inspire them to expand their relationships with us.
We’re also expanding our connections to best-in-class external
partners who are helping us deliver new products, distribution
methods and services that strengthen our business and help us
stay focused on what we do best.
Growing our business profitably is critical to expanding the
protection and support we provide to the people who depend on
us. As opportunities for growth accelerate along with the pace of
change, our people are committed to moving at the speed of the
external market. We evaluate our success on the measures that
matter most to our customers, our employees and our investors.
GROWING PROFITABLY
COMMITTED TO CONSUMERS
• 2015 sales of $939.6 million, up 4.2%
• Protecting 27.9 million people and their
• Earned premium of $5 billion, up 6.4%
• Fastest growth in over a decade and
more than double the market rate
families
• $3.5 billion in benefits paid in 2015
STRENGTHENING CLIENT
RELATIONSHIPS
• Serving 86,000 employer clients
• Client First focus measures our
performance from their perspective
DRIVING INNOVATION
• Expanding digital partnerships make our
products accessible across dozens of
technology platforms
• New technology partnership quickly
connects us to the closest and best benefits
counselors for enrollments
7
Unum 2015 Annual Report Unum UK
8
GROWING PROFITABLY
COMMITTED TO CONSUMERS
• Earned premium of £376.9 million,
• Protecting 1.6 million people
up 2.3%
• Sales of £55.1 million, up 6.2%
• New-to-market client sales growth
of 325%
• £294.3 million in benefits paid in 2015
• 150,000 more people insured through our
dental business
STRENGTHENING CLIENT
RELATIONSHIPS
• Serving more than 10,000 clients
• Aligning servicing and claims teams to
build stronger relationships
DRIVING INNOVATION
• Developing new comprehensive customer
administration platform
• New broker strategy to expand the number
of brokers selling our products
“ Healthy financial results reflect the momentum
Unum UK gained in 2015. We are committed to
enhancing our proposition to deliver profitable
growth, and we are making good progress on
building the necessary foundations to advance
those ambitions.”
Peter O’Donnell
President and CEO, Unum UK
Unum UK made significant progress in 2015, with healthy financial
results driven by the momentum gained last year. It also was an
important year strategically, as we laid the infrastructure to
transition to our new growth agenda.
As a thought leader in the workplace well-being debate, we play
a key role in supporting employees in their journey back to work.
Service enhancements, such as the introduction of our new online
portal for eldercare support, ensure we continue to offer a highly
competitive proposition in the health and well-being space.
We continue to make progress in developing our new administration
platform with the customer at the forefront. We’re creating a faster
and more seamless service proposition that will automate many
processes for a better all-round employer experience.
We’ve also embedded our end-to-end Broker Services Teams
to act as a single point of contact for intermediaries on all policy
administration issues, reducing query turnaround time and building
stronger relationships in the process.
Unum UK continues to identify opportunities to grow profitably in
alignment with our strategy. Our acquisition of a market-leading dental
business reflects this ambition. We remain committed to enhancing our
proposition in the future with the ultimate aim of delivering profitable
growth and improved return on investment for our key stakeholders.
9
Unum 2015 Annual Report Colonial
Life
10
“ We continue to deliver forward-looking solutions
to meet our customers’ changing needs, with an
intense focus on making their experience with us
simple, modern and personal.”
Tim Arnold
President and CEO, Colonial Life
Colonial Life accelerated its growth in 2015 toward its goal of
protecting five million of America’s workers by 2020.
We saw significant expansion of our market leadership in the
essential small employer and public sector markets with new
solutions to meet these customers’ needs, bolstered by national
sponsorships of small business programs and new alliances with
national public sector associations. And we’re building on existing
client sales growth with new employer engagement programs to
create even stronger long-term relationships.
Just as importantly, the company is taking major strides to make the
experience of its customers more simple, modern and personal
through enhanced services, innovative technology and new
partnerships. A shining example is a new custom web application
that allows us to quickly match client needs with available, highly
rated benefits counselors to deliver effective enrollments faster.
A widening distribution footprint and investments in leadership
effectiveness will continue to drive growth moving forward. And
we’re future-focused with investments in the next generation of
employee benefits experts to ensure we can continue to deliver the
solutions and service our customers expect in the years to come.
GROWING PROFITABLY
GROWING PROFITABLY
COMMITTED TO CONSUMERS
COMMITTED TO CONSUMERS
• 2015 sales of $438.5 million, up 6.9%
• 2015 sales of $944.7 million, up 4%
• Protecting 3.5 million people
• Protecting 27.9 million people
• Earned premium of $1.3 billion, up 5.1%
• Earned premium of $5.0 billion, up 6.4%
• $589.4 million in benefits paid in 2015
• $5.8 billion in benefits paid in 2015
• Strong focus on small employer and
• Fastest growth in over a decade and
public sector markets
three times the market rate
• Easy mobile app for claim and leave
information
• Electronic evidence of insurability for
easier, faster coverage decisions
STRENGTHENING CLIENT
STRENGTHENING CLIENT
RELATIONSHIPS
RELATIONSHIPS
• Serving more than 85,000 businesses
• Serving 86,000 employer clients
and organizations
• Client First focus measures our
performance from their perspective
• New partnerships with national public
sector associations
• Integrated billing teams make benefits
administration easier
DRIVING INNOVATION
DRIVING INNOVATION
• New technology partnership quickly
• Expanding digital partnerships make our
products accessible across dozens of
connects us to the closest and best benefits
counselors for enrollments
technology platforms
• Significantly faster third-party enrollment
• New technology partnership quickly
connection times
connects us to the closest and best benefits
counselors for enrollments
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Unum 2015 Annual Report Closed
Block
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COMMITTED TO CONSUMERS
FOCUSED ON STABLE RESULTS
• Protecting 1.3 million people
• $2.3 billion in benefits paid in 2015
• $19 billion in assets supporting reserves
for future benefits
• Earned premium of $1.2 billion
• Before-tax operating income of
$119 million
• Diligence in managing investment returns
“ We keep the needs and expectations of our
customers at the center of all we do, and we
are confident that we are taking the right steps
to manage our business.”
Steve Zabel
President, Closed Block
More than a million people depend on the disability, long term
care and other insurance coverages that make up our Closed Block
business segment. We no longer sell these legacy products, but
we still have significant obligations to these policyholders and
are actively engaged in profitably managing this business.
We strive for the highest standards of quality for our service and claim
interactions, knowing customers rely on these benefits as they face
serious issues with health and aging. We also recognize that many of
these customers have other products with Unum, and they expect
each interaction with us to reflect the commitments of our brand.
In addition to significant premiums associated with the Closed
Block, more than 30 percent of Unum’s capital is allocated to these
products. We have added resources to support this business and
increased the reserves to help us honor future commitments.
In addition, we continue to evaluate and adjust pricing levels to
support profitability.
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Unum 2015 Annual Report SENIOR OFFICERS
Richard P. McKenney
President and
Chief Executive Officer
Timothy G. Arnold
President and
Chief Executive Officer,
Colonial Life
Breege A. Farrell
Executive Vice President
and Chief Investment Officer
Lisa G. Iglesias
Executive Vice President
and General Counsel
Christopher J. Jerome
Executive Vice President,
Global Services
Jack F. McGarry
Executive Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer
Peter G. O’Donnell
President and
Chief Executive Officer,
Unum UK
Michael Q. Simonds
President and
Chief Executive Officer,
Unum US
Joseph R. Foley
Senior Vice President,
Corporate Marketing
and Public Relations
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Diane M. Garofalo
Senior Vice President,
Corporate Human Resources
Stephen J. Mitchell
Senior Vice President,
CFO US Finance
Steven A. Zabel
President,
Closed Block Operations
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Thomas R. Watjen
Chairman of the Board and
Retired Chief Executive Officer
of the Company
William J. Ryan
Lead Independent Director of the
Company;
Retired Chairman,
TD Banknorth Inc.
Theodore H. Bunting, Jr.
Group President, Utility Operations,
Entergy Corporation
E. Michael Caulfield
Former President,
Mercer Human Resource Consulting
Joseph J. Echevarria
Retired Chief Executive Officer,
Deloitte LLP
Cynthia L. Egan
Retired President,
Retirement Plan Services,
T. Rowe Price Group, Inc.
Pamela H. Godwin
President,
Change Partners, Inc.
Kevin T. Kabat
Vice Chairman and Retired
Chief Executive Officer,
Fifth Third Bancorp
Timothy F. Keaney
Former Vice Chairman,
The Bank of New York Mellon
Corporation
Gloria C. Larson
President,
Bentley University
A.S. MacMillan, Jr.
Chief Executive Officer,
Triaxia Partners, Inc.
Richard P. McKenney
President and Chief Executive Officer
of the Company
Edward J. Muhl
Retired National Leader,
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Ronald P. O’Hanley
President and Chief Executive Officer,
State Street Global Advisors
Francis J. Shammo
Chief Financial Officer,
Verizon Communications Inc.
Committees of the Board
Audit Committee: E. Michael Caulfield, Chair; Theodore H. Bunting, Jr.; Joseph J. Echevarria; Cynthia L. Egan; Timothy F. Keaney; Francis J. Shammo
Risk and Finance Committee: Timothy F. Keaney, Chair; E. Michael Caulfield; Pamela H. Godwin; William J. Ryan; Ronald P. O’Hanley
Governance Committee: Pamela H. Godwin, Chair; Joseph J. Echevarria; Kevin T. Kabat; Gloria C. Larson; William J. Ryan
Human Capital Committee: Kevin T. Kabat, Chair; Theodore H. Bunting, Jr.; A.S. MacMillan, Jr.; Edward J. Muhl; Ronald P. O’Hanley
Regulatory Compliance Committee: Gloria C. Larson, Chair; Cynthia L. Egan; A.S. MacMillan, Jr.; Edward J. Muhl; Francis J. Shammo
From left to right: Theodore H. Bunting, Jr., A.S. MacMillan, Jr. , Francis J. Shammo, Ronald P. O’Hanley, Thomas R. Watjen, Timothy F. Keaney, Gloria C. Larson,
William J. Ryan, Kevin T. Kabat, Cynthia L. Egan, Edward J. Muhl, Richard P. McKenney, Pamela H. Godwin, Joseph J. Echevarria, E. Michael Caulfield
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Unum 2015 Annual Report Financial Highlights
Unum Group
Income Per Share(2)
After-tax Operating Income(3)
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss), Net of Tax
Non-operating Retirement-related Loss, Net of Tax
Costs Related to Early Retirement of Debt, Net of Tax
Reserve Charges for Closed Block, Net of Tax
Unclaimed Death Benefits Reserve Increase, Net of Tax
Group Life Waiver of Premium Benefit Reserve
Reduction, Net of Tax
Deferred Acquisition Costs for Closed Block, Net of Tax
Special Tax Items
Net Income
Book Value Per Share
Total Stockholders’ Equity
Net Unrealized Gain on Securities
Net Gain on Cash Flow Hedges
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment
Unrecognized Pension and Postretirement Benefit Costs
Total Stockholders’ Equity, Excluding Accumulated
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
As Adjusted(1)
$ 3.64
$ 3.51
$ 3.28
$ 3.13
$ 2.98
(0.11)
(0.03)
—
—
—
—
—
—
0.05
(0.18)
(0.04)
(1.77)
—
—
—
—
0.02
(0.08)
—
—
(0.24)
0.21
—
—
0.13
(0.11)
—
—
—
—
—
—
(0.01)
(0.07)
—
(1.62)
—
—
(0.42)
0.08
$ 3.50
$ 1.57
$ 3.19
$ 3.15
$ 0.94
$ 35.96
$ 33.78
$ 33.23
$ 31.84
$ 27.91
0.84
1.57
(0.72)
(1.63)
1.15
1.55
(0.45)
(1.59)
0.52
1.52
(0.18)
(0.88)
3.23
1.48
(0.26)
(2.13)
2.11
1.39
(0.41)
(1.51)
Other Comprehensive Income
$ 35.90
$ 33.12
$ 32.25
$ 29.52
$ 26.33
(1) Effective January 1, 2015, we adopted an accounting standards update for tax credit partnership investments in qualified affordable housing
projects and applied the amendments retrospectively, adjusting all prior periods presented. See pages 97 and 98 of this Annual Report for
further discussion.
(2) Per share amounts for operating statement data assume dilution.
(3) We analyze our performance using non-GAAP financial measures which exclude certain items and the related tax thereon from net income.
We believe “After-tax Operating Income,” which is a non-GAAP financial measure and excludes certain items as specified above, is a better
performance measure and a better indicator of the profitability and underlying trends in our business. Realized investment gains or losses
depend on market conditions and do not necessarily relate to decisions regarding the underlying business of our company. The amortization
of prior period actuarial gains or losses, a component of the net periodic benefit cost for our pensions and other postretirement benefit plans,
is driven by market performance as well as plan amendments, and is not indicative of the operational results of our businesses. We also
exclude certain other items specified above in order to enhance the understanding and comparability of our operational performance and the
underlying fundamentals, but this exclusion is not an indication that similar items may not recur and does not replace the comparable GAAP
measures in the determination of overall profitability.
16
Unum Group – 2015 Financial Review
18 Selected Financial Data
20
Management’s Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
78
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures
About Market Risk
84 Consolidated Balance Sheets
86 Consolidated Statements of Income
87 Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
88 Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity
89
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
90 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
164
Reports of Independent Registered
Public Accounting Firm and Management’s
Annual Report on Internal Control Over
Financial Reporting
167
Cautionary Statement Regarding
Forward-Looking Statements
168 Appendix
17
Unum 2015 Annual Report Selected Financial Data
(in millions of dollars, except share data)
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
As Adjusted (1)
At or for the Year Ended December 31
Income Statement Data
Revenue
Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Other Income
Total
Benefits and Expenses
$ 8,082.4
$ 7,797.2
$ 7,624.7
$ 7,716.1
$ 7,514.2
2,481.2
2,492.2
2,506.9
2,531.3
2,533.8
(43.8)
211.5
16.1
219.0
6.8
230.2
56.2
227.9
(4.9)
249.1
10,731.3
10,524.5
10,368.6
10,531.5
10,292.2
Benefits and Change in Reserves for Future Benefits (2)
6,782.8
7,310.8
6,595.7
6,722.2
7,209.5
Commissions
Interest and Debt Expense
Other Expenses (3)
Total
Income Before Income Tax
Income Tax
Net Income
Balance Sheet Data
Assets
Long-term Debt
996.3
152.8
1,561.1
9,493.0
1,238.3
371.2
935.3
167.5
1,568.9
9,982.5
542.0
139.9
909.5
149.4
917.2
145.4
1,494.0
1,481.1
9,148.6
9,265.9
1,220.0
1,265.6
373.0
377.5
879.2
143.3
1,712.7
9,944.7
347.5
63.9
$ 867.1
$ 402.1
$ 847.0
$ 888.1
$ 283.6
$60,589.7
$62,450.2
$59,374.1
$62,223.7
$59,552.6
$ 2,475.1
$ 2,628.7
$ 2,612.0
$ 2,755.4
$ 2,570.2
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
$ 16.1
$ 166.4
$ 255.0
$ 628.0
$ 461.8
Other Stockholders’ Equity
Total Stockholders’ Equity
8,647.8
8,355.5
8,384.9
7,976.6
7,706.2
$ 8,663.9
$ 8,521.9
$ 8,639.9
$ 8,604.6
$ 8,168.0
18
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Per Share Data
Net Income
Basic
Assuming Dilution
Stockholders’ Equity
Cash Dividends
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding
Basic (000s)
Assuming Dilution (000s)
At or for the Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
As Adjusted (1)
$ 3.51
$ 3.50
$35.96
$0.700
$ 1.57
$ 1.57
$33.78
$0.620
$ 3.20
$ 3.19
$33.23
$0.550
$ 3.16
$ 3.15
$31.84
$0.470
$ 0.94
$ 0.94
$27.91
$0.395
246,986.7
255,525.9
264,725.8
281,355.9
302,399.8
247,854.7
256,652.8
265,949.2
281,756.8
303,571.0
(1) Effective January 1, 2015, we adopted an accounting standards update for tax credit partnership investments in qualified affordable housing projects and applied
the amendments retrospectively, adjusting all prior periods presented. See Note 1 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for
further discussion.
(2) Included are reserve increases of $698.2 million in 2014 and $573.6 million in 2011 related to our long-term care closed block business and a reserve increase of
$183.5 million in 2011 related to our individual disability closed block business. See Note 6 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein
for further discussion of the 2014 reserve increase.
(3) Includes the net change in deferred acquisition costs as well as compensation expense and other expenses. Included in these expenses is $64.4 million in 2014
related to a settlement loss for a pension plan amendment and $196.0 million in 2011 related to the impairment of long-term care closed block deferred acquisition
costs. See Note 9 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further discussion of the 2014 settlement loss.
19
Unum 2015 Annual Report
The discussion and analysis presented in this section should be read in conjunction with the “Selected Financial Data,” the
Consolidated Financial Statements and notes, and the ”Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” included herein.
Executive Summary
2015 Operating Performance and Capital Management
For 2015, we reported net income of $867.1 million, or $3.50 per diluted common share, compared to net income of $402.1 million,
or $1.57 per diluted common share, in 2014. Included in the results for both years are net realized investment gains and losses and
non-operating retirement-related gains or losses. Also included in our 2014 results is a reserve increase related to our long-term care block
of business ($698.2 million before tax and $453.8 million after tax, or $1.77 per diluted common share) and costs related to the early
retirement of debt ($13.2 million before tax and $10.4 million after tax, or $0.04 per diluted common share). Adjusting for these items,
after-tax operating income for 2015 was $901.0 million, or $3.64 per diluted common share, compared to $899.1 million, or $3.51 per diluted
common share, in 2014, reflecting a 3.7 percent growth in earnings per diluted common share. Our weighted average common shares
outstanding, assuming dilution, equaled 247.9 million for 2015 compared to 256.7 million for 2014, reflecting our capital management
strategy of returning capital to shareholders through repurchases of our common stock. See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”
contained herein for further discussion of these items.
Operating revenue, which excludes net realized investment gains and losses, increased 2.5 percent in 2015 relative to the prior year,
driven by combined premium income growth of approximately 5 percent in our principal operating business segments. Net investment
income, while a significant source of revenue for us, was slightly below the level of the prior year. Before-tax operating income, which
excludes net realized investment gains and losses and non-operating retirement-related gains or losses, as well as the 2014 long-term care
reserve increase and the 2014 costs related to the early retirement of debt, declined 1.0 percent compared to 2014, primarily as the result
of a higher operating loss in our Corporate segment and the impact on reported financial results of our U.K. subsidiaries from a lower
foreign currency exchange rate in 2015.
Our Unum US segment reported a slight increase in operating income of 0.6 percent in 2015 compared to 2014, with growth in
premium income and overall favorable benefits experience partially offset by lower net investment income. Premium income increased
6.4 percent in 2015 compared to 2014. The benefit ratio for our Unum US segment for 2015 was 70.1 percent, compared to 70.6 percent in
2014. Unum US sales increased 4.2 percent in 2015 compared to 2014. Persistency for certain of our product lines is slightly below the level
of the prior year but remains within our range of expectations.
Our Unum UK segment reported an increase in operating income, as measured in Unum UK’s local currency, of 2.4 percent in 2015
compared to 2014, with an increase in premium income and overall favorable benefits experience partially offset by lower net investment
income. Premium income in local currency increased 2.3 percent in 2015 relative to 2014. The benefit ratio for Unum UK was 68.5 percent in
2015 compared to 70.9 percent in 2014. Unum UK sales in local currency increased 6.2 percent in 2015 compared to 2014. Persistency
remains within our range of expectations.
Our Colonial Life segment reported an increase in operating income of 3.4 percent in 2015 compared to 2014, with growth in premium
income and favorable benefits experience. Premium income grew 5.1 percent in 2015 compared to 2014. The 2015 benefit ratio for Colonial
Life was 51.0 percent compared to 51.9 percent in 2014. Colonial Life sales increased 6.9 percent in 2015 compared to 2014. Persistency is
slightly below the level of the prior year but remains within our range of expectations.
Our Closed Block segment reported a 0.8 percent decrease in operating income in 2015 compared to 2014 when excluding the reserve
increase discussed in “2014 Long-term Care Reserve Increase” contained herein, with less favorable benefits experience in our long-term
care line of business mostly offset by an increase in net investment income and more favorable benefits experience in our individual
disability line of business. Benefits experience in our long-term care line of business was less favorable than in 2014, but the benefits
experience of this block of business remains within our range of expectations.
20
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report Although our profit margins continue to be pressured by the impact of the low interest rate environment on our net investment income
yields, our invested asset quality remains strong. The net unrealized gain on our fixed maturity securities was $3.7 billion at December 31,
2015 compared to $6.3 billion at December 31, 2014, with the decrease due to an increase in both U.S. Treasury rates and credit spreads
during 2015. The earned book yield on our investment portfolio was 5.40 percent for 2015 compared to a yield of 5.52 percent for 2014.
We believe our capital and financial positions are strong. At December 31, 2015, the RBC ratio for our traditional U.S. insurance
subsidiaries, calculated on a weighted average basis using the NAIC Company Action Level formula, was approximately 400 percent and
generally consistent with the prior year end. During 2015, we repurchased 12.3 million shares of Unum Group common stock at a cost
of approximately $427 million under our share repurchase program. Cash equivalents and marketable securities held at Unum Group
and our other intermediate holding companies, which are a significant source of liquidity for us, were approximately $475 million at
December 31, 2015.
2015 Acquisition of Business
In September 2015, we acquired 100 percent of the common shares and voting interests in National Dental Plan Limited and
associated companies (National Dental) for a total cash purchase price of £35.9 million or $54.3 million. National Dental, a leading
provider of dental insurance in the U.K. workplace, is reported in our Unum UK segment as part of our supplemental product line. The
acquisition of National Dental extends our market reach, broadening our employee benefit offerings in the U.K. This acquisition, the
results of which are included in our financial results and sales for the period subsequent to the date of acquisition, did not have a material
impact on revenue, operating results, or sales for 2015. See Note 13 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein
for further details on the acquisition.
2014 Long-term Care Reserve Increase
Policy reserves for our long-term care block of business are determined using the gross premium valuation method and, prior to the
fourth quarter of 2014, were valued based on assumptions established as of December 31, 2011, the date of the initial loss recognition.
Gross premium valuation assumptions do not change after the date of loss recognition unless reserves are again determined to be deficient.
We undertake a review of policy reserve adequacy annually during the fourth quarter of each year, or more frequently if appropriate,
using best estimate assumptions as of the date of the review.
Included in our fourth quarter of 2014 review was an analysis of our reserve assumptions, including those for the discount rate,
mortality and morbidity rates, persistency, and premium rate increases. Our analysis of reserve discount rate assumptions considered the
continued historic low interest rate environment, future market expectations, and our view of future portfolio yields. The assumptions we
established in 2011 were set at a level that we estimated would be sustainable in a low interest rate environment for three to five years,
with improvements in market yields beginning after the third year. Since that time, however, interest rates continued to hover near historic
lows, and credit spreads tightened. Our assumption update for mortality incorporated the last three years of Company-specific experience
and emerging trends as well as industry data, where available and appropriate, and reflected improvements in life expectancies beyond
what was initially anticipated in 2011. Our morbidity assumptions were updated to reflect trends from our own emerging Company
experience in claim incidence and terminations, as well as trends based on available and appropriate industry data and studies. Our
premium rate increase assumptions were updated to reflect progress-to-date and our on-going rate increase strategy.
Based on our analysis, as of December 31, 2014, we lowered the discount rate assumption to reflect the low interest rate environment
and our revised expectation of future investment portfolio yield rates. Our revised assumptions anticipated the low interest rate environment
persisting for the next three to five years, with a return to more historical averages over the following five year period. We updated our
mortality assumptions to reflect emerging experience due to an increase in life expectancies which increases the ultimate number of people
who will utilize long-term care benefits and also lengthens the amount of time a claimant may receive long-term care benefits. We changed
our morbidity assumptions to reflect emerging industry experience as well as our own company experience, and we updated our projection
of future premium rate increase approvals. Using our revised best estimate assumptions, as of December 31, 2014 we determined that our
policy and claim reserves should be increased $698.2 million to reflect our current estimate of future benefit obligations. This charge
decreased our 2014 net income $453.8 million.
21
Unum 2015 Annual Report 2014 and 2013 Retirement Benefit Changes
In 2014, we amended our U.S. qualified defined benefit pension plan to allow a limited-time offer of benefit payouts to eligible former
employees with a vested right to a pension benefit. The offer provided eligible former employees, regardless of age, with an option to elect
to receive a lump-sum settlement of his or her entire accrued pension benefit in December 2014 or to elect receipt of monthly pension
benefits commencing in January 2015. We recognized a settlement loss of $64.4 million before tax, or $41.9 million after tax, during the
fourth quarter of 2014. This non-operating retirement-related loss represented the applicable portion of the unrecognized actuarial loss
which had previously been included in accumulated other comprehensive income and which pertained to the settled benefit obligation.
In 2013, we adopted plan amendments which froze participation and benefit accruals in our defined benefit pension plans in the U.S.
and U.K., effective December 31, 2013 for the U.S. plans and June 30, 2014 for the U.K. plan. As a result of these plan amendments we
recognized a net before-tax curtailment gain of $3.0 million during 2013. Because the amendments eliminated all future service accruals
subsequent to the effective dates of the amendments, we were also required to remeasure the benefit obligations of our pension plans,
which decreased our net pension liability approximately $330 million during 2013, with a corresponding increase in other comprehensive
income, less applicable income tax of approximately $115 million. Concurrent with our amendments to our defined benefit pension plans,
we adopted amendments to increase the benefits under our defined contribution plans commensurate with the effective dates of the
pension plan amendments.
2013 Unclaimed Death Benefits Reserve Increase
Beginning in 2011, a number of state regulators began requiring insurers to cross-check specified insurance policies with the Social
Security Administration’s Death Master File to identify potential matches. If a potential match was identified, insurers were requested to
determine if benefits were due, locate beneficiaries, and make payments where appropriate. We initiated this process where requested,
and in 2012 we began implementing this process in all states on a forward-looking basis. We believe adopting this process, which reflects
an evolving regulatory and industry practice, is in the best interest of our customers. Therefore, in addition to implementing this on a
forward-looking basis, in 2013 we began an initiative to search for potential claims from previous years.
During the fourth quarter of 2013, we completed our assessment of benefits which we estimate will be paid under this initiative, and
as such, established additional reserves for payment of these benefits. Claim reserves were increased $49.1 million for Unum US group life,
$26.3 million for Unum US voluntary life, and $20.1 million for Colonial Life voluntary life, for a total reserve increase of $95.5 million. These
reserve adjustments decreased 2013 net income $62.1 million.
Although the legal and regulatory environment continues to evolve, we believe our decision to adopt this claims practice and establish
additional reserves is in the best interests of our customers.
2013 Group Life Waiver of Premium Benefit Reserve Reduction
Within our Unum US segment, we offer group life insurance coverage which consists primarily of renewable term life insurance and
includes a provision for waiver of premium, if disabled. The group life waiver of premium benefit (group life waiver) provides for
continuation of life insurance coverage when an insured, or the employer on behalf of the insured, is no longer paying premium because
the employee is not actively at work due to a disability. The group life waiver claim reserve is the present value of future anticipated death
benefits reflecting the probability of death while remaining disabled. Claim reserves are calculated using assumptions based on past
experience adjusted for current trends and any other factors that would modify past experience and are subject to revision as current claim
experience emerges and alters our view of future expectations.
The two fundamental assumptions in the development of the group life waiver reserve are mortality and recovery. Our emerging
experience and that which continues to emerge within the industry indicate an increase in life expectancies, which decreases the ultimate
anticipated death benefits to be paid under the group life waiver benefit. Emerging experience also reflects an improvement in claim
recovery rates, which also lessens the likelihood of payment of a death benefit while the insured is disabled.
22
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report During the fourth quarter of 2013, we completed a review of our assumptions and modified our mortality and claim recovery
assumptions for our Unum US group life waiver reserves and, as a result, reduced the applicable claim reserves by $85.0 million and
increased 2013 net income $55.2 million.
Consolidated Company Outlook for 2016
We believe our disciplined approach to providing financial protection products at the workplace puts us in a position of strength as we
seek to capitalize on the growing and largely unfilled need for our products and services. We believe the need for our products and services
remains strong, and we intend to continue protecting our solid margins and returns through our pricing and risk actions. We continue to
invest in our infrastructure and our employees, with a focus on quality and simplification of processes and offerings. Our strategy is centered
on maintaining a strong customer focus while providing an innovative product portfolio of financial protection choices to deepen employee
coverages, broaden employer relationships, and open new markets. Our focus throughout 2016 will remain on profitably growing our
business, maintaining solid margins through disciplined pricing, underwriting and expense management, and effectively managing our
capital. Although the low interest rate environment continues to place pressure on our profit margins and could unfavorably impact the
adequacy of our reserves for some products, we continue to analyze and employ strategies that we believe will help us navigate this
environment and allow us to maintain solid operating margins and significant financial flexibility to support the needs of our businesses,
while also continuing to return capital to our shareholders. We have substantial leverage to rising interest rates and an improving economy
which generates payroll growth and wage inflation. We believe that consistent operating results, combined with the implementation of
strategic initiatives and the effective deployment of capital, will allow us to meet our long-term financial objectives.
Further discussion is included in “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures,” “Consolidated Operating Results,” “Segment Results,”
“Investments,” “Liquidity and Capital Resources,” and “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein.
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
We analyze our performance using non-GAAP financial measures. A non-GAAP financial measure is a numerical measure of a company’s
performance, financial position, or cash flows that excludes or includes amounts that are not normally excluded or included in the most
directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP. The non-GAAP financial measures of “operating revenue,”
“before-tax operating income” or “before-tax operating loss,” and “after-tax operating income” differ from total revenue, income before
income tax, and net income as presented in our consolidated operating results and income statements prepared in accordance with GAAP
due to the exclusion of net realized investment gains and losses, non-operating retirement-related gains or losses, and certain other items
as specified in the reconciliations below. We believe operating revenue and operating income or loss are better performance measures and
better indicators of the revenue and profitability and underlying trends in our business.
Realized investment gains or losses depend on market conditions and do not necessarily relate to decisions regarding the underlying
business of our segments. Our investment focus is on investment income to support our insurance liabilities as opposed to the generation
of realized investment gains or losses. Although we may experience realized investment gains or losses which will affect future earnings
levels, a long-term focus is necessary to maintain profitability over the life of the business since our underlying business is long-term in
nature, and we need to earn the interest rates assumed in calculating our liabilities.
The amortization of prior period actuarial gains or losses, a component of the net periodic benefit cost for our pensions and other
postretirement benefit plans, is driven by market performance as well as plan amendments and is not indicative of the operational results
of our businesses. We believe that excluding the amortization of prior period gains or losses, as well as the 2014 settlement loss from our
pension plan amendment, from operating income or loss provides investors with additional information for comparison and analysis of our
operating results. Although we manage our non-operating retirement-related gains or losses separately from the operational performance
of our business, these gains or losses impact the overall profitability of our company and have historically increased or decreased over time,
depending on plan amendments and market conditions and the resulting impact on the actuarial gains or losses in our pensions and other
postretirement benefit plans.
23
Unum 2015 Annual Report We believe that excluding the 2014 costs related to the early retirement of debt is appropriate because in conjunction with the debt
redemption, we recognized in realized investment gains and losses a deferred gain from previously terminated derivatives which were
associated with the hedge of this debt. The amount recognized as a realized investment gain, which basically offsets the cost of the debt
redemption, is also excluded from our non-GAAP financial measures since we analyze our performance excluding amounts reported as
realized investment gains or losses. We believe it provides investors with a more realistic view of our overall profitability if we are
consistent in excluding both the cost of the debt retirement as well as the gain on the hedge of the debt.
We may at other times exclude certain other items from our discussion of financial ratios and metrics in order to enhance the
understanding and comparability of our operational performance and the underlying fundamentals, but this exclusion is not an indication
that similar items may not recur and does not replace net income or net loss as a measure of our overall profitability.
A reconciliation of “operating revenue” to total revenue and “before-tax operating income” to income before income tax is as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Operating Revenue
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Total Revenue
Before-tax Operating Income
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Non-operating Retirement-related Loss
Costs Related to Early Retirement of Debt
Long-term Care Reserve Increase
Unclaimed Death Benefits Reserve Increase
Group Life Waiver of Premium Benefit Reserve Reduction
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$10,775.1
(43.8)
$10,508.4
$10,361.8
16.1
6.8
$10,731.3
$10,524.5
$10,368.6
$ 1,294.0
(43.8)
(11.9)
—
—
—
—
$ 1,307.3
$ 1,256.6
16.1
(70.0)
(13.2)
(698.2)
—
—
6.8
(32.9)
—
—
(95.5)
85.0
Income Before Income Tax
$ 1,238.3
$ 542.0
$ 1,220.0
The after-tax impacts of these items are reflected in the following reconciliation of after-tax operating income to net income.
After-tax Operating Income
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss),
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
(in millions)
per share*
(in millions)
per share*
(in millions)
per share*
$901.0
$ 3.64
$ 899.1
$ 3.51
$871.4
$ 3.28
Net of Tax
(26.1)
(0.11)
12.8
0.05
3.9
0.02
Non-operating Retirement-related Loss,
Net of Tax
(7.8)
(0.03)
(45.6)
(0.18)
(21.4)
(0.08)
Costs Related to Early Retirement of Debt,
Net of Tax
Long-term Care Reserve Increase,
Net of Tax
Unclaimed Death Benefits Reserve Increase,
Net of Tax
Group Life Waiver of Premium Benefit
Reserve Reduction, Net of Tax
Net Income
* Assuming Dilution
—
—
—
—
$867.1
—
—
—
—
$ 3.50
(10.4)
(0.04)
(453.8)
(1.77)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
$ 402.1
$ 1.57
(62.1)
(0.24)
55.2
$847.0
0.21
$ 3.19
24
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Critical Accounting Estimates
We prepare our financial statements in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP
requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in our financial statements and accompanying notes.
Estimates and assumptions could change in the future as more information becomes known, which could impact the amounts reported
and disclosed in our financial statements. The accounting estimates deemed to be most critical to our financial position and results of
operations are those related to reserves for policy and contract benefits, deferred acquisition costs, valuation of investments, pension and
postretirement benefit plans, income taxes, and contingent liabilities. For additional information, refer to our significant accounting policies
in Note 1 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein.
Reserves for Policy and Contract Benefits
Reserves for policy and contract benefits are our largest liabilities and represent claims that we estimate we will eventually pay to
our policyholders. The two primary categories of reserves are policy reserves for claims not yet incurred and claim reserves for claims
that have been incurred or are estimated to have been incurred but not yet reported to us. Reserves for policy and contract benefits equaled
$41.4 billion and $41.3 billion at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, or approximately 79.8 percent and 76.6 percent of our total
liabilities, respectively. Reserves ceded to reinsurers were $6.9 billion at both December 31, 2015 and 2014, and are reported as a reinsurance
recoverable in our consolidated balance sheets.
Policy Reserves
Policy reserves are established in the same period we issue a policy and equal the difference between projected future policy benefits
and future premiums, allowing a margin for expenses and profit. These reserves relate primarily to our non-interest sensitive products,
including our individual disability and voluntary benefits products in our Unum US segment; individual disability products in our Unum UK
segment; disability and cancer and critical illness policies in our Colonial Life segment; and individual disability, long-term care, and other
products in our Closed Block segment. The reserves are calculated based on assumptions that were appropriate at the date the policy was
issued and are not subsequently modified unless the policy reserves become inadequate (i.e., loss recognition occurs).
• Persistency assumptions are based on our actual historical experience adjusted for future expectations.
• Claim incidence and claim resolution rate assumptions related to mortality and morbidity are based on actual experience or industry
standards adjusted as appropriate to reflect our actual experience and future expectations.
• Discount rate assumptions are based on our current and expected net investment returns.
In establishing policy reserves, we use assumptions that reflect our best estimate while considering the potential for adverse
variances in actual future experience, which results in a total policy reserve balance that has an embedded reserve for adverse deviation.
We do not, however, establish an explicit and separate reserve as a provision for adverse deviation from our assumptions.
We perform loss recognition tests on our policy reserves annually, or more frequently if appropriate, using best estimate assumptions
as of the date of the test, without a provision for adverse deviation. We group the policy reserves for each major product line within a
segment when we perform the loss recognition tests. If the policy reserves determined using these best estimate assumptions are higher
than our existing policy reserves net of any deferred acquisition cost balance, the existing policy reserves are increased or deferred
acquisition costs are reduced to immediately recognize the deficiency. Thereafter, the policy reserves for the product line are calculated
using the same method we used for the loss recognition testing, referred to as the gross premium valuation method, wherein we use our
best estimate as of the gross premium valuation (loss recognition) date rather than the initial policy issue date to determine the expected
future claims, commissions, and expenses we will pay and the expected future gross premiums we will receive.
25
Unum 2015 Annual Report Because the key policy reserve assumptions for policy persistency, mortality and morbidity, and discount rates are all locked in at
policy issuance based on assumptions appropriate at that time, policy reserve assumptions are generally not changed due to a change in
claim status from active to disabled subsequent to policy issuance. Depending on the funding mechanism, a full policy reserve is held during
disability reflecting continued funding of the full policy reserve during a disability claim, or a fractional policy reserve is held reflecting that
the individual policyholder would need to recover before he or she can again generate future claims for a separate occurrence. The policy
reserves build up and release over time based on assumptions made at the time of policy issuance such that the reserve is eliminated as
policyholders either reach the terminal age for coverage, die, or voluntarily lapse the policy. Policy reserves for Unum US, Unum UK, and
Colonial Life products are determined using the net level premium method as prescribed by GAAP. In applying this method, we use, as
applicable by product type, morbidity and mortality incidence rate assumptions, claim resolution rate assumptions, and policy persistency
assumptions, among others, to determine our expected future claim payments and expected future premium income. We then apply an
interest, or discount, rate to determine the present value of the expected future claims and claim expenses we will pay and the expected
future premiums we will receive, with a provision for profit allowed.
Policy reserves for our Closed Block segment include certain older policy forms for individual disability, individual and group long-term
care, and certain other products, all of which are no longer actively marketed. The reserves for individual disability and individual and group
long-term care are determined using the gross premium valuation method. Key assumptions are persistency, mortality and morbidity, claim
incidence, claim resolution rates, commission rates, and maintenance expense rates. For long-term care, premium rate increases are also a
key assumption. We apply an interest, or discount, rate to determine the present value of the expected future claims, commissions, and
expenses we will pay as well as the expected future premiums we will receive, with no provision for future profit. The interest rate is based
on our expected net investment returns on the investment portfolio supporting the reserves for these blocks of business. Under the gross
premium valuation method, we do not include an embedded provision for the risk of adverse deviation from these assumptions. Gross
premium valuation assumptions do not change after the date of loss recognition unless reserves are again determined to be deficient.
Policy reserves for certain other products, excluding individual disability and individual and group long-term care, which are no longer
actively marketed and are reported in our Closed Block segment represent $5.8 billion on a gross basis. We have ceded $4.7 billion of these
other products’ policy reserves to reinsurers. The ceded reserve balance is reported in our consolidated balance sheets as a reinsurance
recoverable. We continue to service a block of group pension products, which we have not ceded, and the policy reserves for these
products are based on expected mortality rates and retirement rates. Expected future payments are discounted at interest rates reflecting
the anticipated investment returns for the assets supporting the liabilities.
Claim Reserves
Claim reserves are established when a claim is incurred or is estimated to have been incurred but not yet reported (IBNR) to us and,
as prescribed by GAAP, equals our long-term best estimate of the present value of the liability for future claim payments and claim
adjustment expenses. A claim reserve is based on actual known facts regarding the claim, such as the benefits available under the
applicable policy, the covered benefit period, the age, and, as appropriate, the occupation and cause of disability of the claimant, as well
as assumptions derived from our actual historical experience and expected future changes in experience for factors such as the claim
duration, discount rate, and policy benefit offsets, including those for social security and other government-based welfare benefits. Reserves
for IBNR claims, similar to incurred claim reserves, include our assumptions for claim duration and discount rates, but because we do not
yet know the facts regarding the specific claims, these reserves are also established based on historical incidence rate assumptions,
including claim reporting patterns, the average cost of claims, and the expected volumes of incurred claims. Our incurred claim reserves
and IBNR claim reserves do not include any provision for the risk of adverse deviation from our assumptions.
26
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report Claim reserves, unlike policy reserves, are subject to revision as current claim experience and projections of future factors affecting
claim experience change. Each quarter we review our emerging experience to ensure that our claim reserves are appropriate. If we believe,
based on our actual experience and our view of future events, that our long-term assumptions need to be modified, we adjust our reserves
accordingly with a charge or credit to our current period income.
Multiple estimation methods exist to establish claim reserve liabilities, with each method having its own advantages and disadvantages.
Available reserving methods utilized to calculate claim reserves include the tabular reserve method, the paid development method, the
incurred loss development method, the count and severity method, and the expected claim cost method. No single method is better than
the others in all situations and for all product lines. The estimation methods we have chosen are those that we believe produce the most
reliable reserves.
We use a tabular reserve methodology for our Unum US group and individual long-term disability claims and for our Closed Block
group and individual long-term care claims that have been reported. Under the tabular reserve methodology, reserves for reported claims
are based on certain characteristics of the actual reported claimants, such as age, length of time disabled, and medical diagnosis, as well
as assumptions regarding claim duration, discount rate, and policy benefit offsets. We believe the tabular reserve method is the most
accurate to calculate long-term liabilities and allows us to use the most available known facts about each claim. IBNR claim reserves for
our long-term products are calculated using the count and severity method using historical patterns of the claims to be reported and the
associated claim costs. For Unum US group short-term disability products, an estimate of the value of future payments to be made on
claims already submitted, as well as on IBNR claims, is determined in aggregate using a paid development method rather than on the
individual claimant basis that we use for reported claims on long-term products. The average length of time between the event triggering
a claim under a policy and the final resolution of those claims is much shorter for these products than for our long-term liabilities and
results in less estimation variability.
Claim reserves for Unum US group life and accidental death and dismemberment products are related primarily to death claims
reported but not yet paid, IBNR death claims, and a liability for waiver of premium benefits. The death claim reserve is based on the
actual face amount to be paid, the IBNR reserve is calculated using the paid development method, and the waiver of premium benefits
reserve is calculated using the tabular reserve methodology.
Claim reserves supporting our Unum UK segment are calculated using generally the same methodology that we use for Unum US
disability and group life reserves. The assumptions used in calculating claim reserves for this line of business are based on standard United
Kingdom industry experience, adjusted for Unum UK’s own experience.
The majority of the Colonial Life segment lines of business have short-term benefits, which generally have less estimation variability
than our long-term products because of the shorter claim payout period. Our claim reserves for Colonial Life’s lines of business are
predominantly determined using the incurred loss development method based on our own experience. The incurred loss development
method uses the historical patterns of payments by loss date to predict future claim payments for each loss date. Where the incurred loss
development method may not be appropriate, we estimate the incurred claims using an expected claim cost per policy or other measure
of exposure. The key assumptions for claim reserves for the Colonial Life lines of business are: (1) the timing, rate, and amount of estimated
future claim payments; and (2) the estimated expenses associated with the payment of claims.
The following table displays policy reserves, incurred claim reserves, and IBNR claim reserves by major product line, with the summation
of the policy reserves and claim reserves shown both gross and net of the associated reinsurance recoverable. Incurred claim reserves
represent the expected benefits payable under each incurred claim, along with other expenses associated with the payment of the claims.
IBNR claim reserves include provisions for incurred but not reported claims and a provision for reopened claims for our disability products.
The IBNR and reopened claim reserves for our disability products are developed and maintained in aggregate based on historical monitoring.
Impacting year over year comparability of policy and claim reserves in the following chart is the 2014 long-term care reserve increase.
See “Executive Summary” and Note 6 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further discussion.
27
Unum 2015 Annual Report (in millions of dollars)
Group Disability
Group Life and Accidental
Death & Dismemberment
Individual Disability
Voluntary Benefits
Unum US Segment
Unum UK Segment
Colonial Life Segment
Individual Disability
Long-term Care
Other
December 31, 2015
Gross
Claim Reserves
%
Incurred
IBNR
%
Total
Total
Reinsurance
Ceded
Total
Net
Policy
Reserves
$ —
—% $ 6,347.0
$ 597.2
29.2% $ 6,944.2 $ 66.3 $ 6,877.9
68.3
552.9
1,434.4
0.4
3.1
8.1
2,055.6
11.6
21.0
0.1
1,760.0
10.0
620.0
7,383.3
5,810.8
3.5
41.9
32.9
725.9
1,238.2
48.9
8,360.0
2,053.6
276.5
9,922.8
1,225.4
204.2
186.8
130.8
48.5
963.3
135.0
132.2
259.2
123.4
140.5
3.8
5.8
0.4
39.2
9.2
1.7
42.8
5.7
1.4
981.0
1,921.9
1,531.8
11,378.9
2,209.6
2,168.7
4.8
109.9
28.6
209.6
101.2
8.1
10,802.0
1,568.5
8,732.1
42.5
6,155.5
4,991.0
976.2
1,812.0
1,503.2
11,169.3
2,108.4
2,160.6
9,233.5
8,689.6
1,164.5
Closed Block Segment
13,814.1
78.3
11,352.4
523.1
49.9
25,689.6
6,602.0
19,087.6
Subtotal
$17,650.7 100.0% $22,042.5
$1,753.6 100.0%
41,446.8
6,920.9
34,525.9
Adjustment Related to Unrealized
Investment Gains and Losses
Consolidated
3,578.4
263.2
3,315.2
$45,025.2 $7,184.1 $37,841.1
December 31, 2014
Gross
Claim Reserves
%
Incurred
IBNR
%
Total
Total
Reinsurance
Ceded
Total
Net
Policy
Reserves
Group Disability
$ —
—% $ 6,558.4
$ 581.1
29.5% $ 7,139.5 $ 66.9 $ 7,072.6
Group Life and Accidental
Death & Dismemberment
Individual Disability
Voluntary Benefits
Unum US Segment
Unum UK Segment
Colonial Life Segment
Individual Disability
Long-term Care
Other
68.8
555.6
1,366.4
0.4
3.2
8.0
1,990.8
11.6
22.8
1,670.4
735.0
6,884.2
5,811.4
0.1
9.8
4.3
40.2
34.0
712.6
1,201.5
52.3
8,524.8
2,168.2
279.4
10,150.9
1,083.3
214.3
195.4
127.3
58.4
962.2
145.2
127.3
285.6
111.9
140.7
3.7
5.5
0.5
39.2
9.6
1.7
43.1
4.9
1.5
976.8
1,884.4
1,477.1
11,477.8
2,336.2
2,077.1
3.9
112.5
29.1
212.4
112.3
9.9
11,171.5
1,551.7
8,079.4
42.5
6,166.4
4,959.8
972.9
1,771.9
1,448.0
11,265.4
2,223.9
2,067.2
9,619.8
8,036.9
1,206.6
Closed Block Segment
13,430.6
78.5
11,448.5
538.2
49.5
25,417.3
6,554.0
18,863.3
Subtotal
$17,114.6 100.0% $22,420.9
$1,772.9
100.0%
41,308.4
6,888.6
34,419.8
Adjustment Related to Unrealized
Investment Gains and Losses
Consolidated
6,150.3
365.0
5,785.3
$47,458.7 $7,253.6 $40,205.1
28
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Key Assumptions
The calculation of policy and claim reserves involves numerous assumptions, but the primary assumptions used to calculate reserves
are (1) the discount rate, (2) the claim resolution rate, and (3) the claim incidence rate for policy reserves and IBNR claim reserves. Of these
assumptions, our discount rate and claim resolution rate assumptions have historically had the most significant effects on our level of
reserves because many of our product lines provide benefit payments over an extended period of time.
1. The discount rate, which is used in calculating both policy reserves and incurred and IBNR claim reserves, is the interest rate that we
use to discount future claim payments to determine the present value. A higher discount rate produces a lower reserve. If the
discount rate is higher than our future investment returns, our invested assets will not earn enough investment income to support
our future claim payments. In this case, the reserves may eventually be insufficient. We set our assumptions based on our current
and expected future investment yield of the assets supporting the reserves, considering current and expected future market
conditions. If the investment yield on new investments that are purchased is below or above the investment yield of the existing
investment portfolio, it is likely that the discount rate assumption on claims will be established to reflect the effect of the new
investment yield.
2. The claim resolution rate, used for both policy reserves and incurred and IBNR claim reserves, is the probability that a disability or
long-term care claim will close due to recovery or death of the insured. It is important because it is used to estimate how long
benefits will be paid for a claim. Estimated resolution rates that are set too high will result in reserves that are lower than they need
to be to pay the claim benefits over time. Claim resolution assumptions involve many factors, including the cause of disability, the
policyholder’s age, the type of contractual benefits provided, and the time since initially becoming disabled. We primarily use our
own claim experience to develop our claim resolution assumptions. These assumptions are established for the probability of death
and the probability of recovery from disability. Our studies review actual claim resolution experience over a number of years, with
more weight placed on our experience in the more recent years. We also consider any expected future changes in claim resolution
experience.
3. The incidence rate, used for policy reserves and IBNR claim reserves, is the rate at which new claims are submitted to us. The
incidence rate is affected by many factors, including the age of the insured, the insured’s occupation or industry, the benefit plan
design, and certain external factors such as consumer confidence and levels of unemployment. We establish our incidence
assumption using a historical review of actual incidence results along with an outlook of future incidence expectations.
