Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
REPORT
OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors
NI Holdings, Inc.
Opinions on the Consolidated Financial Statements and Internal
Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated
balance sheet of NI Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2024, and the consolidated statements
of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2024,
and the schedule listed in Item 15(a)(2) (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). We also have
audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal
Control – Integrated Framework: (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
In our opinion, the consolidated financial
statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2024,
and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in
the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial
reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework: (2013) issued
by COSO.
We also have audited the adjustments to the Company’s
2023 and 2022 consolidated financial statements to retrospectively apply the change in accounting for (a) discontinued operations described
in Note 3 and Note 20, and (b) the adoption of ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280) – Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures
described in Note 21. In our opinion, such adjustments are appropriate and have been properly applied. We were not engaged to audit, review,
or apply any procedures to the 2023 or 2022 consolidated financial statements of the Company other than with respect to the adjustments,
and, accordingly, we do not express an opinion or any other form of assurance on the 2023 or 2022 consolidated financial statements taken
as a whole.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible
for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment
of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal
Control over Financial Reporting . Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s
consolidated financial statements and an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We are a public accounting firm registered
with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect
to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the
standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated
financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial
reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audit of the consolidated financial statements
included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud,
and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts
and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal
control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk
that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed
risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit
provides a reasonable basis for our opinions.
Definitions and Limitations of Internal
Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process
designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of reliable consolidated
financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally
46
accepted accounting principles. A company’s
internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that,
in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable
assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management
and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition,
use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal
control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future
periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or that the degree of compliance
with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matters communicated below
are matters arising from the current-period audit of the consolidated financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated
to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements
and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not
alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical
audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.
Evaluation of Losses and Loss Adjustment
Expenses Reserves
Critical Audit Matter Description
On December 31, 2024, the Company’s liability
for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses was approximately $137 million. As described in Note 3 and 8, the Company’s property
and casualty insurance loss and loss expenses reserves (referred to as “losses and loss expenses reserves”), are determined
by the Company using actuarial methods, models, assumptions, and judgment to estimate the reserves required to pay for and settle all
outstanding insured claims as of the consolidated financial statement date. There is significant uncertainty inherent in determining management’s
best estimate of the losses and loss expenses reserves, requiring the use of informed actuarially based estimates and management’s
judgment. The actuarial estimate of losses and loss expenses reserves is subject to review and adjustment by Company management.
Losses and loss expenses are inherently uncertain
as to timing and amount and the recorded losses and loss expense reserves may vary materially from the actual ultimate cost of claims.
Given the subjectivity in estimating ultimate losses and loss expenses, due to uncertainties concerning the future emergence of losses
and loss expenses, inflation trends, and the judicial environment, among other factors, auditing losses and loss expenses reserves involved
an especially high degree of auditor judgment, including the need to involve an actuarial specialist.
How the Critical Matter Was Addressed in the
Audit
We obtained an understanding, evaluated the design,
and tested the operating effectiveness of certain internal controls over the Company’s reserving process for losses and loss adjustment
expenses reserves.
To test the Company’s estimate of losses
and loss adjustment expenses reserves, our audit procedures included among others:
● With the assistance of the actuarial specialist,
we used the Company’s claims data and other inputs, to develop a range of independent estimates for the losses and loss expenses
reserves. We used these independent estimates to assess the reasonableness of the Company’s reserves by comparing our estimates
to the Company’s recorded losses and loss expenses reserves.
● We tested the underlying data that served as
the basis for the actuarial analysis, including historical claims data, to test the reasonableness of key inputs to the actuarial estimate.
/s/ Forvis Mazars, LLP
PCAOB ID 686
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2024.
New York, New York
March 7, 2025
47
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING
FIRM
To the Board of Directors
and
Shareholders of NI Holdings, Inc.
Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements
We have audited,
before the effects of the adjustments to retrospectively apply the change in accounting for (a) discontinued operations described in Note
3 and Note 20, and (b) the adoption of ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280) – Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures
described in Note 21, the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of NI Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”)
as of December 31, 2023, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in shareholders’
equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes and the schedule listed
in Item 15(a)(2) (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). The consolidated financial statements,
before the effects of the adjustments to retrospectively apply the change in accounting for (a) discontinued operations described in Note
3 and Note 20, and (b) the adoption of ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280) – Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures
described in Note 21, are not presented herein.
In our opinion,
the consolidated financial statements referred to above, before the effects of the adjustments to retrospectively apply the change in
accounting for (a) discontinued operations described in Note 3 and Note 20, and (b) the adoption of ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic
280) – Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures described in Note 21, present fairly, in all material respects, the financial
position of the Company as of December 31, 2023, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the two-year
period ended December 31, 2023, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We were not
engaged to audit, review, or apply any procedures to the adjustments to retrospectively apply the change in accounting for (a) discontinued
operations described in Note 3 and Note 20, and (b) the adoption of ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280) – Improvements to
Reportable Segment Disclosures described in Note 21, and, accordingly, we do not express an opinion or any other form of assurance about
whether such adjustments are appropriate and have been properly applied. Those adjustments were audited by Forvis Mazars, LLP.
Basis for Opinion
These consolidated financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s consolidated financial
statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect
to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the
standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated
financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess
the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures
that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the
consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide
a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ Mazars USA
LLP
PCAOB ID 339
We have served as the
Company’s auditor from 2016 to 2024.
Fort Washington, Pennsylvania
March 15, 2024
48
NI Holdings, Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 2024 and 2023
(dollar amounts in thousands, except par value)
2024
2023
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 50,930
$ 41,037
Fixed income securities, at fair value (net of allowance for expected credit losses of $ 0 at December 31, 2024 and 2023)
307,712
289,399
Equity securities, at fair value
24,640
21,983
Other investments
1,812
2,006
Total cash and investments
385,094
354,425
Premiums and agents' balances receivable (net of allowance for expected credit losses of $ 337 at December 31, 2024 and $ 394 at December 31, 2023)
52,907
56,154
Deferred policy acquisition costs
26,300
26,790
Reinsurance premiums receivable (payable)
746
( 1,403 )
Reinsurance recoverables on losses (net of allowance for expected credit losses of $ 0 at December 31, 2024 and 2023)
12,561
6,460
Income tax recoverable
7,017
—
Accrued investment income
2,629
2,325
Property and equipment, net
7,547
7,452
Deferred income taxes
7,324
9,228
Receivable from Federal Crop Insurance Corporation
13,223
17,404
Goodwill and other intangibles
100
2,728
Other assets
11,097
10,866
Assets of discontinued operations
—
162,457
Total assets
$ 526,545
$ 654,886
Liabilities:
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ 137,288
$ 119,185
Unearned premiums
126,498
126,100
Income tax payable
—
147
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
18,128
17,758
Liabilities of discontinued operations
—
141,297
Total liabilities
281,914
404,487
Shareholders’ equity:
Common stock, $ 0.01 par value, authorized 25,000,000 shares,
issued: 23,000,000 shares; and
outstanding: 2024 – 20,673,268 shares, 2023 – 20,599,908 shares
230
230
Additional paid-in capital
95,796
96,294
Unearned employee stock ownership plan shares
( 455 )
( 698 )
Retained earnings
201,584
208,376
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes
( 18,231 )
( 21,384 )
Treasury stock, at cost, 2024 – 2,281,252 shares, 2023 – 2,330,297 shares
( 34,293 )
( 35,177 )
Non-controlling interest
—
2,758
Total shareholders’ equity
244,631
250,399
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$ 526,545
$ 654,886
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
49
NI Holdings, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Operations
Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
(dollar amounts in thousands, except per share data)
2024
2023
2022
Revenues:
Net premiums earned
$ 310,110
$ 292,117
$ 271,740
Fee and other income
1,938
1,940
1,381
Net investment income
10,943
8,034
6,636
Net investment gains (losses)
2,213
1,929
( 11,975 )
Total revenues
325,204
304,020
267,782
Expenses:
Losses and loss adjustment expenses
207,465
186,516
241,750
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
71,257
67,631
53,605
Other underwriting and general expenses
33,709
29,326
25,303
Goodwill impairment charge
2,628
—
—
Total expenses
315,059
283,473
320,658
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
10,145
20,547
( 52,876 )
Income tax expense (benefit)
3,545
716
( 14,191 )
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
6,600
19,831
( 38,685 )
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest
—
250
( 679 )
Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.
6,600
19,581
( 38,006 )
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
( 1,512 )
( 25,057 )
( 15,090 )
Loss on sale of discontinued operations, net of income taxes
( 11,148 )
—
—
Net loss
$ ( 6,060 )
$ ( 5,476 )
$ ( 53,096 )
Earnings (loss) per common share from continuing operations:
Basic
$ 0.31
$ 0.93
$ ( 1.78 )
Diluted
$ 0.31
$ 0.92
$ ( 1.78 )
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic
$ ( 0.29 )
$ ( 0.26 )
$ ( 2.49 )
Diluted
$ ( 0.29 )
$ ( 0.26 )
$ ( 2.49 )
Share data:
Weighted average common share outstanding used in basic per common share calculations
20,968,545
21,159,073
21,333,389
Dilutive securities
120,626
76,532
—
Weighted average common shares used in diluted per common share calculations
21,089,171
21,235,605
21,333,389
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
50
NI Holdings, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(Loss)
Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
(dollar amounts in thousands)
2024
Attributable to
NI Holdings, Inc.
Attributable to
Non-Controlling
Interest
Total
Net income (loss)
$ ( 6,060 )
$ —
$ ( 6,060 )
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes:
Holding gains (losses) on investments
( 482 )
—
( 482 )
Reclassification adjustment for net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)
233
—
233
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes
( 249 )
—
( 249 )
Income tax benefit (expense) related to items of other comprehensive income (loss)
96
—
96
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
( 153 )
—
( 153 )
Comprehensive income (loss)
$ ( 6,213 )
$ —
$ ( 6,213 )
2023
Attributable to
NI Holdings, Inc.
Attributable to
Non-Controlling
Interest
Total
Net income (loss)
$ ( 5,476 )
$ 250
$ ( 5,226 )
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes:
Holding gains (losses) on investments
9,709
363
10,072
Reclassification adjustment for net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)
582
—
582
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes
10,291
363
10,654
Income tax benefit (expense) related to items of other comprehensive income (loss)
( 2,389 )
( 85 )
( 2,474 )
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
7,902
278
8,180
Comprehensive income (loss)
$ 2,426
$ 528
$ 2,954
2022
Attributable to
NI Holdings, Inc.