Establishing reserve assumptions is complex and involves many factors. Reserves, particularly for policies offering insurance coverage
for long-term disabilities and long-term care, are dependent on numerous assumptions other than just those presented in the preceding
discussion. The impact of internal and external events, such as changes in claims operational procedures, economic trends such as the rate
of unemployment and the level of consumer confidence, the emergence of new diseases, new trends and developments in medical
treatments, and legal trends and legislative changes, including changes to social security and other government-based welfare benefits
programs which provide policy benefit offsets, among other factors, will influence claim incidence rates, claim resolution rates, and claim
costs. In addition, for policies offering coverage for disability or long-term care at advanced ages, the level and pattern of mortality rates at
advanced ages will impact overall benefit costs. Reserve assumptions differ by product line and by policy type within a product line.
Additionally, in any period and over time, our actual experience may have a positive or negative variance from our long-term assumptions,
either singularly or collectively, and these variances may offset each other. We test the overall adequacy of our reserves using all
assumptions and with a long-term view of our expected experience over the life of a block of business rather than test just one or a few
assumptions independently that may be aberrant over a short period of time. Therefore, it is not possible to bifurcate the assumptions to
evaluate the sensitivity of a change in each assumption, but rather in the aggregate by product line. The following section presents an
overview of our trend analysis for key assumptions and the results of variability in our assumptions, in aggregate, for the reserves which
we believe are reasonably possible to have a material impact on our future financial results if actual claims yield a materially different
amount than what we currently expect and have reserved for, either favorable or unfavorable.
29
Unum 2015 Annual Report Trends in Key Assumptions
Generally, we do not expect our mortality and morbidity claim incidence trends or our persistency trends to change significantly in the
short-term, and to the extent that these trends do change, we expect those changes to be gradual over a longer period of time. We have
historically experienced an increase in our group long-term disability morbidity claim incidence trends during and following a recessionary
period, particularly in our Unum US operations. During 2015, claim incidence rates for Unum US group long-term disability improved slightly
relative to the levels of 2014. We believe claim incidence trends for Unum US group long-term disability may continue to somewhat follow
general economic conditions and demographics of the general U.S. workforce.
During 2015, claim incidence rates for our Closed Block long-term care line of business were generally consistent with the revised
assumptions we established during our 2014 reserve review and assumption update. See “2014 Long-term Care Reserve Increase”
contained herein.
Interest rates were slightly higher at the end of 2015 compared to the overall level of 2014. However, they remain well below
historical norms. The assumptions we used to discount our reserves during this period were slightly lower for certain of our product lines.
Reserve discount rate assumptions for new policies and new claims are periodically adjusted to reflect our current and expected net
investment returns. Changes in our average discount rate assumptions tend to occur gradually over a longer period of time because of the
long-duration investment portfolios which support the reserves for the majority of our lines of business.
Our claim resolution rate assumption used in determining reserves is our expectation of the resolution rate we will experience over
the life of the block of business and will vary from actual experience in any one period, both favorably and unfavorably. Claim resolution
rates are very sensitive to operational and environmental changes and have a greater chance of significant variability in a shorter period of
time than our other reserve assumptions. These rates are reviewed on a quarterly basis for the death and recovery components separately.
Claim resolution rates in our Unum US group and individual long-term disability product lines and our Closed Block individual disability
product line have over the last several years exhibited some variability. Relative to the resolution rate we expect to experience over the
life of the block of business, actual quarterly rates during 2014 and 2015 have varied by +3 and -3 percent in our Unum US group long-term
disability line of business, between -10 and +5 percent in our Unum US individual disability line of business, and between -4 and +4 percent
in our Closed Block individual disability line of business. During 2015, claim resolution rates pertaining to life expectancy exhibited an
increase in the number of deaths, although overall mortality experience in 2015 was relatively consistent with the levels of 2014 and
2013. On an annual basis for the years 2013 to 2015, our overall claim resolution rates were fairly consistent with or slightly favorable
to our long-term assumptions.
We monitor and test our reserves for adequacy relative to all of our assumptions in the aggregate. In our estimation, scenarios based
on reasonably possible variations in each of our reserve assumptions, when modeled together in aggregate, could produce potential results
as illustrated in the chart below. The major contributor to the variance for both the Unum US group long-term disability line of business and
the Closed Block individual disability line of business is the claim resolution rate.
(in millions of dollars)
Unum US group long-term disability
Closed Block individual disability
Potential impact, positive or negative, of variations in reserve
assumptions on our December 31, 2015 claim reserve balance
3.3%
2.4%
$220
$224
30
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
In addition, we consider variability in our reserve assumptions related to long-term care policy reserves. These reserves are held under
the gross premium valuation method with assumptions established as of December 31, 2014, the date of loss recognition. Assumptions for
policy reserves do not change after the date of loss recognition unless reserves are again determined to be deficient. As such, positive
developments will result in the accumulation of reserve margin, while adverse developments would result in an additional reserve charge.
Policy reserves for long-term care are based upon a number of key assumptions, and each assumption has various factors which may
impact the long-term outcome. Key assumptions with respect to morbidity, mortality, persistency, interest rates, and future premium rate
increases must incorporate extended views of expectations for many years into the future. Reserves are highly sensitive to these
estimates. For example, a 25 basis point change in the assumed discount rate over the lifetime of our long-term care business would
impact reserves by approximately $430 million, assuming all other factors held constant.
Key assumptions and related impacts are also heavily interrelated in both their outcome and in their effects on reserves. For example,
changes in the view of morbidity and mortality might be mitigated by either potential future premium rate increases and/or morbidity
improvements due to general improvement in health and/or medical breakthroughs. There is potentially a wide range of outcomes for
each assumption and in totality.
We believe that these ranges provide a reasonable estimate of the possible changes in reserve balances for those product lines where
we believe it is possible that variability in the assumptions, in the aggregate, could result in a material impact on our reserve levels, but we
record our reserves based on our long-term best estimate. Because these product lines have long-term claim payout periods, there is a
greater potential for significant variability in claim costs, either positive or negative. We closely monitor emerging experience and use these
results to inform our view of long-term assumptions.
Deferred Acquisition Costs (DAC)
We defer incremental direct costs associated with the successful acquisition of new or renewal insurance contracts and amortize
(expense) these costs over the life of the related policies. Deferred costs include certain commissions, other agency compensation,
selection and policy issue expenses, and field expenses. Acquisition costs that do not vary with the production of new business, such as
commissions on group products which are generally level throughout the life of the policy, are excluded from deferral.
Approximately 85.2 percent of our DAC relates to non-interest sensitive products, and we amortize DAC for these products in
proportion to the premium income we expect to receive over the life of the policies. DAC related to interest sensitive policies is amortized
over the lives of the policies in relation to the present value of estimated gross profits from surrender charges, mortality margins,
investment returns, and expense margins. Key assumptions used in developing the future amortization of DAC are persistency, premium
income, and for our interest sensitive products, mortality margins and investment returns. We use our own historical experience and
expectation of the future performance of our businesses in determining our assumptions. For non-interest sensitive products, the estimated
premium income in the early years of the amortization period is generally higher than in the later years due to the anticipated cumulative
effect of policy persistency in the early years, which results in a greater proportion of the costs being amortized in the early years of the life
of the policy. During 2015, our key assumptions used to develop the future amortization of acquisition costs deferred during 2015 did not
change materially from those used in 2014. Generally, we do not expect our key assumptions to change significantly in the short-term, and
to the extent that these trends do change, we expect those changes to be gradual over a longer period of time.
31
Unum 2015 Annual Report The following are our current assumptions regarding the length of our amortization periods, the approximate DAC balance that remains
at the end of years 3, 10, and 15 as a percentage of the cost initially deferred, and our DAC balances as of December 31, 2015 and 2014.
(in millions of dollars)
Unum US
Group Disability
Group Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment
Supplemental and Voluntary:
Individual Disability
Voluntary Benefits
Unum UK
Group Long-term Disability
Group Life
Supplemental
Colonial Life
Accident, Sickness, and Disability
Life
Cancer and Critical Illness
Totals
Amortization
Period
Balance Remaining as a %
of Initial Deferral
Year 3
Year 10
Year 15
DAC Balances
at December 31
2015
2014
6
6
20
20
3
3
20
15
25
19
27%
29%
71%
57%
0%
0%
55%
45%
69%
58%
0%
0%
43%
24%
0%
0%
13%
12%
31%
25%
0%
0%
21%
10%
0%
0%
2%
1%
14%
10%
$ 79.3
$ 69.8
66.9
59.8
421.4
568.8
4.7
1.3
21.1
415.1
238.8
191.1
423.6
543.3
5.1
1.3
24.0
378.2
215.2
181.0
$2,008.5
$1,901.3
Amortization of DAC is adjusted to reflect actual experience for assumptions which deviate compared to the anticipated experience.
Any deviations from projections may result in a change to the rate of amortization in the period such events occur. As an example, for
our non-interest sensitive products, we may experience accelerated amortization if policies terminate earlier than projected, or we may
experience a slower rate of amortization if policies persist longer than projected. Our actual experience has not varied materially from
our assumptions during the last three years.
See Note 1 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further discussion of our DAC accounting policy.
Fair Value of Investments
All of our fixed maturity securities are classified as available-for-sale and are reported at fair value. Our derivative financial
instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, are reported as either assets or liabilities and measured
at fair value. We hold an immaterial amount of equity securities, which are also reported at fair value.
Fair value is 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 and therefore represents an exit price, not an entry price. The exit price objective applies regardless
of our intent and/or ability to sell the asset or transfer the liability at the measurement date. We generally use valuation techniques
consistent with the market approach, and to a lesser extent, the income approach. The market approach uses prices and other relevant
information from market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities and the income approach converts future
amounts, such as cash flows or earnings, to a single present amount, or a discounted amount. We believe the market approach valuation
technique provides more observable data than the income approach, considering the types of investments we hold.
32
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
The degree of judgment utilized in measuring the fair value of financial instruments generally correlates to the level of pricing
observability. Financial instruments with readily available active quoted prices or for which fair value can be measured from actively
quoted prices in active markets generally have more pricing observability and less judgment utilized in measuring fair value. The market
sources from which we obtain or derive the fair values of our assets and liabilities carried at market value include quoted market prices for
actual trades, price quotes from third party pricing vendors, price quotes we obtain from outside brokers, matrix pricing, discounted cash
flow, and observable prices for similar publicly traded or privately traded issues that incorporate the credit quality and industry sector of the
issuer. Our fair value measurements could differ significantly based on the valuation technique and available inputs.
Inputs to valuation techniques refer broadly to the assumptions that market participants use in pricing assets or liabilities, including
assumptions about risk, for example, the risk inherent in a particular valuation technique used to measure fair value and/or the risk
inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique. We use observable and unobservable inputs in measuring the fair value of our financial
instruments. Observable inputs are inputs that reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability
developed based on market data obtained from independent sources. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect our own assumptions
about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on the best information available in
the circumstances.
Certain of our investments do not have readily determinable market prices and/or observable inputs or may at times be affected by
the lack of market liquidity. For these securities, we use internally prepared valuations combining matrix pricing with vendor purchased
software programs, including valuations based on estimates of future profitability, to estimate the fair value. Additionally, we may obtain
prices from independent third-party brokers to aid in establishing valuations for certain of these securities. Key assumptions used by us to
determine fair value for these securities include risk-free interest rates, risk premiums, performance of underlying collateral (if any), and
other factors involving significant assumptions which may or may not reflect those of an active market.
As of December 31, 2015, the key assumptions we generally used to estimate the fair value of these types of securities included
those listed below. Where appropriate, we have noted the assumption used for the prior period as well as the reason for the change.
• Risk-free interest rates of 1.76 percent for five-year maturities to 3.02 percent for 30-year maturities were derived from the
December 31, 2015 yield curve for U.S. Treasury Bonds with similar maturities. This compares to interest rates of 1.65 percent for
five-year maturities to 2.75 percent for 30-year maturities used at December 31, 2014.
• Baa corporate bond spread adjustments ranging from 1.60 percent to 3.30 percent were added to the risk-free rate to reflect
additional credit risk and the lack of liquidity. We used spread adjustments ranging from 1.21 percent to 2.54 percent at December 31,
2014. The changes were based on observable market spreads. Newly issued private placement securities have historically offered
yield premiums higher than a similar interest rate spread on comparable newly issued public securities.
• Additional basis points were added as deemed appropriate for foreign investments, certain industries, and individual securities in
certain industries that are considered to be of greater risk.
As of December 31, 2015, approximately 6.8 percent of our fixed maturity securities were categorized as Level 1, 88.9 percent as
Level 2, and 4.3 percent as Level 3. Level 1 is the highest category of the three-level fair value hierarchy classification wherein inputs are
unadjusted and represent quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. The Level 2 category includes assets or liabilities
valued using inputs (other than those included in the Level 1 category) that are either directly or indirectly observable for the asset or
liability through correlation with market data at the measurement date and for the duration of the instrument’s anticipated life. The Level 3
category is the lowest category of the fair value hierarchy and reflects the judgment of management regarding what market participants
would use in pricing assets or liabilities at the measurement date using unobservable inputs to extrapolate an estimated fair value.
Rapidly changing credit and equity market conditions can materially impact the valuation of securities, and the period to period
changes in value can vary significantly.
See Note 2 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein.
33
Unum 2015 Annual Report Investment Impairments
One of the significant estimates related to investments is our impairment valuation. In determining when a decline in fair value below
amortized cost of a fixed maturity security is other than temporary, we evaluate the following factors:
• Whether we expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security
• Whether we intend to sell the security or will be required to sell the security before the recovery of its amortized cost basis
• Whether the security is current as to principal and interest payments
• The significance of the decline in value
• The time period during which there has been a significant decline in value
• Current and future business prospects and trends of earnings
• The valuation of the security’s underlying collateral
• Relevant industry conditions and trends relative to their historical cycles
• Market conditions
• Rating agency and governmental actions
• Bid and offering prices and the level of trading activity
• Adverse changes in estimated cash flows for securitized investments
• Changes in fair value subsequent to the balance sheet date
• Any other key measures for the related security
We evaluate available information, including the factors noted above, both positive and negative, in reaching our conclusions. In
particular, we also consider the strength of the issuer’s balance sheet, its debt obligations and near term funding requirements, cash flow
and liquidity, the profitability of its core businesses, the availability of marketable assets which could be sold to increase liquidity, its
industry fundamentals and regulatory environment, and its access to capital markets. Although all available and applicable factors are
considered in our analysis, our expectation of recovering the entire amortized cost basis of the security, whether we intend to sell the
security, whether it is more likely than not we will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost, and whether the
security is current on principal and interest payments are the most critical factors in determining whether impairments are other than
temporary. The significance of the decline in value and the length of time during which there has been a significant decline are also
important factors, but we generally do not record an impairment loss based solely on these two factors, since often other more relevant
factors will impact our evaluation of a security.
While determining other-than-temporary impairments is a judgmental area, we utilize a formal, well-defined, and disciplined process
to monitor and evaluate our fixed income investment portfolio, supported by issuer specific research and documentation as of the end of
each period. The process results in a thorough evaluation of problem investments and the recording of losses on a timely basis for
investments determined to have an other-than-temporary impairment.
We use a comprehensive rating system to evaluate the investment and credit risk of our mortgage loans and to identify specific
properties for inspection and reevaluation. Mortgage loans are considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is
probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. We establish an
allowance for probable losses on mortgage loans based on a review of individual loans, considering the value of the underlying collateral,
the value of which is periodically assessed. Mortgage loans are not reported at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets unless the
mortgage loan is considered impaired, in which case the impairment is recognized as a realized investment loss in our consolidated
statements of income.
34
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report There are a number of significant risks inherent in the process of monitoring our investments for impairments and determining when
and if an impairment is other than temporary. These risks and uncertainties include the following possibilities:
• The assessment of a borrower’s ability to meet its contractual obligations will change.
• The economic outlook, either domestic or foreign, may be less favorable or may have a more significant impact on the borrower
than anticipated, and as such, the investment may not recover in value.
• New information may become available concerning the security, such as disclosure of accounting irregularities, fraud, or corporate
governance issues.
• Significant changes in credit spreads may occur in the related industry.
• Significant increases in interest rates may occur and may not return to levels similar to when securities were initially purchased.
• Adverse rating agency actions may occur.
See Notes 1 and 3 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein.
Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans
We sponsor several defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit (OPEB) plans for our employees, including non-qualified
pension plans. The U.S. qualified and non-qualified defined benefit pension plans comprise the majority of our total benefit obligation and
benefit cost. We have a separate defined benefit plan for eligible employees in our U.K. operation.
During 2013, our U.S. defined benefit pension plans were closed to new entrants and were amended to freeze participation and
benefit accruals as of December 31, 2013. In 2014, we amended our U.S. qualified defined benefit pension plan to allow a limited-time offer
of benefit payouts to eligible former employees with a vested right to a pension benefit. The offer provided eligible former employees,
regardless of age, with an option to elect to receive a lump-sum settlement of his or her entire accrued pension benefit in December 2014
or to elect receipt of monthly pension benefits commencing in January 2015. In 2015, we further amended our U.S. qualified defined benefit
pension plan to increase the eligibility limit from $10,000 to $100,000 for a participant who terminates from the plan after December 31,
2015 and elects to receive a one-time lump sum settlement of his or her entire accrued pension benefit.
The U.K. defined benefit pension plan was closed to new entrants effective December 31, 2002 and was amended in 2013 to freeze
participation effective June 30, 2014 and to reduce the maximum rate of inflation indexation from 5.0 percent to 2.5 percent for pension
benefits which were earned prior to April 1997 effective at the date of adoption in 2013.
The OPEB plan was closed to new entrants effective December 31, 2012.
Assumptions
Our net periodic benefit costs and the value of our benefit obligations for these plans are determined based on a set of economic and
demographic assumptions that represent our best estimate of future expected experience. Major assumptions used in accounting for these
plans include the expected discount (interest) rate, the long-term rate of return on plan assets, and mortality rates. We also use, as
applicable, expected increases in compensation levels and a weighted average annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered
benefits, which reflects a health care cost trend rate, and the U.K. pension plan also uses expected cost of living increases to plan benefits.
35
Unum 2015 Annual Report The assumptions chosen for our pension and OPEB plans are reviewed annually, using a December 31 measurement date for each of
our plans unless we are required to perform an interim remeasurement. The discount rate, expected long-term rate of return, and mortality
rate assumptions have the most significant effect on our net periodic benefit costs associated with these plans. In addition to the effect of
changes in our assumptions, the net periodic cost or benefit obligation under our pension and OPEB plans may change due to factors such
as plan amendments, actual experience being different from our assumptions, special benefits to terminated employees, and/or changes
in benefits provided under the plans.
• Discount rate — This interest assumption is based on the yield derived from a portfolio of high quality fixed income corporate debt
instruments that reasonably match the timing and amounts of projected future benefits for each of our retirement-related benefit
plans. The rate is determined at the measurement date. A lower discount rate increases the present value of benefit obligations and
increases our net periodic benefit cost.
• Long-term rate of return — This assumption is selected from a range of probable return outcomes generated by statistical analysis
of the asset portfolio. The market-related value as it relates to our estimate of long-term rate of return equals the fair value of plan
assets, determined as of the measurement date. The return on plan assets recognizes all asset gains and losses, including changes
in fair value, through the measurement date. Our expectations for the future investment returns of the asset categories are based
on a combination of historical market performance, evaluations of investment forecasts obtained from external consultants and
economists, and current market yields. The expected return for the total portfolio is calculated based on the plan’s current asset
holdings. The actual rate of return on plan assets is determined based on the fair value of the plan assets at the beginning and the
end of the period, adjusted for contributions and benefit payments. A lower long-term rate of return on plan assets increases our
net periodic benefit cost.
Investment risk is measured and monitored on an ongoing basis through annual liability measurements, periodic asset/liability
studies, and quarterly investment portfolio reviews. Risk tolerance is established through consideration of plan liabilities, plan funded
status, and corporate financial condition. We believe our investment portfolios are well diversified by asset class and sector, with no
undue risk concentrations in any one category. See Note 9 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for
further discussion of the investment portfolios for our plans.
• Mortality rate — This assumption reflects our best estimate, as of the measurement date, of the life expectancies of plan participants
in order to determine the expected length of time for benefit payments. We derive our assumptions from industry mortality tables.
36
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report The weighted average assumptions used in the measurement of our net periodic benefit costs for the years ended December 31 are
as follows:
Assumption
Discount Rate
Pension Benefits
U.S. Plans
U.K. Plan
2016
4.80%
2015
4.40%
2016
3.80%
2015
3.60%
OPEB
2016
4.70%
2015
4.30%
Expected Long-term Rate of Return
on Plan Assets
7.50%
7.50%
4.90%
5.20%
5.75%
5.75%
The following illustrates the sensitivity of the below items to a 50 basis point change in the discount rate or the expected long-term
rate of return on plan assets:
Assumption
Discount Rate
Discount Rate
($ in millions)
Expected Long-term Rate of Return on Plan Assets
Expected Long-term Rate of Return on Plan Assets
At or for the Year Ended December 31, 2015
Net Periodic
Benefit Cost,
Before Tax
Benefit
Obligation
Stockholders’
Equity,
After Tax
$(1.6)
$(163.3)
$ 109.4
1.7
(8.6)
8.6
182.4
N/A
N/A
(122.2)
N/A
N/A
Change
+50 bp
-50 bp
+50 bp
-50 bp
Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets
During 2015, the fair value of plan assets in our U.S. qualified defined benefit pension plan decreased $70.4 million, or 4.8 percent
due primarily to the payment of benefits and expenses and a negative return on assets. The fair value of plan assets in our U.K. pension
plan decreased £1.1 million, or 0.7 percent due to payment of benefits and expenses offset partially by the return on assets. Although
the effect of these decreases in fair value had no impact on our 2015 net periodic pension costs, the less favorable rate of return on plan
assets during 2015 relative to our assumed rate of return will partially offset the favorable impact on our 2016 net periodic pension costs
resulting from the discount rate increase for our plans. We believe our assumptions appropriately reflect the impact of the current
economic environment.
As of December 31, 2015, our pension and OPEB plans have an aggregate unrecognized net actuarial loss of $626.1 million and an
unrecognized prior service credit of $7.9 million, which together represent the cumulative liability and asset gains and losses as well as
the portion of prior service credits that have not been recognized in pension expense. The unrecognized net actuarial loss for our pension
plans, which is $632.3 million at December 31, 2015, will be amortized over the average remaining life expectancy of the plan, which is
approximately 25 years for the U.S. plan and 34 years for the U.K. plan, to the extent that it exceeds the 10 percent corridor, as described
below. The decrease in the average remaining life expectancy of the U.S. plan from the life expectancy of 35 years assumed in the prior
year was due primarily to the 2015 plan amendment as previously discussed. The unrecognized net actuarial gain of $6.2 million for our
OPEB plan will be amortized over the average future working life of OPEB plan participants, estimated at four years, to the extent the loss
is outside of the corridor. The corridor for the pension and OPEB plans is established based on the greater of 10 percent of the plan assets
or 10 percent of the benefit obligation. At December 31, 2015, $423.4 million of the actuarial loss was outside of the corridor for the U.S.
plans and £3.4 million was outside of the corridor for the U.K. plan. At December 31, 2015, none of the actuarial gain was outside of the
corridor for the OPEB plan.
37
Unum 2015 Annual Report
The amortization of the unrecognized actuarial gain or loss and the unrecognized prior service credit is a component of our net periodic
benefit cost and equaled $11.6 million, $3.9 million, and $27.9 million in 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.
The fair value of plan assets in our U.S. qualified defined benefit pension plan was $1,403.3 million at December 31, 2015, compared to
$1,473.7 million at December 31, 2014. The plan was in an underfunded position of $233.8 million and $245.1 million at December 31, 2015
and December 31, 2014, respectively. This year over year change was due primarily to the decrease in period benefit obligations due to the
increase in discount rate, mostly offset by lower than expected asset returns.
The fair value of plan assets in our U.K. pension plan was £157.0 million at December 31, 2015, compared to £158.1 million at
December 31, 2014. The U.K. pension plan was in an overfunded position of £18.8 million and £12.4 million at December 31, 2015 and
2014, respectively.
The fair value of plan assets in our OPEB plan was $11.2 million and $11.3 million at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014,
respectively. These assets represent life insurance contracts to fund the life insurance benefit portion of our OPEB plan. Our OPEB plan
represents a non-vested, non-guaranteed obligation, and current regulations do not require specific funding levels for these benefits,
which are comprised of retiree life, medical, and dental benefits. It is our practice to use general assets to pay medical and dental claims
as they come due in lieu of utilizing plan assets for the medical and dental benefit portions of our OPEB plan.
See “Executive Summary” and Note 9 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further discussion of
our plans.
Income Taxes
We record a valuation allowance to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. In evaluating
the ability to recover deferred tax assets, we have considered all available positive and negative evidence including past operating results,
the existence of cumulative losses in the most recent years, forecasted earnings, future taxable income, and prudent and feasible tax
planning strategies. In the event we determine that we most likely would not be able to realize all or part of our deferred tax assets in the
future, an increase to the valuation allowance would be charged to earnings in the period such determination is made. Likewise, if it is
later determined that it is more likely than not that those deferred tax assets would be realized, the previously provided valuation allowance
would be reversed. During 2015, we recorded a valuation allowance of $1.3 million related to unrealized tax losses on buildings which we
own and occupy in the U.K. We had no valuation allowance as of December 31, 2014.
The calculation of our tax liabilities involves dealing with uncertainties in the application of complex tax laws in a multitude of
jurisdictions, both domestic and foreign. The amount of income taxes we pay is subject to ongoing audits in various jurisdictions, and a
material assessment by a governing tax authority could affect profitability.
GAAP prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of
tax positions taken or expected to be taken in income tax returns. The evaluation of a tax position is a two step process. The first step is to
determine whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination based on the technical merits of the
position. The second step is to measure a position that satisfies the recognition threshold at the largest amount of benefit that is greater
than 50 percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Tax positions that previously failed to meet the more likely than not
threshold but that now satisfy the recognition threshold are recognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in which that
threshold is met. Previously recognized tax positions that no longer meet the more likely than not recognition threshold are derecognized
in the first subsequent financial reporting period in which that threshold is no longer met. If a previously recognized tax position is settled
for an amount that is different from the amount initially measured, the difference will be recognized as a tax benefit or expense in the
period the settlement is effective.
See Note 7 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein.
38
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report Contingent Liabilities
On a quarterly basis, we review relevant information with respect to litigation and contingencies to be reflected in our consolidated
financial statements. An estimated loss is accrued when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be
reasonably estimated. It is possible that our results of operations or cash flows in a particular period could be materially affected by an
ultimate unfavorable outcome of pending litigation or regulatory matters depending, in part, on our results of operations or cash flows for
the particular period. See Note 14 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein.
Accounting Developments
For information on new accounting standards and the impact, if any, on our financial position or results of operations, see Note 1 of
the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein.
Consolidated Operating Results
(in millions of dollars)
Revenue
Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Other Income
Total Revenue
Benefits and Expenses
Benefits and Change in Reserves for Future Benefits
Commissions
Interest and Debt Expense
Deferral of Acquisition Costs
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs
Compensation Expense
Other Expenses
Total Benefits and Expenses
Income Before Income Tax
Income Tax
Net Income
N.M. = not a meaningful percentage
Year Ended December 31
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
$ 8,082.4
2,481.2
(43.8)
211.5
10,731.3
6,782.8
996.3
152.8
(569.7)
482.3
835.1
813.4
9,493.0
1,238.3
371.2
$ 867.1
3.7%
$ 7,797.2
2.3%
$ 7,624.7
(0.4)
N.M.
(3.4)
2.0
(7.2)
6.5
(8.8)
8.7
9.4
1.7
(2.1)
(4.9)
128.5
165.3
115.6
2,492.2
16.1
219.0
10,524.5
7,310.8
935.3
167.5
(524.0)
440.8
820.9
831.2
9,982.5
542.0
139.9
$ 402.1
(0.6)
136.8
(4.9)
1.5
10.8
2.8
12.1
12.3
5.2
3.9
10.6
9.1
(55.6)
(62.5)
(52.5)
2,506.9
6.8
230.2
10,368.6
6,595.7
909.5
149.4
(466.8)
418.9
790.4
751.5
9,148.6
1,220.0
373.0
$ 847.0
39
Unum 2015 Annual Report
In describing our results, we may at times note certain items and exclude the impact on financial ratios and metrics to enhance the
understanding and comparability of our operational performance and the underlying fundamentals, but this exclusion is not an indication
that similar items may not recur. See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” contained herein for additional discussion of these items.
The comparability of our financial results between years is affected by the fluctuation in the British pound sterling to dollar exchange
rate. The functional currency of our U.K. operations is the British pound sterling. In periods when the pound weakens relative to the
preceding period, translating pounds into dollars decreases current period results relative to the prior period. In periods when the pound
strengthens, translating pounds into dollars increases current period results relative to the prior period. Our weighted average pound/dollar
exchange rate was 1.528, 1.646, and 1.566 for years ended 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. If the 2014 and 2013 results for our U.K.
operations had been translated at the lower exchange rate of 2015, our operating revenue by segment in 2014 and 2013 would have been
lower by approximately $54.9 million and $16.2 million, respectively, and our operating income in 2014 and 2013 would have been lower
by approximately $10.5 million and $3.2 million, respectively. However, it is important to distinguish between translating and converting
foreign currency. Except for a limited number of transactions, we do not actually convert pounds into dollars. As a result, we view foreign
currency translation as a financial reporting item and not a reflection of operations or profitability in the U.K.
We continued to report year over year premium growth in each of our principal operating business segments in 2015 and in 2014 due
to increased sales, premium rate increases, and favorable persistency in most of our product lines. Premium income continues to decline
year over year, as expected, in our Closed Block segment.
Net investment income declined in 2015 relative to 2014 due primarily to a decrease in yield on invested assets and lower income
from inflation index-linked bonds in our Unum UK segment, partially offset by higher levels of invested assets and higher miscellaneous
investment income, which includes income from bond call premiums, mortgage fees and payoffs, and partnership investments. Net
investment income declined in 2014 relative to 2013 due primarily to a decrease in yield on invested assets and lower miscellaneous
investment income, partially offset by higher levels of invested assets.
Included in net realized investment gains and losses were changes in the fair value of an embedded derivative in a modified
coinsurance arrangement, which resulted in a realized loss of $37.7 million during 2015 compared to realized gains of $3.3 million and
$30.7 million in 2014, and 2013, respectively. We recognized $32.4 million of other-than-temporary impairment losses on fixed maturity
securities in 2015 compared to losses of $13.5 million and $0.8 million in 2014 and 2013, respectively. We recognized hedge gains of
$35.9 million during 2015 associated with the maturity of debt issued by one of our U.K. subsidiaries and $13.1 million during 2014
associated with the early retirement of a portion of that debt. Our 2013 net realized investment gain includes a $30.0 million loss related to
the sale of lower yielding securities during a period when interest rates increased, and we advantageously reinvested the proceeds into
higher yielding investments. See Notes 4 and 8 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further discussion.
40
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report The consolidated benefit ratio was 83.9 percent in 2015 compared to 93.8 percent in 2014 and 86.5 percent in 2013. Excluding the
2014 and 2013 reserve adjustments, the benefit ratios for 2014 and 2013 were 84.8 percent and 86.4 percent, respectively. The underlying
benefits experience for each of our principal operating business segments is discussed more fully in “Segment Results” as follows.
Commissions and the deferral of acquisition costs increased year over year due primarily to sales growth in our Unum US and Colonial
Life segments. Amortization of acquisition costs was higher year over year due primarily to growth in the level of the deferred assets in our
Unum US and Colonial Life segments and a higher level of Unum US supplemental and voluntary policy terminations relative to assumptions
for certain issue years.
Interest and debt expense was lower in 2015 relative to 2014 due primarily to $13.2 million of costs incurred in 2014 related to the
early retirement of a portion of the debt issued by one of our U.K. subsidiaries. Interest and debt expense for 2014, excluding the costs
related to the early retirement of debt, was higher than 2013 due primarily to the issuance of $350 million of 4.00% senior notes in the
first quarter of 2014, partially offset by the second quarter of 2014 retirement of $145 million of principal outstanding on 6.85% debt.
See Note 8 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further discussion of our debt.
Higher sales in certain of our product lines led to year over year increases in acquisition-related expenses as reported in compensation
expense and in other expenses. Our pension amendments and the associated expenses related to those amendments also impact the
comparability of expenses year over year, with the previously mentioned settlement loss recorded in 2014, higher expenses in both 2015
and 2014 related to increased contributions to our defined contribution plans resulting from the 2014 pension plan amendment, and a
lower level of net actuarial loss amortization related to plan amendments adopted in 2013. We also continue to invest in technology and
other growth-related investments, thereby increasing our level of spend related to 2013. See Note 9 in the “Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements” contained herein for further discussion of our employee benefit plans.
Our effective income tax rate for 2015 was 30.0 percent, compared to 25.8 percent in 2014 and 30.6 percent in 2013. Our effective
tax rate differs from the U.S. statutory rate of 35 percent primarily due to tax credits and foreign earnings taxed at lower rates than the
U.S. statutory rate. Our effective tax rates for 2015 and 2013 were both favorably impacted by the enactment of income tax rate reductions
by the U.K. government. The enactments reduced the net deferred tax liability related to our U.K. operations by $6.5 million in 2015 and
$6.3 million in 2013. Our 2015 income tax also includes a reduction in federal income taxes of $6.8 million related to our resolution with
the Internal Revenue Service of certain outstanding issues. In 2014, our U.S. earnings included a long-term care reserve charge that
resulted in a larger proportion of our 2014 earnings derived from our foreign operations and taxed at the lower rate, therefore reducing
our overall effective tax rate. See Note 7 in the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further information on
our income tax.
Further discussion of operating results for each of our segments and major product lines is included in “Segment Results” herein.
41
Unum 2015 Annual Report Consolidated Sales Results
Shown below are sales results for our three principal operating business segments.
(in millions)
Unum US
Unum UK
Colonial Life
Year Ended December 31
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
$939.6
£ 55.1
$438.5
4.2%
6.2%
6.9%
$902.1
£ 51.9
$410.1
21.0%
7.2%
11.6%
2013
$745.6
£ 48.4
$367.6
Sales shown in the preceding chart generally represent the annualized premium income on new sales which we expect to receive and
report as premium income during the next 12 months following or beginning in the initial quarter in which the sale is reported, depending
on the effective date of the new sale. Sales do not correspond to premium income reported as revenue in accordance with GAAP. This is
because new annualized sales premiums reflect current sales performance and what we expect to recognize as premium income over a
12 month period, while premium income reported in our financial statements is reported on an “as earned” basis rather than an annualized
basis and also includes renewals and persistency of in-force policies written in prior years as well as current new sales.
Sales, persistency of the existing block of business, employment and salary growth, and the effectiveness of a renewal program are
indicators of growth in premium income. Trends in new sales, as well as existing market share, also indicate the potential for growth in our
respective markets and the level of market acceptance of price changes and new product offerings. Sales results may fluctuate significantly
due to case size and timing of sales submissions.
See “Segment Results” as follows for a discussion of sales by segment.
Segment Results
Our reporting segments are comprised of the following: Unum US, Unum UK, Colonial Life, Closed Block, and Corporate. Financial
information for each of our reporting segments is as follows.
Unum US Segment
The Unum US segment includes group long-term and short-term disability insurance, group life and accidental death and
dismemberment products, and supplemental and voluntary lines of business, which are comprised of individual disability and voluntary
benefits products.
42
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Unum US Operating Results
Shown below are financial results for the Unum US segment. In the sections following, financial results and key ratios are also
presented for the major lines of business within the segment.
(in millions of dollars, except ratios)
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
Year Ended December 31
Operating Revenue
Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Other Income
Total
Benefits and Expenses
Benefits and Change in Reserves for Future Benefits
Commissions
Deferral of Acquisition Costs
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs
Other Expenses
Total
Income Before Income Tax and Net Realized
Investment Gains and Losses
Unclaimed Death Benefits (UDB) Reserve Increase
Group Life Waiver of Premium Benefit (Waiver)
Reserve Reduction
Operating Income
Operating Ratios (% of Premium Income):
Benefit Ratio
Benefit Ratio Excluding the UDB and
Waiver Reserve Adjustments
Other Expense Ratio
Income Ratio
Operating Income Ratio
$4,960.0
6.4%
$4,659.7
3.2%
$4,517.1
865.3
119.2
5,944.5
3,476.7
562.2
(307.3)
272.3
1,090.6
5,094.5
850.0
—
—
$ 850.0
(1.5)
(2.4)
5.0
5.7
6.3
5.0
9.8
4.5
5.8
0.6
—
—
0.6
878.9
122.1
5,660.7
3,288.1
528.7
(4.4)
(4.8)
1.7
2.0
4.7
(292.7)
16.2
248.1
1,043.6
4,815.8
7.9
4.3
2.3
844.9
(1.6)
—
—
—
—
919.4
128.3
5,564.8
3,222.4
505.2
(252.0)
230.0
1,000.8
4,706.4
858.4
75.4
(85.0)
$ 844.9
(0.5)
$ 848.8
70.1%
70.6%
22.0%
17.1%
17.1%
22.4%
18.1%
18.1%
71.3%
71.6%
22.2%
19.0%
18.8%
43
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Unum US Group Disability Operating Results
Shown below are financial results and key performance indicators for Unum US group disability.
(in millions of dollars, except ratios)
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
Year Ended December 31
Operating Revenue
Premium Income
Group Long-term Disability
Group Short-term Disability
Total Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Other Income
Total
Benefits and Expenses
$1,644.7
607.4
2,252.1
496.5
92.9
2,841.5
Benefits and Change in Reserves for Future Benefits
1,834.0
Commissions
Deferral of Acquisition Costs
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs
Other Expenses
Total
Operating Income
Operating Ratios (% of Premium Income):
Benefit Ratio
Other Expense Ratio
Operating Income Ratio
Persistency:
Group Long-term Disability
Group Short-term Disability
172.2
(43.2)
33.7
572.4
2,569.1
$ 272.4
81.4%
25.4%
12.1%
92.1%
88.1%
5.9%
$1,553.5
—%
$1,553.9
8.8
6.7
(3.8)
2.1
4.5
5.0
6.8
7.5
28.1
4.1
5.1
558.1
2,111.6
515.9
91.0
2,718.5
1,746.4
161.2
(40.2)
26.3
550.0
2,443.7
7.4
1.8
(5.8)
(4.8)
0.1
0.8
(1.7)
35.8
24.6
3.3
0.9
519.6
2,073.5
547.4
95.6
2,716.5
1,732.9
164.0
(29.6)
21.1
532.4
2,420.8
(0.9)
$ 274.8
(7.1)
$ 295.7
82.7%
26.0%
13.0%
90.6%
89.6%
83.6%
25.7%
14.3%
87.2%
88.0%
44
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2014
Premium income increased in 2015 compared to 2014, driven by sales growth and premium rate increases, as well as favorable
persistency in the group long-term disability product line. Net investment income declined in 2015 relative to 2014 due to a decrease in the
level of invested assets and a decline in yields. Other income, which is comprised primarily of fees from administrative services products,
increased slightly in 2015 relative to 2014.
Benefits experience was favorable in 2015 compared to 2014 due to lower claim incidence rates and favorable claim recovery
experience in our group long-term disability product line, offset partially by the 50 basis point decrease in the discount rate which we
implemented during the fourth quarter of 2014 for group long-term disability new claim incurrals.
Commissions and the deferral of acquisition costs were higher in 2015 relative to 2014 due to sales growth and the corresponding
increase in deferrable expenses. The amortization of deferred acquisition costs increased in 2015 relative to 2014 due to growth in the
level of the deferred asset. The growth in premium income during 2015 more than offset the growth in other expenses related to
continued investment in the growth of our business, resulting in a decline in the other expense ratio compared to 2014.
Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2013
Premium income increased in 2014 compared to 2013, driven by favorable persistency, premium rate increases, and sales growth for
both group long-term and group short-term disability. Net investment income declined in 2014 relative to 2013 due to a decrease in the
level of invested assets and a decline in yield. Other income declined in 2014 relative to 2013 due primarily to the 2013 gain of $4.0 million
on the purchase and retirement of the debt issued by Tailwind Holdings.
Benefits experience was favorable in 2014 compared to 2013 due primarily to favorable claim recovery experience, partially offset by
slightly higher claim incidence rates and the 50 basis point decrease in the discount rate which we implemented during the fourth quarter
of 2014 for group long-term disability new claim incurrals.
The deferral of acquisition costs was higher in 2014 relative to 2013 due to an increase in deferrable expenses related to sales growth.
The amortization of acquisition costs increased in 2014 compared to 2013 due to growth in the level of the deferred asset. The other
expense ratio for 2014 was higher compared to 2013 due to an increase in other expenses driven by technology and other growth-related
investments, a higher level of allocated retirement-related costs, and higher acquisition-related expenses resulting from the increased level
of sales.
45
Unum 2015 Annual Report Unum US Group Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Operating Results
Shown below are financial results and key performance indicators for Unum US group life and accidental death and dismemberment.
(in millions of dollars, except ratios)
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
Year Ended December 31
Operating Revenue
Premium Income
Group Life
Accidental Death & Dismemberment
Total Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Other Income
Total
Benefits and Expenses
$1,347.4
131.7
1,479.1
135.1
2.1
1,616.3
Benefits and Change in Reserves for Future Benefits
1,061.6
Commissions
Deferral of Acquisition Costs
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs
Other Expenses
Total
Income Before Income Tax and Net Realized
121.2
(33.3)
26.2
215.7
1,391.4
6.7%
$1,262.3
4.0%
$1,213.9
4.6
6.5
(0.1)
50.0
6.0
8.8
7.0
6.4
22.4
5.1
8.3
125.9
1,388.2
135.2
1.4
3.5
3.9
(2.8)
(22.2)
1,524.8
3.3
975.8
113.3
(31.3)
21.4
205.2
1,284.4
7.2
4.0
26.7
37.2
3.5
6.3
Investment Gains and Losses
224.9
(6.4)
240.4
(10.5)
Unclaimed Death Benefits (UDB) Reserve Increase
Group Life Waiver of Premium Benefit (Waiver)
Reserve Reduction
Operating Income
—
—
—
—
—
—
$ 224.9
(6.4)
$ 240.4
—
—
3.4
Operating Ratios (% of Premium Income):
Benefit Ratio
Benefit Ratio Excluding the UDB and
Waiver Reserve Adjustments
Other Expense Ratio
Income Ratio
Operating Income Ratio
Persistency:
Group Life
Accidental Death & Dismemberment
71.8%
70.3%
14.6%
15.2%
15.2%
89.2%
89.8%
14.8%
17.3%
17.3%
90.8%
91.1%
46
121.6
1,335.5
139.1
1.8
1,476.4
909.9
108.9
(24.7)
15.6
198.2
1,207.9
268.5
49.1
(85.0)
$ 232.6
68.1%
70.8%
14.8%
20.1%
17.4%
88.1%
88.8%
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2014
Premium income increased in 2015 compared to 2014 primarily due to an increase in the in-force block resulting from prior year sales
growth, partially offset by lower persistency. Net investment income was generally consistent in 2015 relative to the prior year, with an
increase in the level of invested assets offset by a decline in yield.
Benefits experience was unfavorable in 2015 compared to 2014 due to a higher average paid claim size in both group life and
accidental death and dismemberment.
Commissions and the deferral of acquisition costs were higher in 2015 compared to 2014 due to strong sales in the second half of 2014
and a corresponding increase in deferrable commissions which were expensed during the applicable periods of 2015. The amortization of
deferred acquisition costs increased in 2015 compared to 2014 due to growth in the level of the deferred asset. The growth in premium
income during 2015 more than offset the growth in other expenses related to continued investment in the growth of our business, resulting
in a slight decline in the other expense ratio compared to 2014.
Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2013
Premium income increased in 2014 compared to 2013 primarily due to continued growth in the block of business resulting from sales
and favorable persistency. Net investment income was lower in 2014 relative to 2013 due to a decrease in the yield on invested assets and
lower miscellaneous investment income, partially offset by an increase in the level of invested assets.
Benefits experience was unfavorable in 2014 compared to 2013 due to the net favorable impact of the 2013 reserve adjustments for
group life waiver of premium benefits and unclaimed death benefits. Excluding these two reserve adjustments, benefits experience was
slightly favorable in 2014 compared to 2013 due to lower claim incidence rates, partially offset by a higher average claim size.
The deferral of acquisition costs was higher in 2014 relative to 2013 due to sales growth. The amortization of acquisition costs
increased in 2014 compared to 2013 due to growth in the level of the deferred asset. The other expense ratio in 2014 was consistent with
2013 as the increase in premium income more than offset expense increases driven by technology and other growth-related investments,
a higher level of allocated retirement-related costs, and higher acquisition-related expenses resulting from the increased level of sales.
47
Unum 2015 Annual Report Unum US Supplemental and Voluntary Operating Results
Shown below are financial results and key performance indicators for Unum US supplemental and voluntary product lines.
(in millions of dollars, except ratios)
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
Year Ended December 31
Operating Revenue
Premium Income
Individual Disability
Voluntary Benefits
Total Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Other Income
Total
Benefits and Expenses
Benefits and Change in Reserves for Future Benefits
Commissions
Deferral of Acquisition Costs
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs
Other Expenses
Total
Income Before Income Tax and Net Realized
Investment Gains and Losses
Unclaimed Death Benefits (UDB) Reserve Increase
Operating Income
Interest Adjusted Loss Ratio:
Individual Disability
Operating Ratios (% of Premium Income):
Benefit Ratios:
Individual Disability
Voluntary Benefits
Benefit Ratio Excluding the UDB Reserve Increase
Voluntary Benefits
Other Expense Ratio
Income Ratio
Operating Income Ratio
Persistency:
Individual Disability
Voluntary Benefits
$ 478.9
749.9
1,228.8
233.7
24.2
1,486.7
581.1
268.8
(230.8)
212.4
302.5
1,134.0
352.7
—
$ 352.7
2.7%
$ 466.1
0.2%
$ 465.3
8.1
5.9
2.6
(18.5)
4.9
2.7
5.7
4.3
6.0
4.9
4.3
7.0
—
7.0
693.8
1,159.9
227.8
29.7
1,417.4
565.9
254.2
(221.2)
200.4
288.4
1,087.7
329.7
—
$ 329.7
7.9
4.7
(2.2)
(3.9)
3.3
(2.4)
9.4
11.9
3.7
6.7
0.9
12.1
—
2.9
642.8
1,108.1
232.9
30.9
1,371.9
579.6
232.3
(197.7)
193.3
270.2
1,077.7
294.2
26.3
$ 320.5
30.9%
30.0%
29.6%
51.8%
44.4%
24.6%
28.7%
28.7%
90.3%
75.9%
51.6%
46.9%
24.9%
28.4%
28.4%
90.0%
77.6%
51.3%
53.0%
48.9%
24.4%
26.5%
28.9%
90.5%
77.0%
48
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2014
Premium income was higher in 2015 compared to 2014 due to sales growth, partially offset by a decline in persistency in the
voluntary benefits product line. Net investment income was higher in 2015 relative to 2014 due to growth in the level of invested assets
and higher miscellaneous investment income, partially offset by a decrease in yield on invested assets. Other income decreased in 2015
relative to 2014 due primarily to an expected decline in surrender fees as our interest sensitive products mature.
Benefits experience for the individual disability product line in 2015 was generally consistent with 2014. Benefits experience for
voluntary benefits in 2015 was favorable compared to 2014 due primarily to improved claim experience in our disability product line and a
release of active life reserves in the critical illness product line resulting from a higher level of policy terminations relative to the prior year.
Commissions and deferral of acquisition costs were higher in 2015 compared to 2014 due primarily to sales growth. The amortization
of deferred acquisition costs was higher in 2015 compared to 2014 due primarily to growth in the level of the deferred asset and the impact
of a higher level of policy terminations in 2015 relative to assumptions for certain issue years within certain product lines. The growth in
premium income during 2015 more than offset the growth in other expenses related to continued investment in the growth of our
business, resulting in a slight decline in the other expense ratio compared to 2014.
The individual disability product line had goodwill of $187.6 million at December 31, 2015, none of which is currently believed to be at
risk for future impairment.
Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2013
Premium income was higher in 2014 compared to 2013, driven primarily by higher sales and stable to favorable persistency. Net
investment income was lower in 2014 relative to 2013 due to decrease in yield on invested assets and lower miscellaneous investment
income, partially offset by an increase in the level of invested assets.
Benefits experience for the individual disability product line was slightly less favorable during 2014 compared to 2013 due to lower
claim recoveries and higher claim incidence rates. Benefits experience for voluntary benefits was favorable during 2014 compared to 2013
due to the 2013 reserve increase for unclaimed death benefits. Excluding this reserve increase, benefits experience was favorable due to
improved claim experience in the disability and life product lines.
Commissions and deferral of acquisition costs were higher in 2014 relative to 2013 due primarily to higher sales. The amortization of
deferred acquisition costs was higher in 2014 compared to 2013 due to growth in the level of the deferred asset. The other expense ratio
for 2014 increased compared to 2013 due to an increase in other expenses driven by technology and other growth-related investments, a
higher level of allocated retirement-related costs, and higher acquisition-related expenses resulting from the increased level of sales.