Attributable to
Non-Controlling
Interest
Total
Net income (loss)
$ ( 53,096 )
$ ( 679 )
$ ( 53,775 )
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes:
Holding gains (losses) on investments
( 44,810 )
( 1,703 )
( 46,513 )
Reclassification adjustment for net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)
131
20
151
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes
( 44,679 )
( 1,683 )
( 46,362 )
Income tax benefit (expense) related to items of other comprehensive income (loss)
10,156
383
10,539
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
( 34,523 )
( 1,300 )
( 35,823 )
Comprehensive income (loss)
$ ( 87,619 )
$ ( 1,979 )
$ ( 89,598 )
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
51
NI Holdings, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’
Equity
Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
(dollar amounts in thousands)
Common
Stock
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Unearned
Employee
Stock
Ownership
Plan Shares
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss),
Net of Income
Taxes
Treasury
Stock
Non-
Controlling
Interest
Total
Shareholders’
Equity
Balance,
January 1, 2022
$ 230
$ 98,166
$ ( 1,184 )
$ 267,207
$ 5,237
( 26,452 )
$ 4,209
$ 347,413
Battle Creek demutualization
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Net income (loss)
—
—
—
( 53,096 )
—
—
( 679 )
( 53,775 )
Impact of Westminster unrealized investment gains/losses
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
—
—
—
—
( 34,523 )
—
( 1,300 )
( 35,823 )
Purchase of treasury stock
—
—
—
—
—
( 4,180 )
—
( 4,180 )
Share-based compensation
—
( 40 )
—
—
—
—
—
( 40 )
Issuance of vested award shares
—
( 2,592 )
—
10
—
1,814
—
( 768 )
Distribution of employee stock ownership plan shares
—
137
243
—
—
—
—
380
Balance,
December 31, 2022
230
95,671
( 941 )
214,121
( 29,286 )
( 28,818 )
2,230
253,207
Battle Creek demutualization
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Net income (loss)
—
—
—
( 5,476 )
—
—
250
( 5,226 )
Impact of Westminster unrealized investment gains/losses
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
—
—
—
—
7,902
—
278
8,180
Purchase of treasury stock
—
—
—
—
—
( 7,278 )
—
( 7,278 )
Share-based compensation
—
1,366
—
—
—
—
—
1,366
Issuance of vested award shares
—
( 822 )
—
( 269 )
—
919
—
( 172 )
Distribution of employee stock ownership plan shares
—
79
243
—
—
—
—
322
Balance,
December 31, 2023
230
96,294
( 698 )
208,376
( 21,384 )
( 35,177 )
2,758
250,399
Battle Creek demutualization
—
—
—
3,832
( 1,074 )
—
( 2,758 )
—
Net income (loss)
—
—
—
( 6,060 )
—
—
—
( 6,060 )
Impact of Westminster unrealized investment gains/losses
—
—
—
( 4,380 )
4,380
—
—
—
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
—
—
—
—
( 153 )
—
—
( 153 )
Purchase of treasury stock
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Share-based compensation
—
238
—
—
—
—
—
238
Issuance of vested award shares
—
( 858 )
—
( 184 )
—
884
—
( 158 )
Distribution of employee stock ownership plan shares
—
122
243
—
—
—
—
365
Balance,
December 31, 2024
$ 230
$ 95,796
$ ( 455 )
$ 201,584
( 18,231 )
( 34,293 )
—
$ 244,631
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
52
NI Holdings, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
(dollar amounts in thousands)
2024
2023
2022
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss
$ ( 6,060 )
$ ( 5,226 )
$ ( 53,775 )
Less net loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
( 1,512 )
( 25,057 )
( 15,090 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash flows from operating activities:
Net investment gains
( 2,213 )
( 1,929 )
11,975
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)
1,901
( 1,876 )
( 3,825 )
Depreciation of property and equipment
681
692
604
Amortization of intangibles
—
33
50
Goodwill impairment charge
2,628
—
—
Distribution of employee stock ownership plan shares
365
322
380
Share-based compensation
238
1,366
( 40 )
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
71,257
67,631
53,605
Deferral of policy acquisition costs
( 70,767 )
( 71,746 )
( 57,233 )
Net amortization of premiums and discounts on investments
607
928
1,435
Gain on sale of property and equipment
( 64 )
( 52 )
( 164 )
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable
3,247
( 8,808 )
( 9,453 )
Reinsurance premiums receivable / payable
( 2,149 )
( 424 )
936
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
( 6,101 )
2,126
3,892
Accrued investment income
( 304 )
( 179 )
109
Federal Crop Insurance Corporation receivable / payable
4,181
( 1,942 )
( 20,424 )
Other assets
( 231 )
( 1,506 )
938
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
18,103
4,889
6,296
Unearned premiums
398
15,174
15,237
Income tax recoverable / payable
( 7,164 )
14,105
( 13,275 )
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
469
( 215 )
7,336
Net cash flows from operating activities – continuing operations
15,082
18,589
( 1,621 )
Net cash flows from operating activities – discontinued operations
10,493
12,608
25,012
Net cash flows from operating activities – loss on sale of discontinued operations
17,479
—
—
Total adjustments
43,054
31,197
23,391
Net cash flows from operating activities
38,506
51,028
( 15,294 )
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from maturities and sales of fixed income securities
43,633
33,888
75,031
Proceeds from sales of equity securities
7,587
39,020
25,260
Purchases of fixed income securities
( 62,561 )
( 56,318 )
( 47,620 )
Purchases of equity securities
( 7,833 )
( 11,741 )
( 12,979 )
Purchases of property and equipment
( 991 )
( 661 )
( 878 )
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment
280
147
646
Proceeds from disposition of Westminster
12,272
—
—
Other
194
—
—
Net cash flows from investing activities – continuing operations
( 7,419 )
4,335
39,460
Net cash flows from investing activities – discontinued operations
2,878
( 13,148 )
( 14,412 )
Net cash flows from investing activities
( 4,541 )
( 8,813 )
25,048
Cash flows from financing activities:
Purchases of treasury stock
—
( 7,278 )
( 4,180 )
Pooling (payments) receipts
( 10,444 )
( 28,114 )
4,085
Installment payment on Westminster consideration payable
—
—
( 13,333 )
Principal repayments of finance leases
( 99 )
( 16 )
—
Issuance of vested award shares
( 158 )
( 172 )
( 768 )
Net cash flows from financing activities – continuing operations
( 10,701 )
( 35,580 )
( 14,196 )
Net cash flows from financing activities – discontinued operations
7,058
28,114
( 4,085 )
Net cash flows from financing activities
( 3,643 )
( 7,466 )
( 18,281 )
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
30,322
34,749
( 8,527 )
(Increase) decrease in cash and cash equivalents – discontinued operations
( 20,429 )
( 27,574 )
( 6,515 )
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents – continuing operations
9,893
7,175
( 15,042 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period – continuing operations
41,037
33,862
48,904
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period – continuing operations
$ 50,930
$ 41,037
$ 33,862
Federal and state income taxes paid (net of refunds received)
$ 2,853
$ ( 11,102 )
$ 2,175
The accompanying notes are an integral part of
these consolidated financial statements.
53
NI Holdings, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022
(dollar amounts in thousands)
1. Organization
NI Holdings is a North Dakota business corporation
that is the stock holding company of Nodak Insurance and became such in connection with the Nodak conversion, whereby Nodak Mutual converted
from a mutual to stock form of organization and the creation of a mutual holding company. The Nodak conversion was consummated on March
13, 2017. Immediately following the Nodak conversion, all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Nodak Insurance were issued to
Nodak Mutual Group, which then contributed the shares to NI Holdings in exchange for 55 % of the outstanding shares of common stock of
NI Holdings. Nodak Insurance then became a wholly-owned stock subsidiary of NI Holdings. Prior to completion of the Nodak conversion,
NI Holdings conducted no business and had no assets or liabilities. As a result of the Nodak conversion, NI Holdings became the holding
company for Nodak Insurance and its existing subsidiaries.
These consolidated financial statements include the financial
position and results of operations of NI Holdings and the following other entities:
Nodak Insurance Company
Nodak Insurance is the largest domestic property and
casualty insurance company in North Dakota, offering private passenger auto, homeowners, farmowners, commercial multi-peril, crop hail,
and Federal multi-peril crop insurance coverages through its captive agents in the state.
Nodak Agency, Inc.
Nodak Agency is an inactive shell corporation.
American West Insurance Company
American West is a property and casualty insurance company
licensed in eight states in the Midwest and Western regions of the U.S. American West began writing policies in 2002 and primarily writes
private passenger auto, homeowners, and farm coverages in South Dakota. American West also writes private passenger auto coverage in North
Dakota, as well as crop hail and Federal multi-peril crop insurance coverages in Minnesota and South Dakota.
Primero Insurance Company
Primero is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tri-State,
Ltd. Tri-State, Ltd. is an inactive shell corporation 100 % owned by Nodak Insurance. Primero is a property and casualty insurance company
writing non-standard auto coverage in the states of Nevada, Arizona, North Dakota, and South Dakota during 2024. As of December 31, 2024,
Primero no longer writes coverage in the state of Nevada. Primero was acquired by Nodak Insurance in 2014.
Battle Creek Insurance Company
Battle Creek is a property and casualty insurance company
writing private passenger auto, homeowners, and farm coverages solely in the state of Nebraska. Battle Creek became affiliated with Nodak
Insurance in 2011 and, prior to January 2, 2024, was controlled by Nodak Insurance via a surplus note. On January 2, 2024, Battle Creek
issued 300,000 shares of its common stock to Nodak Insurance at a $ 10.00 per share par value and became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak
Insurance. Because we concluded that we controlled Battle Creek prior to January 2, 2024, we consolidated the financial statements of
Battle Creek, and Battle Creek’s policyholders’ interest in Battle Creek was reflected as a non-controlling interest in shareholders’
equity in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and its net income or loss was excluded from net income or loss attributed to NI Holdings in
our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Subsequent to January 2, 2024, Battle Creek is fully consolidated in our Consolidated Balance
Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations and, as such, no longer reflected as a non-controlling interest.
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Direct Auto Insurance Company
Direct Auto is a property and casualty insurance company
licensed in Illinois. Direct Auto began writing non-standard auto coverage in 2007, and was acquired by NI Holdings on August 31, 2018,
via a stock purchase agreement.
Westminster American Insurance Company
Westminster is a property and casualty insurance company
licensed in 18 states and the District of Columbia. Westminster is headquartered in Owings Mills, Maryland and underwrites commercial
multi-peril insurance in the states of Delaware, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina,
Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Westminster was sold to Scott Insurance Holdings on June 30, 2024. Subsequent
to the date of sale, Westminster is reflected as discontinued operations within our Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements
of Operations. For additional information see Part II, Item 8, Note 20 “Discontinued Operations” of this 2024 Annual Report.
Organizational Structure and Credit Ratings
Nodak Insurance markets and distributes its policies
through its captive agents, while all other companies utilize the independent agent distribution channel. Additionally, all of the Company’s
insurance subsidiary and affiliate companies as of December 31, 2024, are rated “A” Excellent by AM Best.
The same executive management team provides oversight
and strategic direction for the entire organization. Nodak Insurance personnel provide common product oversight, pricing practices, and
underwriting standards, as well as underwriting and claims administration, to Nodak Insurance, American West, and Battle Creek. Primero
and Direct Auto personnel manage the day-to-day operations of their respective companies. Westminster personnel managed the day-to-day
operations of their company prior to the date of sale.
2. Recent
Accounting Pronouncements
Adopted
Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company adopted the annual
and interim disclosure requirements of ASU 2023-07, “Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures”
issued by the FASB in November 2023. The amendments expand a public business entity's segment disclosures by requiring disclosure of significant
segment expenses that are regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”), clarifying when an entity may
report one or more additional measures to assess segment performance, requiring enhanced interim disclosures, providing new disclosure
requirements for entities with a single reportable segment, and requiring other new disclosures. See Item II, Part 8, Note 21 “Segment
Information” section of this Annual Report for applicable disclosures required by this guidance.
Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments
In December 2022, the Company adopted amended guidance from
the FASB that applies a new credit loss model (current expected credit losses or “CECL”) for determining credit-related impairments
for financial instruments measured at amortized cost and requires an entity to estimate the credit losses expected over the life of an
exposure or pool of exposures. The expected credit losses, and subsequent adjustments to such losses, are recorded through an allowance
account that is deducted from the amortized cost basis of the financial asset, with the net carrying value of the financial asset presented
on the Consolidated Balance Sheet at the amount expected to be collected. The updated guidance also amended the previous other-than-temporary
impairment model for available-for-sale fixed income securities by requiring the recognition of impairments relating to credit losses
through an allowance account and limiting the amount of credit loss to the difference between a security’s amortized cost basis
and its fair value. In addition, the length of time a security has been in an unrealized loss position no longer impacts the determination
of whether a credit loss exists.
The Company adopted the updated guidance for the year ended
December 31, 2022. The adoption of this guidance resulted in an allowance for expected credit losses of $ 425 for premiums and agents'
balances receivable in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2022. Based on the results of the receivable analyses and management’s
review of our available-for-sale fixed income securities, it was determined that no allowance was required for reinsurance recoverables
or available-for-sale fixed income
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securities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2022. See Item II, Part 8, Note 4 “Investments”
section of this Annual Report for applicable disclosures required by this guidance.
Leases
Effective for the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company
adopted the updated guidance for leases and elected to utilize a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings
for the year of adoption, if necessary. Accordingly, the Company’s reporting for the comparative periods prior to adoption continue
to be presented in the consolidated financial statements in accordance with previous lease accounting guidance. The Company also elected
to apply all practical expedients applicable to the Company in the updated guidance for transition for leases in effect at adoption, including
using hindsight to determine the lease term of existing leases, the option to not reassess whether an existing contract is a lease or
contains a lease, and whether the lease is an operating or finance lease. The adoption of the updated guidance resulted in the Company
recognizing a right-of-use asset of $ 1,637 as part of other assets, a lease liability of $ 1,837 as part of accrued expenses and other
liabilities, and an elimination of the $ 200 deferred rent liability in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2022. The cumulative
effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings was zero . The adoption of the updated guidance did not affect the Company’s
results of operations or cash flows. See Item II, Part 8, Note 15 “Leases” section of this Annual Report for applicable disclosures
required by this guidance.
Income Taxes – Simplifying the Accounting for Income
Taxes
In December 2022, the Company adopted amended guidance
from the FASB relating to accounting for income taxes. The modifications primarily remove or amend several exceptions contained in existing
guidance to simplify income tax matters. The adoption of this guidance did not materially impact the Company’s financial position,
results of operations, or cash flows.
Not Yet Adopted
Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, “Income
Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures.” This guidance requires that an entity, on an annual basis, disclose
additional income tax information, primarily related to the rate reconciliation and income taxes paid. The guidance is intended to enhance
the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures. The amendments in this update are effective for annual periods beginning
after December 15, 2024. We are currently evaluating the impact of the new standard on our consolidated financial statements, which is
expected to result in enhanced disclosures.
Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses
In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU 2024-03, “Income Statement
- Reporting Comprehensive Income - Expense Disaggregation Disclosures (Subtopic 220-40): Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses.”
This guidance is intended to improve disclosures about a public business entity's expenses and address requests from investors for more
detailed information about the types of expenses in commonly presented expense captions. Such information should allow investors to better
understand an entity's performance, assess future cash flows, and compare performance over time and with other entities. The amendments
will require public business entities to disclose in the notes to the financial statements, at each interim and annual reporting period,
specific information about certain costs and expenses, including purchases of inventory, employee compensation, depreciation, and intangible
asset amortization included in each expense caption presented on the face of the statement of operations, and the total amount of an entity's
selling expenses. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2026, and interim reporting periods
beginning after December 15, 2027, and may be applied either prospectively or retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. The Company
is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this guidance on the consolidated financial statements.
3. Summary
of Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation
Basis of Consolidation
Our consolidated financial statements, which we
have prepared in accordance with GAAP, include our accounts and those of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, including Battle Creek, which
was consolidated as a variable interest entity (“VIE”) with an associated non-controlling interest prior to January 2, 2024.
We have eliminated all significant intercompany accounts and transactions in consolidation.
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Use of Estimates
In preparing our consolidated financial statements,
management makes estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the balance sheet,
and revenues and expenses for the periods then ended. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.
We make estimates and assumptions that can have
a significant effect on amounts and disclosures we report in our consolidated financial statements. The most significant estimates relate
to our reserves for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses, earned premiums for crop insurance, valuation of investments, determination
of credit impairments, valuation allowances for deferred income tax assets, deferred policy acquisition costs, as well as valuation and
impairments of goodwill and other intangible assets. While we believe our estimates are appropriate, the ultimate amounts may differ from
the estimates provided. We regularly review our methods for making these estimates as well as the continued appropriateness of the estimated
amounts, and we reflect any adjustment we consider necessary in our current results of operations.
Variable-Interest Entities
Any company deemed to be a VIE is required to
be consolidated by the primary beneficiary of the VIE.
We assess our investments in other entities at
inception to determine if any meet the qualifications of a VIE. We consider an investment in another company to be a VIE if: (a) the total
equity investment at risk is not sufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support,
(b) the characteristics of a controlling financial interest are missing (either the ability to make decisions through voting or other
rights, the obligation to absorb expected losses of the entity, or the right to receive the expected residual returns of the entity),
or (c) the voting rights of the equity holders are not proportional to their obligations to absorb the expected losses of the entity and/or
the rights to receive the expected residual returns of the entity, and substantially all of the entity’s activities either involve
or are conducted on behalf of an investor that has disproportionately few voting rights. Upon the occurrence of certain events, we would
reassess our initial determination of whether the investment is a VIE.
We evaluate whether we are the primary beneficiary
of each VIE and we consolidate the VIE if we have both (1) the power to direct the economically significant activities of the entity and
(2) the obligation to absorb losses of, or the right to receive benefits from, the entity. We consider the contractual agreements that
define the ownership structure, distribution of profits and losses, risks, responsibilities, indebtedness, voting rights, and board representation
of the respective parties in determining whether we qualify as the primary beneficiary. Our assessment of whether we are the primary beneficiary
of a VIE is performed at least annually.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash, money
market accounts, and certain investments in highly liquid debt instruments. Cost approximates fair value for these short-term investments.
Investments
The Company’s fixed income securities and equity securities
are classified as available-for-sale and carried at estimated fair value as determined by management based upon quoted market prices or
a recognized independent pricing service at the reporting date for those or similar investments. Changes in unrealized investment gains
or losses on the fixed income securities, net of applicable income taxes, are reflected directly in shareholders’ equity as a component
of other comprehensive income (loss) and, accordingly, have no effect on net income (loss). Changes in unrealized investment gains or
losses on equity securities are reported in net income (loss). Investment income from fixed income securities is recognized when earned,
and realized investment gains (losses) are recognized when investments are sold, the fair value of equity securities change, or credit
impairments are recognized.
Fair values are based on quoted market prices or independent pricing
services, if available. If a quoted market price is not available, fair value is estimated using quoted market prices for similar securities.
Amortization of premium and accretion of discount are computed using the effective interest method. Net investment income includes interest
and dividend income together with amortization of purchase premiums and discounts and is net of investment management and custody fees.
Realized gains and losses on investments are determined using the specific identification method and are included in net investment gains
(losses), along with the change in unrealized gains and losses on equity securities. Other invested assets that do not have observable
inputs and little or no market activity are carried on a cost basis, which approximates fair value. The carrying value of these other
invested assets was $ 1,812 at December 31, 2024 and $ 2,006 at December 31, 2023.
Beginning on December 31, 2022, credit losses are recognized through
an allowance account. See Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting Pronouncements” for additional information. We, along
with our investment advisors, frequently review our investment portfolio for declines in fair value that could be indicative of credit
losses. The available-for-sale impairment model requires an
57
estimate of expected credit losses only when the fair value of the available-for-sale
fixed income security is below its amortized cost basis. The Company considers a number of factors when determining if an allowance for
credit losses is necessary including payment and default history, credit spreads, credit ratings and rating actions, and probability of
default. The Company determines the credit loss component of fixed income securities by utilizing discounted cash flow modeling to determine
the present value of the security and comparing the present value with the amortized cost of the security. If the amortized cost is greater
than the present value of the expected cash flows, the difference is considered a credit loss and recognized as an impairment loss in
net realized investment gains (losses). Credit impairments are recognized as an allowance on the Consolidated Balance Sheet with a corresponding
adjustment to earnings.
For fixed income securities that the Company does not intend to
sell or for which it is more likely than not that the Company would not be required to sell before an anticipated recovery in value, the
Company separates the credit loss component of the impairment from the amount related to all other factors and reports the credit loss
component in net realized investment gains (losses). The impairment related to all other factors (non-credit factors) is reported in other
comprehensive income. The allowance is adjusted for any additional credit losses and subsequent recoveries. Upon recognizing a credit
loss, the cost basis is not adjusted.
For fixed income securities that the Company intends to sell or
for which it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell before an anticipated recovery in value, the full amount
of the impairment is included in net investment gains (losses). The new cost basis of the investment is the previous amortized cost basis
less the impairment recognized in net investment gains (losses). The new cost basis is not adjusted for any subsequent recoveries in fair
value.
The Company reports investment income accrued separately from fixed
income investments, available for sale, and has elected not to measure an allowance for credit losses for investment income accrued. Investment
income accrued is written off through net realized investment gains (losses) at the time the issuer of the bond defaults or is expected
to default on payments.
For more information on investment valuation measurements, see Part
II, Item 8, Note 5 “Fair Value Measurements.”
Revenue Recognition
We record premiums written at policy inception and recognize them
as revenue on a pro rata basis over the policy term or, in the case of crop insurance, over the period of risk. The portion of premiums
that could be earned in the future is deferred and reported as unearned premiums. When policies lapse, the Company reverses the unearned
portion of the written premium and removes the applicable unearned premium. Policy-related fee income is recognized when collected.
The period of risk for our crop insurance program, which is comprised
of primarily spring-planted crops, typically runs from April 1 (the approximate time when farmers can begin to work their fields) through
December 15 (last date claims can be made for the most recent planting season).
Premiums and Agents’ Balances
Receivable
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable include both direct
and agent billed premiums as well as crop notes receivable related to the multi-peril crop and crop hail insurance.
Accounts billed directly to the policyholder are provided grace
payment and cancellation notice periods per state insurance regulations.
Direct Auto also provides for agency billing for a portion of their
agents. Accounts billed to agents are due within 60 days of the statement date. The agent is responsible for all past due balances. As
part of its agent appointment, Direct Auto requires a personal guarantee for all balances due to Direct Auto from the principal of the
contracted agency.
Beginning on December 31, 2022, the premium and agents’ receivable
balances are reported net of an allowance for expected credit losses. See Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting Pronouncements”
for additional information. We recognized $ 425 of credit losses for these receivables at the time of adoption of CECL. Therefore, there
was no beginning balance of credit losses as of January 1, 2022, and all 2022 activity was the result of adoption. As a result of the
transition from the previous accounting treatment, we did not record a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings at the time of
adoption. Given the nature of these receivables, the Company has elected to use a loss-rate method to determine the expected credit losses.
The allowance is based upon the Company’s ongoing review of amounts outstanding and write-offs. Management may also evaluate current
economic conditions and reasonable/supportable forecasts to adjust this calculation as deemed necessary.
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Policy Acquisition Costs
We defer our policy acquisition costs, consisting
primarily of commissions, premium taxes, and certain other underwriting costs, reduced by ceding commissions, which vary with and relate
directly to the production of business. We amortize these deferred policy acquisition costs over the period in which we earn the premiums.
The method we follow in computing deferred policy acquisition costs limits the amount of such deferred costs to their estimated realizable
value, which gives effect to the premium to be earned, related investment income, losses and loss adjustment expenses, and certain other
costs we expect to incur as we earn the premium.
Property and Equipment
We report property and equipment at cost less
accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is typically computed using the straight-line method based upon estimated useful lives of the assets.
Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses
Liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses are estimates
at a given point in time of the amounts we expect to pay with respect to policyholder claims based on facts and circumstances then known.
At the time of establishing our estimates, we recognize that our ultimate liability for losses and loss adjustment expenses may differ
from these estimates. We base our estimates of liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses on assumptions as to future
loss trends, expected claims severity, judicial theories of liability, and other factors. During the loss adjustment period, we may learn
additional facts regarding certain claims, and, consequently, it often becomes necessary for us to refine and adjust our estimates of
the liability. We reflect any adjustments to our liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses in our operating results in
the period in which we determine the need for a change in the estimates.
We maintain liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
with respect to both reported and unreported claims. We establish these liabilities for the purpose of covering the ultimate costs of
settling all losses incurred through the reporting date, including investigation and litigation costs. We base the amount of our liability
for reported losses primarily upon a case-by-case evaluation of the type of risk involved, knowledge of the circumstances surrounding
each claim, and the insurance policy provisions relating to the type of loss our policyholder incurred. We determine the amount of our
liability for unreported losses and loss adjustment expenses on the basis of historical information by line of insurance. Inflation is
not explicitly selected in the loss reserve analysis. However, historical inflation is embedded in the estimated loss development factors.
We closely monitor our liabilities and update them periodically using new information on reported claims and a variety of statistical
techniques. We do not discount our liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses.
Reserve estimates can change over time because of unexpected changes
in assumptions related to our external environment and, to a lesser extent, assumptions as to our internal operations. Assumptions related
to our external environment include the potential impact of significant changes in tort law and the legal environment which may impact
liability exposure, the trends in judicial interpretations of insurance coverage and policy provisions, and the rate of loss cost inflation.
Internal assumptions include consistency in the recording of premium and loss data, consistency in the recording of claims, payment and
case reserving methodologies, accurate measurement of the impact of rate changes and changes in policy provisions, consistency in the
quality and characteristics of business written within a given line of business, and consistency in reinsurance coverage and collectability
of reinsured losses, among other items. To the extent we determine that underlying factors impacting our assumptions have changed, we
attempt to make appropriate adjustments for such changes in our reserves. Accordingly, our ultimate liability for unpaid losses and loss
adjustment expenses will likely differ from the amount recorded.
Income Taxes
Insurance companies typically pay state premium taxes rather than
state income taxes. However, Direct Auto is subject to state income taxes in the state of Illinois, in addition to state premium taxes.
Additionally, NI Holdings, on a stand-alone basis, pays state income taxes to the state of North Dakota for income or losses generated
as a separate financial entity. State premium taxes are included as a part of amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs. State
income taxes are reported along with federal income taxes as income tax expense (benefit).
The Company did not have any material uncertain tax positions as
of December 31, 2024 and 2023. The Company’s policy is to recognize tax-related interest and penalties accrued related to unrecognized
benefits as a component of income tax expense. The Company did not recognize any tax-related interest and penalties, nor did it have any
tax-related interest or penalties accrued as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
We account for deferred income taxes using the asset and liability
method. The objective of the asset and liability method is to establish deferred income tax assets and liabilities for the temporary differences
between the financial reporting basis and the income
59
tax basis of our assets and liabilities at enacted tax rates expected to be in effect
when we realize or settle such amounts.
We re-measure existing deferred income tax assets (including loss
carryforwards) and liabilities when a change in tax rate occurs and record an offset for the net amount of the change as a component of
income tax expense from continuing operations in the period of enactment. We also record any change to a previously recorded valuation
allowance as a result of re-measuring existing temporary differences and loss carryforwards as a component of income tax expense from
continuing operations.
The Company has elected to reclassify any tax effects stranded in
accumulated other comprehensive income as a result of a change in income tax rates to retained earnings.
Earnings Per Share
Earnings per share are computed by dividing net income available
to common shareholders for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the same period. Unearned shares
related to the Company’s ESOP are not considered outstanding until they are released and allocated to plan participants. Unearned
shares related to the Company’s Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) and Performance Share Units (“PSUs”) are
not considered outstanding until they are earned by award participants. See Part II, Item 8, Note 12 “Benefit Plans” and Note
18 “Share-Based Compensation.”
Credit Risk
Our primary investment objective is to earn competitive
returns by investing in a diversified portfolio of securities. Our portfolio of fixed income securities and, to a lesser extent, short-term
investments, is subject to credit risk. We define this risk as the potential loss in fair value resulting from adverse changes in the
borrower’s ability to repay the debt. We manage this risk by performing an analysis of prospective investments and through regular
reviews of our portfolio by our management team and investment advisors. We also limit the amount of our total investment portfolio that
we invest in any one security.
Property and liability insurance coverages are
marketed through captive agents in North Dakota and through independent insurance agencies located throughout all other operating areas.
All business, except for the majority of Direct Auto’s business, is billed directly to the policyholders.
We maintain cash balances primarily at one bank,
which are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) up to $ 250 . During the normal course of business,
balances are maintained above the FDIC insurance limit. The Company maintains short-term investment balances in investment grade money
market accounts that are insured by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (“SIPC”) up to $ 500 . During the normal
course of business, balances for these accounts are often maintained in excess of the SIPC insurance limit.
Reinsurance
The Company limits the maximum net loss that can
arise from large risks or risks in concentrated areas of exposure by reinsuring (ceding) certain levels of risks to reinsurers, either
on an automatic basis under general reinsurance contracts known as treaties or through facultative contracts placed on substantial individual
risks. Ceded reinsurance is treated as the risk and liability of the assuming companies.
The ceding of insurance does not legally discharge
us from primary liability under our policies, and we must pay the loss if the reinsurer fails to meet its obligation.
Amounts recoverable from reinsurers are estimated
in a manner consistent with the associated claim liability. Beginning on December 31, 2022, credit losses are recognized through an allowance
account developed using the CECL model. See Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting Pronouncements” for additional information.
The allowance is based upon the Company’s ongoing review of amounts outstanding, length of collection periods, changes in reinsurer
credit standing, disputes, applicable coverage defenses and other relevant factors. Management has concluded that it is not necessary
to record an allowance for expected credit losses related to reinsurance recoverables. All of our significant reinsurance partners are
rated “A-” (Excellent) or better by AM Best, and there is no history of write-offs.
Goodwill and Other Intangibles
Goodwill assets arise from business combinations and consist of
the excess of the fair value of consideration paid over the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We evaluate
goodwill and other intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate
that it is more likely than not that the carrying amount of goodwill and other intangible assets may exceed their fair value.
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When performing our goodwill impairment analyses, we typically first
assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying
amount. In making our assessment, we evaluate a number of factors including operating results, key changes in the reporting unit, business
plans, macroeconomic conditions, and industry considerations. Inherent uncertainties exist with respect to these factors and to our judgment
in applying them when we make our assessment, and impairment of goodwill and other intangibles could result from changes in economic and
operating conditions in future periods. We may also choose to bypass the qualitative assessment in any period for any reporting unit and
proceed directly to performing the quantitative assessment.