49
Unum 2015 Annual Report Sales
(in millions of dollars)
Sales by Product
Group Disability and Group Life and AD&D
Group Long-term Disability
Group Short-term Disability
Group Life and AD&D
Subtotal
Supplemental and Voluntary
Individual Disability
Voluntary Benefits
Subtotal
Total Sales
Sales by Market Sector
Group Disability and Group Life and AD&D
Core Market (< 2,000 lives)
Large Case Market
Subtotal
Supplemental and Voluntary
Total Sales
Year Ended December 31
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
$239.7
7.2%
$223.6
29.0%
$173.3
119.7
250.1
609.5
67.5
262.6
330.1
$939.6
$405.4
204.1
609.5
330.1
$939.6
0.8
(5.6)
0.4
18.8
10.3
11.9
4.2
0.9%
(0.7)
0.4
11.9
4.2
118.8
264.8
607.2
56.8
238.1
294.9
16.6
32.8
27.9
8.8
8.8
8.8
101.9
199.4
474.6
52.2
218.8
271.0
$902.1
21.0
$745.6
$401.7
23.8%
$324.4
205.5
607.2
294.9
$902.1
36.8
27.9
8.8
21.0
150.2
474.6
271.0
$745.6
Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2014
Group disability sales increased in 2015 compared to 2014 due to higher sales to existing customers in both the core market,
which we define as employee groups with fewer than 2,000 lives, and in the large case market. Sales for group life and accidental death
and dismemberment declined during 2015 compared to 2014 due to lower sales to new customers, partially offset by higher sales to
existing customers in the core market. The sales mix in the group market sector for 2015 was approximately 67 percent core market and
33 percent large case market, generally consistent with the level of 2014.
Individual disability sales, which are primarily concentrated in the multi-life market, increased in 2015 due primarily to sales to new
customers. Sales of voluntary benefits were higher in 2015 compared to 2014, with increases in both core and large case market sales.
Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2013
Sales of our group products increased in 2014 relative to 2013 in both the core and large case market segments for new and existing
customer accounts. The sales mix in the group market sector for 2014 was approximately 66 percent core market and 34 percent large case
market, generally consistent with the level of 2013.
Sales in our individual disability line of business increased in 2014 due to a favorable mix of sales in the core and large case market
segments. Sales of voluntary benefits were higher in 2014 compared to 2013, with increases in both core and large case market sales.
We attribute a portion of our 2014 sales growth relative to 2013 to the distraction which occurred in the marketplace during 2013
as a result of healthcare reform implementation, which we believe negatively impacted our core market sales for our group and voluntary
benefits products throughout 2013.
50
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Segment Outlook
During 2016, we expect to achieve year over year premium growth resulting from stable persistency and disciplined sales growth.
We believe additional improvement in our premium and sales growth rates may occur if the overall economic recovery further accelerates.
Our net investment income may be impacted, either favorably or unfavorably, by fluctuations in miscellaneous investment income. The
low interest rate environment continues to place pressure on our profit margins by impacting net investment income yields and claim
reserve discount rates. As part of our continued pricing discipline and our reserving strategy, we continuously monitor emerging interest
rate experience and adjust our pricing and reserve discount rates, as appropriate. The implementation of premium rate increases could
unfavorably impact persistency in certain of our product lines. We expect our group disability benefit ratio for full year 2016 to be generally
consistent with the level of 2015. Our amortization of deferred acquisition costs may be unfavorably impacted, particularly in our
supplemental and voluntary product line, by higher than expected policy terminations.
Certain risks and uncertainties are inherent in the disability insurance business. Components of claims experience, such as incidence
and recovery rates, may be worse than we expect. Disability claim incidence and claim recovery rates may be influenced by, among other
factors, the rate of unemployment and consumer confidence. Within the group disability market, pricing and renewal actions can be taken
to react to higher claim rates or lower discount rates, but these actions take time to implement, and there is a risk that the market will not
sustain increased prices. In addition, changes in economic and external conditions may not manifest themselves in claims experience for
an extended period of time. Unfavorable economic conditions may lead to a higher rate of claim incidence, lower levels of claim recoveries,
or lower claim discount rates. Claim incidence levels may fluctuate due to the normal volatility that occurs in group disability business or
may be related to economic conditions. We continuously monitor key indicators to assess our risks and attempt to adjust our business
plans accordingly.
We remain confident in our strategy of providing consumers with valuable financial protection benefits, broadening our employer
client relationships, and building collaborative partnerships with complementary product manufacturers, technology firms, and distributors.
Our continued investment in our franchise includes active client management and a differentiated integrated experience across our product
lines. There are significant growth opportunities in each of our markets and within our existing client base, and we continue to invest in
the people, processes, and technologies that will allow us to enhance our ability to grow the market over the long term. We believe
future profit margin improvement is achievable, driven primarily by our continued product mix shift, expense efficiencies, and consistent
operating effectiveness. Underpinning our strategy is our continued commitment to risk management discipline, talent development, and
our core values.
51
Unum 2015 Annual Report Unum UK Segment
The Unum UK segment includes insurance for group long-term disability, group life, and supplemental lines of business which
include dental, individual disability, and critical illness. Unum UK’s products are sold primarily in the United Kingdom through field sales
personnel and independent brokers and consultants. During the third quarter of 2015, we acquired National Dental, a provider of dental
insurance in the U.K. workplace. The acquisition of National Dental did not have a material impact on our operating results or sales for
the year ended December 31, 2015. See Note 13 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further details
on the acquisition.
Operating Results
Shown below are financial results and key performance indicators for the Unum UK segment.
Year Ended December 31
(in millions of dollars, except ratios)
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
Operating Revenue
Premium Income
Group Long-term Disability
$397.4
(5.1)%
$418.9
7.4%
$389.9
Group Life
Supplemental
Total Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Other Income
Total
Benefits and Expenses
Benefits and Change in Reserves for Future Benefits
Commissions
Deferral of Acquisition Costs
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs
Other Expenses
Total
Operating Income
121.5
57.3
576.2
124.9
—
701.1
394.8
41.8
(9.6)
11.3
122.2
560.5
$140.6
(8.8)
4.0
(5.1)
(17.3)
—
(7.5)
(8.4)
(2.3)
(8.6)
(9.6)
(9.2)
(8.2)
(4.9)
133.2
55.1
607.2
151.0
25.2
(8.6)
9.1
1.7
—
(100.0)
758.2
7.5
431.0
42.8
(10.5)
12.5
134.6
610.4
$147.8
4.3
12.6
7.1
(15.0)
15.0
6.5
12.0
106.4
60.3
556.6
148.5
0.1
705.2
413.3
38.0
(9.8)
14.7
117.0
573.2
$132.0
52
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Foreign Currency Translation
The functional currency of Unum UK is the British pound sterling. Unum UK’s premium income, net investment income, claims, and
expenses are received or paid in pounds, and we hold pound-denominated assets to support Unum UK’s pound-denominated policy
reserves and liabilities. We translate Unum UK’s pound-denominated financial statement items into dollars for our consolidated financial
reporting. We translate income statement items using an average exchange rate for the reporting period, and we translate balance sheet
items using the exchange rate at the end of the period. We report unrealized foreign currency translation gains and losses in accumulated
other comprehensive income in our consolidated balance sheets.
Fluctuations in the pound to dollar exchange rate have an effect on Unum UK’s reported financial results and our consolidated financial
results. In periods when the pound strengthens relative to the preceding period, translating pounds into dollars increases current period
results relative to the prior period. In periods when the pound weakens, translating pounds into dollars decreases current period results
relative to the prior period. The discussion of financial and sales results as follows is based on local currency.
(in millions of pounds, except ratios)
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
Year Ended December 31
Operating Revenue
Premium Income
Group Long-term Disability
Group Life
Supplemental
Total Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Other Income
Total
Benefits and Expenses
Benefits and Change in Reserves for Future Benefits
Commissions
Deferral of Acquisition Costs
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs
Other Expenses
Total
Operating Income
Weighted Average Pound/Dollar Exchange Rate
Operating Ratios (% of Premium Income):
Benefit Ratio
Other Expense Ratio
Operating Income Ratio
Persistency:
Group Long-term Disability
Group Life
Supplemental
2.2%
(1.6)
12.3
2.3
(10.9)
—
(0.4)
(1.3)
5.4
(1.6)
(2.6)
(2.4)
(1.1)
2.4
£259.9
79.5
37.5
376.9
81.6
—
458.5
258.1
27.4
(6.3)
7.4
79.9
366.5
£ 92.0
1.528
68.5%
21.2%
24.4%
89.2%
80.0%
87.7%
£254.4
2.1%
£249.2
80.8
33.4
368.6
91.6
0.1
460.3
18.5
(13.2)
3.6
(3.5)
—
2.1
68.2
38.5
355.9
94.9
0.1
450.9
261.4
(1.2)
264.5
7.0
3.2
(18.3)
9.6
1.1
6.5
26.0
(6.4)
7.6
81.9
370.5
£ 89.8
1.646
70.9%
22.2%
24.4%
90.1%
76.0%
86.6%
24.3
(6.2)
9.3
74.7
366.6
£ 84.3
1.566
74.3%
21.0%
23.7%
82.2%
66.7%
78.8%
53
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2014
Premium income was higher in 2015 compared to 2014 due primarily to growth in our in-force group long-term disability product
line resulting from prior year sales growth and stable persistency and in the supplemental product line resulting from the acquisition of
National Dental.
Net investment income declined in 2015 compared to 2014 due primarily to lower income from inflation index-linked bonds which
we invest in to support the claim reserves associated with certain of our group policies that provide for inflation-linked increases in
benefits. The year over year decrease in net investment income attributable to these index-linked bonds was largely offset by a more
favorable year over year change in the reserves for future claims payments related to the inflation index-linked group long-term disability
and group life policies.
Benefits experience was favorable in 2015 compared to 2014 due as a result of favorable experience in both the group long-term
disability and group life product lines. The favorable group long-term disability benefits experience was due primarily to favorable claim
recoveries, partially offset by unfavorable mortality experience. The favorable group life experience was due to a lower claim incidence
rate and a lower average claim size.
Commissions were higher in 2015 compared to 2014 due primarily to sales growth in 2015. The deferral of acquisition costs and
amortization of deferred acquisition costs were generally consistent in 2015 compared to 2014. The other expense ratio decreased in 2015
relative to 2014 due to a continued focus on expense management initiatives.
We had goodwill of $43.3 million at December 31, 2015, primarily related to the acquisition of National Dental. None of the goodwill is
currently believed to be at risk for future impairment.
Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2013
Premium income was higher in 2014 compared to 2013 due to premium rate increases in our group long-term disability and group life
product lines, favorable persistency, and an increased retention level in our reinsurance program, as of January 1, 2014, for our group life
products that provide lump sum benefits. Partially offsetting these increases were large case policy terminations in our group life and
supplemental product lines. Net investment income declined in 2014 compared to 2013 due primarily to lower yields on invested assets
and lower income from inflation index-linked bonds.
Group long-term disability and group life benefits experience was favorable in 2014 compared to 2013 due primarily to lower claim
incidence rates. Supplemental benefits experience was favorable in 2014 compared to 2013 due to lower claim incidence rates for the
group critical illness product line.
Commissions were higher in 2014 compared to 2013 due primarily to the increased retention level in our group life reinsurance
program. The amortization of deferred acquisition costs was lower in 2014 compared to 2013 due primarily to a decrease in the level of the
deferred asset. The other expense ratio was higher in 2014 compared to 2013 due primarily to an increase in operational investments in
our business and a lower comparative expense ratio in 2013 as a result of expense allowances related to the reinsurance agreements in our
group life product line.
54
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report Sales
(in millions of dollars and pounds)
Sales by Product
Group Long-term Disability
Group Life
Supplemental
Total Sales
Sales by Market Sector
Group Long-term Disability and Group Life
Core Market (< 500 lives)
Large Case Market
Subtotal
Supplemental
Total Sales
Sales by Product
Group Long-term Disability
Group Life
Supplemental
Total Sales
Sales by Market Sector
Group Long-term Disability and Group Life
Core Market (< 500 lives)
Large Case Market
Subtotal
Supplemental
Total Sales
Year Ended December 31
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
$53.4
25.7
5.0
$84.1
$44.3
34.8
79.1
5.0
$84.1
£35.0
16.8
3.3
£55.1
£29.0
22.8
51.8
3.3
£55.1
(7.0)%
8.0
28.2
(1.2)
$57.4
23.8
3.9
$85.1
13.7%
11.2
—
12.3
4.2%
(10.1)
(2.6)
28.2
(1.2)
(0.3)%
16.7
37.5
6.2
12.4%
(3.8)
4.6
37.5
6.2
$42.5
9.3%
38.7
81.2
3.9
$85.1
£35.1
14.4
2.4
£51.9
17.3
12.9
—
12.3
9.0%
5.1
(4.0)
7.2
£25.8
3.6%
23.7
49.5
2.4
£51.9
12.9
7.8
(4.0)
7.2
$50.5
21.4
3.9
$75.8
$38.9
33.0
71.9
3.9
$75.8
£32.2
13.7
2.5
£48.4
£24.9
21.0
45.9
2.5
£48.4
55
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2014
Sales in group long-term disability were generally consistent in 2015 compared to 2014. In the group long-term disability core market,
or employee groups with fewer than 500 lives, sales increased in 2015 relative to the prior year due primarily to sales to new customers.
Sales in the group long-term disability large case market were lower due to a decline in sales to existing customers partially offset by
higher sales to new customers.
Group life sales increased in 2015 compared to 2014 due to higher sales to new customers in both the core and large case markets,
partially offset by a decline in sales to existing customers.
Supplemental sales were higher in 2015 compared to 2014 due primarily to higher sales in our group critical illness and individual
disability product lines.
Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2013
Sales in group long-term disability increased in 2014 compared to 2013 due to higher sales in the large case market, with an increase
in sales to new customers partially offset by lower sales to existing customers. In the group long-term disability core market sales declined
in 2014 relative to 2013.
Group life sales within the core market segment were higher in 2014 compared to 2013 for both new and existing customers. Group
life sales in the large case market declined in 2014 relative to 2013 due to decreased sales to existing customers, partially offset by higher
sales to new customers.
Supplemental sales were lower in 2014 compared to 2013 due primarily to lower sales in our group critical illness product line.
Segment Outlook
Our primary focus during 2016 remains building on the key capabilities that we believe will enable us to deliver future growth. We
expect to further improve our profitability through an increased focus on new to market sales, our shift in business mix, premium rate
increases, and continued pursuit of efficiency opportunities.
We expect the low interest rate environment to continue to contribute to a dampening of overall earnings growth, and unfavorable
economic conditions may lead to a higher rate of claim incidence, lower levels of claim recoveries, or lower claim discount rates. As part
of our continued pricing discipline and our reserving strategy, we continuously monitor emerging interest rate experience and adjust our
pricing and reserve discount rates, as appropriate. We believe the current low levels of inflation in the U.K. may continue to adversely
impact our index-linked net investment income, with an expected corresponding reduction in the cost of benefits. Prior to our adoption
of Solvency II, a new European Union capital regime that became effective January 1, 2016, we received approval from the Prudential
Regulation Authority (PRA) to use our own internal model for calculating regulatory capital and also received approval for certain associated
regulatory permissions, including transitional relief as the Solvency II capital regime is implemented. As a result, there was no material
change to our capital requirements or to solvency ratios. We continuously monitor key indicators to assess our risks and attempt to adjust
our business plans accordingly.
We remain committed to driving growth in the U.K. market. We will continue to follow a disciplined approach to new sales activity in
the competitive pricing environment. We do, however, see genuine opportunities to grow the market in the U.K. through establishing new
relationships with employers, deepening the level of coverage with our existing corporate clients, and through new offerings such as the
dental product resulting from our acquisition of National Dental. We anticipate returning to more normal levels of premium growth as our
rate increases continue to be placed in the market and as we continue to increase sales to new and existing customers. We have seen
some positive results in terms of new to market sales and increased coverage in existing cases. We believe the outlook for higher levels of
employment, increases in corporate payrolls, and expansion of benefit spending is beginning to improve and will positively impact our
sales and operating results. In addition, we continue to focus on new market opportunities by raising awareness of the need for income
protection. Expanding group long-term disability market penetration remains a significant opportunity and priority.
56
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report Colonial Life Segment
The Colonial Life segment includes insurance for accident, sickness, and disability products, life products, and cancer and critical
illness products issued primarily by Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company and marketed to employees at the workplace through an
independent contractor agency sales force and brokers.
Operating Results
Shown below are financial results and key performance indicators for the Colonial Life segment.
(in millions of dollars, except ratios)
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
Year Ended December 31
Operating Revenue
Premium Income
Accident, Sickness, and Disability
$ 789.0
3.8%
$ 759.8
2.9%
$ 738.7
Life
Cancer and Critical Illness
Total Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Other Income
Total
Benefits and Expenses
Benefits and Change in Reserves for Future Benefits
Commissions
Deferral of Acquisition Costs
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs
Other Expenses
Total
Income Before Income Tax and Net Realized
Investment Gains and Losses
Unclaimed Death Benefits (UDB) Reserve Increase
Operating Income
Operating Ratios (% of Premium Income):
Benefit Ratio
Benefit Ratio Excluding the UDB Reserve Increase
Other Expense Ratio
Income Ratio
Operating Income Ratio
Persistency:
Accident, Sickness, and Disability
Life
Cancer and Critical Illness
252.4
297.2
1,338.6
145.4
0.1
1,484.1
683.0
293.5
(252.8)
198.7
252.6
1,175.0
309.1
—
$ 309.1
51.0%
18.9%
23.1%
23.1%
74.8%
84.9%
81.2%
8.9
5.4
5.1
(0.1)
—
4.6
3.4
11.9
14.5
10.3
6.1
4.9
3.4
—
3.4
231.8
282.1
1,273.7
145.5
4.8
3.6
3.4
1.0
0.1
(50.0)
1,419.3
3.1
660.6
262.3
(220.8)
180.2
238.0
1,120.3
299.0
—
$ 299.0
(1.0)
3.9
7.7
3.4
6.1
0.7
13.5
—
5.4
51.9%
18.7%
23.5%
23.5%
75.5%
85.2%
83.5%
221.1
272.4
1,232.2
144.1
0.2
1,376.5
667.0
252.5
(205.0)
174.2
224.3
1,113.0
263.5
20.1
$ 283.6
54.1%
52.5%
18.2%
21.4%
23.0%
75.2%
85.2%
83.1%
57
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2014
Premium income increased in 2015 relative to 2014 as a result of sales growth in all lines of business, partially offset by a decline in
persistency. Net investment income was generally consistent in 2015 relative to the prior year, with an increase in the level of invested
assets offset by a decline in yield and lower miscellaneous investment income.
Benefits experience was favorable in 2015 compared to 2014 due to favorable incurred benefits in the accident, sickness, and
disability product line and the release of active life reserves in the cancer and critical illness product lines related to policy terminations.
Commissions and the deferral of acquisition costs were higher in 2015 relative to 2014 due to an increase in deferrable expenses
related to sales growth. The amortization of deferred acquisition costs increased in 2015 compared to the prior year due primarily to
growth in the level of the deferred asset. The other expense ratio was slightly higher in 2015 compared to 2014 due primarily to continued
investment in our business.
Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2013
Premium income increased in 2014 relative to 2013 due to sales and continued strong persistency. Net investment income was
higher in 2014 relative to 2013 due to an increase in the level of invested assets, partially offset by a decrease in yield on invested assets
and lower miscellaneous investment income.
Favorable benefits experience in 2014 compared to 2013 primarily reflects improved claim experience in the cancer and critical illness
product line. This was partially offset by less favorable experience in the accident, sickness, and disability product line due to a higher average
claim size and in the life product line due to less favorable mortality experience. The release of active life reserves on terminations of older
cases in the accident, sickness, and disability and cancer and critical illness product lines also favorably impacted 2014 relative to 2013.
Commissions and the deferral of acquisition costs were higher in 2014 relative to 2013 due to sales growth. The amortization of deferred
acquisition costs was higher in 2014 compared to 2013 due primarily to continued growth in the level of the deferred asset. The other expense
ratio was higher in 2014 compared to 2013 due primarily to continued investment in our business, higher sales compensation, and a higher
level of allocated retirement-related costs.
Sales
(in millions of dollars)
Sales by Product
Year Ended December 31
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
Accident, Sickness, and Disability
$276.1
5.9%
$260.7
9.4%
$238.2
85.6
76.8
$438.5
8.6
8.8
6.9
78.8
70.6
$410.1
15.7
15.2
11.6
68.1
61.3
$367.6
$290.8
5.5%
$275.6
12.0%
$246.0
54.2
345.0
93.5
$438.5
1.9
4.9
15.0
6.9
53.2
328.8
81.3
$410.1
8.6
11.5
12.0
11.6
49.0
295.0
72.6
$367.6
Life
Cancer and Critical Illness
Total Sales
Sales by Market Sector
Commercial
Core Market (< 1,000 lives)
Large Case Market
Subtotal
Public Sector
Total Sales
58
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2014
Sales were higher in 2015 compared to 2014 due to growth in new and existing customer account sales. Commercial market sales
increased in 2015 compared to 2014 due to higher new and existing customer account sales in the core market, which we define as
accounts with fewer than 1,000 lives, and higher existing customer account sales in the large case market. The growth in our public sector
market for 2015 was attributable to new and existing customer account sales. The number of new accounts increased 10.0 percent in 2015
compared to 2014, and the average new case size decreased 7.5 percent.
Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2013
Sales were higher in 2014 compared to 2013 due to growth in both new and existing customer account sales and across all market
segments. Commercial market sales increased in 2014, with higher sales in both the core commercial market and in the large case
commercial market. The growth in our core commercial market sales for 2014 was primarily attributable to new account sales, although
we also experienced favorable growth in existing account sales. The growth in the large case commercial market was primarily attributable
to higher sales to existing accounts. Public sector sales for 2014 increased due primarily to new account sales. The number of new accounts
increased 13.4 percent in 2014 compared to 2013, and the average new case size increased 5.8 percent.
Segment Outlook
We expect to see continued favorable sales and premium growth trends in 2016. Volatility in net investment income is likely to
continue as a result of fluctuations in miscellaneous investment income. We expect our annual benefit ratio for 2016 to be generally
consistent with the level of 2015. While we expect the low interest rate environment to continue to pressure our profit margins, we believe
our underlying profitability will remain strong.
Disciplined execution of our growth strategy should deliver sales and premium growth that are in line with long-term expectations.
Unfavorable U.S. economic conditions and the increasing competition in the voluntary market are seen as external risks to achievement of
our business plans. We continuously monitor key indicators to assess our risks and attempt to adjust our business plans accordingly.
We believe our success will be driven primarily by execution in the core commercial and public sector segments and through
expansion of the overall market. We believe the current market environment offers considerable opportunities to meet the emerging
needs of employers, brokers, and consumers. We intend to continue to focus on growth, the customer experience, productivity, and talent
development. Key drivers in our 2016 plan include a focus on strategic growth markets, distribution expansion, third-party connectivity,
enrollment solutions, service capabilities, and operational excellence.
Closed Block Segment
The Closed Block segment consists of individual disability, group and individual long-term care, and other insurance products no longer
actively marketed. The individual disability line of business in this segment generally consists of policies we sold prior to the mid-1990s
and entirely discontinued selling in 2004, other than update features contractually allowable on existing policies. We discontinued offering
individual long-term care in 2009 and group long-term care in 2012. Other insurance products include group pension, individual life and
corporate-owned life insurance, reinsurance pools and management operations, and other miscellaneous product lines.
59
Unum 2015 Annual Report Operating Results
Shown below are financial results and key performance indicators for the Closed Block segment.
(in millions of dollars, except ratios)
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
Year Ended December 31
Benefits and Change in Reserves for Future Benefits
2,228.3
(24.0)
2,931.1
$ 572.4
(8.4)%
$ 624.8
(9.1)%
$ 687.5
633.5
1.7
1,207.6
1,320.0
89.3
2,616.9
0.4
88.9
(3.9)
3.0
(2.7)
(0.5)
630.9
0.9
1,256.6
1,281.5
91.8
2,629.9
98.8
6.6
164.1
(2.7)
(9.6)
(2.4)
101.5
7.3
168.2
2,497.8
(22.1)
3,208.1
—
28.6
(4.7)
0.9
(2.2)
(2.0)
27.8
(10.8)
(13.1)
4.9
24.6
630.6
0.7
1,318.8
1,270.2
93.9
2,682.9
2,293.0
113.8
8.4
160.4
2,575.6
119.1
120.6
(578.2)
(638.9)
—
—
698.2
$ 119.1
(0.8)
$ 120.0
—
11.8
107.3
—
$ 107.3
82.8%
87.6%
13.6%
9.9%
9.9%
90.9%
95.7%
83.6%
196.6%
85.9%
13.4%
(46.0)%
9.5%
91.3%
95.4%
82.6%
89.6%
12.2%
8.1%
8.1%
91.8%
95.5%
Operating Revenue
Premium Income
Individual Disability
Long-term Care
All Other
Total Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Other Income
Total
Benefits and Expenses
Commissions
Interest and Debt Expense
Other Expenses
Total
Income (Loss) Before Income Tax and Net Realized
Investment Gains and Losses
Long-term Care Reserve Increase
Operating Income
Interest Adjusted Loss Ratios:
Individual Disability
Long-term Care
Long-term Care Excluding the Reserve Increase
Operating Ratios (% of Premium Income):
Other Expense Ratio
Income (Loss) Ratio
Operating Income Ratio
Persistency:
Individual Disability
Long-term Care
60
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2014
Premium income for individual disability decreased in 2015 compared to 2014 due to expected policy terminations and maturities.
Premium income for long-term care increased slightly due to rate increases and stable persistency. We continue to file requests with
various state insurance departments for premium rate increases on certain of our individual and group long-term care policies. The rate
increases reflect current interest rates and claim experience, higher expected future claims, longevity, persistency, and other factors
related to pricing long-term care coverage. In states for which a rate increase is submitted and approved, we routinely provide customers
options for coverage changes or other approaches that might fit their current financial and insurance needs.
Net investment income was higher in 2015 relative to 2014 due to increased invested asset levels and higher miscellaneous investment
income, partially offset by a decrease in yield on invested assets. Other income, which includes the underlying results of certain blocks of
individual disability reinsured business and the net investment income of portfolios held by those ceding companies to support the block we
have reinsured, was lower in 2015 compared to 2014 primarily due to lower investment income on those investment portfolios.
Individual disability benefits experience for 2015 was favorable relative to 2014 primarily due to favorable mortality. Long-term care
benefits experience was favorable in 2015 relative to the prior year due to the 2014 reserve increase, as previously discussed. Excluding
this reserve increase, long-term care benefits experience was unfavorable compared to 2014 due to less favorable development in active
life reserves as a result of higher persistency.
Interest and debt expense in 2015 was lower than 2014 due to principal repayments on the outstanding debt issued by Northwind
Holdings, LLC (Northwind Holdings). The other expense ratio in 2015 was generally consistent with the same period of 2014.
Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2013
Total premium income decreased in 2014 compared to 2013 due to expected policy terminations and maturities. The premium
decrease resulting from persistency trends in the long-term care line of business was partially offset by the favorable impact of premium
rate increases on certain of these policies.
Net investment income was higher in 2014 relative to 2013 due to increased invested asset levels and higher miscellaneous investment
income, partially offset by a decrease in yield on invested assets. Other income was lower in 2014 compared to 2013 primarily due to lower
investment income from the investment portfolios held by the ceding companies.
Individual disability benefits experience for 2014 was unfavorable relative to 2013 due primarily to higher claim incidence rates.
Long-term care benefits experience was unfavorable in 2014 relative to 2013 due to the 2014 reserve increase. Excluding this reserve
increase, long-term care benefits experience was favorable compared to 2013 due to lower claim incidence rates.
Commissions decreased in 2014 compared to 2013 due to a lower level of accrued commissions in 2014 as well as the expected
run-off of these blocks of business. Interest and debt expense in 2014 was lower than 2013 due to principal repayments on the outstanding
debt issued by Northwind Holdings and a decrease in the floating rate of interest. The other expense ratio was higher in 2014 compared to
2013 due to lower premium income and an increase in expenses attributable to our long-term care product line.
Segment Outlook
We intend to continue our focus on operational effectiveness, rate increases, enhancement of our experience analysis tools, and
capital management. We expect operating revenue to decline over time as these closed blocks of business wind down, although we
anticipate additional premium income associated with long-term care rate increases. We also expect a small amount of group long-term
care certificates may continue to be issued where we are required to do so under the terms of existing group policies. We will likely
experience volatility in net investment income due to fluctuations of miscellaneous investment income. We continuously monitor key
indicators to assess our risks and attempt to adjust our business plans accordingly. We expect the low interest rate environment to
continue to place pressure on our earnings and the adequacy of our reserves.
61
Unum 2015 Annual Report Profitability of our long-tailed products is affected by claims experience related to mortality and morbidity, investment returns,
premium rate increases, and persistency. We believe that the interest adjusted loss ratios for the individual disability and long-term care
lines of business will be relatively flat over the long term, but these product lines may continue to experience quarterly volatility,
particularly in the near term for our long-term care product lines as our claim block matures. Claim resolution rates, which measure the
resolution of claims from recovery, deaths, settlements, and benefit expirations, are very sensitive to operational and external factors
and can be volatile. Our claim resolution rate assumption used in determining reserves is our expectation of the resolution rate we will
experience over the life of the block of business and will vary from actual experience in any one period. It is possible that variability in
any of our reserve assumptions, including, but not limited to, interest rates, mortality, morbidity, premium rate increases, benefit change
elections, and persistency, could result in a material impact on the adequacy of our reserves, including adjustments to reserves established
under loss recognition.
Corporate Segment
The Corporate segment includes investment income on corporate assets not specifically allocated to a line of business, interest
expense on corporate debt other than non-recourse debt, and certain other corporate income and expense not allocated to a line of
business.
Operating Results
(in millions of dollars)
Operating Revenue
Net Investment Income
Other Income
Total
Interest and Other Expenses
Operating Loss Including Costs Related
to Early Retirement of Debt
Costs Related to Early Retirement of Debt
Year Ended December 31
2015
% Change
2014
% Change
2013
$ 25.6
(27.5)%
$ 35.3
42.9%
$ 24.7
2.9
28.5
153.3
(124.8)
—
(42.0)
(29.3)
(2.9)
(6.1)
—
5.0
40.3
157.9
(35.1)
24.4
7.1
7.7
32.4
147.5
(117.6)
(2.2)
(115.1)
13.2
—
9.3
—
$(115.1)
Operating Loss
$(124.8)
(19.5)
$(104.4)
Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2014
Net investment income was lower in 2015 relative to 2014 due primarily to lower levels of invested assets.
Interest and other expenses decreased in 2015 relative to 2014 due to $13.2 million of costs incurred in 2014 related to the early
retirement of a portion of the debt issued by one of our U.K. subsidiaries. The remaining balance on the debt matured in 2015. Partially
offsetting this favorable year over year comparison were higher legal expenses incurred during 2015.
Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2013
Net investment income increased in 2014 relative to 2013 due to higher levels of invested assets, partially offset by a decrease in
yield on invested assets. Other income declined in 2014 relative to 2013 due primarily to the recognition of income in 2013 related to a
settlement of an appeal to the IRS for tax years 2005 to 2006.
Interest and other expenses were higher in 2014 compared to 2013 due to the costs related to the 2014 early retirement of debt and
due to increased interest expense on debt, partially offset by a higher level of retirement-related costs allocated from Corporate to our other
segments.
62
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Segment Outlook
We expect the low interest rate environment, as well as holding lower levels of assets in this segment, to continue to place pressure
on investment income. We are currently holding capital at our insurance subsidiaries and holding companies at levels that exceed our
long-term requirements, and we expect to continue to generate excess capital on an annual basis through our statutory earnings. While we
intend to maintain our disciplined approach to risk management, we believe we are well positioned with substantial flexibility to preserve
our capital strength and at the same time explore opportunities to deploy the excess capital that is generated.
Investments
Overview
Our investment portfolio is well diversified by type of investment and industry sector. We have established an investment strategy
that we believe will provide for adequate cash flows from operations and allow us to hold our securities through periods where significant
decreases in fair value occur. We believe our emphasis on risk management in our investment portfolio, including credit and interest rate
management, has positioned us well and generally reduced the volatility in our results.
Below is a summary of our formal investment policy, including the overall quality and diversification objectives:
• The majority of investments are in high quality publicly traded securities to ensure the desired liquidity and preserve the capital
value of our portfolios.
• The long-term nature of our insurance liabilities also allows us to invest in less liquid investments to obtain superior returns. A maximum
of 10 percent of the total investment portfolio may be invested in below-investment-grade securities, 2 percent in equity securities,
3 percent in tax credit partnerships, 35 percent in private placements, and 10 percent in commercial mortgage loans. The remaining
assets can be held in publicly traded investment-grade corporate securities, mortgage/asset backed securities, bank loans,
government and government agency securities, and municipal securities.
• We intend to manage the risk of losses due to changes in interest rates by matching asset duration with liabilities, in the aggregate.
• The weighted average credit quality rating of the portfolio should be Baa1 or higher.
• The maximum investment per issuer group is limited based on internal limits reviewed by the risk and finance committee of Unum
Group’s board of directors and approved by the boards of directors of our insurance subsidiaries and is more restrictive than the
five percent limit generally allowed by the state insurance departments which regulate the type of investments our insurance
subsidiaries are allowed to own. These internal limits are as follows:
Rating
AAA/AA
A
BBB+
BBB
BBB-
BB+
BB
BB-
B+
B/B-
CCC
Internal Limit
($ in millions)
$200
175
150
125
90
75
60
50
30
20
10
• The portfolio is to be diversified across industry classification and geographic lines.
• Derivative instruments may be used to replicate permitted asset classes, hedge interest rate risk, credit risk, and foreign currency
risk, and match liability duration and cash flows consistent with the plan reviewed by the risk and finance committee of Unum
Group’s board of directors and approved by the boards of directors of our insurance subsidiaries.
63
Unum 2015 Annual Report
• Asset mix guidelines and limits are established by us, reviewed by the risk and finance committee of Unum Group’s board of
directors, and approved by the boards of directors of our insurance subsidiaries.
• The allocation of assets and the selection and timing of the acquisition and disposition of investments are subject to ratification, on a
weekly basis, by an investment subcommittee appointed by the boards of directors of our insurance subsidiaries. These actions are
also reviewed by the risk and finance committee of Unum Group’s board of directors on a quarterly basis.
• We review these investment policies and guidelines annually, or more frequently if deemed necessary, and recommend
adjustments, as appropriate. Any revisions or exceptions are reviewed by the risk and finance committee of Unum Group’s board of
directors and must be approved by the boards of directors of our insurance subsidiaries.
See “Critical Accounting Estimates” contained herein for further discussion of our valuation of investments.
Fixed Maturity Securities
The fair values and associated unrealized gains and losses of our fixed maturity securities portfolio, by industry classification,
are as follows:
Fixed Maturity Securities — By Industry Classification
As of December 31, 2015
(in millions of dollars)
Classification
Basic Industry
Capital Goods
Communications
Consumer Cyclical
Consumer Non-Cyclical
Energy
Financial Institutions
Mortgage/Asset-Backed
Sovereigns
Technology
Transportation
U.S. Government Agencies and Municipalities
Public Utilities
Total
Fair Value of
Fixed Maturity
Securities
with Gross
Net
Unrealized
Gain (Loss) Unrealized Loss
Gross
Unrealized
Loss
Fair Value of
Fixed Maturity
Securities
with Gross
Unrealized Gain
Gross
Unrealized
Gain
Fair Value
$ 2,401.0
$ 68.2
$ 849.8
$ 79.8
$ 1,551.2
$ 148.0
3,977.7
2,979.4
1,480.7
6,037.1
5,011.5
3,299.4
2,481.5
1,051.6
1,325.9
1,705.9
3,582.3
8,020.4
370.7
285.6
108.1
566.0
(51.4)
284.8
162.9
154.4
38.5
178.6
488.2
1,041.1
616.2
600.9
341.6
1,026.3
1,994.3
373.7
513.3
—
578.8
338.5
329.1
418.7
27.7
34.7
14.1
41.1
372.6
6.4
4.7
—
18.5
13.9
12.5
16.3
3,361.5
2,378.5
1,139.1
5,010.8
3,017.2
2,925.7
1,968.2
1,051.6
747.1
1,367.4
3,253.2
7,601.7
398.4
320.3
122.2
607.1
321.2
291.2
167.6
154.4
57.0
192.5
500.7
1,057.4
$43,354.4
$3,695.7
$7,981.2
$642.3
$35,373.2
$4,338.0
64
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
The following two tables show the length of time our investment-grade and below-investment-grade fixed maturity securities had
been in a gross unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2015 and at the end of the prior four quarters. The relationships of the current
fair value to amortized cost are not necessarily indicative of the fair value to amortized cost relationships for the securities throughout the
entire time that the securities have been in an unrealized loss position nor are they necessarily indicative of the relationships after
December 31, 2015. The increase in the unrealized loss on fixed maturity securities during 2015 was due primarily to an increase in both
U.S. Treasury rates and credit spreads which occurred during the period.
Unrealized Loss on Investment-Grade Fixed Maturity Securities
Length of Time in Unrealized Loss Position
(in millions of dollars)
December 31
September 30
June 30
March 31
December 31
2015
2014
Fair Value < 100% >= 70% of Amortized Cost
$ 3.0
$23.2
<= 90 days
> 90 <= 180 days
> 180 <= 270 days
> 270 days <= 1 year
> 1 year <= 2 years
> 2 years <= 3 years
> 3 years
Subtotal
Fair Value < 70% >= 40% of Amortized Cost
> 90 <= 180 days
> 180 <= 270 days
> 1 year <= 2 years
Subtotal
Total
$ 73.2
56.0
157.9
24.9
17.3
9.7
2.9
$ 34.0
108.4
$103.9
15.6
17.2
15.5
0.1
10.2
0.1
8.7
0.1
0.6
11.9
0.1
5.7
—
—
7.4
1.3
0.1
341.9
185.5
140.9
17.5
3.8
11.1
3.6
18.5
9.0
—
—
9.0
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
0.7
0.1
—
20.4
2.2
0.9
47.5
—
—
—
—
$360.4
$194.5
$140.9
$17.5
$47.5
65
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Unrealized Loss on Below-Investment-Grade Fixed Maturity Securities
Length of Time in Unrealized Loss Position
(in millions of dollars)
December 31
September 30
June 30
March 31
December 31
2015
2014
Fair Value < 100% >= 70% of Amortized Cost
<= 90 days
> 90 <= 180 days
> 180 <= 270 days
> 270 days <= 1 year
> 1 year <= 2 years
> 2 years <= 3 years
> 3 years
Subtotal
Fair Value < 70% >= 40% of Amortized Cost
<= 90 days
> 90 <= 180 days
> 180 <= 270 days
> 270 days <= 1 year
> 1 year <= 2 years
> 2 years <= 3 years
> 3 years
Subtotal
Fair Value <= 40% of Amortized Cost
> 180 <= 270 days
> 270 days <= 1 year
> 1 year <= 2 years
> 2 years <= 3 years
Subtotal
Total
$ 10.2
$ 36.4
$21.7
50.8
51.1
1.3
34.5
15.0
5.3
58.7
3.7
14.1
21.8
16.4
8.6
168.2
159.7
—
9.6
21.6
4.1
21.8
7.6
5.0
69.7
20.4
—
10.3
13.3
44.0
—
6.3
—
20.8
1.9
8.9
0.2
38.1
—
—
—
—
—
1.2
15.9
11.5
1.6
9.4
5.9
67.2
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
7.8
—
—
7.8
$ 2.5
29.1
15.5
—
9.1
0.4
3.2
59.8
—
8.0
4.6
—
—
—
—
12.6
—
—
—
—
—
$20.2
31.4
—
—
12.8
0.4
5.7
70.5
6.8
—
—
—
—
—
—
6.8
—
—
—
—
—
$281.9
$197.8
$75.0
$72.4
$77.3
The following table shows our fixed maturity securities with a gross unrealized loss of $10.0 million or greater, by industry type.
We held no securities at December 31, 2015 with a gross unrealized loss of $20.0 million or greater.
Gross Unrealized Losses $10.0 Million or Greater on Fixed Maturity Securities
As of December 31, 2015
(in millions of dollars)
Classification
Investment-Grade
Basic Industry
Energy
Total
Below-Investment-Grade
Energy
66
Gross
Number of
Fair Value
Unrealized Loss
Issuers
$ 35.7
267.0
$302.7
$11.8
59.2
$71.0
$120.7
$86.7
1
5
6
6
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
During 2015, we recognized an other-than-temporary impairment loss of $10.3 million on fixed maturity securities issued by a large
U.S.-based coal company. At the time of the impairment loss, the company had a high debt-to-equity ratio, and its projected liquidity had
decreased significantly as a result of the declines in coal prices and the likelihood that prices may stay at depressed levels for an extended
period of time. The company has assets it can sell, but liquidation may be difficult in the current environment. At the time of the
impairment loss, these securities had been in an unrealized loss position for a period of greater than one year but less than two years.
During 2014, we recognized an other-than-temporary impairment loss of $13.5 million on fixed maturity securities issued by a U.S.-
based oil and natural gas exploration and production company. At the time of the impairment loss, the company had a high debt-to-equity
ratio, and its projected liquidity had decreased significantly as a result of the declines in oil and natural gas prices. At the time of the
impairment loss, these securities had been in an unrealized loss position for a period of greater than 90 days but less than 180 days.
We had no individual realized investment losses of $10.0 million or greater from other-than-temporary impairments during 2013 and
no individual realized investment losses of $10.0 million or greater from the sale of fixed maturity securities during 2015, 2014, or 2013.
At December 31, 2015, we had minimal exposure to investments for which the payment of interest and principal is guaranteed under
a financial guaranty insurance policy, and the securities in aggregate have a weighted average credit rating of investment-grade absent the
guaranty insurance policy. At December 31, 2015, we held $142.5 million fair value ($129.3 million amortized cost) of perpetual debentures,
or “hybrid” securities, that generally have no fixed maturity date. Interest on these securities due on any payment date may be deferred by
the issuer. The interest payments are generally deferrable only to the extent that the issuer has suspended dividends or other distributions
or payments to any of its shareholders or any other perpetual debt instrument.
At December 31, 2015, our mortgage/asset-backed securities had an average life of 5.17 years, effective duration of 6.03 years, and a
weighted average credit rating of Aaa. The mortgage/asset-backed securities are valued on a monthly basis using valuations supplied by
the brokerage firms that are dealers in these securities as well as independent pricing services. One of the risks involved in investing in
mortgage/asset-backed securities is the uncertainty of the timing of cash flows from the underlying loans due to prepayment of principal
with the possibility of reinvesting the funds in a lower interest rate environment. We use models which incorporate economic variables and
possible future interest rate scenarios to predict future prepayment rates. The timing of prepayment cash flows may also cause volatility in
our recognition of investment income. We recognize investment income on these securities using a constant effective yield based on
projected prepayments of the underlying loans and the estimated economic life of the securities. Actual prepayment experience is
reviewed periodically, and effective yields are recalculated when differences arise between prepayments originally projected and the
actual prepayments received and currently projected. The effective yield is recalculated on a retrospective basis, and the adjustment is
reflected in net investment income.
We have no exposure to subprime mortgages, “Alt-A” loans, or collateralized debt obligations in our investment portfolios. We have
not invested in mortgage-backed derivatives, such as interest-only, principal-only, or residuals, where market values can be highly volatile
relative to changes in interest rates. The credit quality of our mortgage-backed securities portfolio has not been negatively impacted by the
issues in the market concerning subprime mortgage loans. The change in value of our mortgage-backed securities portfolio has moved in
line with that of prime agency-backed mortgage-backed securities.
As of December 31, 2015, the amortized cost and fair value of our below-investment-grade fixed maturity securities was $3,506.4 million
and $3,298.1 million, respectively. Below-investment-grade securities are inherently more risky than investment-grade securities
since the risk of default by the issuer, by definition and as exhibited by bond rating, is higher. Also, the secondary market for certain
below-investment-grade issues can be highly illiquid. Additional downgrades may occur, but we do not anticipate any liquidity problems
resulting from our investments in below-investment-grade securities, nor do we expect these investments to adversely affect our ability
to hold our other investments to maturity.
67
Unum 2015 Annual Report Our investments in issuers in foreign countries are chosen for specific portfolio management purposes, including asset and liability
management and portfolio diversification across geographic lines and sectors to minimize non-market risks. In our approach to investing in
fixed maturity securities, specific investments within approved countries and industry sectors are evaluated for their market position and
specific strengths and potential weaknesses. For each security, we consider the political, legal, and financial environment of the sovereign
entity in which an issuer is domiciled and operates. The country of domicile is based on consideration of the issuer’s headquarters, in
addition to location of the assets and the country in which the majority of sales and earnings are derived. We do not have exposure to
foreign currency risk, as the cash flows from these investments are either denominated in currencies or hedged into currencies to match
the related liabilities. We continually evaluate our foreign investment risk exposure. Our monitoring is heightened for investments in certain
countries due to our concerns over the current economic and political environments, and we believe these investments are more
vulnerable to potential credit problems. At December 31, 2015, we had minimal exposure in those countries and had no direct exposure to
financial institutions of those countries.
Fixed Maturity Securities — Energy Sector
Our investment portfolio has exposure to companies whose businesses are negatively impacted by lower oil and natural gas prices.
These include exploration and production companies, refineries, midstream and pipeline companies, and oilfield service businesses. The sharp
drop in the price of oil is putting pressure on the earnings and cash flows of some of these businesses. The degree to which a business is
affected by oil and gas prices can vary greatly depending on, among other things, its energy subsector, exposure to different types of oil
and gas within a subsector, geographic locations, cost structure flexibility, capital structure, and hedging policies. At December 31, 2015,
approximately one-third of our exposure to the energy sector was represented by the independent and oilfield subsectors where demand
for products is highly correlated with oil and gas prices. The remaining two-thirds of our exposure to the energy sector was represented by
the midstream, integrated, refining, and other energy subsectors, which tend to be more correlated to product volume sales as opposed
to the commodity price. The majority of our energy sector holdings are investment-grade fixed maturity securities. At December 31, 2015,
the fair value of investment-grade fixed maturity securities in the energy sector was $4,486.4 million, with a gross unrealized gain of
$321.2 million and a gross unrealized loss of $182.9 million. The fair value of below-investment-grade fixed maturity securities in the
energy sector was $525.1 million, with a gross unrealized loss of $189.7 million.
We perform sensitivity analysis on all energy-related investments in our portfolios, using different oil and gas price scenarios, and we
continue to closely monitor this situation. While downgrades and impairments may occur, we currently believe that the impact would not
materially alter our financial position or capital plans. If oil prices were to remain at the current depressed levels for a period of several
years, we would expect losses on these investments to increase. The following table shows additional information related to our holdings
in the energy sector.
Fixed Maturity Securities — Energy Sector
At December 31, 2015
(in millions of dollars)
Classification by Subsector
Midstream
Oil and Gas-Independent
Oilfield
Oil-Integrated
Oil-Refining
Other Energy
Total
68
Fair Value of
Fixed Maturity
Securities
with Gross
Net
Unrealized
Gain (Loss) Unrealized Loss
Gross
Unrealized
Loss
Fair Value of
Fixed Maturity
Securities
with Gross
Unrealized Gain
Gross
Unrealized
Gain
$(49.5)
$ 982.4
$143.0
$1,163.2
$ 93.5
(94.1)
(20.8)
112.0
2.5
(1.5)
663.5
133.9
90.7
75.3
48.5
181.5
30.1
6.9
9.6
1.5
830.8
66.7
759.8
196.7
—
87.4
9.3
118.9
12.1
—
Fair Value
$2,145.6
1,494.3
200.6
850.5
272.0
48.5
$5,011.5
$(51.4)
$1,994.3
$372.6
$3,017.2
$321.2
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Mortgage Loans
Our mortgage loan portfolio was $1,883.6 million and $1,856.6 million on an amortized cost basis at December 31, 2015 and 2014,
respectively. Our mortgage loan portfolio is comprised entirely of commercial mortgage loans. We believe our mortgage loan portfolio is
well diversified geographically and among property types. The incidence of problem mortgage loans and foreclosure activity continues to
be low. Due to conservative underwriting, we expect the level of problem loans to remain low relative to the industry.
We held no impaired mortgage loans at December 31, 2015. We held one impaired mortgage loan at December 31, 2014 that was
carried at the estimated net realizable value of $13.1 million, net of a valuation allowance of $1.5 million.
Derivative Financial Instruments
We use derivative financial instruments primarily to manage reinvestment, duration, foreign currency, and credit risks. Historically, we
have utilized current and forward interest rate swaps and options on forward interest rate swaps and U.S. Treasury rates, current and
forward currency swaps, forward treasury locks, currency forward contracts, forward contracts on specific fixed income securities, and
credit default swaps. Our current credit exposure on derivatives, which is limited to the value of those contracts in a net gain position,
including accrued interest receivable less collateral held, was $8.5 million at December 31, 2015. We held $36.4 million of cash collateral
from our counterparties at December 31, 2015. The carrying value of fixed maturity securities posted as collateral to our counterparties was
$27.3 million at December 31, 2015. We had no cash collateral posted to our counterparties at December 31, 2015. We believe that our
credit risk is mitigated by our use of multiple counterparties, all of which have an investment-grade credit rating, and by our use of cross-
collateralization agreements.
Other
Our exposure to non-current investments, defined as foreclosed real estate and invested assets which are delinquent as to interest
and/or principal payments, totaled $36.8 million and $40.4 million on a fair value basis at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
See Notes 3 and 4 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further discussion of our investments and
our derivative financial instruments.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Overview
Our liquidity requirements are met primarily by cash flows provided from operations, principally in our insurance subsidiaries.