If our qualitative assessment indicates it is more likely than not that
the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount or we choose to bypass the qualitative assessment, we will perform
a quantitative assessment that compares the reporting unit’s carrying value with its estimated fair value. The determination of
the fair value of our reporting units is based a market approach that considers benchmark company market multiples, an income approach
that utilizes discounted cash flows, or another generally accepted method. The cash flows used to determine fair value are dependent on
a number of significant management assumptions such as our expectations of future performance and the expected future economic environment,
which are partly based upon our historical experience. Our estimates are subject to change given the inherent uncertainty in predicting
future results. While we believe such assumptions and estimates are reasonable, the actual results may differ materially from the projected
amounts. Should the carrying value exceed the estimated fair value, a goodwill impairment charge will be recognized in the amount by which
the reporting unit’s carrying amount exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the total goodwill assigned to the reporting unit.
For the goodwill arising from the acquisition of Primero in 2014,
we determined that it was appropriate to perform a quantitative assessment during the fourth quarter of 2024. Based on our quantitative
assessment as described above, we concluded that the goodwill related to Primero was fully impaired as of December 31, 2024, primarily
due to Primero’s expected future performance being well below initial projections and expectations as a result of strategic initiatives.
We did not record any impairments of goodwill for this reporting unit during the years ended December 31, 2023 or 2022.
For the goodwill arising from the acquisition of Westminster in
2020, we determined that it was appropriate to perform a quantitative assessment during the fourth quarter of 2023. Based on our quantitative
assessment as described above, we concluded that the goodwill related to Westminster was fully impaired as of December 31, 2023, primarily
due to Westminster’s actual and expected future performance being well below initial projections and expectations. We did not record
any impairments of goodwill for this reporting unit during the year ended December 31, 2022.
Intangible assets arising from the acquisition of Direct Auto in
2018 represent the estimated fair values of certain intangible assets, including a favorable lease contract, a state insurance license,
the value of the Direct Auto trade name, and the value of business acquired (“VOBA”). The state insurance license asset has
an indefinite life, while the Direct Auto trade name was amortized over five years from the August 31, 2018 acquisition/valuation date.
The favorable lease contract and VOBA assets have been fully amortized. We did not record any impairments of the intangible assets for
this reporting unit during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 or 2022.
Other intangible assets arising from the acquisition of Westminster
represented the estimated fair values of certain intangible assets, including state insurance licenses, the value of Westminster’s
distribution network, the value of the Westminster trade name, and the VOBA. The state insurance license asset had an indefinite life,
while the distribution networks asset and Westminster trade name were being amortized over twenty years and ten years , respectively, from
the January 1, 2020 acquisition/valuation date until the date of sale on June 30, 2024. The VOBA asset had been fully amortized at the
date of the sale of Westminster. We did not record any impairments of the other intangible assets for this reporting unit during the years
ended December 31, 2023 or 2022.
Discontinued Operations
On May 7, 2024, NI Holdings entered into a Stock
Purchase Agreement (“Purchase Agreement”) to sell its subsidiary, Westminster, to Scott Insurance Holdings, a privately owned
Maryland limited liability company. Scott Insurance Holdings is affiliated with John Scott, Sr., the father of the president of Westminster,
John Scott, Jr. The sale closed on June 30, 2024. The Purchase Agreement included a cash purchase price of $ 10,500 , subject to certain
post-closing adjustments, including a post-closing payment to NI Holdings for the amount by which the ending statutory surplus balance
for Westminster exceeded $ 20,000 . The post-closing payment received from Scott Insurance Holdings during the third quarter of 2024 was
$ 1,772 and has been included as an adjustment to the purchase price for the calculation of the loss on the sale of Westminster. The sale
of Westminster, which represented the majority of our Commercial segment in prior periods, was a strategic shift that has had a major
effect on our operations and financial results. Therefore, Westminster has been reported as discontinued operations in the Consolidated
Balance Sheets, Consolidated Statements of Operations, and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for all periods presented in this 2024
Annual Report. All current and prior periods reflected in this 2024 Annual Report have been presented as continuing and discontinued operations,
unless otherwise noted. For additional information see Part II, Item 8, Note 20 “Discontinued Operations” of this 2024 Annual
Report.
61
Restatement
NI Holdings filed Amendment No. 1 to our Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q/A to amend certain information included in the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three- and six-month periods ended
June 30, 2024, which was filed with the SEC on August 8, 2024, due to errors resulting from the incorrect accounting for, and presentation
of, the previously announced sale of Westminster. Specifically, the Company failed to record certain receivables on Westminster’s
closing balance sheet as well as the corresponding payable for Nodak Insurance for amounts owed to Westminster related to the final settlement
of the intercompany reinsurance pooling agreement after the date of sale. Failure to include this receivable in Westminster’s closing
net assets and liabilities also caused an understatement of the loss on sale of discontinued operations, which also understated the Company’s
total net loss. The impact of the corrections related to this error on the consolidated financial statements as of and for the three-
and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024, are as follows:
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
As of June 30, 2024
As Reported
Adjustment
As Restated
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
$ 24,368
$ 3,386
$ 27,754
Total liabilities
$ 331,537
$ 3,386
$ 334,923
Retained earnings
$ 197,827
$ ( 3,386 )
$ 194,441
Total shareholders’ equity
$ 239,450
$ ( 3,386 )
$ 236,064
Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)
Three Months Ended June 30, 2024
Six Months Ended June 30, 2024
As Reported
Adjustment
As
Restated
As Reported
Adjustment
As
Restated
Loss on sale of discontinued operations, net of taxes
$ ( 7,762 )
$ ( 3,386 )
$ ( 11,148 )
$ ( 7,762 )
$ ( 3,386 )
$ ( 11,148 )
Net loss
$ ( 16,236 )
$ ( 3,386 )
$ ( 19,622 )
$ ( 9,817 )
$ ( 3,386 )
$ ( 13,203 )
Loss per common share:
Basic
$ ( 0.77 )
$ ( 0.17 )
$ ( 0.94 )
$ ( 0.47 )
$ ( 0.16 )
$ ( 0.63 )
Diluted
$ ( 0.77 )
$ ( 0.17 )
$ ( 0.94 )
$ ( 0.47 )
$ ( 0.16 )
$ ( 0.63 )
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited)
Three Months Ended June 30, 2024
Six Months Ended June 30, 2024
As Reported
Adjustment
As
Restated
As Reported
Adjustment
As
Restated
Net loss
$ ( 16,236 )
$ ( 3,386 )
$ ( 19,622 )
$ ( 9,817 )
$ ( 3,386 )
$ ( 13,203 )
Comprehensive loss
$ ( 16,950 )
$ ( 3,386 )
$ ( 20,336 )
$ ( 11,931 )
$ ( 3,386 )
$ ( 15,317 )
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
(Unaudited)
As of and for the Three Months Ended
June 30, 2024
As of and for the Six Months
Ended June 30, 2024
As Reported
Adjustment
As
Restated
As Reported
Adjustment
As
Restated
Net loss
$ ( 16,236 )
$ ( 3,386 )
$ ( 19,622 )
$ ( 9,817 )
$ ( 3,386 )
$ ( 13,203 )
Retained earnings
$ 197,827
$ ( 3,386 )
$ 194,441
$ 197,827
$ ( 3,386 )
$ 194,441
Total shareholders’ equity
$ 239,450
$ ( 3,386 )
$ 236,064
$ 239,450
$ ( 3,386 )
$ 236,064
62
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
Six Months Ended June 30, 2024
As Reported
Adjustment
As Restated
Net income (loss)
$ ( 9,817 )
$ ( 3,386 )
$ ( 13,203 )
Net cash flows from operating activities – loss on sale of discontinued operations
$ 15,865
$ 3,386
$ 19,251
Total adjustments
$ 43,065
$ 3,386
$ 46,451
The notes to the consolidated financial statements as well as Management’s
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations were also amended as necessary as a result of the restatements
outlined above.
63
4. Investments
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed income
securities, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, as of December 31, 2024, and December
31, 2023, were as follows:
December 31, 2024
Cost or
Amortized
Cost
Allowance for
Expected
Credit Losses
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value
Fixed income securities:
U.S. Government and agencies
$ 12,601
$ —
$ 8
$ ( 335 )
$ 12,274
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
48,559
—
184
( 4,920 )
43,823
Corporate securities
123,585
—
206
( 7,517 )
116,274
Residential mortgage-backed securities
53,714
—
44
( 4,981 )
48,777
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
30,062
—
65
( 2,943 )
27,184
Asset-backed securities
59,046
—
386
( 3,301 )
56,131
Redeemable preferred stocks
3,737
—
—
( 488 )
3,249
Total fixed income securities
$ 331,304
$ —
$ 893
$ ( 24,485 )
$ 307,712
December 31, 2023
Cost or
Amortized
Cost
Allowance for
Expected
Credit Losses
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value
Fixed income securities:
U.S. Government and agencies
$ 10,998
$ —
$ —
$ ( 736 )
$ 10,262
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
55,769
—
408
( 4,716 )
51,461
Corporate securities
152,630
—
442
( 10,856 )
142,216
Residential mortgage-backed securities
66,362
—
180
( 5,379 )
61,163
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
33,532
—
148
( 4,241 )
29,439
Asset-backed securities
52,692
—
142
( 3,805 )
49,029
Redeemable preferred stocks
4,747
—
—
( 586 )
4,161
Total fixed income securities
$ 376,730
$ —
$ 1,320
$ ( 30,319 )
$ 347,731
The reconciliation of the amortized cost and estimated fair value
of fixed income securities for continuing and discontinued operations as of December 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023, were as follows:
December 31, 2024
Cost or
Amortized
Cost
Allowance for
Expected
Credit Losses
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value
Fixed income securities:
Continuing operations
$ 331,304
$ —
$ 893
$ ( 24,485 )
$ 307,712
Discontinued operations
—
—
—
—
—
Total fixed income securities
$ 331,304
$ —
$ 893
$ ( 24,485 )
$ 307,712
December 31, 2023
Cost or
Amortized
Cost
Allowance for
Expected
Credit Losses
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value
Fixed income securities:
Continuing operations
$ 313,182
$ —
$ 1,116
$ ( 24,899 )
$ 289,399
Discontinued operations
63,548
—
204
( 5,420 )
58,332
Total fixed income securities
$ 376,730
$ —
$ 1,320
$ ( 30,319 )
$ 347,731
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed income
securities by contractual maturity, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, are shown
below. Actual maturities could differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay these securities.
64
December 31, 2024
Amortized Cost
Fair Value
Due to mature:
One year or less
$ 5,750
$ 5,696
After one year through five years
57,986
55,882
After five years through ten years
79,544
74,070
After ten years
41,465
36,723
Mortgage / asset-backed securities
142,822
132,092
Redeemable preferred stocks
3,737
3,249
Total fixed income securities
$ 331,304
$ 307,712
December 31, 2023
Amortized Cost
Fair Value
Due to mature:
One year or less
$ 9,612
$ 9,436
After one year through five years
75,794
72,602
After five years through ten years
86,185
79,281
After ten years
47,806
42,620
Mortgage / asset-backed securities
152,586
139,631
Redeemable preferred stocks
4,747
4,161
Total fixed income securities
$ 376,730
$ 347,731
Fixed income securities with a fair value of $ 5,634 at December 31,
2024, and $ 6,403 at December 31, 2023, were deposited with various state regulatory agencies as required by law. The Company has not pledged
any assets to secure any obligations.
The investment category and duration of the Company’s
gross unrealized losses on fixed income securities, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations,
are shown below. Investments with unrealized losses are categorized with a duration of greater than 12 months when all positions of a
security have continually been in a loss position for at least 12 months.
December 31, 2024
Less than 12 Months
Greater than 12 months
Total
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fixed income securities:
U.S. Government and agencies
$ 5,443
$ ( 109 )
$ 4,177
$ ( 226 )
$ 9,620
$ ( 335 )
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
8,465
( 143 )
29,428
( 4,777 )
37,893
( 4,920 )
Corporate securities
25,790
( 481 )
76,364
( 7,036 )
102,154
( 7,517 )
Residential mortgage-backed securities
20,827
( 451 )
23,159
( 4,530 )
43,986
( 4,981 )
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
1,409
( 50 )
19,442
( 2,893 )
20,851
( 2,943 )
Asset-backed securities
10,926
( 122 )
20,579
( 3,179 )
31,505
( 3,301 )
Redeemable preferred stocks
—
—
3,249
( 488 )
3,249
( 488 )
Total fixed income securities
$ 72,860
$ ( 1,356 )
$ 176,398
$ ( 23,129 )
$ 249,258
$ ( 24,485 )
65
December 31, 2023
Less than 12 Months
Greater than 12 months
Total
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fixed income securities:
U.S. Government and agencies
$ —
$ —
$ 9,018
$ ( 736 )
$ 9,018
$ ( 736 )
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
5,239
( 359 )
36,194
( 4,357 )
41,433
( 4,716 )
Corporate securities
8,018
( 93 )
110,117
( 10,763 )
118,135
( 10,856 )
Residential mortgage-backed securities
12,054
( 104 )
33,341
( 5,275 )
45,395
( 5,379 )
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
2,678
( 5 )
23,713
( 4,236 )
26,391
( 4,241 )
Asset-backed securities
4,463
( 18 )
30,200
( 3,787 )
34,663
( 3,805 )
Redeemable preferred stocks
—
—
4,161
( 586 )
4,161
( 586 )
Total fixed income securities
$ 32,452
$ ( 579 )
$ 246,744
$ ( 29,740 )
$ 279,196
$ ( 30,319 )
The reconciliation for continuing and discontinued operations
by duration of the Company’s gross unrealized losses on fixed income securities are shown below.
December 31, 2024
Less than 12 Months
Greater than 12 months
Total
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fixed income securities:
Continuing operations
$ 72,860
$ ( 1,356 )
$ 176,398
$ ( 23,129 )
$ 249,258
$ ( 24,485 )
Discontinued operations
—
—
—
—
—
—
Total fixed income securities
$ 72,860
$ ( 1,356 )
$ 176,398
$ ( 23,129 )
$ 249,258
$ ( 24,485 )
December 31, 2023
Less than 12 Months
Greater than 12 months
Total
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Losses
Fixed income securities:
Continuing operations
$ 24,049
$ ( 509 )
$ 211,367
$ ( 24,390 )
$ 235,416
$ ( 24,899 )
Discontinued operations
8,403
( 70 )
35,377
( 5,350 )
43,780
( 5,420 )
Total fixed income securities
$ 32,452
$ ( 579 )
$ 246,744
$ ( 29,740 )
$ 279,196
$ ( 30,319 )
We, along with our investment advisor, frequently
review our investment portfolio for declines in fair value that could be indicative of credit losses. Beginning on December 31, 2022,
credit losses are recognized through an allowance account. We consider a number of factors when determining if an allowance for credit
losses is necessary, including payment and default history, credit spreads, credit ratings and rating actions, and probability of default.
We determine the credit loss component of fixed income investments by utilizing discounted cash flow modeling to determine the present
value of the security and comparing the present value with the amortized cost of the security. We did not recognize any credit losses
for fixed income securities at the time of adoption of the new credit loss accounting standard and have not recognized any credit losses
for fixed income securities since adoption of the credit loss standard. Therefore, there were no beginning or ending balances of credit
losses during the years ended December 31, 2024 or 2023. See Item II, Part 8, Note 3 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
and Basis of Presentation” section for additional information.
66
Net investment income for continuing and discontinued operations
consisted of the following:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Continuing operations:
Fixed income securities
$ 11,401
$ 9,418
$ 8,216
Equity securities
904
874
1,260
Real estate
355
391
384
Cash and cash equivalents
1,699
456
23
Total gross investment income
14,359
11,139
9,883
Investment expenses
3,416
3,105
3,247
Net investment income – continuing operations
10,943
8,034
6,636
Net investment income – discontinued operations
1,419
2,422
1,184
Net investment income
$ 12,362
$ 10,456
$ 7,820
Net investment gains (losses) for continuing and discontinued operations
consisted of the following:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Continuing Operations:
Gross realized gains:
Fixed income securities
$ 12
$ 1
$ 116
Equity securities
1,329
13,840
6,967
Total gross realized gains
1,341
13,841
7,083
Gross realized losses, excluding credit impairment losses:
Fixed income securities
( 211 )
( 524 )
( 183 )
Equity securities
( 579 )
( 1,221 )
( 4,916 )
Total gross realized losses, excluding credit impairment losses
( 790 )
( 1,745 )
( 5,099 )
Net realized gains
551
12,096
1,984
Change in net unrealized gains on equity securities
1,662
( 10,167 )
( 13,959 )
Net investment gains (losses) – continuing operations
2,213
1,929
( 11,975 )
Net investment gains (losses) – discontinued operations
116
195
( 1,151 )
Net investment gains (losses)
$ 2,329
$ 2,124
$ ( 13,126 )
5. Fair
Value Measurements
The Company uses fair value measurements to record fair value
adjustments to certain assets to determine fair value disclosures. Investment securities available for sale are recorded at fair value
on a recurring basis. Additionally, from time to time, we may be required to record other assets or liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring
basis. These nonrecurring fair value adjustments typically involve application of lower-of-cost-or-market accounting or write-downs of
individual assets. Accounting guidance on fair value measurements and disclosures establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes
the inputs to valuation methods used to measure fair value. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:
Level 1 :
Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.
Level 2 :
Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. Level 2 includes fixed income securities with quoted prices that are traded less frequently than exchange traded instruments. Valuation techniques include matrix pricing which is a mathematical technique used widely in the industry to value fixed income securities without relying exclusively on quoted market prices for the specific securities but rather by relying on the securities’ relationship to other benchmark quoted prices.
Level 3 :
Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported with little or no market activity).
67
The Company bases its fair values on the price that would be
received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.
It is our policy to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when developing fair value measurements,
in accordance with the fair value hierarchy. Fair value measurements for assets where there exists limited or no observable market data
and, therefore, are based primarily upon the estimates of the Company or other third-parties, are often calculated based on the characteristics
of the asset, the economic and competitive environment, and other such factors. Management uses its best judgment in estimating the fair
value of the Company’s financial instruments; however, there are inherent limitations in any estimation technique. Therefore, for
substantially all financial instruments, the fair value estimates herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts which could have
been realized in a sale transaction on the dates indicated. The estimated fair value amounts have been measured as of their respective
period-end and have not been re-evaluated or updated for purposes of our consolidated financial statements subsequent to those respective
dates. As such, the estimated fair values of these financial instruments subsequent to the respective reporting dates may be different
than the amounts reported at each period-end. Additionally, changes in the underlying assumptions used, including discount rates and estimates
of future cash flows, could significantly affect the results of current or future valuations.
The Company uses quoted values and other data provided by an
independent pricing service in its process for determining fair values of its investments. The evaluations of such pricing services represent
an exit price and a good faith opinion as to what a buyer in the marketplace would pay for a security in a current sale. This pricing
service provides us with one quote per instrument. For fixed income securities that have quoted prices in active markets, market quotations
are provided. For fixed income securities that do not trade on a daily basis, the independent pricing service prepares estimates of fair
value using a wide array of observable inputs including relevant market information, benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities,
sector groupings, and matrix pricing. The observable market inputs that the Company’s independent pricing service utilizes may include
benchmark yields, reported trades, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, market bids/offers,
and other reference data on markets, industry, and the economy. Additionally, the independent pricing service uses an option-adjusted
spread model to develop prepayment and interest rate scenarios.
Should the independent pricing service be unable to provide
a fair value estimate, we would first attempt to obtain a fair value estimate from our third-party investment advisor who utilizes different
independent pricing services. If unsuccessful, we would attempt to obtain a non-binding fair value estimate from a number of broker-dealers
and would review this estimate in conjunction with a fair value estimate reported by an independent business news service or other sources.
In instances where only one broker-dealer provides a fair value for a fixed income security, we would use that estimate. In instances
where the Company would be able to obtain fair value estimates from more than one broker-dealer, we would review the range of estimates
and select the most appropriate value based on the facts and circumstances. Should neither the independent pricing service nor a broker-dealer
provide a fair value estimate, we would develop a fair value estimate based on cash flow analyses and other valuation techniques that
utilize certain unobservable inputs. Accordingly, the Company classifies such a security as a Level 3 investment.
The fair value estimates of our investments provided by the
independent pricing service at each period-end were utilized, among other resources, in reaching a conclusion as to the fair value of
its investments.
Management reviews the reasonableness of the pricing provided
by the independent pricing service by employing various analytical procedures. We also use information from our third-party investment
advisor who utilizes different independent pricing services to further validate the reasonableness of the valuation of our fixed income
portfolio. If, after this review, management does not believe the pricing for any security is a reasonable estimate of fair value, then
it will seek to resolve the discrepancy through discussions with the independent pricing service. In its review, management did not identify
any such discrepancies and no adjustments were made to the estimates provided by the independent pricing service for the years ended December
31, 2024, 2023, or 2022. The classification within the fair value hierarchy is then confirmed based on the final conclusions from the
pricing review.
The valuation of money market accounts and equity securities
are generally based on Level 1 inputs, which use the market-approach valuation technique. The valuation of certain cash equivalents and
our fixed income securities generally incorporates significant Level 2 inputs using the market and income approach techniques. We may
assign a lower level to inputs typically considered to be Level 2 based on our assessment of liquidity and relative level of uncertainty
surrounding inputs. There were no assets or liabilities classified at Level 3 at December 31, 2024, or 2023.
68
The following tables set forth our assets which
are measured on a recurring basis by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which fair value measurements fall:
December 31, 2024
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Fixed income securities:
U.S. Government and agencies
$ 12,274
$ —
$ 12,274
$ —
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
43,823
—
43,823
—
Corporate securities
116,274
—
116,274
—
Residential mortgage-backed securities
48,777
—
48,777
—
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
27,184
—
27,184
—
Asset-backed securities
56,131
—
56,131
—
Redeemable preferred stock
3,249
—
3,249
—
Total fixed income securities
307,712
—
307,712
—
Equity securities:
Common stock
24,640
24,640
—
—
Non-redeemable preferred stock
—
—
—
—
Total equity securities
24,640
24,640
—
—
Money market accounts and cash equivalents
10,950
10,950
—
—
Total assets at fair value
$ 343,302
$ 35,590
$ 307,712
$ —
December 31, 2023
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Fixed income securities:
U.S. Government and agencies
$ 10,262
$ —
$ 10,262
$ —
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
51,461
—
51,461
—
Corporate securities
142,216
—
142,216
—
Residential mortgage-backed securities
61,163
—
61,163
—
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
29,439
—
29,439
—
Asset-backed securities
49,029
—
49,029
—
Redeemable preferred stocks
4,161
—
4,161
—
Total fixed income securities
347,731
—
347,731
—
Equity securities:
Common stock
25,890
25,890
—
—
Non-redeemable preferred stocks
1,877
1,877
—
—
Total equity securities
27,767
27,767
—
—
Money market accounts and cash equivalents
25,596
19,412
6,184
—
Total assets at fair value
$ 401,094
$ 47,179
$ 353,915
$ —
69
The following tables are a reconciliation for both continuing
and discontinued operations of the presentation of our assets which are measured on a recurring basis by the level within the fair value
hierarchy in which fair value measurements fall:
December 31, 2024
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Fixed income securities:
Continuing operations
$ 307,712
$ —
$ 307,712
$ —
Discontinued operations
—
—
—
—
Total fixed income securities
307,712
—
307,712
—
Equity securities:
Continuing operations
24,640
24,640
—
—
Discontinued operations
—
—
—
—
Total equity securities
24,640
24,640
—
—
Money market accounts and cash equivalents
Continuing operations
10,950
10,950
—
—
Discontinued operations
—
—
—
—
Total money market accounts and cash equivalents
10,950
10,950
—
—
Total assets at fair value
$ 343,302
$ 35,590
$ 307,712
$ —
December 31, 2023
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Fixed income securities:
Continuing operations
$ 289,399
$ —
$ 289,399
$ —
Discontinued operations
58,332
—
58,332
—
Total fixed income securities
347,731
—
347,731
—
Equity securities:
Continuing operations
21,983
21,983
—
—
Discontinued operations
5,784
5,784
—
—
Total equity securities
27,767
27,767
—
—
Money market accounts and cash equivalents
Continuing operations
16,239
16,239
—
—
Discontinued operations
9,357
3,173
6,184
—
Total money market accounts and cash equivalents
25,596
19,412
6,184
—
Total assets at fair value
$ 401,094
$ 47,179
$ 353,915
$ —
There were no liabilities measured
at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2024 or 2023.
6. Reinsurance
External Reinsurance
The Company’s consolidated financial statements reflect
the effects of assumed and ceded reinsurance transactions. Assumed reinsurance refers to the acceptance of certain insurance risks that
other insurance companies have underwritten. Ceded reinsurance involves transferring certain insurance risks (along with the related written
and earned premiums) the Company has underwritten to other insurance companies who agree to share these risks. The Company reinsures a
portion of the risks it underwrites, through these ceded reinsurance agreements, in order to control its exposure to losses. Our ceded
reinsurance is placed either on an automatic basis under general reinsurance contracts known as treaties or through facultative contracts
placed on substantial individual risks. These contracts do not relieve the Company from its obligations to policyholders. Treaty reinsurance
contracts are typically effective from January 1 through December 31 each year.
70
During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company
maintained property catastrophe reinsurance protection covering $ 133,000 in excess of a $ 20,000 retention. With the exception of Westminster,
a per risk excess of loss treaty provides coverage of $ 4,000 in excess of $ 1,000 for property risks and $ 11,000 in excess of $ 1,000 for
casualty risks. For Westminster, a per risk excess of loss treaty provided coverage of $ 3,000 in excess of $ 2,000 for property risks and
$ 10,000 in excess of $ 2,000 for casualty risks until July 1, 2024. Additionally, a property per-risk facultative contract is in place
to provide coverage up to $ 20,000 in excess of $ 5,000 per property. Aggregate stop loss reinsurance agreements are also in place for both
crop hail and multi-peril crop coverage. The crop hail aggregate attaches at a 100 % net loss ratio providing 50 points of cover. The multi-peril
crop aggregate attaches at a 105 % net loss ratio providing 45 points of cover. In addition to the aggregate covers, underlying multi-peril
crop reinsurance is provided through the FCIC.
Effective July 1, 2024, the Company’s reinsurance contracts
were modified to exclude any Westminster losses occurring on or after that date, while maintaining all other existing limits, retentions,
and attachment points.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company’s
catastrophe retention and retention limit were consistent with those for the year ended December 31, 2024. In addition, limits, retentions,
and attachment points in our other reinsurance contracts were also consistent with those for the year ended December 31, 2024 (with the
exception of Westminster for which per risk excess of loss treaties provided coverage of $ 4,000 in excess of $ 1,000 for property risks
and $ 11,000 in excess of $ 1,000 for casualty risks).