Premium and investment income, as well as maturities and sales of invested assets, provide the primary sources of cash. Debt and/or
securities offerings provide additional sources of liquidity. Cash is applied to the payment of policy benefits, costs of acquiring new
business (principally commissions), operating expenses, and taxes, as well as purchases of new investments.
We have established an investment strategy that we believe will provide for adequate cash flows from operations. We attempt to match
our asset cash flows and durations with expected liability cash flows and durations to meet the funding requirements of our business. However,
deterioration in the credit market may delay our ability to sell our positions in certain of our fixed maturity securities in a timely manner
and adversely impact the price we receive for such securities, which may negatively impact our cash flows. Furthermore, if we experience
defaults on securities held in the investment portfolios of our insurance subsidiaries, this will negatively impact statutory capital, which
could reduce our insurance subsidiaries’ capacity to pay dividends to our holding companies. A reduction in dividends to our holding
companies could force us to seek external financing to avoid impairing our ability to pay dividends to our stockholders or meet our debt
and other payment obligations. As requirements of Dodd-Frank continue to take effect in 2016 and in subsequent years, to the extent that
we enter into derivatives that are subject to centralized exchanges and cleared through a regulated clearinghouse, we may be subject to
stricter collateral requirements which could have an adverse effect on our overall liquidity.
69
Unum 2015 Annual Report Our policy benefits are primarily in the form of claim payments, and we have minimal exposure to the policy withdrawal risk
associated with deposit products such as individual life policies or annuities. A decrease in demand for our insurance products or an
increase in the incidence of new claims or the duration of existing claims could negatively impact our cash flows from operations.
However, our historical pattern of benefits paid to revenues is consistent, even during cycles of economic downturns, which serves to
minimize liquidity risk.
Cash equivalents and marketable securities held at Unum Group and our intermediate holding companies are a significant source of
liquidity for us and were approximately $475 million and $575 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The December 31,
2015 balance, of which approximately $16.8 million was held in certain of our foreign subsidiaries in the U.K., was comprised primarily of
commercial paper, fixed maturity securities with a current average maturity of 5.7 years, and various money-market funds. No significant
restrictions exist on our ability to use or access these funds. We currently have no intent, nor do we foresee a need, to repatriate funds
from our foreign subsidiaries in the U.K. We believe we hold domestic resources sufficient to fund our liquidity requirements for the next
12 months. If we repatriate additional funds from our subsidiaries in the U.K., the amounts repatriated would be subject to repatriation
tax effects which generally equal the difference in the U.S. tax rate and the U.K. tax rate.
As part of our capital deployment strategy, we have in recent years repurchased shares of Unum Group’s common stock, as authorized
by our board of directors. Our current share repurchase program was approved by our board of directors in May 2015 and authorizes the
repurchase of up to $750 million of common stock through November 2016, with the pace of repurchase activity to depend upon various
factors such as the level of available cash, alternative uses for cash, and our stock price. During 2015, we repurchased 12.3 million shares at
a cost of approximately $427 million. The dollar value of shares remaining under the repurchase program was approximately $502 million
at December 31, 2015. See Note 10 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein.
Cash Available from Subsidiaries
Unum Group and certain of its intermediate holding company subsidiaries depend on payments from subsidiaries to pay dividends to
stockholders, to pay debt obligations, and/or to pay expenses. These payments by our insurance and non-insurance subsidiaries may take
the form of dividends, operating and investment management fees, and/or interest payments on loans from the parent to a subsidiary.
Restrictions under applicable state insurance laws limit the amount of dividends that can be paid to a parent company from its
insurance subsidiaries in any 12-month period without prior approval by regulatory authorities. For life insurance companies domiciled in
the U.S., that limitation generally equals, depending on the state of domicile, either ten percent of an insurer’s statutory surplus with
respect to policyholders as of the preceding year end or the statutory net gain from operations, excluding realized investment gains and
losses, of the preceding year. The payment of dividends to a parent company from a life insurance subsidiary is generally further limited to
the amount of unassigned funds.
Certain of our domestic insurance subsidiaries cede blocks of business to Northwind Reinsurance Company (Northwind Re) and
Fairwind Insurance Company (Fairwind), both of which are affiliated captive reinsurance subsidiaries domiciled in the United States with
Unum Group as the ultimate parent. The ability of Northwind Re and Fairwind to pay dividends to their respective parent companies
will depend on their satisfaction of applicable regulatory requirements and on the performance of the business reinsured by Northwind
Re and Fairwind.
During 2015, Tailwind Reinsurance Company (Tailwind Re), an affiliated captive reinsurance subsidiary domiciled in the United States,
merged with Unum Life Insurance Company of America (Unum America), a domestic insurance subsidiary of Unum Group, with Unum
America remaining as the surviving company. Following the merger, the majority of the block of group long-term disability business
written by Unum America and previously ceded to Tailwind Re was ceded to an unaffiliated reinsurer. Unum America’s capital adequacy
and ability to pay dividends to Unum Group were not materially impacted by this transaction.
70
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report The ability of Unum Group and certain of its intermediate holding company subsidiaries to continue to receive dividends from their
insurance subsidiaries also depends on additional factors such as RBC ratios and capital adequacy and/or solvency requirements, funding
growth objectives at an affiliate level, and maintaining appropriate capital adequacy ratios to support desired ratings. At December 31,
2015, the capital adequacy and individual RBC ratios for each of our U.S. insurance subsidiaries, including our captive reinsurers, is above
the range that would require state regulatory action.
Unum Group and/or certain of its intermediate holding company subsidiaries may also receive dividends from our U.K. subsidiaries,
the payment of which may be subject to applicable insurance company regulations and capital guidance in the U.K. As of January 1, 2016,
Solvency II, a European Union directive that prescribes new capital requirements and risk management standards for the European
insurance industry, replaced the previous capital requirements for Unum Limited. Our European holding company is also subject to the
Solvency II requirements relevant to insurance holding companies, while its subsidiaries (the Unum European Economic Area (EEA) Group),
which includes Unum Limited, are subject to group supervision under Solvency II. The Unum EEA Group received approval from the U.K. PRA
to use its own internal model for calculating regulatory capital and also received approval for certain associated regulatory permissions
including transitional relief as the Solvency II capital regime is implemented. As a result there is no material change to capital requirements
or to solvency ratios for the Unum EEA Group. There remains some uncertainty regarding how Solvency II may impact dividend approvals.
The payment of dividends to the parent company from our subsidiaries also requires the approval of the individual subsidiary’s board
of directors.
The amount available during 2015 for the payment of ordinary dividends from Unum Group’s traditional U.S. insurance subsidiaries,
which excludes our captive reinsurers, was approximately $605 million, of which $594.6 million was declared and paid. The amount available
during 2015 from Unum Limited was approximately £167 million, of which £30.0 million was declared and paid to one of our U.K. holding
companies. During 2015, Northwind Re paid dividends of $79.0 million to Northwind Holdings. Fairwind paid no dividends during 2015.
During 2016, we intend to maintain a level of capital in our U.S. and U.K. insurance subsidiaries above the applicable capital adequacy
requirements and minimum solvency margins. Although we may not utilize the entire amount of available dividends, based on applicable
restrictions under current law, approximately $664 million is available, without prior approval by regulatory authorities, during 2016 for the
payment of dividends from our traditional U.S. insurance subsidiaries, which excludes our captive reinsurers. Approximately £148 million is
available for the payment of dividends from Unum Limited during 2016, subject to regulatory approval.
Insurance regulatory restrictions do not limit the amount of dividends available for distribution from non-insurance subsidiaries except
where the non-insurance subsidiaries are held directly or indirectly by an insurance subsidiary and only indirectly by Unum Group.
Funding for Employee Benefit Plans
We made contributions of $69.8 million and £3.7 million to our U.S. and U.K. defined contribution plans, respectively, in 2015 and
expect to make contributions of approximately $70 million and £4 million during 2016. We made no contributions to our U.S. qualified
defined benefit pension plan or our U.K. defined benefit pension plan during 2015, nor do we expect to make any contributions to either
plan during 2016. We have met all minimum pension funding requirements set forth by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act.
We have estimated our future funding requirements under the Pension Protection Act of 2006 and under applicable U.K. law and do not
believe that any future funding requirements will cause a material adverse effect on our liquidity. See Note 9 of the “Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further discussion of our employee benefit plans.
71
Unum 2015 Annual Report Debt
There are no significant financial covenants associated with any of our outstanding debt obligations. We continually monitor our
compliance with our debt covenants and remain in compliance. We have not observed any current trends that would cause a breach of any
debt covenants.
Purchases and Retirement of Debt
In 2015, we made a debt repayment of $151.9 million at the maturity date of our remaining 6.85% notes due November 2015.
In 2014, we purchased and retired $145.0 million principal of the 6.85% notes, including a make-whole amount of $13.2 million,
for a total cost of $158.2 million.
In 2013, we purchased and retired the outstanding principal of $62.5 million on the floating rate, senior secured non-recourse notes
issued by Tailwind Holdings, resulting in a before-tax gain of $4.0 million.
Northwind Holdings made principal payments on its floating rate, senior secured notes of $74.4 million, $41.6 million, and $60.0 million
in 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.
Issuance of Debt
In 2015, we issued $275.0 million of unsecured senior notes in a public offering. These notes, due 2025, bear interest at a fixed rate
of 3.875% and are payable semi-annually. The notes are callable at or above par and rank equally in right of payment with all of our other
unsecured and unsubordinated debt.
In 2014, we issued $350.0 million of unsecured senior notes in a public offering. These notes, due 2024, bear interest at a fixed rate
of 4.00% and are payable semi-annually. The notes are callable at or above par and rank equally in right of payment with all of our other
unsecured and unsubordinated debt.
Credit Facility
In 2013, we entered into a five-year, $400 million unsecured revolving credit facility. Under the terms of the agreement, we may
request that the credit facility be increased up to $600 million. Borrowings under the credit facility are for general corporate uses and are
subject to financial covenants, negative covenants, and events of default that are customary. The credit facility provides for borrowing at an
interest rate based either on the prime rate or LIBOR. In addition, the credit facility provides for the issuance of letters of credit subject to
certain terms and limitations. At December 31, 2015, letters of credit totaling $2.1 million had been issued from the credit facility, but there
was no borrowed amount outstanding. Our credit facility’s financial covenants contain provisions regarding our leverage and net worth. We
do not anticipate any violation of these covenants. However, if economic conditions worsen and we incur unexpected losses, we could
violate certain of the financial covenants imposed by the credit facility and lose access to available funds or lines of credit through the
facility. While maintenance of the unsecured, revolving credit facility provides a valuable source of contingent liquidity, we believe
operating cash flows are sufficient to support our short-term liquidity needs.
Shelf Registration
We filed a shelf registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2014 to issue various types of securities, including
common stock, preferred stock, debt securities, depository shares, stock purchase contracts, units and warrants, or preferred securities of
wholly-owned finance trusts. The shelf registration enables us to raise funds from the offering of any securities covered by the shelf
registration as well as any combination thereof, subject to market conditions and our capital needs.
See Note 8 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for additional information on our debt.
72
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report Commitments
The following table summarizes contractual obligations and our reinsurance recoverable by period as of December 31, 2015:
(in millions of dollars)
Payments Due
Short-term Debt
Long-term Debt
Policyholder Liabilities
Pension and OPEB
Payables for Collateral on Investments
Miscellaneous Liabilities
Operating Leases
Purchase Obligations
Total
Receipts Due
Total
In 1 Year
or Less
After 1 Year
up to 3 Years
After 3 Years
up to 5 Years
After 5 Years
$ 364.9
$ 364.9
$
—
$
—
$
—
4,116.3
43,505.6
724.7
417.6
673.0
220.9
307.0
127.0
4,623.9
19.4
365.5
594.8
56.8
299.7
447.6
6,935.5
620.3
5,415.9
38.3
52.1
21.8
61.5
7.3
37.5
—
10.3
36.8
—
2,921.4
26,530.3
629.5
—
46.1
65.8
—
$50,330.0
$6,452.0
$7,564.1
$6,120.8
$30,193.1
Reinsurance Recoverable
$ 7,703.8
$ 313.2
$ 586.6
$ 602.0
$ 6,202.0
Short-term and long-term debt includes contractual principal and interest payments and therefore exceeds the amount shown in the
consolidated balance sheets.
Policyholder liability maturities and the related reinsurance recoverable represent the projected payout of the current in-force
policyholder liabilities and the expected cash inflows from reinsurers for liabilities ceded and therefore incorporate uncertainties as to
the timing and amount of claim payments. We utilize extensive liability modeling to project future cash flows from the in-force business.
The primary assumptions used to project future cash flows are claim incidence rates for mortality and morbidity, claim resolution rates,
persistency rates, and interest rates. These cash flows are discounted to determine the current value of the projected claim payments.
The timing and amount of payments on policyholder liabilities may vary significantly from the projections above.
Pensions and OPEB commitments represent the expected benefit payments related to our U.S. non-qualified defined benefit pension
and other postretirement benefit plans as it is our policy to pay those benefits, as incurred, from our general assets. Our funding policy for
our U.S. qualified defined benefit and our U.K. defined benefit pension plans is to make only contributions necessary to meet minimum
funding requirements under U.S. and U.K. legislation. We do not currently expect to make any contributions to either of these plans and
therefore have not included amounts in the preceding chart. However, to the extent contributions are required, we will make the necessary
contributions to these plans.
Payables for collateral on investments include obligations to return unrestricted cash collateral to our securities lending and derivative
counterparties and obligations to repay advances from regional Federal Home Loan Banks (FHLBs). The amounts presented in the preceding
chart include contractual interest payments and therefore exceed what is reported in the consolidated balance sheets.
Miscellaneous liabilities include commissions due and accrued, deferred compensation liabilities, state premium taxes payable,
amounts due to reinsurance companies, legally binding commitments to fund investments, and various other liabilities that represent
contractual obligations. Obligations where the timing of the payment is uncertain are included in the one year or less category.
See “Critical Accounting Estimates” and Notes 3, 4, 6, 8, 9, and 14 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein
for additional information on our various commitments and obligations.
73
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Operating leases include noncancelable obligations on certain office space, equipment, and software. Purchase obligations include
commitments of $291.5 million to fund certain of our investments. These are included in the preceding table based on the expiration date
of the commitments. The funds are due upon satisfaction of contractual notice from appropriate external parties and may or may not be
funded. Also included are obligations with outside parties for computer data processing services, software maintenance agreements, and
consulting services. The aggregate obligation remaining under these agreements was $14.3 million at December 31, 2015.
As part of our regular investing strategy, we receive collateral from unaffiliated third parties through transactions which include both
securities lending and also short-term agreements to purchase securities with the agreement to resell them at a later specified date. For
both types of transactions, we require that a minimum of 102 percent of the fair value of the securities loaned or securities purchased
under repurchase agreements be maintained as collateral. Generally, cash is received as collateral under these agreements. In the event
that securities are received as collateral, we are not permitted to sell or re-post them. We also post our fixed maturity securities as collateral
to unaffiliated third parties through transactions including both securities lending and also short-term agreements to sell securities with the
agreement to repurchase them at a later specified date. See “Transfers of Financial Assets” as follows for further discussion.
To help limit the credit exposure of derivatives, we enter into master netting agreements with our counterparties whereby contracts in
a gain position can be offset against contracts in a loss position. We also typically enter into bilateral, cross-collateralization agreements
with our counterparties to help limit the credit exposure of the derivatives. These agreements require the counterparty in a loss position to
submit acceptable collateral with the other counterparty in the event the net loss position meets or exceeds an agreed upon amount. Our
current credit exposure on derivatives, which is limited to the value of those contracts in a net gain position, including accrued interest
receivable less collateral held, was $8.5 million at December 31, 2015. We held cash collateral from our counterparties of $36.4 million at
December 31, 2015 and had posted fixed maturity securities with a carrying value of $27.3 million as collateral to our counterparties.
See Notes 3, 4, and 14 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for additional information.
Transfers of Financial Assets
Our investment policy permits us to lend fixed maturity securities to unaffiliated financial institutions in short-term securities lending
agreements, which increases our investment income with minimal risk. We account for all of our securities lending agreements and
repurchase agreements as secured borrowings. We had $29.0 million of securities lending agreements outstanding which were
collateralized by cash at December 31, 2015 and were reported as payables for collateral on investments in our consolidated balance
sheets. The cash received as collateral was reinvested in short-term investments. The average balance during the year ended December 31,
2015 was $33.1 million, and the maximum amount outstanding at any month end was $52.1 million. In addition, at December 31, 2015, we
had $159.3 million of off-balance sheet securities lending agreements which were collateralized by securities that we were neither
permitted to sell nor control. The average balance of these off-balance sheet transactions during the year ended December 31, 2015 was
$165.2 million, and the maximum amount outstanding at any month end was $208.7 million.
We had no repurchase agreements outstanding at December 31, 2015. The average balance during the year ended December 31,
2015 was $1.4 million, and the maximum amount outstanding at any month end was $12.3 million. Our use of repurchase agreements and
securities lending agreements can fluctuate during any given period and will depend on our liquidity position, the availability of long-term
investments that meet our purchasing criteria, and our general business needs.
Certain of our U.S. insurance subsidiaries are members of regional FHLBs. During 2015, we made initial common stock membership
purchases and obtained funding advances of $350.0 million for the purpose of purchasing fixed maturity securities.
See Note 3 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for additional information.
74
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report Consolidated Cash Flows
(in millions of dollars)
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
Net Cash Used by Investing Activities
Net Cash Used by Financing Activities
Net Increase in Cash and Bank Deposits
Operating Cash Flows
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$1,292.1
(713.0)
(568.7)
$1,223.6
$1,031.5
(886.6)
(328.6)
(419.2)
(595.5)
$ 10.4
$ 8.4
$ 16.8
Operating cash flows are primarily attributable to the receipt of premium and investment income, offset by payments of claims,
commissions, expenses, and income taxes. Premium income growth is dependent not only on new sales, but on policy renewals and
growth of existing business, renewal price increases, and persistency. Investment income growth is dependent on the growth in the
underlying assets supporting our insurance reserves and capital and on the earned yield. The level of commissions and operating expenses
is attributable to the level of sales and the first year acquisition expenses associated with new business as well as the maintenance of
existing business. The level of paid claims is affected partially by the growth and aging of the block of business and also by the general
economy, as previously discussed in the operating results by segment.
The variance in the change in insurance reserves and liabilities to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities
as reported in our consolidated statements of cash flows for 2014 was due primarily to the 2014 reserve increase for our long-term care
line of business.
Investing Cash Flows
Investing cash inflows consist primarily of the proceeds from the sales and maturities of investments. Investing cash outflows consist
primarily of payments for purchases of investments. Our investment strategy is to match the cash flows and durations of our assets with
the cash flows and durations of our liabilities to meet the funding requirements of our business. When market opportunities arise we may
sell selected securities and reinvest the proceeds to improve the yield and credit quality of our portfolio, as was the case during 2013 when
we sold lower yielding fixed maturity securities to take advantage of the higher interest rate environment by reinvesting the proceeds into
higher yielding mortgage-backed and corporate securities with a higher credit quality. We may at times also sell selected securities and
reinvest the proceeds to improve the duration matching of our assets and liabilities and/or re-balance our portfolio. As a result, sales before
maturity may vary from period to period. The sale and purchase of short-term investments is influenced by our securities lending program
and by the amount of cash which is at times held in short-term investments to facilitate the availability of cash to fund the purchase of
appropriate long-term investments and/or to fund our capital deployment program. Our cash flows for 2015 include the proceeds received
from our FHLB funding advances and the subsequent deployment of those funds to purchase fixed maturity securities.
See Notes 3, 4, and 13 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further information.
75
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Financing Cash Flows
Financing cash flows consist primarily of borrowings and repayments of debt, issuance or repurchase of common stock, and dividends
paid to stockholders.
During 2015, we repaid $151.9 million principal upon maturity of our 6.85% notes. During 2014, we retired $145.0 million principal of
the 6.85% notes, including a make-whole amount of $13.2 million, for a total cash outflow of $158.2 million. During 2015, 2014, and 2013
we made principal payments of $74.4 million, $41.6 million, and $60.0 million, respectively, on our senior secured non-recourse notes
issued by Northwind Holdings. During 2013, we purchased and retired the outstanding principal of $62.5 million on our floating rate,
senior secured non-recourse notes issued by Tailwind Holdings for $56.2 million.
During 2015, we issued $275.0 million of 3.875% unsecured 10-year senior notes in a public offering and received proceeds of
$271.4 million, excluding the associated debt issuance costs and discounts. During 2014, we issued $350.0 million of 4.00% unsecured
10-year senior notes in a public offering and received proceeds of $347.2 million, excluding the associated debt issuance costs and
discounts.
Cash used to repurchase shares of Unum Group’s common stock during 2015, 2014, and 2013 was $417.9 million, $306.0 million,
and $317.2 million, respectively. During 2015, 2014, and 2013 we paid dividends of $174.2 million, $159.4 million, and $146.5 million,
respectively, to holders of Unum Group’s common stock.
See “Debt” and Notes 8 and 10 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further information.
Ratings
AM Best, Fitch, Moody’s, and S&P are among the third parties that assign issuer credit ratings to Unum Group and financial strength
ratings to our insurance subsidiaries. We compete based in part on the financial strength ratings provided by rating agencies. A downgrade
of our financial strength ratings can be expected to adversely affect us and could potentially, among other things, adversely affect our
relationships with distributors of our products and services and retention of our sales force, negatively impact persistency and new sales,
particularly large case group sales and individual sales, and generally adversely affect our ability to compete. A downgrade in the issuer
credit rating assigned to Unum Group can be expected to adversely affect our cost of capital or our ability to raise additional capital.
76
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsUnum 2015 Annual Report The table below reflects the outlook as well as the issuer credit ratings for Unum Group and the financial strength ratings for each of
our traditional insurance subsidiaries as of the date of this filing.
Outlook
Issuer Credit Ratings
Financial Strength Ratings
Provident Life and Accident
Provident Life and Casualty
Unum Life of America
First Unum Life
Colonial Life & Accident
Paul Revere Life
Unum Insurance Company
Unum Limited
NR = not rated
AM Best
Stable
bbb
A
A
A
A
A
A
B++
NR
Fitch
Stable
BBB
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
NR
Moody’s
Stable
Baa2
A2
NR
A2
A2
A2
A2
A2
NR
S&P
Stable
BBB
A
NR
A
A
A
A
NR
A-
We maintain an ongoing dialogue with the four rating agencies that evaluate us in order to inform them of progress we are making
regarding our strategic objectives and financial plans as well as other pertinent issues. A significant component of our communications
involves our annual review meeting with each of the four agencies. We hold other meetings throughout the year regarding our business,
including, but not limited to, quarterly updates.
Moody’s, Fitch, and S&P affirmed their ratings for our domestic insurance subsidiaries and issuer credit rating for Unum Group during
2015. AM Best affirmed its ratings during 2014. There were no changes in any of the rating agencies’ outlook statements or ratings during
2015 or in 2016 prior to the date of this filing.
Agency ratings are not directed toward the holders of our securities and are not recommendations to buy, sell, or hold our securities.
Each rating is subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating organization, and each rating should be regarded as an
independent assessment, not conditional on any other rating. Given the dynamic nature of the ratings process, changes by these or other
rating agencies may or may not occur in the near-term. Based on our ongoing dialogue with the rating agencies concerning our insurance
risk profile, our financial flexibility, our operating performance, and the quality of our investment portfolio, we do not expect any negative
actions from any of the four rating agencies related to either Unum Group’s current issuer credit ratings or the financial strength ratings of
our insurance subsidiaries. However, in the event that we are unable to meet the rating agency specific guideline values to maintain our
current ratings, including but not limited to maintenance of our capital management metrics at the threshold values stated and
maintenance of our financial flexibility and operational consistency, we could be placed on a negative credit watch, with a potential for
a downgrade to both our issuer credit ratings and our financial strength ratings.
See “Ratings” contained in Item 1 and “Risk Factors” contained in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2015, for further discussion.
77
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
We are subject to various market risk exposures, including interest rate risk and foreign exchange rate risk. The following discussion
regarding our risk management activities includes forward-looking statements that involve risk and uncertainties. Estimates of future
performance and economic conditions are reflected assuming certain changes in market rates and prices were to occur (sensitivity
analysis). Caution should be used in evaluating our overall market risk from the information presented below, as actual results may differ.
See “Risk Factors” contained in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015, and “Investments”
and Notes 2, 3, and 4 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” contained herein for further discussion of the qualitative aspects
of market risk, including derivative financial instrument activity.
Interest Rate Risk
Our exposure to interest rate changes results from our holdings of financial instruments such as fixed rate investments, derivatives,
and interest sensitive liabilities. Fixed rate investments include fixed maturity securities, mortgage loans, policy loans, and short-term
investments. Fixed maturity securities include U.S. and foreign government bonds, securities issued by government agencies, public utility
bonds, corporate bonds, mortgage-backed securities, and redeemable preferred stock, all of which are subject to risk resulting from interest
rate fluctuations. Certain of our financial instruments, fixed maturity securities and derivatives, are carried at fair value in our consolidated
balance sheets. The fair value of these financial instruments may be adversely affected by changes in interest rates. A rise in interest rates
may decrease the net unrealized gain related to these financial instruments, but may improve our ability to earn higher rates of return on
new purchases of fixed maturity securities. Conversely, a decline in interest rates may increase the net unrealized gain, but new securities
may be purchased at lower rates of return. Although changes in fair value of fixed maturity securities and derivatives due to changes in
interest rates may impact amounts reported in our consolidated balance sheets, these changes will not cause an economic gain or loss
unless we sell investments, terminate derivative positions, determine that an investment is other than temporarily impaired, or determine
that a derivative instrument is no longer an effective hedge.
Other fixed rate investments, such as mortgage loans and policy loans, are carried at amortized cost and unpaid balances, respectively,
rather than fair value in our consolidated balance sheets. These investments may have fair values substantially higher or lower than the
carrying values reflected in our balance sheets. A change in interest rates could impact our financial position if we sold our mortgage loan
investments at times of low market value. A change in interest rates would not impact our financial position at repayment of policy loans,
as ultimately the cash surrender values or death benefits would be reduced for the carrying value of any outstanding policy loans. Carrying
amounts for short-term investments approximate fair value, and we believe we have minimal interest rate risk exposure from these investments.
We believe that the risk of being forced to liquidate investments or terminate derivative positions is minimal, primarily due to the level
of capital at our insurance subsidiaries, the level of cash and marketable securities at our holding companies, and our investment strategy
which we believe provides for adequate cash flows to meet the funding requirements of our business. We may in certain circumstances,
however, need to sell investments due to changes in regulatory or capital requirements, changes in tax laws, rating agency decisions,
and/or unexpected changes in liquidity needs.
Although our policy benefits are primarily in the form of claim payments and we therefore have minimal exposure to the policy
withdrawal risk associated with deposit products such as individual life policies or annuities, the fair values of liabilities under all insurance
contracts are taken into consideration in our overall management of interest rate risk, which minimizes exposure to changing interest rates
through the matching of investment cash flows with amounts due under insurance contracts. Changes in interest rates and individuals’
behavior affect the amount and timing of asset and liability cash flows. We actively manage our asset and liability cash flow match and our
asset and liability duration match to limit interest rate risk. Due to the long duration of our long-term care product, the timing and/or
amount of our investment cash flows may not match those of our maturing liabilities. We model and test asset and liability portfolios to
improve interest rate risk management and net yields. Testing the asset and liability portfolios under various interest rate and economic
scenarios enables us to choose what we believe to be the most appropriate investment strategy, as well as to limit the risk of disadvantageous
outcomes. We use this analysis in determining hedging strategies and utilizing derivative financial instruments. We use current and forward
interest rate swaps, options on forward interest rate swaps, and forward treasury locks to hedge interest rate risks and to match asset
durations and cash flows with corresponding liabilities.
78
Unum 2015 Annual Report Debt is not carried at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets. If we modify or replace existing debt instruments at current market
rates, we may incur a gain or loss on the transaction. We believe our debt-related risk to changes in interest rates is relatively minimal. In the
near term, we expect that our need for external financing is small, but changes in our business could increase our need.
We measure our financial instruments’ market risk related to changes in interest rates using a sensitivity analysis. This analysis
estimates potential changes in fair values as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 based on a hypothetical immediate increase of 100 basis
points in interest rates from year end levels. The selection of a 100 basis point immediate parallel change in interest rates should not be
construed as our prediction of future market events, but only as an illustration of the potential effect of such an event.
The hypothetical potential changes in fair value of our financial instruments at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are shown as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Assets
Fixed Maturity Securities (1)
Mortgage Loans
Policy Loans, Net of Reinsurance Ceded
Liabilities
Unrealized Adjustment to Reserves, Net of Reinsurance
Ceded and Deferred Acquisition Costs (2)
Short-term Debt
Long-term Debt
Derivatives (1)
Swaps
Embedded Derivative in Modified
Coinsurance Arrangement
(in millions of dollars)
Assets
Fixed Maturity Securities (1)
Mortgage Loans
Policy Loans, Net of Reinsurance Ceded
Liabilities
Unrealized Adjustment to Reserves, Net of Reinsurance
Ceded and Deferred Acquisition Costs (2)
Short-term Debt
Long-term Debt
Derivatives (1)
Swaps
Embedded Derivative in Modified
Coinsurance Arrangement
Notional
Amount of Derivatives
December 31, 2015
Hypothetical
Fair Value
FV + 100 BP
Change in FV
$43,354.4
2,013.9
347.9
$39,917.3
1,914.1
321.5
$(3,437.1)
(99.8)
(26.4)
$(3,344.6)
(366.2)
(2,645.9)
$(1,038.5)
(363.6)
(2,472.4)
$ 2,306.1
2.6
173.5
$1,470.3
$ (0.4)
$ (7.2)
$ (6.8)
(87.6)
(88.1)
(0.5)
Notional
Amount of Derivatives
December 31, 2014
Hypothetical
Fair Value
FV + 100 BP
Change in FV
$45,064.9
2,024.2
339.2
$41,394.8
1,931.3
313.2
$(3,670.1)
(92.9)
(26.0)
$ (5,836.1)
(158.9)
(2,912.6)
$ (3,071.9)
(157.8)
(2,745.6)
$ 2,764.2
1.1
167.0
$1,687.4
$ (64.9)
$ (86.8)
$ (21.9)
(49.9)
(55.6)
(5.7)
(1) These financial instruments are carried at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets. Changes in fair value resulting from changes in interest rates may affect the fair
value at which the item is reported in our consolidated balance sheets. The corresponding offsetting change is reported in other comprehensive income or loss, net of
deferred taxes, except for changes in the fair value of derivatives accounted for as fair value hedges or derivatives not designated as hedging instruments, the offset of
which is reported as a component of net realized investment gain or loss.
(2) The adjustment to reserves and deferred acquisition costs for unrealized investment gains and losses reflects the adjustments to policyholder liabilities and deferred
acquisition costs that would be necessary if the unrealized investment gains and losses related to the fixed maturity securities and derivatives had been realized. Changes
in this adjustment are also reported as a component of other comprehensive income or loss, net of deferred taxes.
79
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
The effect of a change in interest rates on asset prices was determined using a duration implied methodology for corporate bonds and
government and government agency securities whereby the duration of each security was used to estimate the change in price for the
security assuming an increase of 100 basis points in interest rates. The effect of a change in interest rates on the mortgage-backed
securities was estimated using a mortgage analytic system which takes into account the impact of changing prepayment speeds resulting
from a 100 basis point increase in interest rates on the change in price of the mortgage-backed securities. These hypothetical prices were
compared to the actual prices for the period to compute the overall change in market value. The changes in the fair values shown in the
chart above for all other items were determined using discounted cash flow analyses. Because we actively manage our investments and
liabilities, actual changes could be less than those estimated above.
We remain in an environment of low interest rates, which continues to place pressure on our profit margins as we invest cash flows to
support our businesses. We estimate that we will have approximately $2.8 billion of investable cash flows in 2016. Assuming interest rates
and credit spreads remain constant throughout 2016 at the January 2016 market levels, our net investment income would decrease by
approximately $0.6 million in 2016 and $5 million in 2017 as a result of the investment of cash flows at levels below our current expectations.
This interest rate scenario does not give consideration to the effect of other factors which could impact these results, such as changes in the
bond market and changes in hedging strategies and positions, nor does it consider the potential change to our discount rate reserve assumptions
and any mitigating factors such as pricing adjustments. In addition, a continued low or declining interest rate environment may also result in
an increase in the net periodic benefit costs for our pension plans, but we do not believe it would materially affect net income in 2016 or 2017.
Foreign Currency Risk
The functional currency of our U.K. operations is the British pound sterling. We are exposed to foreign currency risk arising from
fluctuations in the British pound sterling to U.S. dollar exchange rates primarily as they relate to the translation of the financial results of our
U.K. operations. Fluctuations in the pound to dollar exchange rate have an effect on our reported financial results. We do not hedge against
the possible impact of this risk. Because we do not actually convert pounds into dollars except for a limited number of transactions, we view
foreign currency translation as a financial reporting issue and not a reflection of operations or profitability in our U.K. operations.
Assuming the pound to dollar exchange rate decreased 10 percent from the December 31, 2015 and 2014 levels, stockholders’ equity
as reported in U.S. dollars would have been lower by approximately $100 million at each of those year end periods. Assuming the pound to
dollar average exchange rate decreased 10 percent from the actual average exchange rates for 2015 and 2014, before-tax operating income,
as reported in U.S. dollars, would have decreased approximately $15 million in each of those two years.
Dividends paid by Unum Limited are generally held at our U.K. finance subsidiary or our U.K. holding company. If these funds are
repatriated to our U.S. holding company, we would at that time be subject to foreign currency risk as the value of the dividend, when
converted into U.S. dollars, would be dependent upon the foreign exchange rate at the time of conversion.
We are also exposed to foreign currency risk related to certain foreign investment securities denominated in local currencies. We use
foreign currency interest rate swaps to hedge or minimize the foreign exchange risk associated with these instruments.
See “Risk Factors” contained in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015, and
“Consolidated Operating Results” and “Unum UK Segment” contained herein for further information concerning foreign currency translation.
Risk Management
Effectively taking and managing risks is essential to the success of our Company. To facilitate this effort, we have a formal Enterprise
Risk Management (ERM) program, with a framework comprising the following key components:
• Risk culture and governance
• Risk appetite policy
• Risk identification and prioritization
• Risk and capital modeling
• Risk management activities
• Risk reporting
80
Unum 2015 Annual Report Our ERM framework is the ongoing system of people, processes, and tools across our Company under which we intend to function
consistently and collectively to identify and assess risks and opportunities, to manage all material risks within our risk appetite, and to
contribute to strategic decision making. With the goal of maximizing shareholder value, the primary objectives of our ERM framework
are to support Unum Group in meeting its operational and financial objectives, maintaining liquidity, optimizing capital, and protecting
franchise value.
Risk Culture and Governance
We employ a decentralized risk management model under which risk-based decisions are made daily on a local level. To achieve
long-term success, we believe risk management must be the responsibility of all employees. The individual and collective decisions of
our employees play a key role in successfully managing our overall risk profile. We strive for a culture of integrity, commitment, and
accountability and we believe these values allow our employees to feel comfortable identifying issues as well as taking ownership for
addressing potential problems.
Our culture is reinforced by our system of risk governance. We employ a multi-layered risk control system. Our three lines of defense
model is depicted below.
1st Line: Own and Manage
2nd Line: Oversee
3rd Line: Independent Assurance
Business processes and procedures
Management committees chartered with
Independent review of
employed throughout the Company
oversight of activities within
ERM framework and
through which management assumes
the 1st and 2nd lines of defense,
risk mitigation
and monitors significant risks
mitigation of substantial exposures,
and management of emerging risks
Business units are primarily responsible for managing their principal risks. Our risk committees and other management committees
serve risk and control functions responsible for providing risk oversight, or the second line of risk control. Our internal audit team provides
periodic independent reviews and assurance activities serving as our third line of risk control.
In addition, our board has an active role, as a whole and through its committees, in overseeing management of our risks. The board is
responsible for managing strategic risk and regularly reviews information regarding our capital, liquidity, and operations, as well as the risks
associated with each. The risk and finance committee of the board is responsible for oversight of our risk management process, including
financial risk, operational risk, and any other risk not specifically assigned to another board committee. It also is responsible for oversight
of risks associated with investments, capital and financing plans and activities, and related financial matters, including matters pertaining
to our Closed Block segment. The audit committee of the board is responsible for oversight of risks relating to financial reporting risk and
certain operational risks. The human capital committee of the board is responsible for oversight of risks relating to our compensation plans
and programs. The regulatory compliance committee of the board is responsible for oversight of risks related to regulatory, compliance,
policy, and legal matters, both current and emerging, and whether of a local, state, federal, or international nature. While each committee
is responsible for evaluating certain risks and overseeing the management of such risks, the entire board is regularly informed through
committee reports about such risks in addition to the risk information it receives directly.
Our executive risk management committee is responsible for overseeing our enterprise-wide risk management program. The chief risk
officer, who is a member of the executive risk management committee, has primary responsibility for our ERM program and is supported by
corporate risk committees and by the risk committees of our operating segments.
Operating segment risk committees for Unum US, Unum UK, Colonial Life, and Closed Block are responsible for oversight of risks specific
to their businesses. These committees are responsible for identifying, measuring, reporting, and managing insurance and operational risks
within their respective areas, consistent with enterprise risk management guidance. Corporate risk committees and other management
committees oversee the operational, global technology services, investment, and capital management risks on a corporate level.
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Unum 2015 Annual Report Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Risk Appetite Policy
Our risk appetite policy describes the types of risks we are willing to take, as well as the amount of enterprise risk exposure we deem
acceptable in pursuit of our goals, with an objective of clearly defining boundaries for our risk-taking activities.
The starting point of our philosophy and approach to our ERM strategy is our corporate strategy. In contrast to many multi-line peer
companies, we do not offer retirement savings, traditional medical benefits, or property and casualty insurance. Our corporate strategy is
focused on providing group, individual, and voluntary benefits, either as stand-alone products or combined with other coverages, that
create comprehensive benefits solutions for employers. We have market leadership positions in the product lines we offer and believe this
combination of focused expertise and experience is a competitive advantage and forms the foundation of our approach to risk management.
We believe our sound and consistent business practices, strong internal compliance program, and comprehensive risk management
strategy enable us to operate efficiently and to identify and address potential areas of risk in our business. We take and manage risks to
achieve our business and strategic objectives, and our risk appetite statement sets boundaries for risk-taking activities that link earnings,
capital, and operational processes, as well as summarizes our most material risk limits and controls. We monitor our risk profile against our
established risk tolerance and limits. Risks falling outside our risk tolerance and limits are reported to the applicable governance group,
where decisions are made pertaining to acceptance of the risk or implementation of remediation plans or corrective actions as deemed
appropriate by that governance group.
Risk Identification and Prioritization
Risk identification and prioritization is an ongoing process, whereby we identify and assess our risk positions and exposures, including
notable risk events. Additionally, we identify emerging risks and analyze how material future risks might affect us. Knowing the potential
risks we face allows us to monitor and manage their potential effects including adjusting our strategies as appropriate and holding capital
levels which provide financial flexibility. Risk and other management committees have primary responsibility for identifying and prioritizing
risks within their respective areas.
We face a wide range of risks, and our continued success depends on our ability to identify and appropriately manage our risk exposures.
For additional information on certain risks that may adversely affect our business, operating results, or financial condition see “Cautionary
Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” contained herein and “Risk Factors” contained in Item 1A of our Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015.
Risk and Capital Modeling
We assess material risks, including how they affect us and how individual risks interrelate, to provide valuable information to
management in order that they may effectively manage our risks. We use qualitative and quantitative approaches to assess existing and
emerging risks and to develop mitigating strategies to limit our exposure to both.
We utilize stress testing and scenario analysis for risk management and to shape our business, financial, and strategic planning
activities. Both are key components of our risk appetite policy and play an important role in monitoring, assessing, managing, and
mitigating our primary risk exposures.
In particular, stress testing of our capital and liquidity management strategies enables us to identify areas of high exposure, assess
mitigating actions, develop contingency plans, and guide decisions around our target capital and liquidity levels. For example, we
periodically perform stress tests on certain categories of assets or liabilities to support development of capital and liquidity risk contingency
plans. These tests help ensure that we have a buffer to support our operations in uncertain times and financial flexibility to respond to
market opportunities. Stress testing is also central to reserve adequacy testing, cash flow testing, and asset and liability management.
In addition, we aim to constantly improve our capital modeling techniques and methodologies that are used to determine a level of
capital that is commensurate with our risk profile and to ensure compliance with evolving regulatory and rating agency requirements. Our
capital modeling reflects appropriate aggregation of risks and diversification benefits resulting from our mix of products and business units.
Our internal capital modeling and allocation aids us in making significant business decisions including strategic planning, capital
management, risk limit determination, reinsurance purchases, hedging activities, asset allocation, pricing, and corporate development.
82
Unum 2015 Annual Report Risk Management Activities
We accept and manage strategic, credit, and insurance risks in accordance with our corporate strategy, investment policy, and annual
business plans. The following fundamental principles are embedded in our risk management efforts across our Company.
• We believe in the benefits of specialization and a focused business strategy. We seek profitable risk-taking in areas where we have
established risk management skills and capabilities.
• We seek to manage our exposure to insurance risk through a combination of prudent underwriting with effective risk selection,
maintaining pricing discipline, sound reserving practices, claims operational effectiveness, and selective use of reinsurance. Detailed
underwriting guidelines and claim policies are tools used to manage our insurance risk exposure. We also monitor exposures against
internally prescribed limits, and we diversify to reduce potential concentration risk and volatility.
• We maintain a detailed set of investment policies and guidelines, including fundamental credit analysis, that are used to manage our
credit risk exposure and diversify our risks across asset classes and issuers.
• Finally, we foster a culture that embeds our corporate values and our code of conduct in our daily operations and preserves our
reputation with customers and other key stakeholders. We monitor a composite set of operational risk metrics that measure
operating effectiveness from the customer perspective.
Risk Reporting
Regular internal and external risk reporting is an integral part of our ERM framework. Internally, ERM reports are a standard part of
our quarterly senior management and board meetings. The reports summarize our existing and emerging risk exposures, as well as report
against the tolerances and limits defined by our risk appetite policy.
Externally, we are subject to a number of regulatory and rating agency risk examinations, and risk reports are often included. Annually,
we file our Own Risk and Solvency Assessment summary report with the applicable insurance regulators for our U.S. insurance subsidiaries.
This report provides strong evidence of the strengths of our ERM framework, measurement approaches, key assumptions utilized in
assessing our risks, and prospective solvency assessments under both normal and stressed conditions. See “Regulation” contained in
Item 1 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015, for additional information regarding the ORSA.
83
Unum 2015 Annual Report Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in millions of dollars)
Assets
Investments
Fixed Maturity Securities — at fair value (amortized cost: $39,658.7; $38,803.4)
Mortgage Loans
Policy Loans
Other Long-term Investments
Short-term Investments
Total Investments
Other Assets
Cash and Bank Deposits
Accounts and Premiums Receivable
Reinsurance Recoverable
Accrued Investment Income
Deferred Acquisition Costs
Goodwill
Property and Equipment
Income Tax Receivable
Other Assets
December 31
2015
2014
As Adjusted
$ 43,354.4
1,883.6
3,395.4
583.0
807.3
$ 45,064.9
1,856.6
3,306.6
545.0
974.3
50,023.7
51,747.4
112.9
1,598.4
4,725.1
702.8
102.5
1,634.7
4,906.4
696.1
2,008.5
1,901.3
230.9
523.9
—
663.5
198.7
531.7
69.5
661.9
Total Assets
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
$ 60,589.7
$ 62,450.2
84
Unum 2015 Annual Report
(in millions of dollars)
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Liabilities
Policy and Contract Benefits
Reserves for Future Policy and Contract Benefits
Unearned Premiums
Other Policyholders’ Funds
Income Tax Payable
Deferred Income Tax
Short-term Debt
Long-term Debt
Payables for Collateral on Investments
Other Liabilities
Total Liabilities
Commitments and Contingent Liabilities — Note 14
Stockholders’ Equity
Common Stock, $0.10 par
Authorized: 725,000,000 shares
Issued: 302,702,811 and 301,834,556 shares
Additional Paid-in Capital
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Retained Earnings
Treasury Stock — at cost: 61,785,466 and 49,524,849 shares
Total Stockholders’ Equity
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
December 31
2015
2014
As Adjusted
$ 1,484.6
43,540.6
384.2
$ 1,529.3
45,929.4
396.6
1,674.6
1,657.8
6.0
91.8
352.4
—
62.0
151.9
2,475.1
2,628.7
415.4
73.8
1,501.1
1,498.8
51,925.8
53,928.3
30.3
30.2
2,247.2
2,221.2
16.1
166.4
7,995.2
7,302.3
(1,624.9)
(1,198.2)
8,663.9
8,521.9
$ 60,589.7
$ 62,450.2
85
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Consolidated Statements of Income
(in millions of dollars, except share data)
Revenue
Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Other-Than-Temporary Impairment Loss on Fixed Maturity Securities
Other Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Other Income
Total Revenue
Benefits and Expenses
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
As Adjusted
$ 8,082.4
$ 7,797.2
$ 7,624.7
2,481.2
2,492.2
2,506.9
(32.4)
(11.4)
(43.8)
211.5
(13.5)
29.6
16.1
219.0
(0.8)
7.6
6.8
230.2
10,731.3
10,524.5
10,368.6
Benefits and Change in Reserves for Future Benefits
6,782.8
7,310.8
6,595.7
996.3
152.8
935.3
167.5
(569.7)
(524.0)
482.3
835.1
813.4
9,493.0
1,238.3
342.1
29.1
371.2
440.8
820.9
831.2
9,982.5
542.0
135.5
4.4
139.9
909.5
149.4
(466.8)
418.9
790.4
751.5
9,148.6
1,220.0
328.5
44.5
373.0
$ 867.1
$ 402.1
$ 847.0
$ 3.51
$ 3.50
$ 1.57
$ 1.57
$ 3.20
$ 3.19
Commissions
Interest and Debt Expense
Deferral of Acquisition Costs
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs
Compensation Expense
Other Expenses
Total Benefits and Expenses
Income Before Income Tax
Income Tax
Current
Deferred
Total Income Tax
Net Income
Net Income Per Common Share
Basic
Assuming Dilution
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
86
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(in millions of dollars)
Net Income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Change in Net Unrealized Gain on Securities Before Adjustment
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
As Adjusted
$ 867.1
$ 402.1
$ 847.0
(net of tax expense (benefit) of $(892.5); $725.8; $(1,102.8))
(1,720.9)
1,439.3
(2,101.2)
Change in Adjustment to Deferred Acquisition Costs and Reserves
for Future Policy and Contract Benefits, Net of Reinsurance
(net of tax expense (benefit) of $856.6; $(665.1); $743.3)
1,634.9
(1,284.7)
1,363.4
Change in Net Gain on Cash Flow Hedges
(net of tax benefit of $4.3; $2.0; $1.3)
Change in Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment
(net of tax benefit of $0.1; $-; $-)
Change in Unrecognized Pension and Postretirement Benefit Costs
(net of tax expense (benefit) of $3.2; $(92.4); $185.2)
Total Other Comprehensive Loss
Comprehensive Income
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
(13.0)
(5.3)
(5.3)
(60.2)
(66.3)
25.5
8.9
(150.3)
(171.6)
(88.6)
344.6
(373.0)
$ 716.8
$ 313.5
$ 474.0
87
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity
(in millions of dollars)
Common Stock
Balance at Beginning of Year
Common Stock Activity
Retirement of Treasury Stock
Balance at End of Year
Additional Paid-in Capital
Balance at Beginning of Year
Common Stock Activity
Retirement of Treasury Stock
Balance at End of Year
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Balance at Beginning of Year
Other Comprehensive Loss
Balance at End of Year
Retained Earnings
Balance at Beginning of Year
Net Income
Dividends to Stockholders (per common share: $0.70; $0.62; $0.55)
Retirement of Treasury Stock
Balance at End of Year
Treasury Stock
Balance at Beginning of Year
Purchases of Treasury Stock
Retirement of Treasury Stock
Balance at End of Year
Total Stockholders’ Equity at End of Year
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
As Adjusted
$ 30.2
$ 36.1
$ 36.0
0.1
—
30.3
0.1
(6.0)
30.2
0.1
—
36.1
2,221.2
2,634.1
2,607.7
26.0
—
28.4
(441.3)
26.4
—
2,247.2
2,221.2
2,634.1
166.4
(150.3)
16.1
7,302.3
867.1
(174.2)
255.0
(88.6)
166.4
8,064.0
402.1
(159.4)
—
(1,004.4)
628.0
(373.0)
255.0
7,363.5
847.0
(146.5)
—
7,995.2
7,302.3
8,064.0
(1,198.2)
(2,349.3)
(2,030.7)
(426.7)
—
(300.6)
1,451.7
(318.6)
—
(1,624.9)
(1,198.2)
(2,349.3)
$ 8,663.9
$ 8,521.9
$ 8,639.9
88
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(in millions of dollars)
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net Income
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
Change in Receivables
Change in Deferred Acquisition Costs
Change in Insurance Reserves and Liabilities
Change in Income Taxes
Change in Other Accrued Liabilities
Non-cash Components of Net Investment Income
Net Realized Investment (Gain) Loss
Depreciation
Other, Net
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Proceeds from Sales of Fixed Maturity Securities
Proceeds from Maturities of Fixed Maturity Securities
Proceeds from Sales and Maturities of Other Investments
Purchase of Fixed Maturity Securities
Purchase of Other Investments
Net Sales (Purchases) of Short-term Investments
Net Increase (Decrease) in Payables for Collateral on Investments
Acquisition of Business
Net Purchases of Property and Equipment
Other, Net
Net Cash Used by Investing Activities
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Issuance of Long-term Debt
Long-term Debt Repayments
Cost Related to Early Retirement of Debt
Issuance of Common Stock
Repurchase of Common Stock
Dividends Paid to Stockholders
Other, Net
Net Cash Used by Financing Activities
Net Increase in Cash and Bank Deposits
Cash and Bank Deposits at Beginning of Year
Cash and Bank Deposits at End of Year
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
As Adjusted
$ 867.1
$ 402.1
$ 847.0
29.3
(87.4)
293.9
180.5
20.0
(194.1)
43.8
99.5
39.5
(21.5)
(83.2)
972.2
(18.6)
105.2
(195.7)
(16.1)
87.9
(8.7)
(196.7)
(47.9)
572.5
(23.5)
21.2
(226.3)
(6.8)
84.8
7.2
1,292.1
1,223.6
1,031.5
880.1
2,417.0
347.0
450.1
1,819.4
235.0
1,040.5
2,146.4
243.4
(4,305.3)
(2,918.4)
(3,553.6)
(409.5)
170.6
341.6
(54.3)
(100.2)
—
(285.2)
(69.3)
(3.8)
—
(114.5)
0.1
(713.0)
(886.6)
271.4
(226.3)
—
6.4
(417.9)
(174.2)
(28.1)
(568.7)
10.4
102.5
347.2
(186.6)
(13.2)
12.3
(306.0)
(159.4)
(22.9)
(328.6)
8.4
94.1
(363.7)
551.3
(378.2)
—
(105.5)
0.2
(419.2)
—
(116.2)
—
11.4
(317.2)
(146.5)
(27.0)
(595.5)
16.8
77.3
$ 112.9
$ 102.5
$ 94.1
89
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Note 1. Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation: The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Unum Group and its subsidiaries (the Company) have
been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Such accounting principles differ from statutory
accounting principles (see Note 15). Intercompany transactions have been eliminated.