During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company
maintained property catastrophe reinsurance protection covering $ 125,000 in excess of a $ 15,000 retention. Additionally, per risk excess
of loss treaties provided coverage of $ 4,000 in excess of $ 1,000 for property risks and $ 11,000 in excess of $ 1,000 for casualty risks,
with facultative contracts in place to provide coverage up to $ 20,000 in excess of $ 5,000 per property. Aggregate stop loss reinsurance
agreements were placed for both crop hail and multi-peril crop coverage. The crop hail aggregate attached at a 100 % net loss ratio providing
50 points of cover. The multi-peril crop aggregate attached at a 105 % net loss ratio providing 45 points of cover. In addition to the
aggregate covers, underlying multi-peril crop reinsurance was provided through the FCIC.
The Company experienced multiple catastrophe events
during 2022 which resulted in reinsurance recoveries of $ 5,648 through December 31, 2024.
For 2025, the Company’s catastrophe retention
will remain consistent with 2024 at $ 20,000 and the reinsurance protection will cover $ 117,000 . The lower limit for 2025 was primarily
due to the sale of Westminster, which drove the top end of the catastrophe modeling results. There were no changes made to limits, retentions,
or attachment points in our other reinsurance contracts.
The Company actively monitors and evaluates the financial
condition of the reinsurers and develops estimates of the uncollectible amounts due from reinsurers. Beginning on December 31, 2022, credit
losses are recognized through an allowance account developed using a new CECL model. See the Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting
Pronouncements” for additional information. Credit loss estimates are made based on periodic evaluation of balances due from reinsurers,
changes in reinsurer credit standing, judgments regarding reinsurers’ solvency, known disputes, reporting characteristics of the
underlying reinsured business, historical experience, current economic conditions, and the state of reinsurer relations in general. Collection
risk is mitigated by entering into reinsurance arrangements only with reinsurers that have strong credit ratings and statutory surplus
above certain levels. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, management has concluded that it is not necessary to record an allowance for expected
credit losses related to reinsurance recoverables. All of our significant reinsurance partners are rated “A-” (Excellent)
or better by AM Best, and there is no history of write-offs.
A reconciliation of direct to net premiums on both a written
and an earned basis, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, is as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Premiums
Written
Premiums
Earned
Premiums
Written
Premiums
Earned
Premiums
Written
Premiums
Earned
Direct premium
$ 383,933
$ 380,968
$ 418,399
$ 401,945
$ 389,706
$ 368,886
Assumed premium
2,967
2,984
3,098
3,570
6,299
6,550
Ceded premium
( 43,503 )
( 42,786 )
( 54,848 )
( 54,378 )
( 46,993 )
( 47,146 )
Net premiums
$ 343,397
$ 341,166
$ 366,649
$ 351,137
$ 349,012
$ 328,290
71
The reconciliations of the Company’s direct to net
premiums on both a written and an earned basis for the current year-to-date and comparable prior year-to-date amounts, segregated between
continuing and discontinued operations, are shown below.
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Premiums
Written
Premiums
Earned
Premiums
Written
Premiums
Earned
Premiums
Written
Premiums
Earned
Continuing operations:
Direct premium
$ 342,301
$ 341,885
$ 341,234
$ 325,590
$ 315,095
$ 299,607
Assumed premium
2,967
2,984
3,098
3,570
6,299
6,550
Ceded premium
( 34,760 )
( 34,759 )
( 37,043 )
( 37,043 )
( 34,417 )
( 34,417 )
Net premiums
$ 310,508
$ 310,110
$ 307,289
$ 292,117
$ 286,977
$ 271,740
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Premiums
Written
Premiums
Earned
Premiums
Written
Premiums
Earned
Premiums
Written
Premiums
Earned
Discontinued operations:
Direct premium
$ 41,632
$ 39,083
$ 77,165
$ 76,355
$ 74,611
$ 69,279
Assumed premium
—
—
—
—
—
—
Ceded premium
( 8,743 )
( 8,027 )
( 17,805 )
( 17,335 )
( 12,576 )
( 12,729 )
Net premiums
$ 32,889
$ 31,056
$ 59,360
$ 59,020
$ 62,035
$ 56,550
A reconciliation of direct to net losses and loss adjustment
expenses, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, is as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ 249,344
$ 293,978
$ 333,397
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
784
1,140
2,369
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
( 19,157 )
( 50,706 )
( 41,334 )
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ 230,971
$ 244,412
$ 294,432
The reconciliations for current and prior year continuing and discontinued
operations of direct to net losses and loss adjustment expenses is as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Continuing Operations:
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ 220,991
$ 195,138
$ 255,187
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
784
1,140
2,369
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
( 14,310 )
( 9,762 )
( 15,806 )
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ 207,465
$ 186,516
$ 241,750
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Discontinued Operations:
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ 28,353
$ 98,840
$ 78,210
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
—
—
—
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
( 4,847 )
( 40,944 )
( 25,528 )
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ 23,506
$ 57,896
$ 52,682
72
Intercompany Reinsurance Pooling Arrangement
Effective January 1, 2020, all of our insurance subsidiary and affiliate
companies entered into an intercompany reinsurance pooling agreement. Nodak Insurance is the lead company of the pool, and assumes the
net premiums, net losses, and underwriting expenses from each of the other five companies. Nodak Insurance then retrocedes balances back
to each company, while retaining its own share of the pool’s net underwriting results, based on individual pool percentages established
in the respective pooling agreement. This arrangement allows each insurance company to rely upon the capacity of the pool’s total
statutory capital and surplus. As a result, they are evaluated by AM Best on a group basis and hold a single combined financial strength
rating, long-term issuer credit rating, and financial size category. Subsequent to the June 30, 2024, date of sale, Westminster is no
longer a member of the pool, and the pooling percentages for the remaining insurance subsidiaries were updated based on their respective
surplus as a percentage of the pool as of December 31, 2023.
7. Deferred
Policy Acquisition Costs
Expenses directly related to successfully acquired insurance
policies, primarily commissions, premium taxes and underwriting costs, are deferred and amortized over the terms of the policies. We update
our acquisition cost assumptions periodically to reflect actual experience, and we evaluate the costs for recoverability. The table below,
presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, shows the deferred policy acquisition costs
and asset reconciliation:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Balance, beginning of year
$ 34,120
$ 29,768
$ 24,947
Deferral of policy acquisition costs
79,363
87,343
71,624
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
( 79,185 )
( 82,991 )
( 66,803 )
Westminster balance disposed in sale
( 7,998 )
—
—
Balance, end of year
$ 26,300
$ 34,120
$ 29,768
The tables for current and prior year continuing and discontinued
operations showing the deferred policy acquisition costs and assets reconciliation are shown below:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Continuing operations:
Balance, beginning of year
$ 26,790
$ 22,675
$ 19,047
Deferral of policy acquisition costs
70,767
71,746
57,233
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
( 71,257 )
( 67,631 )
( 53,605 )
Balance, end of year
$ 26,300
$ 26,790
$ 22,675
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Discontinued operations:
Balance, beginning of period
$ 7,330
7,093
5,900
Deferral of policy acquisition costs
8,596
15,597
14,391
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
( 7,928 )
( 15,360 )
( 13,198 )
Westminster balance disposed in sale
( 7,998 )
—
—
Balance, end of year
$ —
$ 7,330
$ 7,093
73
8. Unpaid
Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses
Activity in the liability for unpaid losses and
loss adjustment expenses is summarized as follows for both continuing and discontinued operations:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Balance, beginning of year:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ 217,119
$ 190,459
$ 139,662
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
48,969
37,575
21,200
Net balance, beginning of year
168,150
152,884
118,462
Incurred related to:
Current year
218,063
223,960
293,283
Prior years
12,908
20,452
1,149
Total incurred
230,971
244,412
294,432
Paid related to:
Current year
131,570
138,600
197,250
Prior years
80,636
90,548
62,760
Total paid
212,206
229,148
260,010
Westminster balances disposed in sale:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
107,508
—
—
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
45,320
—
—
Net balance, date of sale
62,188
—
—
Balance, end of year:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
137,288
217,119
190,459
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
12,561
48,969
37,575
Net balance, end of year
$ 124,727
$ 168,150
$ 152,884
During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company’s
incurred reported losses and loss adjustment expense included $ 12,908 of net unfavorable development on prior accident years. This was
primarily attributable to unfavorable development for the Direct Auto non-standard auto business, partially offset by favorable development
in Battle Creek, American West, Primero, and Nodak Insurance. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company’s incurred reported
losses and loss adjustment expenses included $ 20,452 of net unfavorable development on prior accident years, primarily attributable to
unfavorable development for the Westminster commercial and Direct Auto non-standard auto businesses partially offset by favorable development
for Battle Creek, American West, and Nodak Insurance. During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company’s incurred reported losses
and loss adjustment expenses included $ 1,149 of net unfavorable development on prior accident years, primarily attributable to unfavorable
development for the Westminster commercial business partially offset by favorable development for Battle Creek and Nodak Insurance. During
2024, Westminster was sold and all associated liabilities were included in the sale.
Changes in unpaid losses and loss adjustment expense
reserves are generally the result of ongoing analysis of recent loss development trends. As additional information becomes known regarding
individual claims, original estimates are increased or decreased accordingly.
74
The tables for current and prior year continuing and discontinued
operations showing the liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expense are shown below:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Continuing operations:
Balance, beginning of year:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ 119,185
$ 114,296
$ 108,000
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
6,460
8,586
12,478
Net balance, beginning of year
112,725
105,710
95,522
Incurred related to:
Current year
193,948
184,210
247,635
Prior years
13,517
2,306
( 5,885 )
Total incurred
207,465
186,516
241,750
Paid related to:
Current year
126,006
121,466
181,434
Prior years
69,457
58,036
50,128
Total paid
195,463
179,502
231,562
Balance, end of year:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
137,288
119,185
114,296
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
12,561
6,460
8,586
Net balance, end of year
$ 124,727
$ 112,725
$ 105,710
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Discontinued operations:
Balance, beginning of year:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ 97,934
$ 76,163
$ 31,662
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
42,509
28,989
8,722
Net balance, beginning of year
55,425
47,174
22,940
Incurred related to:
Current year
24,115
39,750
45,648
Prior years
( 609 )
18,146
7,034
Total incurred
23,506
57,896
52,682
Paid related to:
Current year
5,564
17,132
15,816
Prior years
11,179
32,512
12,632
Total paid
16,743
49,644
28,448
Westminster balances disposed in sale:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
107,508
—
—
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
45,320
—
—
Net balance, date of sale
62,188
—
—
Balance, end of year:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
—
97,934
76,163
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
—
42,509
28,989
Net balance, end of year
$ —
$ 55,425
$ 47,174
75
The tables on the following pages present information,
organized by our primary operating segments, about incurred and paid claims development as of December 31, 2024, net of reinsurance, as
well as cumulative claim frequency and the total of IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims. The cumulative number
of reported claims represents open claims, claims closed with payment, and claims closed without payment. It does not include an estimated
amount for unreported claims. The number of claims is measured by claim event (such as a car accident or storm damage) and an individual
claim event may result in more than one reported claim (such as a car accident with both property and liability damages). The Company
considers a claim that does not result in a liability as a claim closed without payment. The segment information presented in the tables
is prior to the effects of the intercompany reinsurance pooling arrangement.
The tables include unaudited information about
incurred and paid claims development for the year ended December 31, 2015 for the Private Passenger Auto, Home and Farm, and Crop segments
and from the year ended December 31, 2015 through 2017 for the Non-Standard Auto information, which we present as supplementary information.