Description of Business: We are the largest provider of group and individual disability products in the United States and the United
Kingdom. We also provide a complementary portfolio of other insurance products, including life insurance, employer- and employee-paid
group benefits, and other related services, either as stand-alone products or combined with other coverages. We market our products
primarily through the workplace.
We have three principal operating business segments: Unum US, Unum UK, and Colonial Life. Our other reporting segments are
Closed Block and Corporate. See Note 13 for further discussion of our operating segments.
Use of Estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions
that affect amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Such estimates and assumptions could change in the
future as more information becomes known, which could impact the amounts reported and disclosed herein.
Fixed Maturity Securities: Fixed maturity securities include long-term bonds and redeemable preferred stocks. Our fixed maturity
securities are classified as available-for-sale and reported at fair value. Changes in the fair value of available-for-sale fixed maturity securities,
except for amounts related to other-than-temporary impairment losses recognized in earnings, are reported as a component of other
comprehensive income. These amounts are net of income tax and valuation adjustments to deferred acquisition costs and reserves for future
policy and contract benefits which would have been recorded had the related unrealized gain or loss on these securities been realized.
Interest income is recorded as part of net investment income when earned, using an effective yield method giving effect to
amortization of premium and accretion of discount. Included within fixed maturity securities are mortgage-backed and asset-backed
securities. We recognize investment income on these securities using a constant effective yield based on projected prepayments of the
underlying loans and the estimated economic life of the securities. Actual prepayment experience is reviewed periodically, and effective
yields are recalculated when differences arise between prepayments originally projected and the actual prepayments received and currently
projected. The effective yield is recalculated on a retrospective basis, and the adjustment is reflected in net investment income. For fixed
maturity securities on which collection of investment income is uncertain, we discontinue the accrual of investment income and recognize
investment income when interest and dividends are received. Payment terms specified for fixed maturity securities may include a
prepayment penalty for unscheduled payoff of the investment. Prepayment penalties are recognized as investment income when received.
In determining when a decline in fair value below amortized cost of a fixed maturity security is other than temporary, we evaluate
available information, both positive and negative, in reaching our conclusions. In particular, we consider the strength of the issuer’s balance
sheet, its debt obligations and near-term funding requirements, cash flow and liquidity, the profitability of its core businesses, the availability
of marketable assets which could be sold to increase liquidity, its industry fundamentals and regulatory environment, and its access to capital
markets. Although all available and applicable factors are considered in our analysis, our expectation of recovering the entire amortized
cost basis of the security, whether we intend to sell the security, whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the
security before recovery of its amortized cost, and whether the security is current on principal and interest payments are the most critical
factors in determining whether impairments are other than temporary. The significance of the decline in value and the length of time
during which there has been a significant decline are also important factors, but we generally do not record an impairment loss based
solely on these two factors, since often other more relevant factors will impact our evaluation of a security.
If we determine that the decline in value of an investment is other than temporary, the investment is written down to fair value, and
an impairment loss is recognized in the current period, either in earnings or in both earnings and other comprehensive income, as applicable.
Other-than-temporary impairment losses on fixed maturity securities which we intend to sell or more likely than not will be required to sell
before recovery in value are recognized in earnings and equal the entire difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and its
fair value. For securities which we do not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell before recovery in
value, other-than-temporary impairment losses recognized in earnings generally represent the difference between the amortized cost of
90
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report the security and the present value of our best estimate of cash flows expected to be collected, discounted using the effective interest rate
implicit in the security at the date of acquisition. For fixed maturity securities for which we have recognized an other-than-temporary
impairment loss through earnings, if through subsequent evaluation there is a significant increase in expected cash flows, the difference
between the new amortized cost basis and the cash flows expected to be collected is accreted as net investment income over the
remaining life of the investment. See Notes 2 and 3.
Mortgage Loans: Mortgage loans are generally held for investment and are carried at amortized cost less an allowance for probable
losses. Interest income is accrued on the principal amount of the loan based on the loan’s contractual interest rate. Prepayment penalties
are recognized as investment income when received. For mortgage loans on which collection of interest income is uncertain, we
discontinue the accrual of interest and recognize it in the period when an interest payment is received. We typically do not resume the
accrual of interest on mortgage loans on nonaccrual status until there are significant improvements in the underlying financial condition
of the borrower. We consider a loan to be delinquent if full payment is not received in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan.
We evaluate each of our mortgage loans individually for impairment and assign an internal credit quality rating based on a
comprehensive rating system used to evaluate the credit risk of the loan. Although all available and applicable factors are considered in our
analysis, loan-to-value and debt service coverage ratios are the most critical factors in determining impairment. If we determine that it is
probable we will be unable to collect all amounts due under the contractual terms of a mortgage loan, we establish an allowance for credit
loss. If we expect to foreclose on the property, the amount of the allowance typically equals the excess carrying value of the mortgage
loan over the fair value of the underlying collateral. If we expect to retain the mortgage loan until payoff, the allowance equals the excess
carrying value of the mortgage loan over the expected future cash flows of the loan. Additions and reductions to our allowance for credit
losses on mortgage loans are reported as a component of net realized investment gains and losses. We do not purchase mortgage loans
with existing credit impairments. See Note 3.
Policy Loans: Policy loans are presented at unpaid balances directly related to policyholders. Interest income is accrued on the
principal amount of the loan based on the loan’s contractual interest rate. Included in policy loans are $3,150.1 million and $3,068.4 million
of policy loans ceded to reinsurers at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
Other Long-term Investments: Other long-term investments are comprised primarily of tax credit partnerships and private
equity partnerships.
Tax credit partnerships in which we have invested were formed for the purpose of investing in the construction and rehabilitation of
low-income housing. Because the partnerships are structured such that there is no return of principal, the primary sources of investment
return from our tax credit partnerships are tax credits and tax benefits derived from passive losses on the investments, both of which may
exhibit variability over the life of the investment. These partnerships are accounted for using either the proportional or the effective yield
method, depending primarily on whether the tax credits are guaranteed through a letter of credit, a tax indemnity agreement, or another
similar arrangement. Tax credits received from these partnerships are reported in our consolidated statements of income as either a reduction
of premium tax or a reduction of income tax. The amortization of the principal amount invested in these partnerships is reported as a
component of either premium tax or income tax.
Our investments in private equity partnerships are passive in nature. The underlying investments held by these partnerships include both
equity and debt securities and are accounted for using the equity or cost method, depending on the level of ownership and the degree of our
influence over partnership operating and financial policies. For partnerships accounted for under the equity method, our portion of partnership
earnings is reported as a component of net investment income in our consolidated statements of income. For those partnerships accounted
for under the cost method, we record income received from partnership distributions as either a component of net investment income or net
realized investment gain or loss, in accordance with the source of the funds distributed from the partnership. See Notes 2 and 3.
Short-term Investments: Short-term investments are carried at cost. Short-term investments include investments maturing within
one year, such as corporate commercial paper and U.S. Treasury bills, bank term deposits, and other cash accounts and cash equivalents
earning interest. See Note 2.
91
Unum 2015 Annual Report Cash and Bank Deposits: Cash and bank deposits include cash on hand and non-interest bearing cash and deposit accounts.
Derivative Financial Instruments: Derivative financial instruments (including certain derivative instruments embedded in other
contracts) are recognized as either other long-term investments or other liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets and are reported at
fair value. The accounting for a derivative depends on whether it has been designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship, and
further, on the type of hedging relationship. To qualify for hedge accounting, at the inception of the hedging transaction, we formally
document the risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedging transaction, as well as the designation of the hedge as
either a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge. Included in this documentation is how the hedging instrument is expected to hedge the
designated risk(s) related to specific assets or liabilities on the balance sheet or to specific forecasted transactions as well as a description of
the method that will be used to retrospectively and prospectively assess the hedging instrument’s effectiveness and the method that will
be used to measure ineffectiveness.
A derivative designated as a hedging instrument must be assessed as being highly effective in offsetting the designated risk(s) of the
hedged item. Hedge effectiveness is formally assessed at inception and periodically throughout the life of the designated hedging
relationship, using qualitative and quantitative methods. Qualitative methods include comparison of critical terms of the derivative to the
hedged item. Quantitative methods include regression or other statistical analysis of changes in fair value or cash flows associated with the
hedge relationship.
Changes in the fair value of a derivative designated as a fair value hedge, including amounts measured as ineffectiveness, and
changes in the fair value of the hedged item attributable to the risk being hedged are recognized in earnings as a component of net
realized investment gain or loss during the period of change in fair value. The gain or loss on the termination of a fair value hedge is
recognized in earnings as a component of net realized investment gain or loss during the period in which the termination occurs. When
interest rate swaps are used in hedge accounting relationships, periodic settlements are recorded in the same income statement line as the
related settlements of the hedged items.
To the extent it is effective, changes in the fair value of a derivative designated as a cash flow hedge are reported in other
comprehensive income and reclassified into earnings and reported on the same income statement line item as the hedged item and in the
same period or periods during which the hedged item affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the hedge, if any, is recognized in
earnings as a component of net realized investment gain or loss during the period of change in fair value. The gain or loss on the
termination of an effective cash flow hedge is reported in other comprehensive income and reclassified into earnings and reported on the
same income statement line item as the hedged item and in the same period or periods during which the hedged item affects earnings.
Gains or losses on the termination of ineffective fair value or cash flow hedges are reported in earnings as a component of net realized
investment gain or loss. In the event a hedged item is disposed of or the anticipated transaction being hedged is no longer likely to occur,
we will terminate the related derivative and recognize the gain or loss on termination in current earnings as a component of net realized
investment gain or loss. In the event a hedged item is disposed of subsequent to the termination of the hedging transaction, we reclassify
any remaining gain or loss on the cash flow hedge out of accumulated other comprehensive income into earnings as a component of the
same income statement line item wherein we report the gain or loss on disposition of the hedged item.
For a derivative not designated as a hedging instrument, changes in the fair value of the derivative, together with the payment of
periodic fees, if applicable, are recognized in earnings as a component of net realized investment gain or loss during the period of change
in fair value.
Cash flow activity from the settlement of derivative contracts is reported in the consolidated statements of cash flows as a component
of proceeds from sales and maturities of other investments.
In our consolidated balance sheets, we do not offset fair value amounts recognized for derivatives executed with the same
counterparty under a master netting agreement and fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral or the obligation
to return cash collateral arising from those master netting agreements. See Notes 2, 3 and 4.
92
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report Fair Value Measurement: Certain assets and liabilities are reported at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets and in our notes to
our consolidated financial statements. We define fair value as 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. Therefore, fair value represents an exit price, not an entry
price. The exit price objective applies regardless of our intent and/or ability to sell the asset or transfer the liability at the measurement date.
Assets or liabilities with readily available actively quoted prices or for which fair value can be measured from actively quoted prices in active
markets generally have more pricing observability and less judgment utilized in measuring fair value. When actively quoted prices are not
available, fair values are based on quoted prices in markets that are not active, quoted prices for similar but not identical assets or liabilities,
or other observable inputs. If observable inputs are not available, unobservable inputs and/or adjustments to observable inputs requiring
management judgment are used to determine fair value. We categorize our assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value into a
three-level hierarchy, based on the significance of the inputs. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to inputs which are unadjusted
and represent quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs
(Level 3). See Note 2.
Realized Investment Gains and Losses: Realized investment gains and losses are reported as a component of revenue in the
consolidated statements of income and are based upon specific identification of the investments sold. See Note 3.
Deferred Acquisition Costs: Incremental direct costs associated with the successful acquisition of new or renewal insurance contracts
have been deferred. Such costs include commissions, other agency compensation, certain selection and policy issue expenses, and certain
field expenses. Acquisition costs that do not vary with the production of new business, such as commissions on group products which are
generally level throughout the life of the policy, are excluded from deferral. Deferred acquisition costs are subject to recoverability testing
at the time of policy issue and loss recognition testing in subsequent years.
Deferred acquisition costs related to non-interest sensitive policies are amortized in proportion to the premium income we expect to
receive over the life of the policies. Deferred acquisition costs related to interest sensitive policies are amortized over the lives of the
policies in relation to the present value of estimated gross profits from surrender charges, mortality margins, investment returns, and
expense margins. Deviations from projections result in a change to the rate of amortization in the period during which such events occur.
Generally, the amortization periods for these policies approximate the estimated lives of the policies.
For certain products, policyholders can elect to modify product benefits, features, rights, or coverages by exchanging a contract for a
new contract or by amendment, endorsement, or rider to a contract, or by the election of a feature or coverage within a contract. These
transactions are known as internal replacement transactions. Internal replacement transactions wherein the modification does not
substantially change the policy are accounted for as continuations of the replaced contracts. Unamortized deferred acquisition costs from
the original policy continue to be amortized over the expected life of the new policy, and the costs of replacing the policy are accounted for
as policy maintenance costs and expensed as incurred. Internal replacement transactions, principally on group contracts, that result in a
policy that is substantially changed are accounted for as an extinguishment of the original policy and the issuance of a new policy.
Unamortized deferred acquisition costs on the original policy that was replaced are immediately expensed, and the costs of acquiring the
new policy are capitalized and amortized in accordance with our accounting policies for deferred acquisition costs.
Loss recognition is performed on an annual basis, or more frequently if appropriate, using best estimate assumptions as to future
experience as of the date of the test. Insurance contracts are grouped for each major product line within a segment when we perform the loss
recognition tests. If loss recognition testing indicates that deferred acquisition costs are not recoverable, the deficiency is charged to expense.
Goodwill: Goodwill is the excess of the amount paid to acquire a business over the fair value of the net assets acquired. We review
the carrying amount of goodwill for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that
the carrying amount might not be recoverable. Goodwill impairment testing compares the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying
amount, including goodwill. The fair values of the reporting units are determined using discounted cash flow models. The critical estimates
necessary in determining fair value are projected earnings and the discount rate. We set our discount rate assumption based on an
expected risk adjusted cost of capital. If the fair value of the reporting unit to which the goodwill relates is less than the carrying amount of
the unamortized goodwill, the carrying amount is reduced with a corresponding charge to expense.
93
Unum 2015 Annual Report Property and Equipment: Property and equipment is reported at cost less accumulated depreciation, which is calculated on the
straight-line method over the estimated useful life. The accumulated depreciation for property and equipment was $902.6 million and
$823.3 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
Value of Business Acquired: Value of business acquired represents the present value of future profits recorded in connection with the
acquisition of a block of insurance policies. The asset is amortized based upon expected future premium income for non-interest sensitive
insurance policies and estimated future gross profits from surrender charges, mortality margins, investment returns, and expense margins
for interest sensitive insurance policies. The value of business acquired, which is included in other assets in our consolidated balance sheets,
was $24.0 million and $15.2 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The accumulated amortization for value of business
acquired was $133.1 million and $134.7 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
The amortization of value of business acquired, which is included in other expenses in the consolidated statements of income, was
$4.6 million, $3.5 million, and $4.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. We periodically review
the carrying amount of value of business acquired using the same methods used to evaluate deferred acquisition costs.
Policy and Contract Benefits: Policy and contract benefits represent amounts paid and expected to be paid based on reported losses
and estimates of incurred but not reported losses for non-interest sensitive life and accident and health products. For interest sensitive
products, benefits are the amounts paid and expected to be paid on insured claims in excess of the policyholders’ policy fund balances.
Reserves for Policy and Contract Benefits: Policy reserves represent future policy and contract benefits for claims not yet incurred.
Policy reserves for non-interest sensitive life and accident and health products are determined using the net level premium method. The
reserves are calculated based upon assumptions as to interest, persistency, morbidity, and mortality that were appropriate at the date of
issue. Discount rate assumptions are based on actual and expected net investment returns. Persistency assumptions are based on our
actual historical experience adjusted for future expectations. Claim incidence and claim resolution rate assumptions related to morbidity
and mortality are based on actual experience or industry standards adjusted as appropriate to reflect our actual experience and future
expectations. The assumptions vary by plan, year of issue, and policy duration and include a provision for adverse deviation.
Policy reserves for group single premium annuities are developed on a net single premium method. The reserves are calculated based
on assumptions as to interest, mortality, and retirement that were appropriate at the date of issue. Mortality assumptions are based upon
industry standards adjusted as appropriate to reflect our actual experience and future expectations. The assumptions vary by year of issue.
Policy reserves for interest sensitive products are principally policyholder account values.
Policy reserves require ongoing loss recognition testing. We perform loss recognition tests on our policy reserves annually, or more
frequently if appropriate, using best estimate assumptions as of the date of the test, without a provision for adverse deviation. We group
the policy reserves for each major product line within a segment when we perform the loss recognition tests. If the policy reserves
determined using these best estimate assumptions are higher than our existing policy reserves net of any deferred acquisition cost balance,
the existing policy reserves are increased or deferred acquisition costs are reduced to immediately recognize the deficiency. This becomes
the new basis for policy reserves going forward, subject to future loss recognition testing.
Claim reserves represent future policy and contract benefits for claims that have been incurred or are estimated to have been incurred
but not yet reported to us. Our claim reserves relate primarily to disability policies and are calculated based on assumptions as to interest
and claim resolution rates that are currently appropriate. Claim resolution rate assumptions are based on our actual experience. The interest
rate assumptions used for discounting claim reserves are based on projected portfolio yield rates, after consideration for defaults and
investment expenses, for the assets supporting the liabilities for the various product lines. Unlike policy reserves for which assumptions are
generally established and locked in at the time of policy issuance, claim reserves are subject to revision as current claim experience and
projections of future factors affecting claim experience change. See Note 6.
Policyholders’ Funds: Policyholders’ funds represent customer deposits plus interest credited at contract rates. We control interest rate
risk by investing in quality assets which have an aggregate duration that closely matches the expected duration of the liabilities.
94
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report Income Tax: Deferred taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities
for financial statement purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Deferred taxes have been measured using enacted
statutory income tax rates and laws that are currently in effect. We record deferred tax assets for tax positions taken in the U.S. and other
tax jurisdictions based on our assessment of whether a position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination based solely on
its technical merits. A valuation allowance is established for deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that an amount will not be
realized. See Note 7.
Short-term and Long-term Debt: Debt is generally carried at the unpaid principal balance, net of unamortized discount or premium.
Short-term debt consists of debt due within the next twelve months, including that portion of debt otherwise classified as long-term.
Original issue discount or premium as well as debt issue costs are recognized as a component of interest expense over the period the debt
is expected to be outstanding. The carrying amount of long-term debt that is part of a fair value hedge program includes an adjustment to
reflect the effect of the change in fair value attributable to the risk being hedged. Net interest settlements for fair value hedges on our
long-term debt are recognized as a component of interest expense. See Note 8.
Treasury Stock and Retirement of Common Stock: Treasury stock is reflected as a reduction of stockholders’ equity at cost. When
shares are retired, the par value is removed from common stock, and the excess of the repurchase price over par is allocated between
additional paid-in capital and retained earnings. See Note 10.
Revenue Recognition: Our non-interest sensitive life and accident and health products are long-duration contracts, and premium
income is recognized as revenue when due from policyholders. If the contracts are experience rated, the estimated ultimate premium is
recognized as revenue over the period of the contract. The estimated ultimate premium, which is revised to reflect current experience, is
based on estimated claim costs, expenses, and profit margins.
For interest sensitive products, the amounts collected from policyholders are considered deposits, and only the deductions during the
period for cost of insurance, policy administration, and surrenders are included in revenue. Policyholders’ funds represent funds deposited
by contract holders and are not included in revenue.
Fees from our administrative-services only and family medical leave products are reported as other income when services are rendered.
Reinsurance: We routinely enter into reinsurance agreements with other insurance companies to spread risk and thereby limit losses
from large exposures. For each of our reinsurance agreements, we determine if the agreement provides indemnification against loss or
liability relating to insurance risk in accordance with applicable accounting standards. If we determine that a reinsurance agreement does
not expose the reinsurer to a reasonable possibility of a significant loss from insurance risk, we record the agreement using the deposit
method of accounting.
Reinsurance activity is accounted for on a basis consistent with the terms of the reinsurance contracts and the accounting used for
the original policies issued. Premium income and benefits and change in reserves for future benefits are presented in our consolidated
statements of income net of reinsurance ceded. Ceded liabilities for policy and contract benefits, future policy and contract benefits, and
unearned premiums are reported on a gross basis in our consolidated balance sheets, as are ceded policy loans. Our reinsurance
recoverable includes the balances due from reinsurers under the terms of the reinsurance agreements for these ceded balances as well
as settlement amounts currently due.
Where applicable, gains or losses on reinsurance transactions are deferred and amortized into earnings based upon expected future
premium income for non-interest sensitive insurance policies and estimated future gross profits for interest sensitive insurance policies.
The deferred gain on reinsurance included in other liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2015 and 2014 was
$31.9 million and $41.7 million, respectively.
95
Unum 2015 Annual Report Under ceded reinsurance agreements wherein we are not relieved of our legal liability to our policyholders, if the assuming reinsurer
is unable to meet its obligations, we remain contingently liable. We evaluate the financial condition of reinsurers and monitor concentration
of credit risk to minimize this exposure. We may also require assets in trust, letters of credit, or other acceptable collateral to support our
reinsurance recoverable balances. In the event that reinsurers do not meet their obligations to us under the terms of the reinsurance
agreements, certain amounts reported in our reinsurance recoverable could become uncollectible, in which case the reinsurance
recoverable balances are stated net of allowances for uncollectible reinsurance. See Note 12.
Premium Tax Expense: Premium tax expense is included in other expenses in the consolidated statements of income. For the years
ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, premium tax expense was $146.5 million, $139.2 million, and $137.0 million, respectively.
Stock-Based Compensation: The cost of stock-based compensation is generally measured based on the grant-date fair value of the
award. The Black-Scholes options valuation model is used for estimating the fair value of stock options, and the Monte-Carlo valuation
model is used for estimating the fair value of performance share units. Restricted stock units are valued based on the fair value of common
stock at the grant date, and cash-settled awards are measured each reporting period based on the current stock price. Stock-based awards
are expensed over the requisite service period, or for performance share units over the requisite service period, or remaining service
period, if and when it becomes probable that the performance conditions will be satisfied, with an offsetting increase to additional paid-in
capital in stockholders’ equity. See Note 11.
Earnings Per Share: We compute basic earnings per share by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common
shares outstanding for the period. Earnings per share assuming dilution is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average
number of shares outstanding for the period plus the shares representing the dilutive effect of stock-based awards. In computing earnings
per share assuming dilution, only potential common shares resulting from stock-based awards that are dilutive (those that reduce earnings
per share) are included. We use the treasury stock method to account for the effect of outstanding stock options and nonvested stock
awards on the computation of earnings per share assuming dilution. See Note 10.
Translation of Foreign Currency: Revenues and expenses of our foreign operations are translated at average exchange rates. Assets
and liabilities are translated at the rate of exchange on the balance sheet dates. The translation gain or loss is generally reported in
accumulated other comprehensive income, net of deferred tax. We do not provide for deferred taxes to the extent unremitted foreign
earnings are deemed permanently invested.
Accounting for Participating Individual Life Insurance: Participating policies issued by one of our subsidiaries prior to its 1986
conversion from a mutual to a stock life insurance company will remain participating as long as the policies remain in-force. A Participation
Fund Account (PFA) was established for the benefit of all such individual participating life and annuity policies and contracts. The assets of
the PFA provide for the benefit, dividend, and certain expense obligations of the participating individual life insurance policies and annuity
contracts. The assets of the PFA were $338.8 million and $358.6 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
96
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report Accounting Updates Adopted in 2015:
Accounting
Standards
Codification (ASC)
Description
Date of Adoption
Effect on Financial Statements
ASC 860 “Transfers
This update changed the accounting for repurchase-
January 1, 2015,
The adoption of this update
and Servicing”
to-maturity transactions and linked repurchase
except for certain
expanded our disclosures, but had
financings to secured borrowing accounting, which is
disclosures, which
no effect on our financial position
consistent with the accounting for other repurchase
were effective
or results of operations.
agreements. The update also required disclosures
April 1, 2015.
for repurchase agreements, securities lending
transactions, and repurchase-to-maturity transactions.
ASC 323
This update permitted entities to make an accounting
January 1, 2015
The cumulative effect at January 1,
“Investments —
policy election to account for investments in qualified
Equity Method and
affordable housing projects using the proportional
Joint Ventures”
amortization method if certain conditions are met.
Under the proportional amortization method, an entity
2013, was an $8.1 million reduction
in stockholders’ equity. The following
table summarizes the effects of our
retrospective adoption on periods
amortizes the initial cost of the investment in proportion
reported herein.
to the tax credits and other tax benefits received and
recognizes the net investment performance in the
income statement as a component of income tax
expense (benefit). Additional disclosures concerning
investments in qualified affordable housing projects were
also required. We elected to adopt this guidance and
applied the amendments in the update retrospectively,
adjusting all prior periods in our consolidated financial
statements and accompanying notes.
97
Unum 2015 Annual Report Year Ended December 31, 2014
Year Ended December 31, 2013
(in millions of dollars, except share data)
Method
Adjusted
Consolidated Statements of Income
Historical
Accounting
As
Effect of
Change
Historical
Accounting
As
Method
Adjusted
Effect of
Change
Net Investment Income
Income Tax — Current
Income Tax — Deferred
Net Income
Net Income Per Common Share
Basic
Assuming Dilution
Consolidated Statements of
Comprehensive Income
$2,477.4
$2,492.2
$ 14.8
$2,492.1
$2,506.9
$ 14.8
103.3
10.5
413.4
1.62
1.61
135.5
4.4
402.1
1.57
1.57
32.2
(6.1)
(11.3)
(0.05)
(0.04)
296.6
50.5
858.1
3.24
3.23
328.5
44.5
847.0
3.20
3.19
31.9
(6.0)
(11.1)
(0.04)
(0.04)
Net Income
$ 413.4
$ 402.1
$(11.3)
$ 858.1
$ 847.0
$(11.1)
Consolidated Statements of
Stockholders’ Equity
Retained Earnings
Balance at Beginning of Year
$8,083.2
$8,064.0
$(19.2)
$7,371.6
$7,363.5
$ (8.1)
Net Income
Balance at End of Year
413.4
7,332.8
402.1
7,302.3
(11.3)
(30.5)
858.1
8,083.2
847.0
8,064.0
(11.1)
(19.2)
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Net Income
$ 413.4
$ 402.1
$(11.3)
$ 858.1
$ 847.0
$(11.1)
Change in Income Taxes
Non-cash Components of Net
(44.7)
(18.6)
26.1
(49.4)
(23.5)
25.9
Investment Income
(180.9)
(195.7)
(14.8)
(211.5)
(226.3)
(14.8)
December 31, 2014
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Other Long-term Investments
$ 591.9
$ 545.0
$(46.9)
Deferred Income Tax
Retained Earnings
78.4
62.0
7,332.8
7,302.3
(16.4)
(30.5)
98
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Accounting Updates Outstanding:
ASC
Description
Date of
Adoption
Effect on Financial
Statements
ASC 825 “Financial
This update changes the accounting and disclosure
January 1, 2018
We have not yet
Instruments —
requirements for certain financial instruments. These
Overall”
changes include a requirement to measure equity
investments, other than those that result in consolidation
determined the expected
impact on our financial
position or results of
or are accounted for under the equity method, at fair value
operations.
through net income unless the investment qualifies for
certain practicability exceptions. In addition, the update
clarifies guidance related to the valuation allowance
assessment when recognizing deferred tax assets resulting
from unrealized losses on available-for-sale fixed maturity
securities. Changes also include the modification of certain
disclosures around the fair value of financial instruments,
including the requirement for separate presentation of
financial assets and liabilities by measurement category,
as well as the elimination of certain disclosures around
methods and significant assumptions used to estimate
fair value. The guidance is to be applied retrospectively.
ASC 606 “Revenue
This update supersedes virtually all existing guidance
January 1, 2018
The adoption of this update
from Contracts
regarding the recognition of revenue from customers.
with Customers”
Specifically excluded from the scope of this update are
insurance contracts, although our fee-based service
will not have a material
effect on our financial
position or results of
products are included within the scope. The core principle
operations.
of this guidance is that revenue recognition should depict
the transfer of goods or services to customers in an
amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity
expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or
services. The guidance is to be applied retrospectively.
99
Unum 2015 Annual Report Accounting Updates Outstanding: (Continued)
ASC
Description
Date of
Adoption
Effect on Financial
Statements
ASC 835 “Interest —
This update simplifies the presentation of deferred debt
January 1, 2016
The adoption of this update
Imputation of Interest”
issuance costs by requiring these costs to be presented in
will result in reclassification
the balance sheet as a reduction of the carrying amount
of the debt liability to which the deferred costs relate,
rather than classifying the deferred costs as an asset.
This classification is consistent with the treatment of debt
discounts. The guidance is to be applied retrospectively.
adjustments to our
consolidated balance
sheets but will not have
an effect on our financial
position or results of
operations.
ASC 944 “Financial
This update changes the disclosure requirements for certain
January 1, 2016 for
The adoption of this update
Services — Insurance”
insurance contracts. These changes include a requirement
annual reporting
will modify our disclosures
to disclose the rollforward of the liability for unpaid claims
period disclosures
but will not have an effect
and claim adjustment expenses in both interim and annual
and January 1,
on our financial position or
reporting periods for long-duration and short-duration
2017 for interim
results of operations.
insurance contracts. Additional claims disclosures will also
reporting period
be required for short-duration contracts. The guidance is to
disclosures.
be applied retrospectively.
ASC 820 “Fair Value
This update eliminates the requirement to categorize within
January 1, 2016
The adoption of this update
Measurement”
the fair value hierarchy table investments whose fair value
is measured at net asset value using the practical expedient.
Instead, entities will be required to disclose the fair value of
these investments so that financial statement users can
reconcile amounts reported in the fair value hierarchy table
to the amounts reported on the consolidated balance
sheets. The guidance is to be applied retrospectively.
will modify our disclosures
but will not have an effect
on our financial position or
results of operations.
100
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Note 2. Fair Values of Financial Instruments
Presented as follows are the carrying amounts and fair values of financial instruments. The carrying values of financial instruments
such as short-term investments, cash and bank deposits, accounts and premiums receivable, accrued investment income, and securities
lending agreements approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of the instruments. As such, these financial instruments are not
included in the following chart.
(in millions of dollars)
Assets
Fixed Maturity Securities
Mortgage Loans
Policy Loans
Other Long-term Investments
Derivatives
Equity Securities
Miscellaneous Long-term Investments
Liabilities
Policyholders’ Funds
December 31
2015
Carrying
Amount
Fair
Value
2014
Carrying
Amount
Fair
Value
$43,354.4
$43,354.4
$45,064.9
$45,064.9
1,883.6
3,395.4
2,013.9
3,498.0
49.8
1.4
474.4
49.8
1.4
474.4
1,856.6
3,306.6
28.0
12.5
438.7
2,024.2
3,407.6
28.0
12.5
438.7
Deferred Annuity Products
$ 608.8
$ 608.8
$ 621.4
$ 621.4
Supplementary Contracts without Life Contingencies
Short-term Debt
Long-term Debt
Payables for Collateral on Investments
641.1
352.4
641.1
366.2
2,475.1
2,645.9
Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) Funding Agreements
350.0
350.0
Other Liabilities
Derivatives
Embedded Derivative in Modified Coinsurance Arrangement
Unfunded Commitments to Investment Partnerships
50.2
87.6
5.0
50.2
87.6
5.0
600.4
151.9
2,628.7
—
92.9
49.9
12.8
600.4
158.9
2,912.6
—
92.9
49.9
12.8
101
Unum 2015 Annual Report
The methods and assumptions used to estimate fair values of financial instruments are discussed as follows.
Fair Value Measurements for Financial Instruments Not Carried at Fair Value
Mortgage Loans: Fair values are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses and interest rates currently being offered for similar
loans to borrowers with similar credit ratings and maturities. Loans with similar characteristics are aggregated for purposes of the calculations.
These financial instruments are assigned a Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.
Policy Loans: Fair values for policy loans, net of reinsurance ceded, are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses and interest
rates currently being offered to policyholders with similar policies. Carrying amounts for ceded policy loans, which equal $3,150.1 million
and $3,068.4 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, approximate fair value and are reported on a gross basis in our
consolidated balance sheets. A change in interest rates for ceded policy loans will not impact our financial position because the benefits
and risks are fully ceded to reinsuring counterparties. These financial instruments are assigned a Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.
Miscellaneous Long-term Investments: Carrying amounts for tax credit partnerships equal the unamortized balance of our contractual
commitments and approximate fair value. Fair values for private equity partnerships are primarily derived from net asset values provided
by the general partner in the partnerships’ financial statements. Our private equity partnerships represent funds that are primarily invested
in railcar leasing, the financial services industry, mezzanine debt, and bank loans. Distributions received from the funds arise from income
generated by the underlying investments as well as the liquidation of the underlying investments. As of December 31, 2015, we estimate
that the underlying assets of the funds will be liquidated over the next one to twelve years. These financial instruments are assigned a
Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. Our shares of FHLB common stock are carried at cost, which approximates fair value. These financial
instruments are considered restricted investments and are assigned a Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.
Policyholders’ Funds: Policyholders’ funds are comprised primarily of deferred annuity products and supplementary contracts without
life contingencies and represent customer deposits plus interest credited at contract rates. Carrying amounts approximate fair value. These
financial instruments are assigned a Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.
Fair values for insurance contracts other than investment contracts are not required to be disclosed. However, the fair values of
liabilities under all insurance contracts are taken into consideration in our overall management of interest rate risk, which seeks to minimize
exposure to changing interest rates through the matching of investment maturities with amounts due under insurance contracts.
Short-term Debt: Fair values for short-term debt are determined based on prices from independent pricing services that generally use
observable inputs for securities or comparable securities in active markets in their valuation techniques. These financial instruments are
assigned a Level 1.
Long-term Debt: Fair values for long-term debt are obtained from independent pricing services or discounted cash flow analyses
based on current incremental borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements. Debt instruments which are valued by pricing
services using active trades for which there was current market activity in that specific debt instrument have fair values of $956.4 million
and $849.7 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and are assigned a Level 1 within the fair value hierarchy. Debt
instruments which are valued based on prices from pricing services that generally use observable inputs for securities or comparable
securities in active markets in their valuation techniques have fair values of $1,689.5 million and $2,062.9 million as of December 31, 2015
and 2014, respectively, and are assigned a Level 2.
FHLB Funding Agreements: Funding agreements with the FHLB represent cash advances used for the purpose of investing in fixed
maturity securities. Carrying amounts approximate fair value and are assigned a Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.
Unfunded Commitments to Investment Partnerships: Unfunded equity commitments represent amounts that we have committed
to fund certain investment partnerships. These commitments are legally binding, subject to the partnerships meeting specified conditions.
Carrying amounts approximate fair value and are assigned a Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.
102
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report Fair Value Measurements for Financial Instruments Carried at Fair Value
We report fixed maturity securities, derivative financial instruments, and unrestricted equity securities at fair value in our consolidated
balance sheets. The degree of judgment utilized in measuring the fair value of financial instruments generally correlates to the level of
pricing observability. Financial instruments with readily available active quoted prices or for which fair value can be measured from actively
quoted prices in active markets generally have more pricing observability and less judgment utilized in measuring fair value. An active
market for a financial instrument is a market in which transactions for an asset or a similar asset occur with sufficient frequency and
volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. A quoted price in an active market provides the most reliable evidence of fair
value and should be used to measure fair value whenever available. Conversely, financial instruments rarely traded or not quoted have
less observability and are measured at fair value using valuation techniques that require more judgment. Pricing observability is generally
impacted by a number of factors, including the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument is new to the market and
not yet established, the characteristics specific to the transaction, and overall market conditions.
Valuation techniques used for assets and liabilities accounted for at fair value are generally categorized into three types. The market
approach uses prices and other relevant information from market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities. The income
approach converts future amounts, such as cash flows or earnings, to a single present amount, or a discounted amount. The cost approach is
based upon the amount that currently would be required to replace the service capacity of an asset, or the current replacement cost.
We use valuation techniques that are appropriate in the circumstances and for which sufficient data are available that can be obtained
without undue cost and effort. In some cases, a single valuation technique will be appropriate (for example, when valuing an asset or
liability using quoted prices in an active market for identical assets or liabilities). In other cases, multiple valuation techniques will be
appropriate. If we use multiple valuation techniques to measure fair value, we evaluate and weigh the results, as appropriate, considering
the reasonableness of the range indicated by those results. A fair value measurement is the point within that range that is most
representative of fair value in the circumstances.
The selection of the valuation method(s) to apply considers the definition of an exit price and depends on the nature of the asset or
liability being valued. For assets and liabilities accounted for at fair value, we generally use valuation techniques consistent with the market
approach, and to a lesser extent, the income approach. We believe the market approach valuation technique provides more observable
data than the income approach, considering the type of investments we hold. Our fair value measurements could differ significantly based
on the valuation technique and available inputs. When using a pricing service, we obtain the vendor’s pricing documentation to ensure we
understand their methodologies. We periodically review and approve the selection of our pricing vendors to ensure we are in agreement
with their current methodologies. When markets are less active, brokers may rely more on models with inputs based on the information
available only to the broker. Our internal investment management professionals, which include portfolio managers and analysts, monitor
securities priced by brokers and evaluate their prices for reasonableness based on benchmarking to available primary and secondary
market information. In weighing a broker quote as an input to fair value, we place less reliance on quotes that do not reflect the result of
market transactions. We also consider the nature of the quote, particularly whether the quote is a binding offer. If prices in an inactive
market do not reflect current prices for the same or similar assets, adjustments may be necessary to arrive at fair value. When relevant
market data is unavailable, which may be the case during periods of market uncertainty, the income approach can, in suitable circumstances,
provide a more appropriate fair value. During 2015, we have applied valuation techniques on a consistent basis to similar assets and
liabilities and consistent with those techniques used at year end 2014.
103
Unum 2015 Annual Report We use observable and unobservable inputs in measuring the fair value of our fixed maturity and equity securities. For securities
categorized as Level 1, fair values equal active Trade Reporting and Compliance Engine (TRACE) pricing or unadjusted broker market maker
prices. For securities categorized as Level 2 or Level 3, inputs that may be used in valuing each class of securities at any given time period
are presented as follows. Actual inputs used to determine fair values will vary for each reporting period depending on the availability of
inputs which may, at times, be affected by the lack of market liquidity.
Instrument
Level 2
Observable Inputs
Level 3
Unobservable Inputs
United States Government and Government Agencies and Authorities
Valuation Techniques
Principally the market approach
Not applicable
Key Inputs
Prices obtained from external pricing services
States, Municipalities, and Political Subdivisions
Valuation Techniques
Principally the market approach
Principally the market approach
Key Inputs
Prices obtained from external pricing services
Analysis of similar bonds, adjusted for
comparability
Relevant reports issued by analysts and rating
Non-binding broker quotes
agencies
Audited financial statements
Security and issuer level spreads
Foreign Governments
Valuation Techniques
Principally the market approach
Principally the market approach
Key Inputs
Prices obtained from external pricing services
Analysis of similar bonds, adjusted for
Non-binding broker quotes
Non-binding broker quotes
Call provisions
Security and issuer level spreads
comparability
Public Utilities
Valuation Techniques
Principally the market and income approaches
Principally the market and income approaches
Key Inputs
TRACE pricing
Change in benchmark reference
Prices obtained from external pricing services
Analysis of similar bonds, adjusted for
comparability
Non-binding broker quotes
Discount for size — illiquidity
Benchmark yields
Non-binding broker quotes
Transactional data for new issuances and
Lack of marketability
secondary trades
Security cash flows and structures
Security and issuer level spreads
Recent issuance/supply
Volatility of credit
104
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report Instrument
Level 2
Observable Inputs
Level 3
Unobservable Inputs
Security and issuer level spreads
Security creditor ratings/maturity/capital
structure/optionality
Public covenants
Comparative bond analysis
Relevant reports issued by analysts and rating
agencies
Audited financial statements
Mortgage/Asset-Backed Securities
Valuation Techniques
Principally the market and income approaches
Principally the market approach
Key Inputs
Prices obtained from external pricing services
Analysis of similar bonds, adjusted for
Non-binding broker quotes
Non-binding broker quotes
Security cash flows and structures
Security and issuer level spreads
comparability
Underlying collateral
Prepayment speeds/loan performance/
delinquencies
Relevant reports issued by analysts and rating
agencies
Audited financial statements
All Other Corporate Bonds
Valuation Techniques
Principally the market and income approaches
Principally the market and income approaches
Key Inputs
TRACE pricing
Change in benchmark reference
Prices obtained from external pricing services
Analysis of similar bonds, adjusted for
comparability
Non-binding broker quotes
Discount for size — illiquidity
Benchmark yields
Non-binding broker quotes
Transactional data for new issuances and
Lack of marketability
secondary trades
Security cash flows and structures
Security and issuer level spreads
Recent issuance/supply
Volatility of credit
Security and issuer level spreads
105
Unum 2015 Annual Report Instrument
Level 2
Observable Inputs
Level 3
Unobservable Inputs
Security creditor ratings/maturity/capital
structure/optionality
Public covenants
Comparative bond analysis
Relevant reports issued by analysts and rating
agencies
Audited financial statements
Redeemable Preferred Stocks
Valuation Techniques
Principally the market approach
Principally the market approach
Key Inputs
Non-binding broker quotes
Non-binding broker quotes
Benchmark yields
Comparative bond analysis
Call provisions
Relevant reports issued by analysts and rating
agencies
Audited financial statements
Equity Securities
Valuation Techniques
Principally the market approach
Principally the market and income approaches
Key Inputs
Prices obtained from external pricing services
Financial statement analysis
Non-binding broker quotes
Non-binding broker quotes
The management of our investment portfolio includes establishing pricing policy and reviewing the reasonableness of sources and
inputs used in developing pricing. We review all prices obtained to ensure they are consistent with a variety of observable market inputs
and to verify the validity of a security’s price. In the event we receive a vendor’s market price that does not appear reasonable based on
our market analysis, we may challenge the price and request further information about the assumptions and methodologies used by the
vendor to price the security. We may change the vendor price based on a better data source such as an actual trade. We also review all price
changes from the prior month which fall outside a predetermined corridor. The overall valuation process for determining fair values may
include adjustments to valuations obtained from our pricing sources when they do not represent a valid exit price. These adjustments may
be made when, in our judgment and considering our knowledge of the financial conditions and industry in which the issuer operates,
certain features of the financial instrument require that an adjustment be made to the value originally obtained from our pricing sources.
These features may include the complexity of the financial instrument, the market in which the financial instrument is traded, counterparty
credit risk, credit structure, concentration, or liquidity. Additionally, an adjustment to the price derived from a model typically reflects our
judgment of the inputs that other participants in the market for the financial instrument being measured at fair value would consider in pricing
that same financial instrument. In the event an asset is sold, we test the validity of the fair value determined by our valuation techniques by
comparing the selling price to the fair value determined for the asset in the immediately preceding month end reporting period.
106
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report The parameters and inputs used to validate a price on a security may be adjusted for assumptions about risk and current market
conditions on a quarter to quarter basis, as certain features may be more significant drivers of valuation at the time of pricing. Changes to
inputs in valuations are not changes to valuation methodologies; rather, the inputs are modified to reflect direct or indirect impacts on asset
classes from changes in market conditions.
Fair values for derivatives other than embedded derivatives in modified coinsurance arrangements are based on market quotes or
pricing models and represent the net amount of cash we would have paid or received if the contracts had been settled or closed as of the
last day of the period. We analyze credit default swap spreads relative to the average credit spread embedded within the LIBOR-setting
syndicate in determining the effect of credit risk on our derivatives’ fair values. If net counterparty credit risk for a derivative asset is
determined to be material and is not adequately reflected in the LIBOR-based fair value obtained from our pricing sources, we adjust the
valuations obtained from our pricing sources. For purposes of valuing net counterparty risk, we measure the fair value of a group of financial
assets and financial liabilities on the basis of the price that would be received to sell a net long position or transfer a net short position for a
particular risk exposure in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions. In
regard to our own credit risk component, we adjust the valuation of derivative liabilities wherein the counterparty is exposed to our credit
risk when the LIBOR-based valuation of our derivatives obtained from pricing sources does not effectively include an adequate credit
component for our own credit risk.
Fair values for our embedded derivative in a modified coinsurance arrangement are estimated using internal pricing models and
represent the hypothetical value of the duration mismatch of assets and liabilities, interest rate risk, and third party credit risk embedded in
the modified coinsurance arrangement.
Certain of our investments do not have readily determinable market prices and/or observable inputs or may at times be affected by
the lack of market liquidity. For these securities, we use internally prepared valuations combining matrix pricing with vendor purchased
software programs, including valuations based on estimates of future profitability, to estimate the fair value. Additionally, we may obtain
prices from independent third-party brokers to aid in establishing valuations for certain of these securities. Key assumptions used by us to
determine fair value for these securities include risk-free interest rates, risk premiums, performance of underlying collateral (if any), and
other factors involving significant assumptions which may or may not reflect those of an active market.
At December 31, 2015, approximately 6.8 percent of our fixed maturity securities were valued using active trades from TRACE pricing
or broker market maker prices for which there was current market activity in that specific security (comparable to receiving one binding
quote). The prices obtained were not adjusted, and the assets were classified as Level 1, the highest category of the three-level fair value
hierarchy classification wherein inputs are unadjusted and represent quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
The remaining 93.2 percent of our fixed maturity securities were valued based on non-binding quotes or other observable and
unobservable inputs, as discussed below.
• Approximately 78.3 percent of our fixed maturity securities were valued based on prices from pricing services that generally use
observable inputs such as prices for securities or comparable securities in active markets in their valuation techniques. These assets
were classified as Level 2. Level 2 assets or liabilities are those valued using inputs (other than prices included in Level 1) that are
either directly or indirectly observable for the asset or liability through correlation with market data at the measurement date and
for the duration of the instrument’s anticipated life.
• Approximately 3.4 percent of our fixed maturity securities were valued based on one or more non-binding broker quotes, if validated
by observable market data, or on TRACE prices for identical or similar assets absent current market activity. When only one price is
available, it is used if observable inputs and analysis confirms that it is appropriate. These assets, for which we were able to validate
the price using other observable market data, were classified as Level 2.
• Approximately 11.5 percent of our fixed maturity securities were valued based on prices of comparable securities, matrix pricing,
market models, and/or internal models or were valued based on non-binding quotes with no other observable market data. These
assets were classified as either Level 2 or Level 3, with the categorization dependent on whether there was other observable market
data. Level 3 is the lowest category of the fair value hierarchy and reflects the judgment of management regarding what market
participants would use in pricing assets or liabilities at the measurement date. Financial assets and liabilities categorized as Level 3
are generally those that are valued using unobservable inputs to extrapolate an estimated fair value.
107
Unum 2015 Annual Report We consider transactions in inactive or disorderly markets to be less representative of fair value. We use all available observable
inputs when measuring fair value, but when significant other unobservable inputs and adjustments are necessary, we classify these assets
or liabilities as Level 3.