Private
Passenger
Auto
Incurred Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
At December 31, 2024
Accident
Year
2015 (1)
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Total IBNR
Plus Expected
Development
on Reported
Claims
Cumulative
Number of
Reported
Claims
(in thousands, except claim counts)
2015
$ 32,438
$ 31,532
$ 30,461
$ 30,503
$ 30,679
$ 30,455
$ 30,379
$ 30,370
$ 30,351
$ 30,362
$ ( 1 )
11,688
2016
—
40,227
39,260
39,057
39,314
38,535
38,416
38,601
38,566
38,536
( 3 )
14,325
2017
—
—
40,779
40,199
40,120
40,427
40,488
40,520
40,471
40,449
—
13,753
2018
—
—
—
44,925
43,428
43,641
43,575
43,807
43,733
43,896
310
14,675
2019
—
—
—
—
53,769
53,328
53,364
52,802
52,749
52,535
56
16,540
2020
—
—
—
—
—
46,247
48,519
47,403
47,174
46,713
107
13,541
2021
—
—
—
—
—
—
57,316
57,176
57,431
57,215
205
15,321
2022
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
66,711
65,132
64,180
552
16,146
2023
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
62,357
61,917
768
13,888
2024
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
54,082
1,935
10,593
Total
$ 489,885
(1) Prior years unaudited
Private
Passenger
Auto
Paid Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
Accident
Year
2015 (1)
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2015
$ 23,401
$ 27,171
$ 28,933
$ 29,598
$ 29,795
$ 30,120
$ 30,355
$ 30,355
$ 30,355
$ 30,363
2016
—
29,009
35,845
37,307
38,108
37,833
38,173
38,303
38,539
38,539
2017
—
—
31,033
37,050
38,331
39,738
40,111
40,294
40,315
40,398
2018
—
—
—
34,358
40,213
41,479
42,820
43,074
43,225
43,337
2019
—
—
—
—
42,414
48,414
50,370
51,556
52,060
52,437
2020
—
—
—
—
—
35,495
42,585
45,670
46,211
46,204
2021
—
—
—
—
—
—
42,326
52,256
54,243
56,030
2022
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
49,911
59,556
61,679
2023
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
45,452
55,548
2024
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
39,617
Total
$ 464,152
All outstanding liabilities prior to 2015, net of reinsurance
12
Liabilities for Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses, net of reinsurance
25,745
(1) Prior years unaudited
76
Non-
Standard
Auto
Incurred Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
At December 31, 2024
Accident
Year
2015 (1)
2016 (1)
2017 (1)
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Total IBNR
Plus Expected
Development
on Reported
Claims
Cumulative
Number of
Reported
Claims
(in thousands, except claim counts)
2015
$ 27,644
$ 24,304
$ 22,698
$ 20,229
$ 20,345
$ 20,567
$ 20,199
$ 20,039
$ 20,341
$ 20,357
$ 7
10,852
2016
—
30,514
24,708
23,606
23,989
22,884
22,267
21,947
22,095
22,168
9
12,878
2017
—
—
32,098
27,275
24,414
23,189
22,221
21,903
22,224
22,327
9
13,190
2018
—
—
—
36,236
34,466
33,743
32,307
32,038
32,741
33,020
78
16,718
2019
—
—
—
—
37,196
36,864
35,810
36,100
36,659
36,646
92
12,424
2020
—
—
—
—
—
33,054
31,743
32,507
34,657
34,475
360
14,356
2021
—
—
—
—
—
—
40,652
40,612
45,337
46,412
1,752
15,895
2022
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
39,514
43,372
51,912
2,676
14,061
2023
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
50,415
57,445
6,821
14,784
2024
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
59,465
21,260
10,850
Total
$ 384,227
(1) Prior years unaudited
Non-Standard
Auto
Paid Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
Accident
Year
2015 (1)
2016 (1)
2017 (1)
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2015
$ 8,302
$ 13,887
$ 16,536
$ 17,884
$ 19,180
$ 19,679
$ 19,799
$ 19,988
$ 20,292
$ 20,300
2016
—
8,935
15,154
18,349
20,515
21,032
21,495
21,794
21,984
22,044
2017
—
—
8,733
14,641
18,238
19,826
20,604
21,528
22,063
22,173
2018
—
—
—
11,526
22,821
26,820
28,489
30,489
32,202
32,663
2019
—
—
—
—
16,503
26,221
29,953
32,370
34,915
35,916
2020
—
—
—
—
—
14,077
23,046
27,160
30,419
32,688
2021
—
—
—
—
—
—
18,611
30,155
36,890
41,590
2022
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
14,966
29,533
42,122
2023
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
18,300
38,279
2024
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
18,873
Total
$ 306,648
All outstanding liabilities prior to 2015, net of reinsurance
1
Liabilities for Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses, net of reinsurance
$ 77,580
(1) Prior years unaudited
77
Home and
Farm
Incurred Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
At December 31, 2024
Accident
Year
2015 (1)
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Total IBNR
Plus Expected
Development
on Reported
Claims
Cumulative
Number of
Reported
Claims
(in thousands, except claim counts)
2015
$ 32,740
$ 31,804
$ 31,300
$ 31,577
$ 31,446
$ 31,612
$ 31,600
$ 31,601
$ 31,599
$ 31,944
$ —
3,924
2016
—
45,713
44,513
44,945
44,597
44,728
44,745
44,809
44,788
44,787
—
6,354
2017
—
—
42,112
41,593
41,882
41,779
41,804
41,640
41,590
41,646
5
4,955
2018
—
—
—
42,486
43,840
43,747
43,682
43,712
43,731
43,681
—
4,596
2019
—
—
—
—
45,334
45,828
45,471
45,352
45,106
45,050
4
5,523
2020
—
—
—
—
—
36,264
35,668
34,656
34,761
34,813
28
4,118
2021
—
—
—
—
—
—
53,079
50,322
50,759
50,592
179
5,381
2022
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
112,049
105,409
105,328
883
8,401
2023
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
57,205
56,985
1,010
4,302
2024
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
65,092
1,572
3,967
Total
$ 519,918
(1) Prior years unaudited
Home and
Farm
Paid Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
Accident
Year
2015 (1)
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2015
$ 27,204
$ 30,165
$ 30,350
$ 30,573
$ 31,383
$ 31,597
$ 31,597
$ 31,599
$ 31,599
$ 31,944
2016
—
37,655
44,942
44,270
44,529
44,583
44,650
44,690
44,736
44,787
2017
—
—
34,657
38,928
40,441
40,941
41,414
41,504
41,506
41,516
2018
—
—
—
37,880
42,814
43,178
43,549
43,634
43,688
43,681
2019
—
—
—
—
38,718
43,253
44,119
44,847
45,053
45,046
2020
—
—
—
—
—
29,273
33,988
34,243
34,688
34,784
2021
—
—
—
—
—
—
41,096
48,890
50,117
50,403
2022
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
92,482
101,957
104,321
2023
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
46,607
54,304
2024
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
54,904
Total
$ 505,690
All outstanding liabilities prior to 2015, net of reinsurance
—
Liabilities for Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses, net of reinsurance
$ 14,228
(1) Prior years unaudited
78
Crop
Incurred Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
At December 31, 2024
Accident
Year
2015 (1)
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Total IBNR
Plus Expected
Development
on Reported
Claims
Cumulative
Number of
Reported
Claims
(in thousands, except claim counts)
2015
$ 13,813
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ —
2,427
2016
—
20,209
19,582
19,487
19,487
19,487
19,487
19,487
19,487
19,487
—
2,806
2017
—
—
33,734
34,181
34,181
34,181
34,181
34,181
34,181
34,181
—
2,968
2018
—
—
—
12,506
11,730
11,730
11,730
11,730
11,730
11,730
—
2,147
2019
—
—
—
—
33,913
37,629
37,629
37,629
37,630
37,629
—
3,101
2020
—
—
—
—
—
28,688
28,759
28,759
28,760
28,759
—
2,442
2021
—
—
—
—
—
—
28,574
28,144
28,146
28,143
—
2,726
2022
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
21,834
20,745
20,740
4
2,021
2023
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
12,728
11,399
12
1,640
2024
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
12,463
16
1,289
Total
$ 218,380
(1) Prior years unaudited
Crop
Paid Claims and Allocated Claim Adjustment Expenses, Net of Reinsurance
For the Year Ended December 31,
Accident
Year
2015 (1)
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2015
$ 12,866
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
$ 13,849
2016
—
16,444
19,487
19,487
19,487
19,487
19,487
19,487
19,487
19,487
2017
—
—
32,768
34,181
34,181
34,181
34,181
34,181
34,181
34,181
2018
—
—
—
10,737
11,730
11,730
11,730
11,730
11,730
11,730
2019
—
—
—
—
26,208
37,629
37,629
37,629
37,629
37,629
2020
—
—
—
—
—
27,952
28,759
28,759
28,759
28,759
2021
—
—
—
—
—
—
29,424
28,143
28,143
28,143
2022
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
20,279
20,735
20,735
2023
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
10,202
11,387
2024
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
11,169
Total
$ 217,069
All outstanding liabilities prior to 2015, net of reinsurance
—
Liabilities for Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses, net of reinsurance
$ 1,311
(1) Prior years unaudited
79
The following table presents a reconciliation
of the net incurred and paid claims development tables to the liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses in our Consolidated
Balance Sheet:
December 31, 2024
Liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses:
Private passenger auto
$ 28,103
Non-Standard auto
77,580
Home and farm
16,162
Crop
1,789
All other
13,654
Total liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
137,288
Reinsurance recoverables on losses:
Private passenger auto
2,358
Non-Standard auto
—
Home and farm
1,934
Crop
478
All other
7,791
Total reinsurance recoverables on losses
12,561
Net liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ 124,727
The following table presents required supplementary information
about average historical claims duration as of December 31, 2024:
Average Annual Percentage Payout of Incurred Claims by Age, Net of Reinsurance
Years
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Private Passenger Auto
50.5 %
20.5 %
11.1 %
6.5 %
4.5 %
3.4 %
3.1 %
0.3 %
0.1 %
—
Non-Standard Auto
45.1 %
23.1 %
13.9 %
8.2 %
4.5 %
2.1 %
1.4 %
1.0 %
0.6 %
0.1 %
Home and Farm
67.2 %
15.0 %
8.9 %
4.3 %
1.3 %
0.7 %
0.7 %
0.7 %
1.2 %
—
Crop
100.0 %
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
80
9. Property
and Equipment
Property and equipment, presented on a consolidated
basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, consisted of the following:
December 31,
2024
2023
Estimated Useful
Life
Cost:
Land
$ 1,249
$ 1,403
indefinite
Building and improvements
12,497
14,538
10 – 43 years
Electronic data processing equipment
1,444
1,441
5 – 7 years
Furniture and fixtures
2,762
2,953
5 – 7 years
Automobiles
1,280
1,319
2 – 3 years
Gross cost
19,232
21,654
Accumulated depreciation
( 11,685 )
( 11,757 )
Total property and equipment, net
$ 7,547
$ 9,897
Depreciation expense was $ 770 , $ 826 , and $ 708
during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. Depreciation expense for continuing operations was $ 681 , $ 692 ,
and $ 604 during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
Property and equipment for current and prior year continuing
and discontinued operations consisted of the following:
December 31, 2024
Cost:
Continuing operations
$ 19,232
Discontinued operations
—
Total cost
19,232
Accumulated depreciation
Continuing operations
( 11,685 )
Discontinued operations
—
Total accumulated depreciation
( 11,685 )
Total property and equipment, net
$ 7,547
December 31, 2023
Cost:
Continuing operations
$ 18,756
Discontinued operations
2,898
Total cost
21,654
Accumulated depreciation
Continuing operations
( 11,304 )
Discontinued operations
( 453 )
Total accumulated depreciation
( 11,757 )
Total property and equipment, net
$ 9,897
81
10. Goodwill
and Other Intangibles
Goodwill
The following table presents, on a consolidated basis, including
both continuing and discontinued operations, the carrying amount of the Company’s goodwill and related impairment by segment:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Non-
Standard
Auto
Com-
mercial
Total
Non-
Standard
Auto
Com-
mercial
Total
Non-
Standard
Auto
Com-
mercial
Total
Goodwill, beginning of year
$ 2,628
$ —
$ 2,628
$ 2,628
$ 6,756
$ 9,384
$ 2,628
$ 6,756
$ 9,384
Impairment recognized during the period
( 2,628 )
—
( 2,628 )
—
( 6,756 )
( 6,756 )
—
—
—
Goodwill, end of year
$ —
$ —
$ —
$ 2,628
$ —
$ 2,628
$ 2,628
$ 6,756
$ 9,384
We performed a quantitative assessment
of the goodwill related to the Primero acquisition during the fourth quarter of 2024, which is allocated to our Non-Standard Auto segment,
and concluded that the goodwill was fully impaired as of December 31, 2024, resulting in a non-cash impairment charge of $ 2,628 in the
current year. The determination of the fair value of the reporting unit was based on an income approach that utilized discounted cash
flows. Under the income approach, we determined fair value based on the present value of the most recent cash flow projections for the
reporting unit as of the date of the analysis and calculated a terminal value utilizing a terminal growth rate. The significant assumptions
under this approach include, among others: income projections, operating expenses, the discount rate, and the terminal growth rate. The
cash flows used to determine fair value are dependent on a number of significant management assumptions such as our expectations of future
performance and the expected future economic environment, which are partly based upon our historical experience. Our estimates are subject
to change given the inherent uncertainty in predicting future results. Additionally, the discount rate and the terminal growth rate are
based on our judgment of the rates that would be utilized by a hypothetical market participant.
We performed a quantitative assessment
of the goodwill related to the Westminster acquisition during the fourth quarter of 2023, which was allocated to our former Commercial
segment, and concluded that the goodwill was fully impaired as of December 31, 2023, resulting in a non-cash impairment charge of $ 6,756
in 2023. The determination of the fair value of the reporting unit was based on a combination of a market approach that considered benchmark
company market multiples, and an income approach that utilized discounted cash flows. Under the income approach, we determined fair value
based on the present value of the most recent cash flow projections for the reporting unit as of the date of the analysis and calculated
a terminal value utilizing a terminal growth rate. The significant assumptions under this approach included, among others: income projections,
new product introductions, customer behavior, competitor pricing, operating expenses, the discount rate, and the terminal growth rate.
The cash flows used to determine fair value were dependent on a number of significant management assumptions such as our expectations
of future performance and the expected future economic environment, which were partly based upon our historical experience. Additionally,
the discount rate and the terminal growth rate were based on our judgment of the rates that would be utilized by a hypothetical market
participant.
82
Other Intangible Assets
The following table presents on a consolidated basis, including
both continuing and discontinued operations, the carrying amount of the Company’s other intangible assets:
December 31, 2024
Gross Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Net
Subject to amortization:
Trade names
$ —
$ —
$ —
Distribution network
—
—
—
Total subject to amortization
—
—
—
Not subject to amortization:
State insurance licenses
100
—
100
Total
$ 100
$ —
$ 100
December 31, 2023
Gross Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Net
Subject to amortization:
Trade names
$ 748
$ 448
$ 300
Distribution network
6,700
1,489
5,211
Total subject to amortization
7,448
1,937
5,511
Not subject to amortization
State insurance licenses
1,900
—
1,900
Total
$ 9,348
$ 1,937
$ 7,411
The following table presents the current and
prior year continuing and discontinued carrying amounts of the Company’s other intangible assets:
December 31, 2024
Gross Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Net
Subject to amortization:
Continuing operations
$ —
$ —
$ —
Discontinued operations
—
—
—
Total subject to amortization
—
—
—
Not subject to amortization
Continuing operations
100
—
100
Discontinued operations
—
—
—
Total not subject to amortization
$ 100
$ —
$ 100
December 31, 2023
Gross Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Net
Subject to amortization:
Continuing operations
$ 248
$ 248
$ —
Discontinued operations
7,200
1,689
5,511
Total subject to amortization
7,448
1,937
5,511
Not subject to amortization
Continuing operations
100
—
100
Discontinued operations
1,800
—
1,800
Total not subject to amortization
$ 9,348
$ 1,937
$ 7,411
83
We determined during our reviews that there
were no impairments of other indefinite-lived intangible assets or finite-lived intangible assets during the years ended December 31,
2024, 2023, and 2022.