Fair value measurements by input level for financial instruments carried at fair value are as follows:
December 31, 2015
Quoted Prices
in Active Markets
for Identical Assets
or Liabilities
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Total
(in millions of dollars)
Assets
Fixed Maturity Securities
United States Government and
Government Agencies and Authorities
$ 97.3
$ 1,367.9
$ —
$ 1,465.2
States, Municipalities, and Political Subdivisions
Foreign Governments
Public Utilities
Mortgage/Asset-Backed Securities
All Other Corporate Bonds
Redeemable Preferred Stocks
Total Fixed Maturity Securities
Other Long-term Investments
Derivatives
Interest Rate Swaps
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Total Derivatives
Equity Securities
Liabilities
Other Liabilities
Derivatives
—
—
59.1
—
2,770.4
—
2,926.8
—
—
—
—
1,994.9
998.7
7,687.2
2,481.5
23,992.8
23.4
38,546.4
2.4
47.4
49.8
—
122.2
52.9
274.1
—
1,408.2
23.8
1,881.2
—
—
—
1.4
2,117.1
1,051.6
8,020.4
2,481.5
28,171.4
47.2
43,354.4
2.4
47.4
49.8
1.4
Interest Rate Swaps
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Credit Default Swaps
Embedded Derivative in Modified
Coinsurance Arrangement
Total Derivatives
$ —
$ 12.3
$ —
$ 12.3
—
—
—
—
37.6
0.3
—
50.2
—
—
87.6
87.6
37.6
0.3
87.6
137.8
108
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
December 31, 2014
Quoted Prices
in Active Markets
for Identical Assets
or Liabilities
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Total
(in millions of dollars)
Assets
Fixed Maturity Securities
United States Government and
Government Agencies and Authorities
$ 297.5
$ 941.0
$ —
$ 1,238.5
States, Municipalities, and Political Subdivisions
Foreign Governments
Public Utilities
Mortgage/Asset-Backed Securities
All Other Corporate Bonds
Redeemable Preferred Stocks
Total Fixed Maturity Securities
Other Long-term Investments
Derivatives
Interest Rate Swaps
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Total Derivatives
Equity Securities
Liabilities
Other Liabilities
Derivatives
Interest Rate Swaps
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Credit Default Swaps
Embedded Derivative in Modified
Coinsurance Arrangement
Total Derivatives
—
—
106.2
—
2,556.6
—
2,960.3
—
—
—
—
1,981.4
1,238.1
8,129.4
2,431.8
25,383.3
25.0
40,130.0
5.7
22.3
28.0
11.1
140.1
69.3
315.0
—
1,425.3
24.9
1,974.6
—
—
—
1.4
2,121.5
1,307.4
8,550.6
2,431.8
29,365.2
49.9
45,064.9
5.7
22.3
28.0
12.5
$ —
$ 20.8
$ —
$ 20.8
—
—
—
—
70.9
1.2
—
92.9
—
—
49.9
49.9
70.9
1.2
49.9
142.8
109
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Transfers of assets between Level 1 and Level 2 are as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Fixed Maturity Securities
United States Government and Government
Agencies and Authorities
Public Utilities
All Other Corporate Bonds
Total Fixed Maturity Securities
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
Transfers into
Level 1 from
Level 2 from
Level 1 from
Level 2 from
Level 2
Level 1
Level 2
Level 1
$ —
7.3
1,369.2
$1,376.5
$ 195.3
85.1
1,556.7
$1,837.1
$ 163.2
81.8
1,592.1
$1,837.1
$ —
253.4
1,598.3
$1,851.7
Transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 occurred due to the change in availability of either a TRACE or broker market maker price.
Depending on current market conditions, the availability of these Level 1 prices can vary from period to period. For fair value
measurements of financial instruments that were transferred either into or out of Level 1 or 2, we reflect the transfers using the fair value
at the beginning of the period.
Changes in assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) are as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Total Realized and
Unrealized Investment
Gains (Losses) Included in
Beginning
of Year
Earnings
Other
Comprehensive
Income or Loss Purchases
Sales
Level 3 Transfers
Out of
Into
End of
Year
(in millions of dollars)
Fixed Maturity Securities
States, Municipalities, and
Political Subdivisions
$ 140.1
$ (0.1)
$ (5.3)
$ 12.0 $ (16.5)
$ —
$ (8.0) $ 122.2
Foreign Governments
Public Utilities
69.3
315.0
—
—
(1.4)
(6.9)
All Other Corporate Bonds
1,425.3
(7.0)
(113.2)
Redeemable Preferred Stocks
24.9
—
(1.1)
—
(15.0)
40.0
55.3
—
(2.4)
(220.8)
—
—
118.5
810.2
—
—
(190.1)
52.9
274.1
(541.6)
1,408.2
—
23.8
Total Fixed Maturity Securities
1,974.6
(7.1)
(127.9)
107.3
(254.7)
928.7
(739.7)
1,881.2
Equity Securities
1.4
—
Embedded Derivative in Modified
Coinsurance Arrangement
(49.9)
(37.7)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1.4
(87.6)
110
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Year Ended December 31, 2014
Total Realized and
Unrealized Investment
Gains (Losses) Included in
Beginning
of Year
Earnings
Other
Comprehensive
Income or Loss Purchases
Sales
Level 3 Transfers
Out of
Into
End
of Year
(in millions of dollars)
Fixed Maturity Securities
States, Municipalities, and
Political Subdivisions
$ 175.1
$ —
$21.0
$ — $ (1.4)
$ — $ (54.6) $ 140.1
Foreign Governments
Public Utilities
Mortgage/Asset-Backed Securities
All Other Corporate Bonds
Redeemable Preferred Stocks
78.5
139.3
0.5
1,923.3
23.8
Total Fixed Maturity Securities
2,340.5
1.1
—
(0.2)
0.7
—
1.6
Equity Securities
4.6
10.5
Embedded Derivative in Modified
0.8
6.9
0.3
44.8
1.1
74.9
(0.2)
—
—
—
(11.1)
(0.8)
(0.6)
—
—
199.9
(30.3)
—
—
69.3
315.0
—
91.1
(147.7)
626.9
(1,113.8)
1,425.3
—
—
—
—
24.9
91.1
(161.6)
826.8
(1,198.7)
1,974.6
—
(13.5)
—
—
—
—
1.4
(49.9)
Coinsurance Arrangement
(53.2)
3.3
—
—
—
Realized and unrealized investment gains and losses presented in the preceding tables represent gains and losses only for the time
during which the applicable financial instruments were classified as Level 3. The transfers between levels resulted primarily from a change in
observability of three inputs used to determine fair values of the securities transferred: (1) transactional data for new issuance and secondary
trades, (2) broker/dealer quotes and pricing, primarily related to changes in the level of activity in the market and whether the market was
considered orderly, and (3) comparable bond metrics from which to perform an analysis. For fair value measurements of financial instruments
that were transferred either into or out of Level 3, we reflect the transfers using the fair value at the beginning of the period. We believe this
allows for greater transparency, as all changes in fair value that arise during the reporting period of the transfer are disclosed as a component
of our Level 3 reconciliation. Gains (losses) which are included in earnings and are attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses
relating to assets or liabilities valued using significant unobservable inputs and still held at each year end were $(37.7) million and $3.3 million
for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. These amounts relate entirely to the changes in fair value of an embedded
derivative in a modified coinsurance arrangement which are reported as realized investment gains and losses.
111
Unum 2015 Annual Report
The table below provides quantitative information regarding the significant unobservable inputs used in Level 3 fair value measurements
derived from internal models. Certain securities classified as Level 3 are excluded from the table below due to limitations in our ability to
obtain the underlying inputs used by external pricing sources.
(in millions of dollars)
Fixed Maturity Securities
States, Municipalities, and
Fair Value
Unobservable Input
Range/Weighted Average
December 31, 2015
Political Subdivisions — Private
$ 73.3
Change in Benchmark Reference
(a) 0.50%–1.00%/0.70%
States, Municipalities, and
Political Subdivisions — Public
12.0
Market Convention
(f) Priced at Par
All Other Corporate Bonds — Private
151.0
Comparability Adjustment
Discount for Size
Lack of Marketability
Volatility of Credit
Market Convention
36.2
1.1
Lack of Marketability
Market Convention
(b) 0.50%–0.50%/0.50%
(c) 0.50%–0.50%/0.50%
(d) 1.00%–2.00%/1.75%
(e) 0.25%–5.56%/0.94%
(f) Priced at Par
(d) 1.00%–1.00%/1.00%
(f) Priced at Cost or Owner’s Equity
(87.6)
Projected Liability Cash Flows
(g) Actuarial Assumptions
Fair Value
Unobservable Input
Range/Weighted Average
December 31, 2014
All Other Corporate Bonds — Public
Equity Securities — Private
Embedded Derivative in Modified
Coinsurance Arrangement
(in millions of dollars)
Fixed Maturity Securities
States, Municipalities, and
Political Subdivisions — Private
$101.0
Comparability Adjustment
(b) 0.25%–1.00%/0.71%
All Other Corporate Bonds — Private
432.8
All Other Corporate Bonds — Public
128.7
Comparability Adjustment
Discount for Size
Lack of Marketability
Volatility of Credit
Market Convention
Comparability Adjustment
Lack of Marketability
Volatility of Credit
(b) 0.50%–0.70%/0.60%
(c) 0.50%–0.50%/0.50%
(d) 0.48%–0.48%/0.48%
(e) 0.20%–2.00%/0.64%
(f) Priced at Par
(b) 0.10%–0.50%/0.40%
(d) 0.20%–0.35%/0.29%
(e) (0.30)%–0.50%/(0.05)%
Equity Securities — Private
1.1
Market Convention
(f) Priced at Cost or Owner’s Equity
Embedded Derivative in Modified
Coinsurance Arrangement
(49.9)
Projected Liability Cash Flows
(g) Actuarial Assumptions
(a) Represents basis point adjustments for changes in benchmark spreads associated with various ratings categories
(b) Represents basis point adjustments for changes in benchmark spreads associated with various industry sectors
(c) Represents basis point adjustments based on issue/issuer size relative to the benchmark
(d) Represents basis point adjustments to apply a discount due to the illiquidity of an investment
(e) Represents basis point adjustments for credit-specific factors
(f) Represents a decision to price based on par value, cost, or owner’s equity when limited data is available
(g) Represents various actuarial assumptions required to derive the liability cash flows including incidence, termination, and lapse rates
Isolated increases in unobservable inputs other than market convention will result in a lower fair value measurement, whereas isolated
decreases will result in a higher fair value measurement. The unobservable input for market convention is not sensitive to input movements.
The projected liability cash flows used in the fair value measurement of our Level 3 embedded derivative are based on expected claim payments.
If claim payments increase, the projected liability cash flows will increase, resulting in a decrease in the fair value of the embedded derivative.
Decreases in projected liability cash flows will result in an increase in the fair value of the embedded derivative.
112
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Note 3. Investments
Fixed Maturity Securities
At December 31, 2015 and 2014, all fixed maturity securities were classified as available-for-sale.
The amortized cost and fair values of securities by security type are shown as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
United States Government and
Government Agencies and Authorities
States, Municipalities, and Political Subdivisions
Foreign Governments
Public Utilities
Mortgage/Asset-Backed Securities
All Other Corporate Bonds
Redeemable Preferred Stocks
Total Fixed Maturity Securities
(in millions of dollars)
United States Government and
Government Agencies and Authorities
States, Municipalities, and Political Subdivisions
Foreign Governments
Public Utilities
Mortgage/Asset-Backed Securities
All Other Corporate Bonds
Redeemable Preferred Stocks
Total Fixed Maturity Securities
December 31, 2015
Gross
Gross
Amortized
Unrealized
Unrealized
Cost
Gain
Loss
Fair
Value
$ 1,265.8
$ 207.3
$ 7.9
$ 1,465.2
1,828.3
897.2
6,979.3
2,318.6
26,325.5
44.0
293.4
154.4
1,057.4
167.6
2,454.1
3.8
4.6
—
16.3
4.7
2,117.1
1,051.6
8,020.4
2,481.5
608.2
28,171.4
0.6
47.2
$39,658.7
$4,338.0
$642.3
$43,354.4
December 31, 2014
Gross
Gross
Amortized
Unrealized
Unrealized
Cost
Gain
Loss
Fair
Value
$ 983.5
$ 255.5
$ 0.5
$ 1,238.5
1,745.0
1,101.1
7,046.1
2,224.9
25,658.8
44.0
377.6
206.3
1,505.4
207.0
3,828.6
5.9
1.1
—
0.9
0.1
2,121.5
1,307.4
8,550.6
2,431.8
122.2
29,365.2
—
49.9
$38,803.4
$6,386.3
$124.8
$45,064.9
113
Unum 2015 Annual Report
The following charts indicate the length of time our fixed maturity securities have been in a gross unrealized loss position.
(in millions of dollars)
United States Government and
December 31, 2015
Less Than 12 Months
12 Months or Greater
Gross
Unrealized
Gross
Unrealized
Fair Value
Loss
Fair Value
Loss
Government Agencies and Authorities
$ 213.5
$ 7.9
$ —
$ —
States, Municipalities, and Political Subdivisions
Public Utilities
Mortgage/Asset-Backed Securities
All Other Corporate Bonds
Redeemable Preferred Stocks
Total Fixed Maturity Securities
(in millions of dollars)
United States Government and
112.3
408.4
504.3
6,155.0
10.4
4.3
14.4
4.6
464.2
0.6
3.3
10.3
9.0
554.7
—
0.3
1.9
0.1
144.0
—
$7,403.9
$496.0
$577.3
$146.3
December 31, 2014
Less Than 12 Months
12 Months or Greater
Gross
Unrealized
Gross
Unrealized
Fair Value
Loss
Fair Value
Loss
Government Agencies and Authorities
$ —
$ —
$ 7.4
$ 0.5
States, Municipalities, and Political Subdivisions
Public Utilities
Mortgage/Asset-Backed Securities
All Other Corporate Bonds
Total Fixed Maturity Securities
1.6
5.1
28.0
1,666.2
$1,700.9
—
0.2
—
82.2
$82.4
42.0
58.2
1.9
729.4
$838.9
1.1
0.7
0.1
40.0
$42.4
The following is a distribution of the maturity dates for fixed maturity securities. The maturity dates have not been adjusted for
possible calls or prepayments.
(in millions of dollars)
1 year or less
Over 1 year through 5 years
Over 5 years through 10 years
Over 10 years
Mortgage/Asset-Backed Securities
Total
Amortized
Cost
$ 1,112.2
6,514.0
10,519.3
19,194.6
37,340.1
2,318.6
December 31, 2015
Unrealized Gain Position
Unrealized Loss Position
Gross Gain
$ 20.6
554.4
746.3
2,849.1
4,170.4
167.6
Fair Value
$ 1,098.8
6,649.5
7,124.4
18,532.3
33,405.0
1,968.2
Gross Loss
$ 0.2
49.8
320.5
267.1
637.6
4.7
Fair Value
$ 33.8
369.1
3,820.7
3,244.3
7,467.9
513.3
Total Fixed Maturity Securities
$39,658.7
$4,338.0
$35,373.2
$642.3
$7,981.2
114
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
December 31, 2014
Unrealized Gain Position
Unrealized Loss Position
(in millions of dollars)
1 year or less
Over 1 year through 5 years
Over 5 years through 10 years
Over 10 years
Mortgage/Asset-Backed Securities
Total
Amortized
Cost
$ 1,372.0
6,871.2
9,532.9
18,802.4
36,578.5
2,224.9
Gross Gain
$ 34.3
719.3
1,003.3
4,422.4
6,179.3
207.0
Fair Value
$ 1,406.3
7,434.0
8,792.3
22,490.6
40,123.2
2,401.9
Total Fixed Maturity Securities
$38,803.4
$6,386.3
$42,525.1
Gross Loss
$ —
9.4
80.9
34.4
124.7
0.1
$124.8
Fair Value
$ —
147.1
1,663.0
699.8
2,509.9
29.9
$2,539.8
At December 31, 2015, the fair value of investment-grade fixed maturity securities was $40,056.3 million, with a gross unrealized gain
of $4,264.4 million and a gross unrealized loss of $360.4 million. The gross unrealized loss on investment-grade fixed maturity securities
was 56.1 percent of the total gross unrealized loss on fixed maturity securities. Unrealized losses on investment-grade fixed maturity
securities principally relate to changes in interest rates or changes in market or sector credit spreads which occurred subsequent to the
acquisition of the securities.
At December 31, 2015, the fair value of below-investment-grade fixed maturity securities was $3,298.1 million, with a gross unrealized
gain of $73.6 million and a gross unrealized loss of $281.9 million. The gross unrealized loss on below-investment-grade fixed maturity
securities was 43.9 percent of the total gross unrealized loss on fixed maturity securities. Generally, below-investment-grade fixed maturity
securities are more likely to develop credit concerns than investment-grade securities. At December 31, 2015, the unrealized losses in our
below-investment-grade fixed maturity securities were generally due to credit spreads in certain industries or sectors and, to a lesser
extent, credit concerns related to specific securities. For each specific security in an unrealized loss position, we believe that there are
positive factors which mitigate credit concerns and that the securities for which we have not recorded an other-than-temporary impairment
will recover in value.
As of December 31, 2015, we held 269 individual investment-grade fixed maturity securities and 100 individual below-investment-
grade fixed maturity securities that were in an unrealized loss position, of which 14 investment-grade fixed maturity securities and
32 below-investment-grade fixed maturity securities had been in an unrealized loss position continuously for over one year.
In determining when a decline in fair value below amortized cost of a fixed maturity security is other than temporary, we evaluate the
following factors:
• Whether we expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security
• Whether we intend to sell the security or will be required to sell the security before the recovery of its amortized cost basis
• Whether the security is current as to principal and interest payments
• The significance of the decline in value
• The time period during which there has been a significant decline in value
• Current and future business prospects and trends of earnings
• The valuation of the security’s underlying collateral
• Relevant industry conditions and trends relative to their historical cycles
• Market conditions
• Rating agency and governmental actions
• Bid and offering prices and the level of trading activity
• Adverse changes in estimated cash flows for securitized investments
• Changes in fair value subsequent to the balance sheet date
• Any other key measures for the related security
115
Unum 2015 Annual Report
While determining other-than-temporary impairments is a judgmental area, we utilize a formal, well-defined, and disciplined process
to monitor and evaluate our fixed income investment portfolio, supported by issuer specific research and documentation as of the end of
each period. The process results in a thorough evaluation of problem investments and the recording of losses on a timely basis for
investments determined to have an other-than-temporary impairment.
We held no fixed maturity securities as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, for which a portion of an other-than-temporary impairment
was recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income.
At December 31, 2015, we had commitments of $56.0 million to fund private placement fixed maturity securities, the amount of
which may or may not be funded.
Variable Interest Entities
We invest in variable interests issued by variable interest entities. These investments include tax credit partnerships, private equity
partnerships, and special purpose entities. For those variable interests that are not consolidated in our financial statements, we are not the
primary beneficiary because we have neither the power to direct the activities that are most significant to economic performance nor the
responsibility to absorb a majority of the expected losses. The determination of whether we are the primary beneficiary is performed at
the time of our initial investment and at the date of each subsequent reporting period.
As of December 31, 2015, the carrying amount of our variable interest entity investments that are not consolidated in our financial
statements was $442.6 million, comprised of $202.1 million of tax credit partnerships and $240.5 million of private equity partnerships.
These variable interest entity investments are reported as other long-term investments in our consolidated balance sheets.
The Company invests in tax credit partnerships primarily for the receipt of income tax credits and tax benefits derived from passive
losses on the investments. Amounts recognized in the consolidated statements of income are as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Income Tax Credits
Amortization, net of tax
Income Tax Benefit
Year Ended December 31
2015
$ 41.8
(23.3)
$ 18.5
2014
$ 41.8
(23.2)
$ 18.6
Contractually, we are a limited partner in these tax credit partnerships, and our maximum exposure to loss is limited to the carrying
value of our investment, which includes $5.0 million of unfunded unconditional commitments at December 31, 2015. We also had
commitments of $168.5 million to fund certain private equity partnerships at December 31, 2015, the amount of which may or may
not be funded.
We are the sole beneficiary of a special purpose entity which is consolidated in our financial statements. This entity is a securitized
asset trust containing a highly rated bond for principal protection and a private equity partnership investment which we contributed into
the trust at the time it was established. There are no restrictions on the assets held in this trust, and the trust is free to dispose of the assets
at any time. The fair values of the bond and partnership were $148.0 million and $0.9 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2015 and
$143.9 million and $1.4 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2014. The bond is reported as a component of fixed maturity securities,
and the partnership is reported as a component of other long-term investments in our consolidated balance sheets. At December 31, 2015,
we had no commitments to fund the underlying partnership, nor did we fund any amounts to the partnership during the years ended
December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013.
116
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Mortgage Loans
Our mortgage loan portfolio is well diversified by both geographic region and property type to reduce risk of concentration. All of our
mortgage loans are collateralized by commercial real estate. When issuing a new loan, our general policy is not to exceed a loan-to-value
ratio, or the ratio of the loan balance to the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral, of 75 percent. We update the loan-to-value
ratios at least every three years for each loan, and properties undergo a general inspection at least every two years. Our general policy for
newly issued loans is to have a debt service coverage ratio greater than 1.25 times on a normalized 25 year amortization period. We
update our debt service coverage ratios annually.
Mortgage loans by property type and geographic region are presented below.
(in millions of dollars)
Carrying Amount
Percent of Total
Carrying Amount
Percent of Total
December 31
2015
2014
Property Type
Apartment
Industrial
Office
Retail
Other
Total
Region
New England
Mid-Atlantic
East North Central
West North Central
South Atlantic
East South Central
West South Central
Mountain
Pacific
Total
$ 130.6
6.9%
$ 110.1
5.9%
574.1
764.7
392.3
21.9
30.5
40.6
20.8
1.2
542.9
794.0
409.6
—
29.2
42.8
22.1
—
$1,883.6
100.0%
$1,856.6
100.0%
$ 97.6
5.2%
$ 105.6
5.7%
128.8
186.4
162.6
409.3
79.1
237.6
196.5
385.7
6.9
9.9
8.6
21.7
4.2
12.6
10.4
20.5
179.4
210.6
166.2
453.6
75.3
215.6
116.0
334.3
9.7
11.4
8.9
24.4
4.1
11.6
6.2
18.0
$1,883.6
100.0%
$1,856.6
100.0%
We evaluate each of our mortgage loans individually for impairment and assign an internal credit quality rating based on a
comprehensive rating system used to evaluate the credit risk of the loan. The factors we use to derive our internal credit ratings may
include the following:
• Loan-to-value ratio
• Debt service coverage ratio based on current operating income
• Property location, including regional economics, trends and demographics
• Age, condition, and construction quality of property
• Current and historical occupancy of property
• Lease terms relative to market
• Tenant size and financial strength
• Borrower’s financial strength
• Borrower’s equity in transaction
• Additional collateral, if any
117
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Although all available and applicable factors are considered in our analysis, loan-to-value and debt service coverage ratios are the
most critical factors in determining whether we will initially issue the loan and also in assigning values and determining impairment.
We assign an overall rating to each loan using an internal rating scale of Aa (highest quality) to B (lowest quality). We review and adjust,
as needed, our internal credit quality ratings on an annual basis. This review process is performed more frequently for mortgage loans
deemed to have a higher risk of delinquency.
Mortgage loans, sorted by the applicable credit quality indicators, are as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Internal Rating
Aa
A
Baa
Ba
B
Total
Loan-to-Value Ratio
<= 65%
> 65% <= 75%
> 75% <= 85%
> 85%
Total
December 31
2015
2014
$ 1.1
586.6
1,285.8
10.1
—
$ 7.7
666.0
1,156.7
13.1
13.1
$1,883.6
$1,856.6
$ 937.2
$ 898.7
842.5
88.4
15.5
818.0
102.3
37.6
$1,883.6
$1,856.6
A summary of our troubled debt restructurings is as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Foreclosure
Carrying Amount
Number of Loans
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
$—
—
$18.1
1
2013
$4.3
1
We had no realized losses on loan foreclosures for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 other than the initial impairment
losses recognized prior to foreclosure. During 2014, we modified the terms of a mortgage loan with a carrying value of $18.1 million,
recognized a $3.0 million realized loss on the troubled debt restructuring, and foreclosed on the property in a subsequent quarter of 2014.
At December 31, 2015 and 2014, we held no mortgage loans that were greater than 90 days past due regarding principal and/or
interest payments.
There have been no changes to our accounting policies or methodology from the prior period regarding estimating the allowance for
credit losses on our mortgage loans. The activity in the allowance for credit losses is as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Balance at Beginning of Year
Provision
Charge-offs, Net of Recoveries
Balance at End of Year
118
Year Ended December 31
2015
$ 1.5
0.5
(2.0)
$ —
2014
$ 1.5
3.0
(3.0)
$ 1.5
2013
$1.5
—
—
$1.5
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
At December 31, 2014, we held one impaired mortgage loan with an unpaid principal balance of $14.6 million, a related allowance for
credit losses of $1.5 million, and a carrying value of $13.1 million. During 2015, we increased the allowance for credit losses for the impaired
loan by $0.5 million and recognized a corresponding investment loss. The loan was repaid in a subsequent quarter of 2015, with an additional
de minimis loss recognized at repayment.
Our average investment in impaired mortgage loans was $8.6 million, $26.7 million, and $14.9 million for the years ended December 31,
2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. Interest income recognized on mortgage loans subsequent to impairment was $0.6 million, $1.0 million,
and $0.8 million, for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.
At December 31, 2015, we had commitments of $67.0 million to fund certain commercial mortgage loans, the amount of which may
or may not be funded.
Transfers of Financial Assets
To manage our cash position more efficiently, we may enter into repurchase agreements with unaffiliated financial institutions.
We generally use repurchase agreements as a means to finance the purchase of invested assets or for short-term general business
purposes until projected cash flows become available from our operations or existing investments. Our repurchase agreements are
typically outstanding for less than 30 days. We post collateral through our repurchase agreement transactions whereby the counterparty
commits to purchase securities with the agreement to resell them to us at a later, specified date. The fair value of collateral posted is
generally 102 percent of the cash received.
Our investment policy also permits us to lend fixed maturity securities to unaffiliated financial institutions in short-term securities
lending agreements. These agreements increase our investment income with minimal risk. Our securities lending policy requires that a
minimum of 102 percent of the fair value of the securities loaned be maintained as collateral. We may receive cash and/or securities as
collateral under these agreements. Cash received as collateral is typically reinvested in short-term investments. If securities are received as
collateral, we are not permitted to sell or re-post them.
As of December 31, 2015, the carrying amount of fixed maturity securities loaned to third parties under our securities lending program
was $181.6 million, for which we received collateral in the form of cash and securities of $29.0 million and $159.3 million, respectively.
As of December 31, 2014, the carrying amount of fixed maturity securities loaned to third parties under our securities lending program was
$176.5 million, for which we received collateral in the form of cash and securities of $58.4 million and $128.5 million, respectively. We had
no outstanding repurchase agreements at December 31, 2015 or 2014.
The remaining contractual maturities of our securities lending agreements disaggregated by class of collateral pledged are as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
United States Government and Government Agencies and Authorities
Public Utilities
All Other Corporate Bonds
Total Borrowings
Gross Amount of Recognized Liability for Securities Lending Transactions
Amounts Related to Agreements Not Included in Offsetting Disclosure Contained Herein
December 31, 2015
Overnight and Continuous
$ 1.2
4.0
23.8
29.0
29.0
$ —
Certain of our U.S. insurance subsidiaries are members of regional FHLBs. Membership, which requires that we purchase a minimum
amount of FHLB common stock on which we receive dividends, provides access to low-cost funding. As of December 31, 2015, we owned
$30.9 million of FHLB common stock and had obtained $350.0 million in advances from the regional FHLBs for the purpose of purchasing
fixed maturity securities. As of December 31, 2015, the carrying value of fixed maturity securities and commercial mortgage loans posted
as collateral to the regional FHLBs was $317.2 million and $96.0 million, respectively. Additional common stock purchases may be required,
based on the amount of funds we borrow from the FHLBs.
119
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Offsetting of Financial Instruments
We enter into master netting agreements with each of our derivatives counterparties. These agreements provide for conditional
rights of set-off upon the occurrence of an early termination event. An early termination event is considered a default, and it allows the
non-defaulting party to offset its contracts in a loss position against any gain positions or payments due to the defaulting party. Under our
agreements, default type events are defined as failure to pay or deliver as contractually agreed, misrepresentation, bankruptcy, or merger
without assumption. See Note 4 for further discussion of collateral related to our derivative contracts.
We have securities lending agreements with unaffiliated financial institutions that post collateral to us in return for the use of our
fixed maturity securities. A right of set-off exists that allows us to keep and apply collateral received in the event of default by the
counterparty. Default within a securities lending agreement would typically occur if the counterparty failed to return the securities
borrowed from us as contractually agreed. In addition, if we default by not returning collateral received, the counterparty has a right of
set-off against our securities or any other amounts due to us.
Shown below are our financial instruments that either meet the accounting requirements that allow them to be offset in our balance
sheets or that are subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement. Our accounting policy is to not offset these
financial instruments in our balance sheets. Net amounts disclosed below have been reduced by the amount of collateral pledged to or
received from our counterparties.
December 31, 2015
Gross Amount
Gross Amount Not
of Recognized
Gross Amount
Net Amount
Offset in Balance Sheet
Financial
Offset in
Presented in
Financial
Cash
(in millions of dollars)
Instruments
Balance Sheet
Balance Sheet
Instruments
Collateral
Financial Assets:
Derivatives
Securities Lending
Total
Financial Liabilities:
Derivatives
Securities Lending
Total
$ 49.8
181.6
$231.4
$ 50.2
29.0
$ 79.2
$ —
—
$ —
$ —
—
$ —
$ 49.8
181.6
$231.4
$ 50.2
29.0
$ 79.2
$ (12.8)
(152.6)
$(165.4)
$ (35.6)
(29.0)
$ (64.6)
$(36.4)
(29.0)
$(65.4)
$ —
—
$ —
December 31, 2014
Gross Amount
Gross Amount Not
of Recognized
Gross Amount
Net Amount
Offset in Balance Sheet
Financial
Offset in
Presented in
Financial
Cash
(in millions of dollars)
Instruments
Balance Sheet
Balance Sheet
Instruments
Collateral
Financial Assets:
Derivatives
Securities Lending
Total
Financial Liabilities:
Derivatives
Securities Lending
Total
120
$ 28.0
176.5
$204.5
$ 92.9
58.4
$151.3
$ —
—
$ —
$ —
—
$ —
$ 28.0
176.5
$204.5
$ 92.9
58.4
$151.3
$ (7.2)
(118.1)
$(125.3)
$ (67.0)
(58.4)
$(125.4)
$(15.4)
(58.4)
$(73.8)
$ —
—
$ —
Net
Amount
$ 0.6
—
$ 0.6
$14.6
—
$14.6
Net
Amount
$ 5.4
—
$ 5.4
$25.9
—
$25.9
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Net Investment Income
Net investment income reported in our consolidated statements of income is as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Fixed Maturity Securities
Derivatives
Mortgage Loans
Policy Loans
Other Long-term Investments
Short-term Investments
Gross Investment Income
Less Investment Expenses
Less Investment Income on Participation Fund Account Assets
Net Investment Income
Realized Investment Gain and Loss
Realized investment gains and losses are as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Fixed Maturity Securities
Gross Gains on Sales
Gross Losses on Sales
Other-Than-Temporary Impairment Loss
Mortgage Loans and Other Invested Assets
Gross Gains on Sales
Gross Losses on Sales
Impairment Loss
Embedded Derivative in Modified Coinsurance Arrangement
All Other Derivatives
Foreign Currency Transactions
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$2,327.1
$2,344.4
$2,371.6
44.2
114.0
16.7
21.6
3.4
40.4
109.8
16.3
23.0
2.4
35.2
109.2
15.7
18.0
2.4
2,527.0
2,536.3
2,552.1
31.2
14.6
29.0
15.1
29.5
15.7
$2,481.2
$2,492.2
$2,506.9
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$ 23.8
(25.6)
(32.4)
16.0
(0.1)
(5.9)
(37.7)
35.7
(17.6)
$ 9.3
(7.5)
(13.5)
21.2
(0.8)
(3.4)
3.3
11.0
(3.5)
$ 15.8
(45.7)
(0.8)
15.6
—
(2.0)
30.7
(1.9)
(4.9)
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
$(43.8)
$ 16.1
$ 6.8
121
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Note 4. Derivative Financial Instruments
Purpose of Derivatives
We are exposed to certain risks relating to our ongoing business operations. The primary risks managed by using derivative
instruments are interest rate risk, risk related to matching duration for our assets and liabilities, foreign currency risk, and credit risk.
Historically, we have utilized current and forward interest rate swaps and options on forward interest rate swaps and U.S. Treasury rates,
current and forward currency swaps, forward treasury locks, currency forward contracts, forward contracts on specific fixed income
securities, and credit default swaps. Transactions hedging interest rate risk are primarily associated with our individual and group long-term
care and individual and group disability products. All other product portfolios are periodically reviewed to determine if hedging strategies
would be appropriate for risk management purposes. We do not use derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes.
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges and used to reduce our exposure to interest rate and duration risk are as follows:
• Interest rate swaps are used to hedge interest rate risks and to improve the matching of assets and liabilities. An interest rate swap is
an agreement in which we agree with other parties to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed rate and
variable rate interest amounts. We use interest rate swaps to hedge the anticipated purchase of fixed maturity securities thereby
protecting us from the potential adverse impact of declining interest rates on the associated policy reserves. We also use interest rate
swaps to hedge the potential adverse impact of rising interest rates in anticipation of issuing fixed rate long-term debt.
• Forward treasury locks are used to minimize interest rate risk associated with the anticipated purchase or disposal of fixed maturity
securities. A forward treasury lock is a derivative contract without an initial investment where we and the counterparty agree to
purchase or sell a specific U.S. Treasury bond at a future date at a pre-determined price.
• Options on U.S. Treasury rates are used to hedge the interest rate risk associated with the anticipated purchase of fixed maturity
securities. These options give us the right, but not the obligation, to receive a specific interest rate for a specified period of time.
These options enable us to lock in a minimum investment yield to hedge the potential adverse impact of declining interest rates.
Derivatives designated as fair value hedges and used to reduce our exposure to interest rate and duration risk are as follows:
• Interest rate swaps are used to effectively convert certain of our fixed rate securities into floating rate securities which are used to
fund our floating rate long-term debt. Under these swap agreements, we receive a variable rate of interest and pay a fixed rate of
interest. Additionally, we use interest rate swaps to effectively convert certain fixed rate, long-term debt into floating rate long-term
debt. Under these swap agreements, we receive a fixed rate of interest and pay a variable rate of interest.
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges and used to reduce our exposure to foreign currency risk are as follows:
• Foreign currency interest rate swaps have historically been used to hedge the currency risk of certain foreign currency-denominated
fixed maturity securities owned for portfolio diversification and to hedge the currency risk associated with certain of the principal and
interest payments of the U.S. dollar-denominated debt issued by one of our U.K. subsidiaries. For hedges of fixed maturity securities,
we agree to pay, at specified intervals, fixed rate foreign currency-denominated principal and interest payments in exchange for fixed
rate payments in the functional currency of the operating segment. For hedges of debt issued, we paid, at specified intervals, fixed
rate foreign currency-denominated principal and interest payments to the counterparty in exchange for fixed rate U.S. dollar-
denominated principal and interest payments.
122
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments and used to reduce our exposure to foreign currency risk and credit losses on
securities owned are as follows:
• Foreign currency interest rate swaps previously designated as hedges were used to hedge the currency risk of certain foreign
currency-denominated fixed maturity securities owned for portfolio diversification. We agree to pay, at specified intervals, fixed rate
foreign currency-denominated principal and interest payments in exchange for fixed rate payments in the functional currency of the
operating segment. We hold offsetting swaps wherein we agree to pay fixed rate principal and interest payments in the functional
currency of the operating segment in exchange for fixed rate foreign currency-denominated payments.
• Credit default swaps are used as economic hedges against credit risk but do not qualify for hedge accounting. A credit default
swap is an agreement in which we agree with another party to pay, at specified intervals, a fixed-rate fee in exchange for insurance
against a credit event on a specific investment. If a defined credit event occurs, our counterparty may either pay us a net cash
settlement, or we may surrender the specific investment to them in exchange for cash equal to the full notional amount of the
swap. Credit events typically include events such as bankruptcy, failure to pay, or certain types of debt restructuring.
Derivative Risks
The basic types of risks associated with derivatives are market risk (that the value of the derivative will be adversely impacted by
changes in the market, primarily the change in interest and exchange rates) and credit risk (that the counterparty will not perform
according to the terms of the contract). The market risk of the derivatives should generally offset the market risk associated with the
hedged financial instrument or liability. To help limit the credit exposure of the derivatives, we enter into master netting agreements
with our counterparties whereby contracts in a gain position can be offset against contracts in a loss position. We also typically enter
into bilateral, cross-collateralization agreements with our counterparties to help limit the credit exposure of the derivatives. These
agreements require the counterparty in a loss position to submit acceptable collateral with the other counterparty in the event the net
loss position meets or exceeds an agreed upon amount. Our current credit exposure on derivatives, which is limited to the value of those
contracts in a net gain position, including accrued interest receivable less collateral held, was $8.5 million at December 31, 2015. We held
cash collateral from our counterparties of $36.4 million and $15.4 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. We post either
fixed maturity securities or cash as collateral to our counterparties. The carrying value of fixed maturity securities posted as collateral to
our counterparties was $27.3 million and $67.0 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. We had no cash posted as collateral
to our counterparties at December 31, 2015 and 2014. See Note 3 for further discussion of our master netting agreements.
The majority of our derivative instruments contain provisions that require us to maintain specified issuer credit ratings and financial
strength ratings. Should our ratings fall below these specified levels, we would be in violation of the provisions, and our derivatives
counterparties could terminate our contracts and request immediate payment. The aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments
with credit risk-related contingent features that were in a liability position was $50.2 million and $92.9 million at December 31, 2015
and 2014, respectively.
123
Unum 2015 Annual Report Derivative Transactions
The table below summarizes, by notional amounts, the activity for each category of derivatives. The notional amounts represent the
basis upon which our counterparty pay and receive amounts are calculated.
Swaps
Receive
Receive
Receive
Variable/Pay
Fixed/Pay
Fixed/Pay
(in millions of dollars)
Balance at December 31, 2012
Fixed
Fixed
$174.0
$508.8
Additions
Terminations
Balance at December 31, 2013
Additions
Terminations
Balance at December 31, 2014
Additions
Terminations
—
24.0
150.0
—
—
150.0
—
—
160.0
38.4
630.4
250.1
40.1
840.4
—
190.1
Variable
$750.0
—
150.0
600.0
—
—
600.0
—
—
Credit
Default
$ —
97.0
—
97.0
—
—
97.0
2.0
29.0
Forwards
Options
Total
$ —
$ —
$1,432.8
24.0
24.0
—
68.0
68.0
—
94.0
94.0
10.0
10.0
—
—
—
—
—
—
291.0
246.4
1,477.4
318.1
108.1
1,687.4
96.0
313.1
Balance at December 31, 2015
$150.0
$650.3
$600.0
$70.0
$ —
$ —
$1,470.3
Cash Flow Hedges
As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, we had $427.9 million and $618.0 million, respectively, notional amount of receive fixed, pay
fixed, open current and forward foreign currency interest rate swaps to hedge fixed income foreign currency-denominated securities and
U.S. dollar-denominated debt issued by one of our U.K. subsidiaries.
During the fourth quarter of 2015, the remaining principal balance of the U.S. dollar-denominated debt issued by one of our U.K.
subsidiaries matured, at which time we terminated the related foreign currency swaps with a notional amount of $150.0 million and
reclassified the cash flow hedge gain of $8.2 million from accumulated other comprehensive income to realized investment gain in our
consolidated statements of income. We also reclassified the remaining deferred cash flow hedge gain of $27.7 million from previously
terminated derivatives associated with the hedge of this debt from accumulated other comprehensive income to realized investment gain.
During 2014, we redeemed a portion of this debt and reclassified $13.1 million, the applicable portion of the deferred gain on cash flow
hedges from the previously terminated derivatives associated with the hedge of this debt, from accumulated other comprehensive income
to realized investment gain in our consolidated statements of income. See Note 8.
During 2014, we novated certain of our foreign currency interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $97.0 million and a fair value
of $(29.5) million to a new counterparty. At the time of novation, these derivatives were effective hedges, and we therefore deferred the
unrealized loss into other comprehensive income and will recognize the loss in earnings during the periods in which the hedged items
affect earnings. In conjunction with the novation, these derivatives were de-designated as hedges, and subsequent changes in their fair
value will be reported in earnings as a component of net realized investment gain or loss. To establish a new effective hedging relationship
with the fixed income foreign currency denominated securities previously hedged, we entered into $124.7 million notional amount of
foreign currency interest rate swaps during 2014 whereby we receive fixed rate functional currency principal and interest in exchange for
fixed rate payments in foreign currency.
124
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
During 2013, we terminated, as scheduled, $150.0 million notional amount of received fixed, pay variable forward starting interest
rate swaps used to hedge the anticipated purchase of fixed maturity securities.
For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 there was no material ineffectiveness related to our cash flow hedges, and
no component of the derivative instruments’ gain or loss was excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness.
As of December 31, 2015, we expect to amortize approximately $53.6 million of net deferred gains on derivative instruments during
the next twelve months. This amount will be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into earnings and reported on the
same income statement line item as the hedged item. The income statement line items that will be affected by this amortization are net
investment income and interest and debt expense. Additional amounts that may be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive
income into earnings to offset the earnings impact of foreign currency translation of hedged items are not estimable.
As of December 31, 2015, we are hedging the variability of future cash flows associated with forecasted transactions through
the year 2038.
Fair Value Hedges
As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, we had $150.0 million notional amount of receive variable, pay fixed interest rate swaps to
hedge the changes in fair value of certain fixed rate securities held. These swaps effectively convert the associated fixed rate securities
into floating rate securities, which are used to fund our floating rate long-term debt. The change in fair value of the hedged fixed maturity
securities attributable to the hedged benchmark interest rate resulted in a loss of $5.3 million, $5.3 million, and $11.5 million for the years
ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively, with an offsetting gain on the related interest rate swaps.
As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, we had $600.0 million notional amount of receive fixed, pay variable interest rate swaps to hedge
the changes in the fair value of certain fixed rate long-term debt. These swaps effectively convert the associated fixed rate long-term debt
into floating rate debt and provide for a better matching of interest rates with our short-term investments, which have frequent interest
rate resets similar to a floating rate security. The change in fair value of the hedged debt attributable to the hedged benchmark interest
rate resulted in a gain (loss) of $0.1 million, $(5.5) million, and $21.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013,
respectively, with an offsetting gain or loss on the related interest rate swaps.
For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, there was no material ineffectiveness related to our fair value hedges, and no
component of the derivative instruments’ gain or loss was excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness. There were no instances
wherein we discontinued fair value hedge accounting due to a hedged firm commitment no longer qualifying as a fair value hedge.
Derivatives not Designated as Hedging Instruments
As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, we held $222.4 million notional amount of receive fixed, pay fixed, foreign currency interest
rate swaps. During 2014, we entered into $125.4 million notional amount of foreign currency interest rate swaps in conjunction with the
previously discussed transaction wherein we de-designated foreign currency interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $97.0 million.
These derivatives were not designated as hedges, and as such, changes in fair value related to these derivatives will be reported in
earnings as a component of net realized investment gain or loss. We expect the changes in fair value of these derivatives to materially
offset the changes in fair value related to the de-designated derivatives.
As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, we held $70.0 million and $97.0 million, respectively, notional amount of single name credit
default swaps. We entered into these swaps in order to mitigate the credit risk associated with specific securities owned.
We have an embedded derivative in a modified coinsurance arrangement for which we include in our realized investment gains
and losses a calculation intended to estimate the value of the option of our reinsurance counterparty to cancel the reinsurance contract
with us. However, neither party can unilaterally terminate the reinsurance agreement except in extreme circumstances resulting from
regulatory supervision, delinquency proceedings, or other direct regulatory action. Cash settlements or collateral related to this embedded
derivative are not required at any time during the reinsurance contract or at termination of the reinsurance contract. There are no
credit-related counterparty triggers, and any accumulated embedded derivative gain or loss reduces to zero over time as the reinsured
business winds down.
125
Unum 2015 Annual Report Locations and Amounts of Derivative Financial Instruments
The following tables summarize the location and fair values of derivative financial instruments, as reported in our consolidated
balance sheets.
(in millions of dollars)
Designated as Hedging Instruments
Interest Rate Swaps
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Total
Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Credit Default Swaps
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Embedded Derivative in Modified Coinsurance Arrangement
Total
(in millions of dollars)
Designated as Hedging Instruments
Interest Rate Swaps
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Total
Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Credit Default Swaps
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Embedded Derivative in Modified Coinsurance Arrangement
Total
December 31, 2015
Asset Derivatives
Liability Derivatives
Balance Sheet
Balance Sheet
Location
Fair Value
Location
Fair Value
Other L-T Investments
Other L-T Investments
$ 2.4
47.4
$49.8
Other Liabilities
$ 12.3
Other Liabilities
6.0
$ 18.3
Other Liabilities
$ 0.3
Other Liabilities
Other Liabilities
31.6
87.6
$119.5
December 31, 2014
Asset Derivatives
Liability Derivatives
Balance Sheet
Balance Sheet
Location
Fair Value
Location
Fair Value
Other L-T Investments
Other L-T Investments
Other Liabilities
Other Liabilities
$ 5.7
22.3
$28.0
$20.8
39.6
$60.4
Other Liabilities
$ 1.2
Other Liabilities
Other Liabilities
31.3
49.9
$82.4
126
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
The following table summarizes the location of gains and losses on the effective portion of derivative financial instruments
designated as cash flow hedging instruments, as reported in our consolidated statements of income and consolidated statements of
comprehensive income.
(in millions of dollars)
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive
Income (Loss) on Derivatives
Interest Rate Swaps and Forwards
Options
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Total
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Income into Income
Net Investment Income
Interest Rate Swaps and Forwards
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Interest Rate Swaps
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Interest and Debt Expense
Interest Rate Swaps
Total
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$ (0.7)
—
68.1
$67.4
$50.2
(1.6)
0.5
36.1
(1.8)
$83.4
$ (0.1)
—
16.2
$16.1
$47.8
(4.2)
4.3
6.9
(1.8)
$53.0
$ (7.2)
(0.1)
22.6
$ 15.3
$ 43.1
(5.9)
1.3
(13.8)
(1.7)
$ 23.0
The following table summarizes the location of gains and losses on our derivatives not designated as hedging instruments, as reported
in our consolidated statements of income.
(in millions of dollars)
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Credit Default Swaps
Foreign Exchange Contracts
Embedded Derivative in Modified Coinsurance Arrangement
Total
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$ 0.1
(0.3)
(37.7)
$(37.9)
$(0.3)
(1.8)
3.3
$ 1.2
$ (1.9)
—
30.7
$28.8
127
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Note 5. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Components of our accumulated other comprehensive income, after tax, and related changes are as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Balance at December 31, 2012
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Net
Unrealized
Gain on
Securities
$ 873.5
Net Gain on
Cash Flow
Hedges
$401.6
Foreign
Currency
Unrecognized
Pension and
Translation
Postretirement
Adjustment
Benefit Costs
Total
$ (72.6)
$ (574.5)
$ 628.0
Before Reclassifications
(746.4)
9.7
Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Income or Loss
Net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balance at December 31, 2013
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
8.6
(737.8)
135.7
(15.0)
(5.3)
396.3
25.5
—
25.5
328.6
(382.6)
16.0
344.6
9.6
(373.0)
255.0
(47.1)
(229.9)
Before Reclassifications
154.3
31.1
(66.3)
(216.1)
(97.0)
Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Income or Loss
Net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balance at December 31, 2014
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
0.3
154.6
290.3
(36.4)
(5.3)
391.0
—
(66.3)
(113.4)
Before Reclassifications
(114.7)
43.3
(60.2)
Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Income or Loss
Net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
28.7
(86.0)
(56.3)
(13.0)
—
(60.2)
44.5
(171.6)
(401.5)
1.3
7.6
8.9
8.4
(88.6)
166.4
(130.3)
(20.0)
(150.3)
Balance at December 31, 2015
$ 204.3
$378.0
$(173.6)
$(392.6)
$ 16.1
The net unrealized gain on securities consists of the following components:
December 31
Change for the Year Ended
December 31
(in millions of dollars)
2015
2014
2013
2012
2015
2014
2013
Fixed Maturity Securities
$ 3,695.7
$ 6,261.5 $ 4,054.8
$ 7,221.5 $(2,565.8) $ 2,206.7
$(3,166.7)
Other Investments
Deferred Acquisition Costs
Reserves for Future Policy
and Contract Benefits
Reinsurance Recoverable
Income Tax
Total
(33.7)
(29.4)
13.9
55.5
(50.8)
(41.6)
92.8
(67.0)
(47.6)
21.4
(41.6)
(9.2)
(37.3)
25.4
(3,578.4)
(6,150.3) (4,108.5)
(6,277.5)
2,571.9
(2,041.8)
2,169.0
263.2
(113.1)
365.0
263.8
351.5
(101.8)
(149.0)
(88.3)
(447.8)
35.9
101.2
(60.7)
(87.7)
359.5
$ 204.3
$ 290.3 $ 135.7
$ 873.5 $ (86.0) $ 154.6
$ (737.8)
128
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income were recognized in our consolidated statements of income
as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Net Unrealized Gain on Securities
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Gain (Loss) on Sales of Securities and Other Invested Assets
Other-Than-Temporary Impairment Loss
Income Tax Benefit
Total
Net Gain on Cash Flow Hedges
Net Investment Income
Gain on Interest Rate Swaps and Forwards
Loss on Foreign Exchange Contracts
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Gain on Interest Rate Swaps
Gain (Loss) on Foreign Exchange Contracts
Interest and Debt Expense
Loss on Interest Rate Swaps
Income Tax Expense
Total
Unrecognized Pension and Postretirement Benefit Costs
Other Expenses
Amortization of Net Actuarial Loss
Amortization of Prior Service Credit
Curtailment Gain
Settlement Loss
Income Tax Benefit
Total
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$(12.2)
(32.4)
(44.6)
(15.9)
$(28.7)
$ 12.6
(13.5)
(0.9)
(0.6)
$ (0.3)
$ (12.6)
(0.8)
(13.4)
(4.8)
$ (8.6)
$ 50.2
(1.6)
$ 47.8
(4.2)
$ 43.1
(5.9)
0.5
36.1
(1.8)
83.4
27.1
4.3
6.9
(1.8)
53.0
16.6
1.3
(13.8)
(1.7)
23.0
8.0
$ 56.3
$ 36.4
$ 15.0
$(11.9)
$ (5.6)
$(32.9)
0.3
—
—
(11.6)
(4.0)
$ (7.6)
1.7
—
(64.4)
(68.3)
(23.8)
$(44.5)
5.0
3.0
—
(24.9)
(8.9)
$(16.0)
129
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Note 6. Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claim Adjustment Expenses
Changes in the liability for unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses are as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Balance at January 1
Less Reinsurance Recoverable
Net Balance at January 1
Incurred Related to
Current Year
Prior Years
Interest
All Other Incurred
Foreign Currency
Total Incurred
Paid Related to
Current Year
Prior Years
Total Paid
Net Balance at December 31
Plus Reinsurance Recoverable
Balance at December 31
2015
2014
$24,194.0
2,066.9
$24,535.6
2,072.8
22,127.1
22,462.8
2013
$24,567.1
2,006.0
22,561.1
5,058.1
4,851.5
4,751.9
1,177.6
(111.6)
(119.5)
6,004.6
(1,853.7)
(4,546.5)
(6,400.2)
21,731.5
2,064.6
1,214.7
(13.5)
(138.7)
5,914.0
(1,702.3)
(4,547.4)
(6,249.7)
22,127.1
2,066.9
1,230.0
(44.7)
41.2
5,978.4
(1,657.3)
(4,419.4)
(6,076.7)
22,462.8
2,072.8
$23,796.1
$24,194.0
$24,535.6
The majority of the net balances are related to disability claims with long-tail payouts on which interest earned on assets backing
liabilities is an integral part of pricing and reserving. Interest accrued on prior year reserves has been calculated on the opening reserve
balance less one-half year’s cash payments at our average reserve discount rate used during 2015, 2014, and 2013.
“Incurred Related to Prior Years — All Other Incurred” for the years shown in the preceding chart includes the reserve adjustments as
discussed in the following paragraphs, which create variances year over year. Excluding those adjustments, the variability exhibited year
over year is caused primarily by the level of claim resolutions in the period relative to the long-term expectations reflected in the reserves.
Our claim resolution rate assumption used in determining reserves is our expectation of the resolution rate we will experience over the life
of the block of business and will vary from actual experience in any one period, both favorably and unfavorably.
2014 Long-term Care Reserve Increase
Policy reserves for our long-term care block of business are determined using the gross premium valuation method and, prior to 2014,
were valued based on assumptions established as of December 31, 2011, the date of the initial loss recognition. Gross premium valuation
assumptions do not change after the date of loss recognition unless reserves are again determined to be deficient. We undertake a review
of policy reserve adequacy annually during the fourth quarter of each year, or more frequently if appropriate, using best estimate assumptions
as of the date of the review.
Included in our 2014 review was an analysis of our reserve assumptions, including those for the discount rate, mortality and morbidity
rates, persistency, and premium rate increases. Our analysis of reserve discount rate assumptions considered the continued historic low
interest rate environment, future market expectations, and our view of future portfolio yields. The assumptions we established in 2011
were set at a level that we estimated would be sustainable in a low interest rate environment for three to five years, with improvements
130
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
in market yields beginning after the third year. Since that time, however, interest rates had continued to hover near historic lows, and credit
spreads had tightened. Our assumption update for mortality incorporated the last three years of Company-specific experience and emerging
trends as well as industry data, where available and appropriate, and reflected improvements in life expectancies beyond what was initially
anticipated in 2011. Our morbidity assumptions were updated to reflect trends from our own emerging Company experience in claim
incidence and terminations, as well as trends based on available and appropriate industry data and studies. Our premium rate increase
assumptions were updated to reflect progress-to-date and our on-going rate increase strategy.
Based on our analysis at that time, we lowered the discount rate assumption to reflect the low interest rate environment and our
revised expectation of future investment portfolio yield rates. Our revised assumptions anticipated the low interest rate environment
persisting for the next three to five years, with a return to more historical averages over the following five year period. We updated our
mortality assumptions to reflect emerging experience due to an increase in life expectancies which increases the ultimate number of
people who will utilize long-term care benefits and also lengthens the amount of time a claimant may receive long-term care benefits.
We changed our morbidity assumptions to reflect emerging industry experience as well as our own Company experience, and we updated
our projection of future premium rate increase approvals. Using our revised best estimate assumptions, as of December 31, 2014, we
determined that our policy and claim reserves should be increased $698.2 million to reflect our current estimate of future benefit obligations.
Of this amount, $85.8 million was related to claim reserves, which can be attributed to prior year incurred claims, thereby impacting the
results shown in the preceding chart.
2013 Unclaimed Death Benefits Reserve Increase
Beginning in 2011, a number of state regulators began requiring insurers to cross-check specified insurance policies with the Social
Security Administration’s Death Master File to identify potential matches. If a potential match was identified, insurers were requested to
determine if benefits were due, locate beneficiaries, and make payments where appropriate. We initiated this process where requested,
and in 2012 we began implementing this process in all states on a forward-looking basis. In addition to implementing this on a forward-
looking basis, in 2013 we began an initiative to search for potential claims from previous years. During 2013, we completed our assessment
of benefits which we estimated would be paid under this initiative, and as such, established $95.5 million of additional claim reserves for
payment of these benefits. Claim reserves were increased $49.1 million for Unum US group life, $26.3 million for Unum US voluntary life,
and $20.1 million for Colonial Life voluntary life. The reserves established were attributed to prior year incurred claims, thereby impacting
the results shown in the preceding chart.
2013 Group Life Waiver of Premium Benefit Reserve Reduction
Within our Unum US segment, we offer group life insurance coverage which consists primarily of renewable term life insurance and
includes a provision for waiver of premium, if disabled. The group life waiver of premium benefit (group life waiver) provides for continuation
of life insurance coverage when an insured, or the employer on behalf of the insured, is no longer paying premium because the employee
is not actively at work due to a disability. The group life waiver claim reserve is the present value of future anticipated death benefits
reflecting the probability of death while remaining disabled. Claim reserves are calculated using assumptions based on past experience
adjusted for current trends and any other factors that would modify past experience and are subject to revision as current claim experience
emerges and alters our view of future expectations. The two fundamental assumptions in the development of the group life waiver reserve
are mortality and recovery. Our emerging experience and that which continues to emerge within the industry indicate an increase in life
expectancies, which decreases the ultimate anticipated death benefits to be paid under the group life waiver benefit. Emerging experience
also reflects an improvement in claim recovery rates, which also lessens the likelihood of payment of a death benefit while the insured is
disabled. During 2013, we completed a review of our assumptions and modified our mortality and claim recovery assumptions for our
Unum US group life waiver reserves and, as a result, reduced claim reserves by $85.0 million. Of this amount, approximately $78.0 million
was attributed to prior year incurred claims, thereby impacting the results shown in the preceding chart.
131
Unum 2015 Annual Report Reconciliation
A reconciliation of policy and contract benefits and reserves for future policy and contract benefits as reported in our consolidated
balance sheets to the liability for unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses is as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Policy and Contract Benefits
Reserves for Future Policy and Contract Benefits
Total
Less:
Life Reserves for Future Policy and Contract Benefits
Accident and Health Active Life Reserves
Adjustment Related to Unrealized Investment Gains and Losses
2015
December 31
2014
$ 1,484.6
$ 1,529.3
43,540.6
45,025.2
7,946.3
9,704.4
3,578.4
45,929.4
47,458.7
7,850.9
9,263.5
6,150.3
2013
$ 1,511.0
43,099.1
44,610.1
7,740.5
8,225.5
4,108.5
Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claim Adjustment Expenses
$23,796.1
$24,194.0
$24,535.6
The adjustment related to unrealized investment gains and losses reflects the changes that would be necessary to policyholder
liabilities if the unrealized investment gains and losses related to the corresponding available-for-sale securities had been realized. Changes
in this adjustment are reported as a component of other comprehensive income or loss.
Note 7. Income Tax
Total income tax expense (benefit) is allocated as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Net Income
Stockholders’ Equity — Additional Paid-in Capital
Stock-Based Compensation
Stockholders’ Equity — Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Year Ended December 31
2015
$ 371.2
2014
$ 139.9
2013
$ 373.0
(3.6)
(3.0)
(0.8)
Change in Net Unrealized Gain on Securities Before Adjustment
(892.5)
725.8
(1,102.8)
Change in Adjustment to Deferred Acquisition Costs and Reserves for
Future Policy and Contract Benefits, Net of Reinsurance
Change in Net Gain on Cash Flow Hedges
Change in Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment
Change in Unrecognized Pension and Postretirement Benefit Costs
Total
856.6
(4.3)
(0.1)
3.2
(665.1)
(2.0)
—
(92.4)
743.3
(1.3)
—
185.2
$ 330.5
$ 103.2
$ 196.6
A reconciliation of the income tax provision at the U.S. federal statutory rate to the income tax rate as reported in our consolidated
statements of income is as follows. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to current year reporting.
Statutory Income Tax
Foreign Rate Differential, Inclusive of Foreign Rate Changes
Tax Credits
Other Items, Net
Effective Tax
132
Year Ended December 31
2015
35.0%
(2.5)
(1.4)
(1.1)
30.0%
2014
35.0%
(4.0)
(4.5)
(0.7)
25.8%
2013
35.0%
(1.8)
(1.9)
(0.7)
30.6%
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
In 2014, our U.S. earnings included a long-term care reserve charge that resulted in a larger proportion of our 2014 earnings derived
from our foreign operations and taxed at the lower rate, therefore reducing our overall effective tax rate.
Our net deferred tax liability consists of the following. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to current
year reporting.
(in millions of dollars)
Deferred Tax Liability
Deferred Acquisition Costs
Fixed Assets
Invested Assets
Other
Gross Deferred Tax Liability
Deferred Tax Asset
Reserves
Employee Benefits
Other
Gross Deferred Tax Asset
Less: Valuation Allowance
Net Deferred Tax Asset
Net Deferred Tax Liability
December 31
2015
2014
$ 140.4
87.1
1,128.4
55.4
1,411.3
1,060.5
246.0
14.3
1,320.8
1.3
1,319.5
$ 91.8
$ 97.4
95.6
1,982.8
64.6
2,240.4
1,919.2
254.0
5.2
2,178.4
—
2,178.4
$ 62.0
Our consolidated statements of income include amounts subject to both domestic and foreign taxation. The income and related tax
expense (benefit) are as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Income Before Tax
United States — Federal
Foreign
Total
Current Tax Expense (Benefit)
United States — Federal
Foreign
Total
Deferred Tax Expense (Benefit)
United States — Federal
Foreign
Total
Total
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$1,057.8
180.5
$1,238.3
$ 280.5
61.6
342.1
56.9
(27.8)
29.1
$391.7
150.3
$542.0
$160.6
(25.1)
135.5
(50.5)
54.9
4.4
$1,086.8
133.2
$1,220.0
$ 309.8
18.7
328.5
41.3
3.2
44.5
$ 371.2
$139.9
$ 373.0
133
Unum 2015 Annual Report
The U.K. government enacted income tax rate reductions during 2015 and 2013. During 2015, the rate was reduced from 20 percent
to 19 percent effective April 2017, and to 18 percent effective April 2020. During 2013, the rate was reduced from 23 percent to 21 percent
effective April 2014, and to 20 percent effective April 2015. Although the rate reductions in each instance became or will become effective
during a subsequent year, we are required to adjust deferred tax assets and liabilities through income on the date of enactment of a rate
change. As a result, we recorded income tax benefits of $6.5 million and $6.3 million for the tax rate reductions enacted during 2015 and
2013, respectively.
We have not provided U.S. deferred taxes on the cumulative earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries. We consider these unremitted
earnings to be permanently invested as they relate to ongoing operations of our non-U.S. subsidiaries. We do not intend to repatriate
these earnings to fund our U.S. operations as we expect that future domestic cash flow generation will be sufficient to meet future
domestic cash needs. As of December 31, 2015, we had not recorded a deferred tax liability on approximately $1 billion of the excess of
the carrying amount for financial reporting over the tax basis of investments in non-U.S. subsidiaries that is considered permanent in
duration. This amount becomes taxable upon repatriation of assets from a foreign subsidiary or a sale or liquidation of foreign subsidiaries.
Should we sell the stock in our non-U.S. subsidiaries for an amount equal to the carrying amount for financial reporting, we would
recognize tax expense of approximately $200 million, assuming our ability to fully utilize foreign tax credits.
Our consolidated statements of income include the following changes in unrecognized tax benefits:
(in millions of dollars)
Balance at Beginning of Year
Additions to Tax Positions Taken During Prior Years
Settlements with Tax Authorities
Tax Positions Taken During Current Year
Balance at End of Year
Less Tax Attributable to Temporary Items Included Above
Total Unrecognized Tax Benefits That if Recognized
2015
$ 19.8
—
(19.0)
—
0.8
—
December 31
2014
$ 18.4
1.7
(0.6)
0.3
19.8
(10.4)
2013
$ 17.5
5.7
(4.8)
—
18.4
(10.2)
Would Affect the Effective Tax Rate
$ 0.8
$ 9.4
$ 8.2
Included in the balances at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $10.4 million and $10.2 million, respectively, of unrecognized tax
benefits for tax positions for which the ultimate deductibility was highly certain but for which there was uncertainty about the timing of
such deductibility. Other than potential interest and penalties, the disallowance of the shorter deductibility period would not have affected
our results of operations but would have accelerated the payment of cash to the taxing authority.
We recognize interest expense and penalties, if applicable, related to unrecognized tax benefits in tax expense net of federal income
tax. We recognized an increase (reduction) in interest expense related to unrecognized tax benefits of $(1.0) million, $0.2 million, and
$(1.1) million during 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. We held a de minimis liability in our consolidated balance sheets for accrued
interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2015. At December 31, 2014, we held a liability of $1.0 million.
There are no positions for which it is reasonably possible that unrecognized tax benefits could materially increase or decrease within the
next 12 months.
We file federal and state income tax returns in the United States and in foreign jurisdictions. We have been under continuous
examination by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) with regard to our U.S. federal income tax returns. During 2015, we settled our IRS audit
for 2009 and 2010 and resolved a claim for refund we filed related to tax credits for years 2003 through 2012. As a result, we recognized a
tax benefit of $6.8 million in our consolidated statements of income and paid an immaterial amount of additional tax.
Tax years subsequent to 2010 remain subject to examination by tax authorities in the U.S., and tax years subsequent to 2013 remain
subject to examination in major foreign jurisdictions. We believe sufficient provision has been made for all potential adjustments for years
that are not closed by the statute of limitations in all major tax jurisdictions and that any such adjustments would not have a material
adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity, or results of operations.
134
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, we had no net operating loss carryforward for U.S. income taxes. We record a valuation allowance
to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. During 2015, we recorded a valuation allowance of
$1.3 million related to unrealized tax losses on buildings which we own and occupy in the U.K. We had no valuation allowance at
December 31, 2014.
Total income taxes paid net of refunds during 2015, 2014, and 2013 were $189.1 million, $155.7 million, and $398.1 million, respectively.
Note 8. Debt
Debt consists of the following:
(in millions of dollars)
Long-term Debt
Senior Secured Notes issued 2007
Senior Notes issued 1998
Senior Notes issued 1998
Senior Notes issued 2002
Senior Notes issued 2009
Senior Notes issued 2010
Senior Notes issued 2012
Senior Notes issued 2014
Senior Notes issued 2015
Interest Rates
Maturities
2015
2014
December 31
Variable
7.000%
6.750 –7.250%
7.375%
7.125%
5.625%
5.750%
4.000%
3.875%
2037
2018
2028
2032
2016
2020
2042
2024
2025
$ 324.0
$ 398.4
200.0
365.8
39.5
—
399.8
248.7
349.5
273.2
50.8
226.5
200.0
365.8
39.5
350.0
399.7
248.7
349.5
—
50.8
226.5
(2.7)
(0.2)
2,475.1
2,628.7
—
350.0
2.4
352.4
151.9
—
—
151.9
$2,827.5
$2,780.6
Medium-term Notes issued 1990 –1996
7.000 –7.190%
2023–2028
Junior Subordinated Debt Securities issued 1998
7.405%
2038
Fair Value Hedges Adjustment
Total Long-term Debt
Short-term Debt
Senior Notes issued 2005
Senior Notes issued 2009
Fair Value Hedges Adjustment
Total Short-term Debt
Total Debt
6.850%
7.125%
2015
2016
Collateralized debt is comprised of our senior secured notes and ranks highest in priority, followed by unsecured notes, which consist
of senior notes and medium-term notes, followed by junior subordinated debt securities. The senior notes due 2018 and medium-term
notes are non-callable and the junior subordinated debt securities are callable under limited, specified circumstances. The remaining
debt is callable and may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at any time.
The aggregate contractual principal maturities are $350.0 million in 2016, $200.0 million in 2018, $400.0 million in 2020, and
$1,881.6 million thereafter.
Senior Secured Notes
In 2007, Northwind Holdings, LLC (Northwind Holdings), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Unum Group, issued $800.0 million of insured,
senior secured notes (the Northwind notes) in a private offering. The Northwind notes bear interest at a floating rate equal to the three-
month LIBOR plus 0.78%.
135
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Northwind Holdings’ ability to meet its obligations to pay principal, interest, and other amounts due on the Northwind notes will be
dependent principally on its receipt of dividends from Northwind Reinsurance Company (Northwind Re), the sole subsidiary of Northwind
Holdings. Northwind Re reinsured the risks attributable to specified individual disability insurance policies issued by or reinsured by Provident
Life and Accident Insurance Company, Unum Life Insurance Company of America, and The Paul Revere Life Insurance Company (collectively,
the ceding insurers) pursuant to separate reinsurance agreements between Northwind Re and each of the ceding insurers. The ability of
Northwind Re to pay dividends to Northwind Holdings will depend on its satisfaction of applicable regulatory requirements and the
performance of the reinsured policies.
Recourse for the payment of principal, interest, and other amounts due on the Northwind notes is limited to the collateral for the
Northwind notes and the other assets, if any, of Northwind Holdings. The collateral consists of a first priority, perfected security interest in
(a) the debt service coverage account (DSCA) that Northwind Holdings is required to maintain in accordance with the indenture pursuant to
which the Northwind notes were issued (the Northwind indenture), (b) the capital stock of Northwind Re and the dividends and distributions
on such capital stock, and (c) Northwind Holdings’ rights under the transaction documents related to the Northwind notes to which
Northwind Holdings is a party. At December 31, 2015, the amount in the DSCA was $5.4 million. None of Unum Group, the ceding insurers,
Northwind Re, or any other affiliate of Northwind Holdings is an obligor or guarantor with respect to the Northwind notes.
Northwind Holdings is required to repay a portion of the outstanding principal under the Northwind notes at par on the quarterly
scheduled payment dates under the Northwind notes in an amount equal to the lesser of (i) a targeted amortization amount as
defined in the Northwind indenture and (ii) the amount of the remaining available funds in the DSCA minus an amount equal to the
minimum balance that is required to be maintained in the DSCA under the Northwind indenture, provided that Northwind Holdings has
sufficient funds available to pay its other expenses, including interest payments on the Northwind notes, and to maintain the minimum
balance in the DSCA as required under the Northwind indenture. During 2015, 2014, and 2013, Northwind Holdings made principal
payments of $74.4 million, $41.6 million, and $60.0 million, respectively, on the Northwind notes.
In 2006, Tailwind Holdings, LLC (Tailwind Holdings) a wholly-owned subsidiary of Unum Group, issued $130.0 million of insured, senior,
secured notes due 2036 in a private offering. In 2013, we purchased and retired the outstanding principal of $62.5 million on these notes,
resulting in a before-tax gain of $4.0 million.
Unsecured Notes
In 2014, we purchased and retired $145.0 million principal of our 6.85% notes, including a make-whole amount of $13.2 million, for a
total cost of $158.2 million. In conjunction with this retirement, we reclassified $13.1 million of the deferred gain on previously terminated
derivatives associated with the hedge of this debt from accumulated other comprehensive income to realized investment gain in our
consolidated statements of income. The remaining $151.9 million balance of these notes matured in November 2015.
Fair Value Hedges
As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, we had $600.0 million notional amount interest rate swaps which effectively convert certain of
our unsecured senior notes into floating rate debt. Under these agreements, we receive fixed rates of interest and pay variable rates of
interest, based off of three-month LIBOR. See Note 4 for further information on our interest rate swaps.
Junior Subordinated Debt Securities
In 1998, Provident Financing Trust I (the trust), a 100 percent-owned finance subsidiary of Unum Group, issued $300.0 million of 7.405%
capital securities in a public offering. These capital securities are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Unum Group, have a liquidation
value of $1,000 per capital security, and have a mandatory redemption feature under certain circumstances. Unum Group issued 7.405%
junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures to the trust in connection with the capital securities offering. The debentures mature in
2038. The sole assets of the trust are the junior subordinated debt securities.
Interest Paid
Interest paid on long-term and short-term debt and related securities during 2015, 2014, and 2013 was $146.9 million, $145.9 million,
and $144.6 million, respectively.
136
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report Credit Facility
In August 2013, we entered into a five-year, $400.0 million unsecured revolving credit facility. Under the terms of the agreement, we
may request that the credit facility be increased up to $600.0 million. Borrowings under the credit facility are for general corporate uses and
are subject to financial covenants, negative covenants, and events of default that are customary. The credit facility provides for borrowing
at an interest rate based either on the prime rate or LIBOR. In addition, the credit facility provides for the issuance of letters of credit subject
to certain terms and limitations. At December 31, 2015 and 2014, letters of credit totaling $2.1 million had been issued from the credit
facility, but there were no borrowed amounts outstanding.
Note 9. Employee Benefit Plans
Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit (OPEB) Plans
We sponsor several defined benefit pension and OPEB plans for our employees, including non-qualified pension plans. The U.S. qualified and
non-qualified defined benefit pension plans comprise the majority of our total benefit obligation and benefit cost. We maintain a separate defined
benefit plan for eligible employees in our U.K. operation. The U.S. defined benefit pension plans were closed to new entrants on December 31,
2013, the OPEB plan was closed to new entrants on December 31, 2012, and the U.K. plan was closed to new entrants on December 31, 2002.
Amendments to U.S. Pension Plans
In 2015, we amended our U.S. qualified defined benefit pension plan to increase the eligibility limit from $10,000 to $100,000 for a
participant who terminates from the plan after December 31, 2015 and elects to receive a lump-sum settlement of his or her entire accrued
pension benefit. As a result of this plan amendment, we recognized a decrease in the net pension liability of $7.5 million, with a corresponding
prior service credit included in accumulated other comprehensive income.
In 2014, we amended our U.S. qualified defined benefit pension plan to allow a limited-time offer of benefit payouts to eligible former
employees with a vested right to a pension benefit. The offer provided eligible former employees, regardless of age, with an option to elect
to receive a lump-sum settlement of his or her entire accrued pension benefit in December 2014 or to elect receipt of monthly pension benefits
commencing in January 2015. For those who elected to receive lump-sum settlements, we made payments totaling $214.5 million from plan
assets in December 2014. We recognized a before-tax settlement loss of $64.4 million in earnings during 2014, with a corresponding reduction
in the unrecognized actuarial loss included in accumulated other comprehensive income that pertained to the settled benefit obligation.
In 2013, we adopted plan amendments which froze participation and benefit accruals in our U.S. qualified and non-qualified defined
benefit pension plans, effective December 31, 2013. Because the amendments eliminated all future service accruals subsequent to
December 31, 2013 for active participants in these plans, we were required to remeasure the benefit obligations during 2013. The discount
rate assumption increased from 4.50 percent at December 31, 2012 to 5.00 percent at the remeasurement date, reflecting the change in
market interest rates during that period. The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets of 7.50 percent remained unchanged from
December 31, 2012. The remeasurement resulted in a decrease in our net pension liability of $327.4 million at the remeasurement date,
with a corresponding increase in other comprehensive income, less applicable income tax of $114.6 million. The decrease in the net pension
liability resulted primarily from the curtailment of benefits under the plan amendments as well as the increase in the discount rate
assumption used to remeasure the benefit obligations. As a result of the 2013 plan amendments, we recognized a before-tax curtailment
loss of $0.7 million in earnings during 2013, with a corresponding reduction in the prior service cost included in accumulated other
comprehensive income and associated with years of service no longer expected to be rendered.
Amendments to U.K. Pension Plan
In 2013, we adopted amendments to our U.K. pension plan which froze participation in our plan and which reduced the maximum
rate of inflation indexation from 5.0 percent to 2.5 percent for pension benefits which were earned prior to April 1997. The amendment to
reduce the maximum rate of inflation indexation was effective September 12, 2013, and the amendment to freeze participation became
effective June 30, 2014. Although all future service accruals were eliminated for active participants, pension payments to participants
137
Unum 2015 Annual Report currently employed are based on the higher of (i) pensionable earnings at a participant’s retirement age or the date a participant’s employment
ceases, subject to the inflation indexation provisions in the plan, or (ii) pensionable earnings as of June 30, 2014, also subject to the inflation
indexation provisions. Because the amendments eliminated all future service accruals subsequent to June 30, 2014 for active participants
in the plan, we were required to remeasure the benefit obligation of the plan during 2013. The discount rate assumption increased from
4.50 percent at December 31, 2012 to 4.60 percent at the remeasurement date, reflecting the change in market interest rates during that period. The
expected long-term rate of return on plan assets changed from 6.20 percent at December 31, 2012 to 6.35 percent at the remeasurement date.
The remeasurement resulted in a $2.3 million, or £1.5 million, increase in our net pension asset at the remeasurement date. As a result
of these plan amendments, we recognized a before-tax curtailment gain of $3.7 million, or £2.3 million, in earnings during 2013, with a
corresponding decrease in the prior service credit included in accumulated other comprehensive income and associated with years of service no
longer expected to be rendered. The majority of the prior service credit was related to the amendment to reduce the rate of inflation indexation.
Amortization Period of Actuarial Gain or Loss and Prior Service Cost or Credit
Because all participants in the U.S. and U.K. pension plans are considered inactive as a result of the 2013 plan amendments, we are
required to amortize the net actuarial loss and prior service credit for these plans over the average remaining life expectancy of the plans.
As of December 31, 2015, the estimate of the average remaining life expectancy of the plans was approximately 25 years for the U.S. plan
and 34 years for U.K. plan.
The following tables provide the changes in the benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets and statements of the funded status of
the plans.
(in millions of dollars)
2015
2014
2015
2014
2015
2014
Pension Benefits
U.S. Plans
U.K. Plan
OPEB
Change in Benefit Obligation
Benefit Obligation at Beginning of Year
Service Cost
Interest Cost
Plan Participant Contributions
Actuarial (Gain) Loss
Benefits and Expenses Paid
Settlements
Plan Amendment
Change in Foreign Exchange Rates
Benefit Obligation at End of Year
Accumulated Benefit Obligation
$1,892.6
3.8
82.2
—
(103.6)
(59.3)
—
(7.5)
—
$1,718.7
3.7
89.9
—
343.5
(48.7)
(214.5)
—
—
$226.9
—
7.9
—
(14.7)
(4.6)
—
—
(11.7)
$1,808.2
$1,892.6
$203.8
$208.7
2.3
9.1
—
25.2
(4.3)
—
—
(14.1)
$226.9
$173.9
—
7.2
4.6
(9.1)
(16.2)
—
—
—
$160.4
$165.3
0.3
7.9
4.1
12.9
(16.6)
—
—
—
$173.9
at December 31
$1,808.2
$1,892.6
$194.8
$215.3
N/A
N/A
Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets
Fair Value of Plan Assets
at Beginning of Year
Actual Return on Plan Assets
Employer Contributions
Plan Participant Contributions
Benefits and Expenses Paid
Settlements
Change in Foreign Exchange Rates
$1,473.7
(17.5)
6.4
—
(59.3)
—
—
$1,590.7
140.9
5.3
—
(48.7)
(214.5)
—
$246.3
2.9
—
—
(4.6)
—
(13.1)
Fair Value of Plan Assets at End of Year
$1,403.3
$1,473.7
$231.5
$225.7
37.8
2.3
—
(4.3)
—
(15.2)
$246.3
Underfunded (Overfunded) Status
$ 404.9
$ 418.9
$ (27.7)
$ (19.4)
$ 11.3
0.3
11.2
4.6
(16.2)
—
—
$ 11.2
$149.2
$ 11.4
0.4
12.0
4.1
(16.6)
—
—
$ 11.3
$162.6
138
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
The amounts recognized in our consolidated balance sheets for our pension and OPEB plans at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows.
(in millions of dollars)
Current Liability
Noncurrent Liability
Noncurrent Asset
Pension Benefits
U.S. Plans
U.K. Plan
OPEB
2015
2014
$ 5.9
399.0
—
$ 5.4
413.5
—
2015
$ —
—
(27.7)
2014
$ —
—
(19.4)
2015
$ 13.0
136.2
—
2014
$ 13.7
148.9
—
Underfunded (Overfunded) Status
$ 404.9
$ 418.9
$(27.7)
$(19.4)
$149.2
$162.6
Unrecognized Pension and
Postretirement Benefit Costs
Net Actuarial Gain (Loss)
$(604.2)
$(593.0)
$(28.1)
$(35.4)
$ 6.2
$ (2.6)
Prior Service Credit
Income Tax
7.5
(596.7)
208.8
—
(593.0)
207.5
—
(28.1)
8.9
—
(35.4)
10.4
0.4
6.6
7.9
0.7
(1.9)
10.9
Total Included in Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
$(387.9)
$(385.5)
$(19.2)
$(25.0)
$ 14.5
$ 9.0
The following table provides the changes recognized in other comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.
(in millions of dollars)
2015
2014
2015
2014
2015
2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Income (Loss) at Beginning of Year
$(385.5)
$(222.4)
$(25.0)
$(26.0)
$ 9.0
$ 18.5
Pension Benefits
U.S. Plans
U.K. Plan
OPEB
Net Actuarial Gain (Loss)
Amortization
Settlements
All Other Changes
Prior Service Credit (Cost)
Amortization
Plan Amendment
Change in Income Tax
11.6
—
5.2
64.4
(22.8)
(320.5)
—
7.5
1.3
—
—
87.8
0.3
—
7.0
—
—
0.4
—
1.1
—
—
(1.5)
(0.5)
—
—
8.8
(0.3)
—
(3.0)
—
—
(12.9)
(1.7)
—
5.1
Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Income (Loss) at End of Year
$(387.9)
$(385.5)
$(19.2)
$(25.0)
$14.5
$ 9.0
139
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Plan Assets
The objective of our U.S. pension and OPEB plans is to maximize long-term return, within acceptable risk levels, in a manner that is
consistent with the fiduciary standards of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), while maintaining sufficient liquidity to
pay current benefits and expenses.
Our U.S. qualified defined benefit pension plan assets include a diversified blend of domestic and international equity securities, fixed
income securities, opportunistic credit securities, real estate investments, alternative investments, and cash equivalents. Equity securities are
comprised of funds and individual securities that are designed to track the respective indices specified below. International equity funds may
allocate a certain percentage of assets to forward currency contracts. Fixed income securities include U.S. government and agency asset-backed
securities, corporate investment-grade bonds, private placement securities, and bonds issued by states or other municipalities. Opportunistic
credits consist of investments in funds that hold varied fixed income investments purchased at depressed values with the intention to later sell
those investments for a gain. Real estate investments consist primarily of commercial real estate investments. Alternative investments, which
include private equity direct investments, private equity funds of funds, and hedge funds of funds, utilize proprietary strategies that are intended
to have a low correlation to the U.S. stock market. Prohibited investments include, but are not limited to, unlisted securities, futures contracts,
options, short sales, and investments in securities issued by Unum Group or its affiliates. The invested asset classes, asset types, and benchmark
indices for our U.S. qualified defined benefit pension plan is as follows. We target approximately 35 percent to equity securities, 40 percent to
fixed income securities, and 25 percent to opportunistic credits, alternative, and real estate investments.
Asset Class
Asset Type
Benchmark Indices
Equity Securities
Collective fund; Individual holdings
Standard & Poor’s 400 and 500 Midcap; Russell 2000
Value and Growth; Morgan Stanley Capital International
(MSCI) All Country World Excluding U.S.; MSCI Europe
Australasia Far East; and MSCI Emerging Markets
Fixed Income;
Opportunistic Credits
Collective fund; Individual holdings
Custom Index
Real Estate
Collective fund
National Council of Real Estate Investment Fund
Open-end Diversified Core Equity Index
Alternative Investments
Fund of funds; Direct investments
Hedge Fund Research Institute Fund of Funds;
(Hedge and Private Equity)
Russell 2000
Assets for our U.K. pension plan are primarily invested in a pooled diversified growth fund. This fund invests in assets such as global
equities, hedge funds, commodities, below-investment-grade fixed income securities, and currencies. The objectives of the fund are to
generate capital appreciation over the course of a complete economic and market cycle and to deliver equity-like returns in the medium-
to-long term while maintaining approximately two thirds of the volatility of equity markets. Performance of this fund is measured against
the U.K. inflation rate plus four percent. The remaining assets in the U.K. plan are invested in leveraged interest rate and inflation swap and
gilt funds of varying durations designed to broadly match the interest rate and inflation sensitivities of the plan’s liabilities. The current
target allocation for the assets is 70 percent diversified growth assets and 30 percent interest rate and inflation swap funds. There are no
categories of investments that are specifically prohibited by the U.K. plan, but there are general guidelines that ensure prudent investment
action is taken. Such guidelines include the prevention of the plan from using derivatives for speculative purposes and limiting the
concentration of risk in any one type of investment.
Assets for the OPEB plan are invested in life insurance contracts issued by one of our insurance subsidiaries. The assets support life
insurance benefits payable to certain former retirees covered under the OPEB plan. The terms of these contracts are consistent in all
material respects with those the subsidiary offers to unaffiliated parties that are similarly situated. There are no categories of investments
specifically prohibited by the OPEB plan.
We believe our investment portfolios are well diversified by asset class and sector, with no undue risk concentrations in any one category.
140
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report The categorization of fair value measurements by input level for the invested assets in our U.S. pension plans is as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Invested Assets
Equity Securities:
U.S. Large Cap
U.S. Mid Cap
U.S. Small Cap
International
Emerging Markets
Fixed Income Securities:
U.S. Government and Agencies
Corporate
State and Municipal Securities
Opportunistic Credits
Real Estate
Alternative Investments:
Private Equity Direct Investments
Private Equity Funds of Funds
Hedge Funds of Funds
Cash Equivalents
Total Invested Assets
(in millions of dollars)
Invested Assets
Equity Securities:
U.S. Large Cap
U.S. Mid Cap
U.S. Small Cap
International
Emerging Markets
Fixed Income Securities:
U.S. Government and Agencies
Corporate
State and Municipal Securities
Opportunistic Credits
Alternative Investments:
Private Equity Direct Investments
Private Equity Funds of Funds
Hedge Funds of Funds
Cash Equivalents
Total Invested Assets
December 31, 2015
Quoted Prices
in Active Markets
for Identical Assets
or Liabilities
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
$ —
—
56.9
63.7
—
231.5
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
28.0
$176.2
55.0
—
62.9
35.5
12.8
291.4
2.1
163.5
83.5
—
—
—
—
$ —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
30.4
35.3
70.9
—
Total
$ 176.2
55.0
56.9
126.6
35.5
244.3
291.4
2.1
163.5
83.5
30.4
35.3
70.9
28.0
$380.1
$882.9
$136.6
$1,399.6
December 31, 2014
Quoted Prices
in Active Markets
for Identical Assets
or Liabilities
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
$ —
—
118.7
71.0
—
243.5
1.6
—
62.8
—
—
—
52.8
$181.4
88.3
—
63.5
40.0
14.6
321.2
2.9
85.0
—
—
—
—
$ —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
17.2
34.9
70.0
—
Total
$ 181.4
88.3
118.7
134.5
40.0
258.1
322.8
2.9
147.8
17.2
34.9
70.0
52.8
$550.4
$796.9
$122.1
$1,469.4
141
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Level 1 investments consist of individual holdings and funds that are valued based on unadjusted quoted prices from active markets
for identical securities. Level 2 equity, opportunistic credit, and real estate investments consist of funds that are valued based on the net
asset value (NAV) of the underlying holdings. These investments have no unfunded commitments and no specific redemption restrictions.
Level 2 fixed income securities are valued using observable inputs through market corroborated pricing.
Alternative investments are valued based on the NAV of the underlying holdings in a period ranging from one month to one quarter in
arrears. We evaluate the need for adjustments to the NAV based on market conditions and discussions with fund managers in the period
subsequent to the valuation date and prior to issuance of the financial statements. We made no adjustments to the NAV for 2015 or 2014.
The private equity direct investments and private equity funds of funds generally cannot be redeemed by investors, and distributions are
received following the maturity of the underlying assets. It is estimated that these underlying assets will begin to mature between five and
eight years from the date of initial investment. We have assigned a Level 3 classification to the private equity direct investments and
private equity funds of funds due to the redemption restrictions on the investments. Redemptions on the hedge funds of funds can be
made on either a quarterly or bi-annual basis, depending on the fund, with prior notice of at least 90 calendar days. Because of these
redemption restrictions, we have classified the hedge funds of funds as Level 3.
Changes in our U.S. pension plans’ assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Actual Return on Plan Assets
Level 3 Transfers
Beginning
Held at
Sold During
(in millions of dollars)
of Year
Year End
the Year
Purchases
Sales
Private Equity Direct Investments
$ 17.2
Private Equity Funds of Funds
Hedge Funds of Funds
Total
34.9
70.0
$122.1
$4.2
2.5
1.1
$7.8
$(0.2)
$11.9
$(2.7)
2.0
(0.2)
2.4
0.2
(6.5)
(0.2)
$ 1.6
$14.5
$(9.4)
Into
$—
—
—
$—
Out of
End
of Year
$—
$ 30.4
—
—
35.3
70.9
$—
$136.6
Year Ended December 31, 2014
Actual Return on Plan Assets
Level 3 Transfers
Beginning
Held at
Sold During
(in millions of dollars)
of Year
Year End
the Year
Purchases
Sales
Private Equity Direct Investments
$ 7.2
Private Equity Funds of Funds
Hedge Funds of Funds
Total
29.6
66.9
$103.7
$1.7
4.8
3.2
$9.7
$ 0.1
$ 9.0
$ (0.8)
2.6
(0.1)
3.9
25.9
(6.0)
(25.9)
$ 2.6
$38.8
$(32.7)
Into
$—
—
—
$—
Out of
End
of Year
$—
$ 17.2
—
—
34.9
70.0
$—
$122.1
142
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
The categorization of fair value measurements by input level for the assets in our U.K. pension plan is as follows.
(in millions of dollars)
Plan Assets
Diversified Growth Assets
Fixed Interest and Index-linked Securities
Cash Equivalents
Total Plan Assets
(in millions of dollars)
Plan Assets
Diversified Growth Assets
Fixed Interest and Index-linked Securities
Cash Equivalents
Total Plan Assets
December 31, 2015
Quoted Prices
in Active Markets
for Identical Assets
or Liabilities
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
$ —
62.2
7.7
$69.9
$156.3
5.3
—
$161.6
$—
—
—
$—
December 31, 2014
Quoted Prices
in Active Markets
for Identical Assets
or Liabilities
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
$ —
78.0
0.7
$78.7
$167.6
—
—
$167.6
$—
—
—
$—
Total
$156.3
67.5
7.7
$231.5
Total
$167.6
78.0
0.7
$246.3
Level 1 fixed interest and index-linked securities consist of individual funds that are valued based on unadjusted quoted prices from
active markets for identical securities. Level 2 investments consist of funds that are valued based on the NAV of the underlying holdings.
These investments have no unfunded commitments and no specific redemption restrictions.
The categorization of fair value measurements by input level for the assets in our OPEB plan is as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Assets
Life Insurance Contracts
(in millions of dollars)
Assets
Life Insurance Contracts
December 31, 2015
Quoted Prices
in Active Markets
for Identical Assets
or Liabilities
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
$—
$—
$11.2
December 31, 2014
Quoted Prices
in Active Markets
for Identical Assets
or Liabilities
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
$—
$—
$11.3
Total
$11.2
Total
$11.3
143
Unum 2015 Annual Report
The fair value is represented by the actuarial present value of future cash flows of the contracts.
Changes in our OPEB plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the
years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Life Insurance Contracts
(in millions of dollars)
Life Insurance Contracts
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Beginning
Actual Return
Net Benefits and
of Year
$11.3
on Plan Assets
Contributions
Expenses Paid
$0.3
$15.8
$(16.2)
Year Ended December 31, 2014
Beginning
Actual Return
Net Benefits and
of Year
$11.4
on Plan Assets
Contributions
Expenses Paid
$0.4
$16.1
$(16.6)
End
of Year
$11.2
End
of Year
$11.3
For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the actual return on plan assets relates solely to investments still held at the reporting
date. There were no transfers into or out of Level 3 during 2015 or 2014.
Measurement Assumptions
We use a December 31 measurement date for each of our plans. The weighted average assumptions used in the measurement of our
benefit obligations as of December 31 and our net periodic benefit costs for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
Benefit Obligations
Discount Rate
Rate of Compensation Increase
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Discount Rate
Expected Return on Plan Assets
Rate of Compensation Increase
Pension Benefits
U.S. Plans
U.K. Plan
OPEB
2015
2014
2015
2014
2015
2014
4.80%
N/A
4.40%
7.50%
N/A
4.40%
N/A
5.30%
7.50%
N/A
3.80%
3.60%
3.60%
5.20%
3.60%
3.60%
3.60%
4.40%
6.10%
3.90%
4.70%
N/A
4.30%
5.75%
N/A
4.30%
N/A
5.00%
5.75%
N/A
We set the discount rate assumption annually for each of our retirement-related benefit plans at the measurement date to reflect the
yield on a portfolio of high quality fixed income corporate debt instruments matched against the projected cash flows for future benefits.
Our long-term rate of return on plan assets assumption is selected from a range of probable return outcomes generated by statistical
analysis of the asset portfolio. Our expectations for the future investment returns of the asset categories are based on a combination of
historical market performance, evaluations of investment forecasts obtained from external consultants and economists, and current market
yields. The methodology underlying the return assumption includes the various elements of the expected return for each asset class such
as long-term rates of return, volatility of returns, and the correlation of returns between various asset classes. The expected return for the
total portfolio is calculated based on the plan’s strategic asset allocation. Investment risk is measured and monitored on an ongoing basis
through annual liability measurements, periodic asset/liability studies, and quarterly investment portfolio reviews. Risk tolerance is
established through consideration of plan liabilities, plan funded status, and corporate financial condition.
144
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Our mortality rate assumption reflects our best estimate, as of the measurement date, of the life expectancies of plan participants
in order to determine the expected length of time for benefit payments. We derive our assumptions from industry mortality tables.
The expected return assumption for the life insurance reserve for our OPEB plan at December 31, 2015 and 2014 is 5.75 percent,
which is based on full investment in fixed income securities with an average book yield of 5.24 percent and 5.46 percent in 2015 and
2014, respectively.
The rate of compensation increase assumption for our U.K. pension plan is generally based on periodic studies of compensation trends.
At December 31, 2015 and 2014, the annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered postretirement health care benefits
assumed for the next calendar year is 7.50 percent for each year for benefits payable to both retirees prior to Medicare eligibility as well as
Medicare eligible retirees. The rate is assumed to change gradually to 5.00 percent by 2021 for measurement at December 31, 2015 and
remain at that level thereafter.
The medical and dental premiums used to determine the per retiree employer subsidy are capped. Certain of the current retirees and
all future retirees are subject to the cap.
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
The following table provides the components of the net periodic benefit cost for the plans described above for the years ended
December 31.
(in millions of dollars)
2015
2014
2013
2015
2014
2013
2015
Pension Benefits
U.S. Plans
U.K. Plan
OPEB
2014
2013
Service Cost
Interest Cost
$ 3.8 $ 3.7 $ 59.4
$ —
$ 2.3
$ 4.3
$ —
$ 0.3
$ 0.7
82.2
89.9
86.3
7.9
9.1
8.6
7.2
7.9
Expected Return on Plan Assets
(108.9)
(117.8)
(105.5)
(12.4)
(13.7)
(12.5)
(0.7)
(0.7)
8.0
(0.6)
Amortization of:
Net Actuarial Loss
Prior Service Credit
Curtailment
Settlement
11.6
—
—
—
5.2
—
—
64.4
31.7
(0.1)
0.7
—
0.3
0.4
—
—
—
—
—
—
1.2
—
(3.7)
—
—
—
—
(0.3)
(1.7)
(4.9)
—
—
—
—
—
—
Total Net Periodic Benefit Cost
$ (11.3) $ 45.4 $ 72.5
$ (4.2) $ (1.9) $ (2.1)
$ 6.2
$ 5.8
$ 3.2
A one percent increase or decrease in the assumed health care cost trend rate at December 31, 2015 would have increased
(decreased) the service cost and interest cost by $0.2 million and $(0.1) million, respectively, and the postretirement benefit obligation by
$4.3 million and $(3.2) million, respectively.
The unrecognized net actuarial loss and the prior service credit included in accumulated other comprehensive income and expected to
be amortized and included in net periodic pension cost during 2016 is $16.5 million and $0.5 million before tax, respectively.
145
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Benefit Payments
The following table provides expected benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate.
(in millions of dollars)
Pension Benefits
Year
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021 –2025
Funding Policy
U.S. Plans
$ 66.3
68.7
71.9
74.9
79.1
452.7
U.K. Plan
$ 5.3
5.6
5.9
5.9
6.5
37.7
Gross
$15.3
15.0
14.7
14.4
14.0
62.7
OPEB
Subsidy Payments
$ 1.9
2.1
2.3
2.5
2.7
15.2
Net
$13.4
12.9
12.4
11.9
11.3
47.5
The funding policy for our U.S. qualified defined benefit plan is to contribute annually an amount at least equal to the minimum annual
contribution required under ERISA and other applicable laws, but generally not greater than the maximum amount that can be deducted for
federal income tax purposes. We had no regulatory contribution requirements for our U.S. qualified defined benefit plan in 2015 and made
no voluntary contributions during 2015. We do not expect to make any contributions in 2016. The funding policy for our U.S. non-qualified
defined benefit pension plan is to contribute the amount of the benefit payments made during the year. Our expected return on plan assets
and discount rate will not affect the cash contributions we are required to make to our U.S. pension and OPEB plans because such
contributions are determined under the minimum funding requirements as set forth in ERISA.
We made no contributions to our U.K. plan during 2015, nor do we expect to make any contributions in 2016, either voluntary or those
required to meet the minimum funding requirements under U.K. legislation.
Our OPEB plan represents a non-vested, non-guaranteed obligation, and current regulations do not require specific funding levels for
these benefits, which are comprised of retiree life, medical, and dental benefits. It is our practice to use general assets to pay medical and
dental claims as they come due in lieu of utilizing plan assets for the medical and dental benefit portions of our OPEB plan.
Defined Contribution Plans
We offer a 401(k) plan to all eligible U.S. employees under which a portion of employee contributions is matched. Effective January 1,
2014, we began matching dollar-for-dollar up to 5.0 percent of base salary and any recognized sales and performance-based incentive
compensation for employee contributions into the plan. Also effective January 1, 2014, we began making an additional non-elective
contribution of 4.5 percent of earnings for all eligible employees and a separate transition contribution for eligible employees who met
certain age and years of service criteria as of December 31, 2013. Prior to January 1, 2014, we matched dollar-for-dollar up to 3.0 percent of
base salary and $0.50 on the dollar for each of the next 2.0 percent of base salary for employee contributions into the plan. The 401(k) plan
remains in compliance with ERISA guidelines and continues to qualify for a “safe harbor” from annual discrimination testing.
We also offer a defined contribution plan to all eligible U.K. employees under which a portion of employee contributions is matched.
Effective July 1, 2014, we increased benefits under the defined contribution plan wherein we match two pounds for every one pound on the
first 1.0 percent of employee contributions into the plan and match additional employee contributions pound-for-pound up to 5.0 percent of
base salary. We previously matched pound-for-pound up to 5.0 percent of base salary for employee contributions into the defined contribution
plan and made an additional non-elective contribution of 5.0 percent of base salary. Also effective July 1, 2014, we increased the non-elective
contribution to 6.0 percent of base salary for all eligible employees, and a separate transition contribution is made for all eligible employees
through March 31, 2016.
During the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, we recognized costs of $71.5 million, $76.0 million, and $18.8 million,
respectively, for our U.S. defined contribution plan and $5.7 million, $5.0 million, and $2.9 million, respectively, for our U.K. defined
contribution plan.
146
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Note 10. Stockholders’ Equity and Earnings Per Common Share
Earnings Per Common Share
Net income per common share is determined as follows:
(in millions of dollars, except share data)
Numerator
Net Income
Denominator (000s)
Weighted Average Common Shares — Basic
Dilution for Assumed Exercises of Stock Options
and Nonvested Stock Awards
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$867.1
$402.1
$847.0
246,986.7
255,525.9
264,725.8
868.0
1,126.9
1,223.4
Weighted Average Common Shares — Assuming Dilution
247,854.7
256,652.8
265,949.2
Net Income Per Common Share
Basic
Assuming Dilution
$ 3.51
$ 3.50
$ 1.57
$ 1.57
$ 3.20
$ 3.19
We use the treasury stock method to account for the effect of outstanding stock options, nonvested restricted stock units, and
nonvested performance share units on the computation of diluted earnings per share. Under this method, these potential common shares
will each have a dilutive effect, as individually measured, when the average market price of Unum Group common stock during the period
exceeds the exercise price of the stock options and the grant price of the nonvested restricted stock units and the nonvested performance
share units. The outstanding stock options have exercise prices ranging from $11.37 to $26.29; the nonvested restricted stock units have
grant prices ranging from $23.97 to $36.95; and the nonvested performance share units have grant prices ranging from $23.97 to $34.08.
See Note 11.
In computing earnings per share assuming dilution, only potential common shares that are dilutive (those that reduce earnings per
share) are included. Potential common shares not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the impact would be
antidilutive, based on then current market prices, approximated 0.3 million, 0.1 million, and 0.1 million for the years ended December 31,
2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.
147
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Common Stock
Our board of directors has authorized the repurchase of Unum Group’s common stock under the following repurchase programs:
(in millions of dollars)
Authorized Repurchase Amount
Remaining Repurchase Amount at Year End 2015
Share Repurchase Program Authorized During
May 2015
December 2013
July 2012
$750.0
$502.3
$750.0
$
—
$750.0
$
—
The May 2015 share repurchase program has an expiration date of November 21, 2016.
Common stock repurchases, which are accounted for using the cost method and classified as treasury stock until otherwise retired,
were as follows:
(in millions)
Shares Repurchased
Cost of Shares Repurchased(1)
2015
12.3
$426.7
Year Ended December 31
2014
8.7
$300.6
2013
11.2
$318.6
(1) Includes commissions of $0.3 million, $0.1 million, and $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.
During 2014, we retired 60.0 million shares of our treasury stock with an average total cost of $1,451.7 million.
Preferred Stock
Unum Group has 25.0 million shares of preferred stock authorized with a par value of $0.10 per share. No preferred stock has been
issued to date.
Note 11. Stock-Based Compensation
Description of Stock Plans
Under the Stock Incentive Plan of 2012 (the 2012 Plan), up to 20 million shares of common stock are available for awards to our
employees, officers, consultants, and directors. Awards may be in the form of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock,
restricted stock units, performance share units, and other stock-based awards. Each full-value award, defined as any award other than a
stock option or stock appreciation right, is counted as 1.76 shares. The exercise price for stock options issued cannot be less than the fair
value of the underlying common stock as of the grant date. Stock options generally have a term of eight years after the date of grant and
fully vest after three years. At December 31, 2015, approximately 15.67 million shares were available for future grants under the 2012 Plan.
Under the Stock Incentive Plan of 2007 (the 2007 Plan), which was terminated in May 2012 for purposes of any further grants, up to
35 million shares of common stock were available for awards to our employees, officers, consultants, and directors. Awards could be in
the form of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance share units, and other stock-based
awards. Each full-value award, defined as any award other than a stock option or stock appreciation right, is counted as 2.7 shares. Awards
granted before the termination of the 2007 Plan remain outstanding in accordance with the plan’s terms. Stock options generally have a
term of eight years after the date of grant and fully vest after three years.
We issue new shares of common stock for all of our stock plan vestings and exercises.
148
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Performance Share Units (PSUs)
Activity for PSUs classified as equity is as follows:
Outstanding at December 31, 2014
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Outstanding at December 31, 2015
Shares (000s)
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
281
226
(120)
(4)
383
$30.83
35.13
25.26
35.03
35.05
During 2015, 2014, and 2013, we issued PSUs with a weighted average grant date fair value per share of $35.13, $34.72, and $25.26,
respectively. Vesting for the PSUs occurs at the end of a three-year period and is contingent upon our achievement of prospective company
performance goals and our total shareholder return relative to a particular peer group during the three-year period. Actual performance,
including modification for relative total shareholder return, may result in the ultimate award of 40 to 180 percent of the initial number of
PSUs issued, with the potential for no award if company performance goals are not achieved during the three-year period. Forfeitable
dividend equivalents on PSUs are accrued in the form of additional PSUs.
PSU shares in the preceding table represent aggregate initial target awards and accrued dividend equivalents and do not reflect potential
increases or decreases resulting from the performance factor determined after the end of the performance periods. At December 31, 2015,
the three-year performance period for the 2013 PSU grant was completed, but the performance factor had not yet been applied. The preceding
table includes 0.1 million vested PSUs for which the 2013 through 2015 performance factor will be applied during the first quarter of 2016,
with distribution of the stock thereafter.
At December 31, 2015, we had approximately $8.1 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to PSUs that will be recognized
over a weighted average period of 1.6 years. The estimated compensation expense is adjusted for actual performance experience and is
recognized ratably during the service period, or remaining service period, if and when it becomes probable that the performance conditions
will be satisfied. Compensation cost for PSUs subject to accelerated vesting at the date of retirement eligibility is recognized over the
implicit service period.
The fair value of PSUs is estimated on the date of initial grant using the Monte-Carlo simulation model. The assumptions used to value
PSUs granted during the years shown are as follows:
Expected Volatility (based on our and our peer group historical daily stock prices)
Year Ended December 31
2015
22%
2014
31%
2013
35%
Expected Life (equals the performance period)
3.0 years
3.0 years
3.0 years
Risk Free Interest Rate (based on U.S. Treasury yields at the date of grant)
0.91%
0.65%
0.38%
149
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Activity for RSUs classified as equity is as follows:
Outstanding at December 31, 2014
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Outstanding at December 31, 2015
Shares (000s)
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
1,081
576
(762)
(29)
866
$28.41
34.08
28.12
31.83
32.40
During 2015, 2014, and 2013, we issued RSUs with a weighted average grant date fair value per share of $34.08, $33.77, and $24.68,
respectively. RSUs vest over a one to three-year service period, beginning at the date of grant, and the compensation cost is recognized
ratably during the vesting period. Forfeitable dividend equivalents on RSUs are accrued in the form of additional RSUs. Compensation cost
for RSUs subject to accelerated vesting at the date of retirement eligibility is recognized over the implicit service period.
The total fair value of shares vested during 2015, 2014, and 2013 was $21.4 million, $19.8 million, and $18.3 million, respectively. At
December 31, 2015, we had $12.0 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to RSUs that will be recognized over a weighted
average period of 0.9 years.
Cash-Settled Awards
Activity for cash-settled awards classified as a liability is as follows:
Outstanding at December 31, 2014
Granted
Vested
Outstanding at December 31, 2015
Shares (000s)
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
123
46
(169)
—
$27.31
33.92
29.11
—
Cash-settled awards vest over a one to three-year service period, beginning at the date of grant, and the compensation cost is
recognized ratably during the vesting period. Forfeitable dividend equivalents on cash-settled awards are accrued in the form of additional
units. Compensation cost for cash-settled awards subject to accelerated vesting at the date of retirement eligibility is recognized over the
implicit service period.
The amount payable per unit awarded is equal to the price per share of Unum Group’s common stock at settlement of the award,
and as such, we measure the value of the award each reporting period based on the current stock price. The effects of changes in the stock
price during the service period are recognized as compensation cost over the service period. Changes in the amount of the liability due to
stock price changes after the service period are recognized as compensation cost during the period in which the changes occur.
(in millions of dollars, except per unit data)
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Unit Granted
Total Fair Value of Units Vested
Total Fair Value of Units Paid
Year Ended December 31
2015
$33.92
$ 4.9
$ 2.5
2014
$33.85
$ 2.1
$ 2.9
2013
$24.22
$ 2.4
$ 2.5
There is no unrecognized compensation cost related to the cash-settled awards, other than future changes in the liability due to future
stock price changes, as the units do not require additional future service.
150
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Stock Options
Stock option activity is summarized as follows:
Outstanding at December 31, 2014
Exercised
Outstanding at December 31, 2015
Exercisable at December 31, 2015
Shares
(000s)
999
(240)
759
744
Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual
Intrinsic
Value
Exercise Price
Term (in years)
(in millions)
$20.23
11.37
23.02
$23.00
3.2
3.1
$7.8
$7.7
All outstanding stock options at December 31, 2015 are expected to vest. Stock options vest over a one to three-year service period,
beginning at the date of grant, and the compensation cost is recognized ratably during the vesting period. Compensation cost for stock
options subject to accelerated vesting at the date of retirement eligibility is recognized over the implicit service period.
The intrinsic value of options exercised and fair value of options vested are as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Total Intrinsic Value of Options Exercised
Total Fair Value of Options Vested
Year Ended December 31
2015
$5.6
$1.1
2014
$4.0
$2.4
2013
$4.4
$2.4
At December 31, 2015, we had a de minimis amount of unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options that will be
recognized over a weighted average period of 0.1 years.
The fair value of stock options is estimated on the date of initial grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The grant date fair value
and the assumptions used to value stock options granted during 2013 are as follows. There were no stock options granted in 2015 or 2014.
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Option
Expected Volatility (based on historical daily stock prices)
Expected Life (based on historical average years to exercise)
Expected Dividend Yield (based on the dividend rate at the date of grant)
Risk Free Interest Rate (based on U.S. Treasury yields at the date of grant)
Year Ended December 31
2013
$9.77
52%
6.0 years
2.14%
1.12%
151
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Expense
Compensation expense for the stock plans, as reported in our consolidated statements of income, is as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Performance Share Units
Restricted Stock Units and Cash-Settled Awards
Stock Options
Other
Total Compensation Expense, Before Income Tax
Total Compensation Expense, Net of Income Tax
Year Ended December 31
2014
$ 2.5
19.0
0.6
0.5
$22.6
$14.9
2013
$ 1.1
21.0
1.0
0.5
$23.6
$15.6
2015
$ 4.5
18.6
0.2
0.5
$23.8
$15.7
Cash received under all share-based payment arrangements for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 was $6.4 million,
$12.3 million, and $11.4 million, respectively.
Note 12. Reinsurance
Thirteen major companies account for approximately 92 percent of our reinsurance recoverable at December 31, 2015, and all are
rated A or better by A.M. Best Company (AM Best) or are fully securitized by letters of credit or investment-grade fixed maturity securities
held in trust. Approximately seven percent of our reinsurance recoverable relates to business reinsured either with companies rated A- or
better by AM Best, with overseas entities with equivalent ratings or backed by letters of credit or trust agreements, or through reinsurance
arrangements wherein we retain the assets in our general account. The remaining one percent of our reinsurance recoverable is held by
companies either rated below A- by AM Best or not rated.
Reinsurance data is as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Direct Premium Income
Reinsurance Assumed
Reinsurance Ceded
Net Premium Income
Ceded Benefits and Change in Reserves for Future Benefits
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$8,151.9
$7,899.3
$7,777.3
202.8
(272.3)
$8,082.4
$ 662.7
189.8
(291.9)
$7,797.2
$ 662.7
203.2
(355.8)
$7,624.7
$ 728.7
152
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Note 13. Segment Information
We have three principal operating business segments: Unum US, Unum UK, and Colonial Life. Our other segments are Closed Block
and Corporate.
The Unum US segment includes group long-term and short-term disability insurance, group life and accidental death and dismemberment
products, and supplemental and voluntary lines of business. The supplemental and voluntary lines of business are comprised of individual
disability and voluntary benefits products. These products are marketed through our field sales personnel who work in conjunction with
independent brokers and consultants.
The Unum UK segment includes insurance for group long-term disability, group life, and supplemental lines of business, which include
dental, individual disability, and critical illness products. Unum UK’s products are sold primarily in the United Kingdom through field sales
personnel and independent brokers and consultants.
The Colonial Life segment includes insurance for accident, sickness, and disability products, life products, and cancer and critical illness
products marketed to employees at the workplace through an independent contractor agency sales force and brokers.
The Closed Block segment consists of individual disability, group and individual long-term care, and other insurance products no longer
actively marketed. The individual disability line of business in this segment generally consists of policies we sold prior to the mid-1990s
and entirely discontinued selling in 2004, other than update features contractually allowable on existing policies. We discontinued offering
individual long-term care in 2009 and group long-term care in 2012. Other insurance products include group pension, individual life and
corporate-owned life insurance, reinsurance pools and management operations, and other miscellaneous product lines.
The Corporate segment includes investment income on corporate assets not specifically allocated to a line of business, interest expense
on corporate debt other than non-recourse debt, and certain other corporate income and expense not allocated to a line of business.
Business Acquired
In September 2015, we acquired 100 percent of the common shares and voting interests in National Dental Plan Limited and associated
companies (National Dental) for a total cash purchase price of £35.9 million or $54.3 million. National Dental, a provider of dental insurance
in the U.K. workplace, is reported in our Unum UK segment as part of our supplemental product line. The acquisition of National Dental
extends our market reach, broadening our employee benefit offerings in the U.K. National Dental’s revenues totaled £14.7 million, or
$24.2 million, in 2014. Total assets were £18.6 million, or $28.1 million at the acquisition date, and were primarily comprised of short-term
investments, accounts receivable, and intangible assets attributable to benefits derived from National Dental’s customer relationships
and dental provider network. Total liabilities were £5.0 million, or $7.5 million at the acquisition date, and were primarily comprised of
outstanding claims liabilities, unearned premiums, and a deferred tax liability. The purchase price exceeded the fair value of the identifiable
net assets by £22.3 million, or $33.7 million, and has been identified as goodwill, primarily attributable to the value of adding dental to
our current employee benefit offerings. The goodwill is not deductible for income tax purposes except upon disposition of the acquired
entity. This acquisition, the results of which are included in our consolidated financial statements for the period subsequent to the date of
acquisition, did not have a material impact on revenue or operating results for 2015.
153
Unum 2015 Annual Report Segment information is as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Premium Income
Unum US
Group Disability
Group Long-term Disability
Group Short-term Disability
Group Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment
Group Life
Accidental Death & Dismemberment
Supplemental and Voluntary
Individual Disability
Voluntary Benefits
Unum UK
Group Long-term Disability
Group Life
Supplemental
Colonial Life
Accident, Sickness, and Disability
Life
Cancer and Critical Illness
Closed Block
Individual Disability
Long-term Care
All Other
Total Premium Income
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$1,644.7
607.4
$1,553.5
558.1
$1,553.9
519.6
1,347.4
131.7
478.9
749.9
4,960.0
397.4
121.5
57.3
576.2
789.0
252.4
297.2
1,262.3
125.9
466.1
693.8
4,659.7
418.9
133.2
55.1
607.2
759.8
231.8
282.1
1,213.9
121.6
465.3
642.8
4,517.1
389.9
106.4
60.3
556.6
738.7
221.1
272.4
1,338.6
1,273.7
1,232.2
572.4
633.5
1.7
1,207.6
$8,082.4
624.8
630.9
0.9
1,256.6
$7,797.2
687.5
630.6
0.7
1,318.8
$7,624.7
154
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
(in millions of dollars)
Unum US
Unum UK
Colonial Life
Closed Block
Corporate
Total
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Other Income
$4,960.0
865.3
119.2
$576.2
124.9
—
$1,338.6
$1,207.6
$ —
$ 8,082.4
145.4
0.1
1,320.0
89.3
25.6
2.9
2,481.2
211.5
Operating Revenue
$5,944.5
$701.1
$1,484.1
$2,616.9
$ 28.5
$10,775.1
Operating Income (Loss)
Interest and Debt Expense
Depreciation and Amortization
Year Ended December 31, 2014
Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Other Income
$ 850.0
$ —
$ 347.0
$ 4,659.7
878.9
122.1
$140.6
$ —
$ 18.0
$ 607.2
151.0
—
$ 309.1
$ —
$ 214.6
$ 119.1
$ 6.6
$ 6.6
$(124.8)
$ 1,294.0
$ 146.2
$ 0.9
$ 152.8
$ 587.1
$ 1,273.7
$ 1,256.6
$ —
$ 7,797.2
145.5
0.1
1,281.5
91.8
35.3
5.0
2,492.2
219.0
Operating Revenue
$ 5,660.7
$ 758.2
$ 1,419.3
$ 2,629.9
$ 40.3
$ 10,508.4
Operating Income (Loss)
$ 844.9
$ 147.8
$ 299.0
$ 120.0
$ (104.4)
$ 1,307.3
Interest and Debt Expense Excluding Costs
Related to Early Retirement of Debt $ —
Depreciation and Amortization
$ 314.2
$ —
$ 19.2
$ —
$ 194.1
$ 7.3
$ 5.9
$ 147.0
$ 1.0
$ 154.3
$ 534.4
Year Ended December 31, 2013
Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Other Income
$ 4,517.1
919.4
128.3
$ 556.6
148.5
0.1
$ 1,232.2
$ 1,318.8
$ —
$ 7,624.7
144.1
0.2
1,270.2
93.9
24.7
7.7
2,506.9
230.2
Operating Revenue
$ 5,564.8
$ 705.2
$ 1,376.5
$2,682.9
$ 32.4
$ 10,361.8
Operating Income (Loss)
Interest and Debt Expense
Depreciation and Amortization
$ 848.8
$ 0.1
$ 292.5
$ 132.0
$ —
$ 22.5
$ 283.6
$ —
$ 188.7
$ 107.3
$ 8.4
$ 5.2
$ (115.1)
$ 1,256.6
$ 140.9
$ 0.9
$ 149.4
$ 509.8
155
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Unum US
Unum UK
Colonial Life
Total
$1,096.5
$ 30.4
$ 774.4
$1,901.3
307.3
(272.3)
4.9
—
9.6
(11.3)
—
(1.6)
252.8
(198.7)
16.5
—
569.7
(482.3)
21.4
(1.6)
$1,136.4
$ 27.1
$ 845.0
$2,008.5
$1,051.5
$ 34.3
$ 743.4
$1,829.2
292.7
(248.1)
0.4
—
10.5
(12.5)
—
(1.9)
220.8
(180.2)
(9.6)
—
524.0
(440.8)
(9.2)
(1.9)
$1,096.5
$ 30.4
$ 774.4
$1,901.3
$1,024.3
$ 38.8
$ 692.4
$1,755.5
252.0
(230.0)
5.2
—
9.8
(14.7)
—
0.4
205.0
(174.2)
20.2
—
466.8
(418.9)
25.4
0.4
$1,051.5
$ 34.3
$ 743.4
$1,829.2
December 31
2015
2014
$18,242.4
$18,676.5
3,432.4
3,776.8
32,992.4
2,145.7
3,702.5
3,692.2
33,960.2
2,418.8
$60,589.7
$62,450.2
(in millions of dollars)
Deferred Acquisition Costs
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Beginning of Year
Capitalization
Amortization
Adjustment Related to Unrealized Investment Gains and Losses
Foreign Currency
End of Year
Year Ended December 31, 2014
Beginning of Year
Capitalization
Amortization
Adjustment Related to Unrealized Investment Gains and Losses
Foreign Currency
End of Year
Year Ended December 31, 2013
Beginning of Year
Capitalization
Amortization
Adjustment Related to Unrealized Investment Gains and Losses
Foreign Currency
End of Year
(in millions of dollars)
Assets
Unum US
Unum UK
Colonial Life
Closed Block
Corporate
Total Assets
156
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Revenue is primarily derived from sources in the United States and the United Kingdom. There are no material revenues or assets
attributable to foreign operations other than those reported in our Unum UK segment.
We report goodwill in our Unum US segment and in our Unum UK segment, which are the segments expected to benefit from the
originating business combinations. At December 31, 2015 and 2014, goodwill was $230.9 million and $198.7 million, respectively, with
$187.6 million attributable to Unum US in each year and the remainder attributable to Unum UK.
Stockholders’ equity is allocated to the operating segments on the basis of an internal allocation formula that reflects the volume and
risk components of each operating segment’s business and aligns allocated equity with our target capital levels for regulatory and rating
agency purposes. We modify this formula periodically to recognize changes in the views of capital requirements.
We measure and analyze our segment performance using non-GAAP financial measures. A non-GAAP financial measure is a numerical
measure of a company’s performance, financial position, or cash flows that excludes or includes amounts that are not normally excluded or
included in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP. The non-GAAP financial measures of
“operating revenue” and “operating income” or “operating loss” differ from total revenue and income before income tax as presented in
our consolidated statements of income due to the exclusion of net realized investment gains and losses, non-operating retirement-related
gains or losses, and certain other items as specified in the reconciliations below. We believe operating revenue and operating income or
loss are better performance measures and better indicators of the revenue and profitability and underlying trends in our business.
Realized investment gains or losses depend on market conditions and do not necessarily relate to decisions regarding the underlying
business of our segments. Our investment focus is on investment income to support our insurance liabilities as opposed to the generation
of realized investment gains or losses. Although we may experience realized investment gains or losses which will affect future earnings
levels, a long-term focus is necessary to maintain profitability over the life of the business since our underlying business is long-term in
nature, and we need to earn the interest rates assumed in calculating our liabilities.
The amortization of prior period actuarial gains or losses, a component of the net periodic benefit cost for our pensions and other
postretirement benefit plans, is driven by market performance as well as plan amendments and is not indicative of the operational results
of our businesses. We believe that excluding the amortization of prior period gains or losses, as well as the 2014 settlement loss resulting
from our pension plan amendment, from operating income or loss provides investors with additional information for comparison and
analysis of our operating results. Although we manage our non-operating retirement-related gains or losses separately from the operational
performance of our business, these gains or losses impact the overall profitability of our company and have historically increased or decreased
over time, depending on plan amendments and market conditions and the resulting impact on the actuarial gains or losses in our pensions
and other postretirement benefit plans.
We believe that excluding the 2014 costs related to the early retirement of debt is appropriate because in conjunction with the debt
redemption, we recognized in realized investment gains and losses a deferred gain from previously terminated derivatives which were
associated with the hedge of this debt. The amount recognized as a realized investment gain, which basically offsets the cost of the debt
redemption, is also excluded from our non-GAAP financial measures since we analyze our performance excluding amounts reported as
realized investment gains or losses. We believe it provides investors with a more realistic view of our overall profitability if we are consistent
in excluding both the cost of the debt retirement as well as the gain on the hedge of the debt.
We may at other times exclude certain other items from our discussion of financial ratios and metrics in order to enhance the
understanding and comparability of our operational performance and the underlying fundamentals, but this exclusion is not an indication
that similar items may not recur and does not replace net income or net loss as a measure of our overall profitability.
157
Unum 2015 Annual Report
A reconciliation of “operating revenue” to total revenue and “operating income” to income before income tax is as follows:
(in millions of dollars)
Operating Revenue
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Total Revenue
Operating Income
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Non-operating Retirement-related Loss
Costs Related to Early Retirement of Debt for Corporate
Long-term Care Reserve Increase for Closed Block
Unclaimed Death Benefits Reserve Increase for Unum US
Unclaimed Death Benefits Reserve Increase for Colonial Life
Group Life Waiver of Premium Benefit Reserve Reduction for Unum US
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$10,775.1
(43.8)
$10,731.3
$ 1,294.0
(43.8)
(11.9)
—
—
—
—
—
$10,508.4
$10,361.8
16.1
$10,524.5
$ 1,307.3
6.8
$10,368.6
$ 1,256.6
16.1
(70.0)
(13.2)
(698.2)
—
—
—
6.8
(32.9)
—
—
(75.4)
(20.1)
85.0
Income Before Income Tax
$ 1,238.3
$ 542.0
$ 1,220.0
Note 14. Commitments and Contingent Liabilities
Commitments
We have noncancelable lease obligations on certain office space and equipment. As of December 31, 2015, the aggregate net minimum
lease payments were $220.9 million payable as follows: $56.8 million in 2016, $40.1 million in 2017, $21.4 million in 2018, $19.9 million
in 2019, $16.9 million in 2020, and $65.8 million thereafter. Rental expense for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 was
$42.5 million, $44.2 million, and $44.1 million, respectively.
At December 31, 2015, we had unfunded commitments of $291.5 million for certain of our investments, the amount of which may or
may not be funded.
Contingent Liabilities
We are a defendant in a number of litigation matters. In some of these matters, no specified amount is sought. In others, very large
or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are asserted. There is a wide variation of pleading practice permitted
in the United States courts with respect to requests for monetary damages, including some courts in which no specified amount is required
and others which allow the plaintiff to state only that the amount sought is sufficient to invoke the jurisdiction of that court. Further, some
jurisdictions permit plaintiffs to allege damages well in excess of reasonably possible verdicts. Based on our extensive experience and that
of others in the industry with respect to litigating or resolving claims through settlement over an extended period of time, we believe that
the monetary damages asserted in a lawsuit or claim bear little relation to the merits of the case, or the likely disposition value. Therefore,
the specific monetary relief sought is not stated.
Unless indicated otherwise in the descriptions below, reserves have not been established for litigation and contingencies. An estimated
loss is accrued when it is both probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated.
158
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Claims Handling Matters
We and our insurance subsidiaries, in the ordinary course of our business, are engaged in claim litigation where disputes arise as a result
of a denial or termination of benefits. Most typically these lawsuits are filed on behalf of a single claimant or policyholder, and in some of
these individual actions punitive damages are sought, such as claims alleging bad faith in the handling of insurance claims. For our general
claim litigation, we maintain reserves based on experience to satisfy judgments and settlements in the normal course. We expect that the
ultimate liability, if any, with respect to general claim litigation, after consideration of the reserves maintained, will not be material to our
consolidated financial condition. Nevertheless, given the inherent unpredictability of litigation, it is possible that an adverse outcome in
certain claim litigation involving punitive damages could, from time to time, have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of
operations in a period, depending on the results of operations for the particular period.
From time to time class action allegations are pursued where the claimant or policyholder purports to represent a larger number of
individuals who are similarly situated. Since each insurance claim is evaluated based on its own merits, there is rarely a single act or
series of actions which can properly be addressed by a class action. Nevertheless, we monitor these cases closely and defend ourselves
appropriately where these allegations are made.
Miscellaneous Matters
Beginning in 2011, a number of state regulators began requiring insurers to cross-check specified insurance policies with the Social
Security Administration’s Death Master File to identify potential matches. If a potential match was identified, insurers were requested to
determine if benefits were due, locate beneficiaries, and make payments where appropriate. We initiated this process where requested,
and in 2012 we began implementing this process in all states on a forward-looking basis. In addition to implementing this on a forward-
looking basis, in 2013 we began an initiative to search for potential claims from previous years. During 2013, we completed our assessment
of benefits which we estimate will be paid under this initiative, and as such, established additional reserves for payment of these benefits.
Similar to other insurers, we are undergoing an examination by a third party acting on behalf of a number of state treasurers concerning our
compliance with the unclaimed property laws of the participating states. We are cooperating fully with this examination, as well as with a
Delaware Market Conduct examination involving the same issue. The legal and regulatory environment around unclaimed death benefits
continues to evolve. It is possible that the current examination and/or similar investigations by other state jurisdictions may result in
additional payments to beneficiaries, the payment of abandoned funds under state law, and/or administrative penalties, the total of which
may be in excess of the reserves established.
In December 2012, State of West Virginia ex rel. John D. Perdue v. Provident Life and Accident Insurance Company and State of West
Virginia ex rel. John D. Perdue v. Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company were filed in the Circuit Court of Putnam County, West Virginia.
These two separate complaints alleged violations of the West Virginia Uniform Unclaimed Property Act by failing to identify and report all
unclaimed insurance policy proceeds due to be escheated to West Virginia. The complaints sought to examine company records and assess
penalties and costs in an undetermined amount. In December 2013, the court dismissed both complaints, holding that the West Virginia
Uniform Unclaimed Property Act does not require insurance companies to periodically search the Social Security Administrations’ Death
Master File or escheat unclaimed life insurance benefits until a claim has been submitted. In January 2014, the plaintiff appealed the
dismissal of both complaints. In June 2015, the appellate court reinstated the case, holding that the West Virginia Uniform Unclaimed
Property Act requires insurers to make reasonable efforts to determine whether their insureds are still living. The case was remanded to
the trial court where we answered the complaints.
159
Unum 2015 Annual Report In May 2013, a purported class action complaint was filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. The plaintiff sought
to represent a class of California insureds who were issued long-term care policies containing an inflation protection feature. The plaintiff
alleged we incorrectly administered the inflation protection feature, resulting in an underpayment of benefits. The complaint made allegations
against us for breach of contract, bad faith, fraud, violation of Business and Professions Code 17200, and injunctive relief. We removed the case
to the United States District Court for the Central District of California, and plaintiff filed an amended complaint on behalf of a nationwide
class of insureds who were issued long-term care policies containing an inflation protection feature. After we answered the complaint, the
court permitted the plaintiff to file another amended complaint entitled Michael Don, Executor of The Estate of Ruben Don, Leroy Little, by
and through his Guardian ad Litem Tamara Pelham, and Carolyn Little v. Unum Group, and Unum Life Insurance Company of America
containing similar allegations. In April 2015, we again answered the complaint. The plaintiffs filed a motion seeking certification of five
subclasses, and we filed our opposition. In February 2016, the plaintiffs filed a motion for preliminary approval of settlement for a class of
certain insureds issued long-term care policies containing an inflation protection feature as well as certain insureds who requested copies of
their long-term care policies. The court has not yet ruled on this motion. We accrued an estimated loss contingency in 2015, the amount of
which was immaterial to our consolidated financial position and results of operations.
Summary
Various lawsuits against us, in addition to those discussed above, have arisen in the normal course of business. Further, state
insurance regulatory authorities and other federal and state authorities regularly make inquiries and conduct investigations concerning
our compliance with applicable insurance and other laws and regulations.
Given the complexity and scope of our litigation and regulatory matters, it is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of all
pending investigations or legal proceedings or provide reasonable estimates of potential losses, except if noted in connection with specific
matters. It is possible that our results of operations or cash flows in a particular period could be materially affected by an ultimate
unfavorable outcome of pending litigation or regulatory matters depending, in part, on our results of operations or cash flows for the
particular period. We believe, however, that the ultimate outcome of all pending litigation and regulatory matters, after consideration of
applicable reserves and rights to indemnification, should not have a material adverse effect on our financial position.
160
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report Note 15. Statutory Financial Information
Statutory Net Income, Capital and Surplus, and Dividends
Statutory net income for U.S. life insurance companies is reported in conformity with statutory accounting principles prescribed by the
National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and adopted by applicable domiciliary state laws. The commissioners of the states
of domicile have the right to permit other specific practices that may deviate from prescribed practices. Our traditional U.S. life insurance
subsidiaries have no prescribed or permitted statutory accounting practices that differ materially from statutory accounting principles
prescribed by the NAIC.
Certain of our traditional U.S. life insurance subsidiaries cede blocks of business to Northwind Re and Fairwind Insurance Company
(Fairwind), both of which are affiliated captive reinsurance subsidiaries (captive reinsurers) domiciled in the United States, with Unum Group
as the ultimate parent. These captive reinsurers were established for the limited purpose of reinsuring risks attributable to specified policies
issued or reinsured by our life insurance subsidiaries. During 2015, Tailwind Reinsurance Company (Tailwind Re), also an affiliated captive
reinsurance subsidiary domiciled in the United States, merged with one of our traditional U.S. life insurance subsidiaries, with the traditional
U.S. life insurance subsidiary remaining as the surviving company. Following the merger, the majority of the block of business previously
ceded to Tailwind Re was ceded to an unaffiliated reinsurer. These two transactions did not materially impact the statutory results of operations,
capital adequacy, or ability of our insurance subsidiaries to pay dividends to Unum Group.
Fairwind, which is domiciled in the State of Vermont, is required to follow GAAP in accordance with Vermont reporting requirements
for pure captive insurance companies, unless the commissioner permits the use of some other basis of accounting. Fairwind has permission
from Vermont to follow accounting practices that are generally consistent with current NAIC statutory accounting principles for its insurance
reserves and invested assets supporting reserves. All other assets and liabilities are accounted for in accordance with GAAP, as prescribed
by Vermont, which allows for the full recognition of deferred tax assets which are more likely than not to be realized. Statutory accounting
principles have a stricter limitation for the recognition of deferred tax assets. The impact of following the prescribed and permitted practices
of Vermont rather than statutory accounting principles prescribed by the NAIC resulted in higher capital and surplus for Fairwind of
approximately $208 million and $200 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Northwind Re has no material state prescribed
accounting practices that differ from statutory accounting principles prescribed by the NAIC.
The operating results and capital and surplus of our traditional U.S. life insurance subsidiaries and our captive reinsurers, prepared in
accordance with prescribed or permitted accounting practices of the NAIC or states of domicile, are presented separately below.
(in millions of dollars)
Combined Net Income (Loss)
Traditional U.S. Life Insurance Subsidiaries
Captive Reinsurers
Combined Net Gain (Loss) from Operations
Traditional U.S. Life Insurance Subsidiaries
Captive Reinsurers
(in millions of dollars)
Combined Capital and Surplus
Traditional U.S. Life Insurance Subsidiaries
Captive Reinsurers
Year Ended December 31
2015
2014
2013
$653.7
$ (56.3)
$689.2
$ (54.3)
$ 623.1
$(123.0)
$ 618.1
$(123.8)
$584.5
$ 13.3
$617.5
$ 13.6
December 31
2015
2014
$3,470.3
$1,672.3
$3,462.8
$1,668.3
161
Unum 2015 Annual Report
As derived from the most recent annual statutory basis financial statements filed with insurance regulators, the statutory net income and
statutory capital and surplus of our United Kingdom insurance subsidiary, Unum Limited, were £50.7 million and £445.9 million, respectively.
Risk-based capital (RBC) standards for U.S. life insurance companies are prescribed by the NAIC. The domiciliary states of our U.S. insurance
subsidiaries have all adopted a version of the RBC model formula of the NAIC, which prescribes a system for assessing the adequacy of
statutory capital and surplus for all life and health insurers. The basis of the system is a risk-based formula that applies prescribed factors to
the various risk elements in a life and health insurer’s business to report a minimum capital requirement proportional to the amount of risk
assumed by the insurer. The life and health RBC formula is designed to measure annually (i) the risk of loss from asset defaults and asset
value fluctuations, (ii) the risk of loss from adverse mortality and morbidity experience, (iii) the risk of loss from mismatching of asset and
liability cash flow due to changing interest rates, and (iv) business risks. The formula is used as an early warning tool to identify companies
that are potentially inadequately capitalized. State insurance laws grant insurance regulators the authority to require various actions by,
or take various actions against, insurers whose total adjusted capital does not meet or exceed certain RBC levels. The total adjusted capital
of each of our U.S. insurance subsidiaries at December 31, 2015 is in excess of those RBC levels.
Restrictions under applicable state insurance laws limit the amount of dividends that can be paid to a parent company from its
insurance subsidiaries in any 12-month period without prior approval by regulatory authorities. For life insurance companies domiciled in
the U.S., that limitation generally equals, depending on the state of domicile, either ten percent of an insurer’s statutory surplus with
respect to policyholders as of the preceding year end or the statutory net gain from operations, excluding realized investment gains and
losses, of the preceding year. The payment of dividends to a parent company from a life insurance subsidiary is generally further limited
to the amount of unassigned funds.
Based on the restrictions under current law, $663.6 million is available, without prior approval by regulatory authorities, during 2016
for the payment of dividends to Unum Group from its traditional U.S. life insurance subsidiaries. The ability of our captive insurers to pay
dividends to their respective parent companies will depend on their satisfaction of applicable regulatory requirements and on the
performance of the business reinsured.
We also have the ability to receive dividends from Unum Limited, subject to applicable insurance company regulations and capital
guidance in the United Kingdom. As of January 1, 2016, Solvency II, a European Union directive that prescribes new capital requirements
and risk management standards for the European insurance industry, replaced the previous capital requirements for Unum Limited. There
was no material change to capital requirements or to solvency ratios. We have £147.8 million available for the payment of dividends from
Unum Limited during 2016, subject to regulatory approval.
Deposits
At December 31, 2015 and 2014, our U.S. insurance subsidiaries had on deposit with U.S. regulatory authorities securities with a book
value of $284.1 million and $279.1 million, respectively, held for the protection of policyholders.
162
Notes To Consolidated Financial StatementsUnum 2015 Annual Report
Note 16. Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)
The following is a summary of our unaudited quarterly results of operations for 2015 and 2014:
(in millions of dollars, except share data)
Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Total Revenue
Income Before Income Tax
Net Income
Net Income Per Common Share
Basic
Assuming Dilution
(in millions of dollars, except share data)
Premium Income
Net Investment Income
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss)
Total Revenue
Income (Loss) Before Income Tax
Net Income (Loss)
Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share
Basic
Assuming Dilution
4th
$2,037.8
636.4
(2.7)
2,722.4
316.6
226.1
0.93
0.93
4th
$1,967.9
632.7
(17.3)
2,639.0
(454.6)
(282.2)
(1.12)
(1.12)
2015
2014
3rd
$2,020.8
612.1
(26.6)
2,657.8
298.9
203.8
0.83
0.83
3rd
$1,947.2
611.3
1.2
2,614.3
317.0
219.1
0.86
0.86
2nd
$2,017.5
630.7
0.8
2,703.7
319.8
224.3
0.90
0.90
2nd
$1,943.6
632.4
25.9
2,656.8
349.8
239.4
0.93
0.93
1st
$2,006.3
602.0
(15.3)
2,647.4
303.0
212.9
0.85
0.84
1st
$1,938.5
615.8
6.3
2,614.4
329.8
225.8
0.87
0.86
Items affecting the comparability of our financial results are as follows:
• Fourth quarter of 2014 reserve increase of $698.2 million before tax and $453.8 million after tax related to long-term care.
• Fourth quarter of 2014 settlement loss of $64.4 million before tax and $41.9 million after tax related to a pension plan amendment.
See Notes 6 and 9 for further discussion of the above items.
163
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Report of Independent
Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Unum Group
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Unum Group and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2015 and 2014,
and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years
in the period ended December 31, 2015. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility
is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those
standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial
statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as
evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position
of Unum Group and subsidiaries at December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows
for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States),
Unum Group and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria established in Internal
Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework),
and our report dated February 24, 2016, expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
February 24, 2016
164
Unum 2015 Annual Report Management’s Annual Report on
Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting,
as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting
encompasses the processes and procedures management has established to (i) maintain records that, in reasonable detail, accurately
and fairly reflect the Company’s transactions and dispositions of assets; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded
as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles; (iii) provide
reasonable assurance that receipts and expenditures are appropriately authorized; and (iv) 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 financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. In addition,
any projection of the evaluation of effectiveness to future periods is 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.
We assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal
Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, and concluded that,
as of December 31, 2015, we maintained effective internal control over financial reporting.
165
Unum 2015 Annual Report Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Unum Group
We have audited Unum Group and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria
established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission
(2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). Unum Group and subsidiaries’ management is responsible 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
internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those
standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial
reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting,
assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based
on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit
provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
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 financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally 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 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.
In our opinion, Unum Group and subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as
of December 31, 2015, based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the
consolidated balance sheets of Unum Group and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the related consolidated statements
of income, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015,
and our report dated February 24, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
February 24, 2016
166
Unum 2015 Annual Report Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the Act) provides a “safe harbor” to encourage companies to provide prospective
information, as long as those statements are identified as forward-looking and are accompanied by meaningful cautionary statements
identifying important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those included in the forward-looking statements.
Certain information contained in this Annual Report or in any other written or oral statements made by us in communications with the
financial community or contained in documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), may be considered forward-looking
statements within the meaning of the Act. Forward-looking statements are those not based on historical information, but rather relate to
our outlook, future operations, strategies, financial results, or other developments. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date
made. We undertake no obligation to update these statements, even if made available on our website or otherwise. These statements
may be made directly in this document or may be made part of this document by reference to other documents filed by us with the SEC,
a practice which is known as “incorporation by reference.” You can find many of these statements by looking for words such as “will,” “may,”
“should,” “could,” “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “plans,” “assumes,” “intends,” “projects,” “goals,” “objectives,” or similar
expressions in this document or in documents incorporated herein.
These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control.
We caution readers that the following factors, in addition to other factors mentioned from time to time, may cause actual results to differ
materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements:
• Sustained periods of low interest rates.
• Fluctuation in insurance reserve liabilities and claim payments due to changes in claim incidence, recovery rates, mortality and
morbidity rates, and policy benefit offsets due to, among other factors, the rate of unemployment and consumer confidence, the
emergence of new diseases, epidemics, or pandemics, new trends and developments in medical treatments, the effectiveness of
our claims operational processes, and changes in government programs.
• Unfavorable economic or business conditions, both domestic and foreign.
• Legislative, regulatory, or tax changes, both domestic and foreign, including the effect of potential legislation and increased
regulation in the current political environment.
• Investment results, including, but not limited to, changes in interest rates, defaults, changes in credit spreads, impairments, and the
lack of appropriate investments in the market which can be acquired to match our liabilities.
• A cyber attack or other security breach could result in the unauthorized disclosure of confidential data.
• The failure of our business recovery and incident management processes to resume our business operations in the event of a natural
catastrophe, cyber attack, or other event.
• Increased competition from other insurers and financial services companies due to industry consolidation, new entrants to our
markets, or other factors.
• Execution risk related to our technology needs.
• Changes in our financial strength and credit ratings.
• Damage to our reputation due to, among other factors, regulatory investigations, legal proceedings, external events, and/or
inadequate or failed internal controls and procedures.
• Actual experience that deviates from our assumptions used in pricing, underwriting, and reserving.
• Actual persistency and/or sales growth that is higher or lower than projected.
• Changes in demand for our products due to, among other factors, changes in societal attitudes, the rate of unemployment, consumer
confidence, and/or legislative and regulatory changes, including healthcare reform.
• Effectiveness of our risk management program.
• Contingencies and the level and results of litigation.
• Availability of reinsurance in the market and the ability of our reinsurers to meet their obligations to us.
• Ineffectiveness of our derivatives hedging programs due to changes in the economic environment, counterparty risk, ratings
downgrades, capital market volatility, changes in interest rates, and/or regulation.
• Changes in accounting standards, practices, or policies.
• Fluctuation in foreign currency exchange rates.
• Ability to generate sufficient internal liquidity and/or obtain external financing.
• Recoverability and/or realization of the carrying value of our intangible assets, long-lived assets, and deferred tax assets.
• Terrorism, both within the U.S. and abroad, ongoing military actions, and heightened security measures in response to these types
of threats.
All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or any person acting on our behalf are expressly
qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this section.
167
Unum 2015 Annual Report Appendix
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
(per diluted common share)
After-tax Operating Income
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss), Net of Tax
Non-operating Retirement-related Loss, Net of Tax
Regulatory Reassessment Charges, Net of Tax
Special Tax Items and Debt Extinguishment Costs, Net of Tax
Other, Net of Tax
Income from Continuing Operations
Income from Discontinued Operations
Net Income
* Does not reflect the impact of ASU 2010–26.
2010
2009
Year Ended December 31
2007*
2008
$ 2.73
0.05
(0.06)
—
(0.03)
—
2.69
—
$ 2.64
—
(0.09)
—
—
—
2.55
—
$ 2.54
(0.89)
(0.03)
—
—
—
1.62
—
$ 2.25
(0.12)
(0.04)
(0.10)
(0.10)
—
1.89
0.02
2006*
$ 1.85
0.01
(0.05)
(0.79)
0.23
(0.04)
1.21
0.02
2005*
$ 1.69
(0.02)
(0.05)
(0.16)
0.14
0.01
1.61
0.03
$ 2.69
$ 2.55
$ 1.62
$ 1.91
$ 1.23
$ 1.64
(in millions)
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Principal Operating Businesses
Closed Block
Corporate
Total
(in millions)
Year Ended December 31, 2014
Year Ended December 31, 2013
Year Ended December 31, 2012
Year Ended December 31, 2011
(in millions)
After-tax Operating Income
Net Realized Investment Gain (Loss), Net of Tax
Non-operating Retirement-related Loss, Net of Tax
Costs Related to Early Retirement of Debt, Net of Tax
Reserve Charges for Closed Block, Net of Tax
Unclaimed Death Benefits Reserve Increase, Net of Tax
Group Life Waiver of Premium Benefit Reserve Reduction, Net of Tax
Deferred Acquisition Costs for Closed Block, Net of Tax
Special Tax Items
2015
$901.0
(26.1)
(7.8)
—
—
—
—
—
—
After-tax
Operating
Income (Loss)
Average
Allocated
Equity
Operating
Return
on Equity
$875.5
79.0
(53.5)
$ 6,057.8
2,989.2
(1,085.9)
14.5%
$901.0
$ 7,961.1
11.3%
After-tax
Operating
Income
Average
Allocated
Equity
Operating
Return
on Equity
$899.1
871.4
881.2
904.8
$7,974.3
7,718.7
7,236.9
7,425.6
11.3%
11.3%
12.2%
12.2%
Year Ended December 31
2013
2014
2012
$ 899.1
12.8
(45.6)
(10.4)
(453.8)
—
—
—
—
$871.4
3.9
(21.4)
—
—
(62.1)
55.2
—
—
$881.2
37.1
(30.2)
—
—
—
—
—
—
2011
$ 904.8
(3.6)
(20.7)
—
(492.1)
—
—
(127.5)
22.7
Net Income
(in millions)
Total Stockholders’ Equity, As Reported
Net Unrealized Gain on Securities
Net Gain on Cash Flow Hedges
Total Stockholders’ Equity, As Adjusted
$867.1
$ 402.1
$847.0
$888.1
$ 283.6
December 31
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
$8,663.9
204.3
378.0
$8,521.9
290.3
391.0
$8,639.9
135.7
396.3
$8,604.6
873.5
401.6
$8,168.0
614.8
408.7
$8,483.8
416.1
361.0
$8,081.6
$7,840.6
$8,107.9
$7,329.5
$7,144.5
$7,706.7
Average Equity, As Adjusted
$7,961.1
$7,974.3
$7,718.7
$7,236.9
$7,425.6
168
Unum 2015 Annual Report
Shareholder Information
CORPORATE OFFICES
1 Fountain Square
Chattanooga, TN 37402
423 294 1011
2211 Congress Street
Portland, ME 04122
207 575 2211
1200 Colonial Life Blvd.
Columbia, SC 29210
803 798 7000
Milton Court
Dorking, Surrey RH4 3LZ
England
011 44 1306 887766
1 Mercantile Street
Worcester, MA 01608
774 437 4441
PRINCIPAL SUBSIDIARIES
CONTACT INFORMATION
Provident Life and
Accident Insurance Company
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Unum Life Insurance
Company of America
Portland, Maine
Colonial Life & Accident
Insurance Company
Columbia, South Carolina
Unum Limited
Dorking, England
The Paul Revere Life
Insurance Company
Worcester, Massachusetts
First Unum Life Insurance Company
New York, New York
Investor Relations
Thomas A.H. White
Senior Vice President, Investor Relations
1 Fountain Square
Chattanooga, TN 37402
423 294 8996
Corporate Information
J. Paul Jullienne
Corporate Secretary
1 Fountain Square
Chattanooga, TN 37402
800 718 8824
Transfer Agent
Computershare Trust Company, N.A.
P.O. Box 43078
Providence, RI 02940-3078
800 446 2617
Common Stock Information
Common stock of Unum Group is traded
on the New York Stock Exchange.
The stock symbol is UNM.
STOCK PERFORMANCE
The following graph shows a five-year comparison
of cumulative total returns for our common stock’s
historical performance, the S&P 500 Index, and the
Insurance Index (non-weighted average of “total
returns” from the S&P Life & Health Index and the
S&P Multi-line Insurance Index). Past performance
is not an indication of future results.
$250
$200
$150
$100
$ 50
0
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Unum Group
S&P 500 Index
S&P 500 Life & Health Insurance Index
S&P 500 Multi-line Insurance Index
2010
$100
$100
$100
$100
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
$ 88.37
$102.11
$ 79.29
$ 72.91
$ 89.29
$118.45
$ 90.86
$ 92.38
$153.42
$156.82
$148.53
$136.63
$155.36
$178.28
$151.42
$143.14
$151.35
$180.75
$141.87
$153.51
MARKET PRICES AND DIVIDENDS
Quarterly market prices and dividends declared and paid per share of common stock are as follows:
2015
1st Quarter
2nd Quarter
3rd Quarter
4th Quarter
High
Low
Dividend
2014
$35.21
$30.72
$0.165
37.17
38.15
37.26
33.05
29.81
31.22
0.165
0.185
0.185
1st Quarter
2nd Quarter
3rd Quarter
4th Quarter
High
Low
Dividend
$36.30
$30.66
$0.145
35.78
37.15
35.77
32.07
33.60
31.25
0.145
0.165
0.165
As of March 24, 2016, there were 10,958 registered holders of common stock.
Unum Group
1 Fountain Square
Chattanooga, TN 37402
www.unum.com
© 2016 Unum Group. All rights reserved. Unum is
a registered trademark and marketing brand of
Unum Group and its insuring subsidiaries.
All the paper used in this annual report is Elemental Chlorine
Free. The papers used for the cover and pages 1-16 of this book
contain 10% Post Consumer Waste.