Amortization expense was $ 211 , $ 455 , and $ 472
during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. Amortization expense for continuing operations was $ 0 , $ 33 , and
$ 50 during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
11. Royalties,
Dividends, and Affiliations
North Dakota Farm Bureau
Nodak Insurance was organized by the NDFB
to provide insurance protection for its members. We have a royalty agreement with the NDFB that recognizes the use of their trademark
and provides royalties to the NDFB based on the premiums written on Nodak Insurance’s policies. Royalties paid to the NDFB were
$ 1,647 , $ 1,603 , and $ 1,453 during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. Royalty amounts payable of $ 146 and
$ 131 were accrued as a liability to the NDFB at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Dividends
State insurance laws require our insurance
subsidiaries to maintain certain minimum capital and surplus amounts on a statutory basis. Our insurance subsidiaries are subject to regulations
that restrict the payment of dividends from statutory surplus and may require prior approval from their domiciliary insurance regulatory
authorities. Our insurance subsidiaries are also subject to risk-based capital requirements that may further affect their ability to pay
dividends. Our insurance subsidiaries statutory capital and surplus at December 31, 2024, exceeded
the amount of statutory capital and surplus necessary to satisfy risk-based capital requirements by a significant margin.
The amount available for payment of dividends from Nodak Insurance
to NI Holdings during 2025 without the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department is approximately $ 8,273 as of December
31, 2024. No dividends were declared or paid by Nodak Insurance during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. The Nodak Insurance
Board of Directors declared and paid dividends of $ 3,000 to NI Holdings during the year ended December 31, 2022.
The amount available for payment of dividends from Direct Auto to
NI Holdings during 2025 without the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department is approximately $ 3,146 as of December 31,
2024. No dividends were declared or paid by Direct Auto during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, or 2022.
Prior to its payment of any dividend, Nodak Insurance will be required
to provide notice of the dividend to the North Dakota Insurance Department. This notice must be provided to the North Dakota Insurance
Department 30 days prior to the payment of an extraordinary dividend and 10 days prior to the payment of an ordinary dividend. The North
Dakota Insurance Department has the power to limit or prohibit dividend payments if an insurance company is in violation of any law or
regulation. These restrictions or any subsequently imposed restrictions may affect our future liquidity.
Westminster was sold on June 30, 2024, and
therefore no dividends are available to be paid to NI Holdings subsequent to that date. No dividends were declared or paid by Westminster
during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 or 2022. See Part II, Item 8, Note 20 “Discontinued Operations” for additional
information.
84
Battle Creek
Prior to January 2, 2024, we consolidated the financial statements
of Battle Creek, and Battle Creek’s policyholders’ interest in Battle Creek was reflected as a non-controlling interest in
shareholders’ equity in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Subsequent to January 2, 2024, Battle Creek is fully consolidated in our
Consolidated Balance Sheets. The following table discloses the standalone balance sheet of Battle Creek, prior to intercompany eliminations,
to illustrate the impact of including Battle Creek in our December 31, 2023, Consolidated Balance Sheet prior to demutualization:
December 31, 2023
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 2,621
Investments
15,394
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable
5,953
Deferred policy acquisition costs
682
Reinsurance recoverables on losses (2)
6,918
Accrued investment income
85
Income tax recoverable
225
Deferred income taxes
706
Property and equipment
306
Other assets
97
Total assets
$ 32,987
Liabilities:
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ 4,276
Unearned premiums
3,269
Notes payable (1)
3,000
Pooling payable (1)
5,932
Reinsurance losses payable (2)
13,275
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
477
Total liabilities
30,229
Equity:
Non-controlling interest
2,758
Total equity
2,758
Total liabilities and equity
$ 32,987
(1)
Amount fully eliminated in consolidation.
(2)
Amount partly eliminated in consolidation.
12. Benefit
Plans
Nodak Insurance sponsors a 401(k) plan with
an automatic and matching contribution for eligible employees at Nodak Insurance, Primero, and Direct Auto. Nodak Insurance also contributes
an additional elective amount of employee compensation as a profit-sharing contribution for eligible employees. Westminster also sponsored
a separate 401(k) plan until the company was sold on June 30, 2024. American West and Battle Creek have no employees. The Company reported
expenses related to these plans totaling $ 782 , $ 806 , and $ 693 during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
All fees associated with the plans are deducted
from the eligible employee accounts.
The Company also offers a non-qualified deferred
compensation plan to key executives of the Company (as designated by the Board of Directors). The Company’s policy is to fund the
plan by amounts that represent the excess of the maximum contribution allowed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act over the
key executives’ allowable 401(k) contribution. The plan also allows employee-directed deferral of key executives’ compensation
or incentive payments. The Company reported expenses related to this plan totaling $ 360 , $ 368 , and $ 325 during the years ended December
31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
In connection with our IPO in March 2017, the Company established
its ESOP within the meaning of Internal Revenue Code Section 4975(e)(7) and invests solely in common stock of the Company.
85
Upon establishment of the ESOP, Nodak Insurance
loaned $ 2,400 to the ESOP’s related trust (the “ESOP Trust”). The ESOP loan was for a period of ten years, bearing
interest at the long-term Applicable Federal Rate effective on the closing date of the offering ( 2.79 % annually). The ESOP Trust used
the proceeds of the loan to purchase shares in our IPO, which resulted in the ESOP Trust owning approximately 1.0 % of the Company’s
authorized shares. The ESOP has purchased the shares for investment and not for resale.
The shares purchased by the ESOP Trust in the offering are held
in a suspense account as collateral for the ESOP loan. Nodak Insurance makes semi-annual cash contributions to the ESOP in amounts no
smaller than the amounts required for the ESOP Trust to make its loan payments to Nodak Insurance. While the ESOP makes two loan payments
per year, a pre-determined portion of the shares are released from the suspense account and allocated to participant accounts at the end
of the calendar year. This release and allocation occurs on an annual basis over the ten-year term of the ESOP loan. Nodak Insurance has
a lien on the shares of common stock of the Company held by the ESOP to secure repayment of the loan from the ESOP to Nodak Insurance.
If the ESOP is terminated as a result of a change in control of the Company, the ESOP may be required to pay the costs of terminating
the plan.
It is anticipated that the only assets held by the ESOP will be
shares of the Company’s common stock. Participants in the ESOP cannot direct the investment of any assets allocated to their accounts.
The ESOP participants are employees of Nodak Insurance. The employees of Primero, Direct Auto, and Westminster do not participate in the
ESOP.
Each employee of Nodak Insurance automatically becomes a participant
in the ESOP if such employee is at least 21 years old, has completed a minimum of one thousand hours of service with Nodak Insurance,
and has completed an Eligibility Computation Period. Employees are not permitted to make any contributions to the ESOP. Participants in
the ESOP receive annual reports from the Company showing the number of shares of common stock of the Company allocated to the participants’
accounts and the market value of those shares. The shares are allocated to participants based on compensation as provided for in the ESOP.
In connection with the establishment of the ESOP, the Company created
a contra-equity account on the Consolidated Balance Sheet equal to the ESOP’s basis in the shares. The basis of those shares was
set at $ 10.00 per share as part of the IPO. As shares are released from the ESOP suspense account, the contra-equity account is credited,
which reduces the impact of the contra-equity account on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets over time. The Company records
compensation expense related to the shares released, equal to the number of shares released from the suspense account multiplied by the
average market value of the Company’s stock during the period.
The Company recognized compensation expense
related to the ESOP of $ 365 , $ 322 , and $ 380 during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
Through December 31, 2024, the Company had
released and allocated 194,520 ESOP shares to participants, with a remainder of 45,480 ESOP shares in suspense at December 31, 2024. Using
the Company’s year-end market price of $ 15.70 per share, the fair value of the unearned ESOP shares was $ 714 at December 31, 2024.
13. Line
of Credit
NI Holdings has a $ 3,000 line of credit with Wells
Fargo Bank, N.A. The terms of the line of credit include a floating interest rate of 2.50 % above the daily simple secured overnight financing
rate. There were no outstanding amounts during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, or 2022. This line of credit is scheduled to expire
on December 13, 2025 .
14. Income
Taxes
The components of our provision for income tax
expense (benefit) were as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Current income tax expense (benefit)
Federal
$ ( 4,682 )
$ 2,567
$ ( 11,280 )
State
215
278
( 2 )
Total current
( 4,467 )
2,845
( 11,282 )
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)
1,275
( 1,882 )
( 3,972 )
Total income tax expense (benefit)
$ ( 3,192 )
$ 963
$ ( 15,254 )
86
The provision for income tax expense (benefit)
differs from the amount that would be computed by applying the statutory federal rate to income (loss) before income taxes as a result
of the following, including both continuing and discontinued operations:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Loss before income taxes
$ ( 9,056 )
$ ( 4,263 )
$ ( 69,029 )
Expected provision for federal income taxes at 21%
$ ( 1,902 )
$ ( 895 )
$ ( 14,496 )
State income taxes, net of federal impact
277
90
( 2 )
Tax-exempt interest
( 130 )
( 204 )
( 187 )
Dividends received deduction
( 104 )
( 118 )
( 147 )
Section 832(b)(5)(B) proration amount
26
77
78
Compensation-related expenses
892
27
213
Westminster sale/goodwill impairment
( 2,661 )
1,419
—
Demutualization of Battle Creek
793
—
—
Research and development credit
—
( 59 )
( 70 )
Change in valuation allowance
2,035
( 189 )
( 314 )
State carryovers
( 2,412 )
—
—
Other
( 6 )
815
( 329 )
Total income tax expense (benefit)
$ ( 3,192 )
$ 963
$ ( 15,254 )
Reconciliation of consolidated federal income tax expense (benefit) from:
Continuing operations
$ 3,545
$ 716
$ ( 14,191 )
Discontinued operations
( 405 )
247
( 1,063 )
Loss on sale of discontinued operations
( 6,332 )
—
—
Consolidated federal income tax expense (benefit)
$ ( 3,192 )
$ 963
$ ( 15,254 )
We re-measure existing deferred income tax assets
(including loss carryforwards) and liabilities when a change in tax rate occurs and record an offset for the net amount of the change
as a component of income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations in the period of enactment. We record any change to a previously
recorded valuation allowance as a result of re-measuring existing temporary differences and loss carryforwards as a component of income
tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations. The valuation allowance against certain deferred income tax assets was $ 2,506 , $ 505 , and
$ 694 at December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
87
The income tax effects of temporary differences
that give rise to significant portions of our deferred income tax assets and deferred income tax liabilities at December 31, 2024 and
2023, including both continuing and discontinued operations, were as follows:
December 31,
2024
2023
Deferred income tax assets:
Unearned premium
$ 5,749
$ 7,371
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
1,286
1,681
Net unrealized losses on investments
4,762
6,421
Loss carryovers
2,506
851
Deferred compensation
603
579
Other
1,040
1,269
Total deferred income tax assets
15,946
18,172
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Deferred policy acquisition costs
5,976
7,693
Intangibles
—
1,243
Other
140
318
Total deferred income tax liabilities
6,116
9,254
Net deferred income tax asset
9,830
8,918
Valuation allowance
( 2,506 )
( 505 )
Deferred income tax asset, net
$ 7,324
$ 8,413
At December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had no unrecognized
tax benefits, no accrued interest and penalties, and no significant uncertain tax positions. No interest and penalties were recognized
during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, or 2022.
At December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company had no
income tax related carryforwards for alternative minimum tax credits or capital losses.
At December 31, 2024, the Company had $ 2.5 million
in state net operating loss deferred tax assets, all of which are offset by a valuation allowance due to the Company’s judgment
that it is more likely than not that it will be unable to realize the benefits.
Battle Creek, which was required to file its federal
income tax returns on a stand-alone basis until the demutualization on January 2, 2024, had net operating loss carryforwards of $ 3,756
and $ 3,963 at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Subsequent to the demutualization, Battle Creek will be included in the NI Holdings
consolidated tax return. As a result of the demutualization, the Battle Creek net operating loss carryforwards were written off in 2024
as they will not be available to offset income within the NI Holdings consolidated tax return, and the $ 505 associated valuation allowance
was no longer necessary.
Westminster, which became part of the Company’s
consolidated federal income tax return beginning in 2020, had $ 1,270 of net operating loss carryforward at December 31, 2022. This net
operating loss carryforward expired in 2023.
88
15. Leases
Primero leases a facility in Spearfish, South Dakota under
a non-cancellable operating lease expiring in 2028 . Direct Auto leases a facility in Chicago, Illinois under a non-cancellable operating
lease expiring in 2029 . Nodak Insurance leases a facility in Fargo, North Dakota under a non-cancellable operating lease expiring in 2029 .
In addition, Nodak Insurance leases server equipment under a non-cancellable finance lease expiring in 2026.
Effective for the year ended December 31, 2022,
the Company adopted the updated guidance for leases. See Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting Pronouncements” for additional
information. We determine whether a contract is or contains a lease at the inception of the contract. A contract will be deemed to be
or contain a lease if the contract conveys the right to control and directs the use of identified property or equipment for a period of
time in exchange for consideration. We generally must also have the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from the
use of the property and equipment. Lease assets and liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value
of lease payments over the lease term. To determine the present value of lease payments not yet paid, we estimate incremental borrowing
rates based on the floating interest rate on our Line of Credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. at the lease commencement date, as rates are
not implicitly stated in most leases. Lease liabilities are included in accrued expenses and other liabilities and right-of-use assets
are included in other assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
There were expenses of $ 484 , $ 407 , and $ 391 related
to these leases during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
Additional information regarding the Company’s
leases are as follows:
As of and For the Year Ended December 31,
2024 2023 2022
Operating lease cost $ 383 $ 389 $ 391
Finance lease cost:
Amortization of right-of-use assets 80 14 —
Interest on lease liabilities 21 4 —
Finance lease cost 101 18 —
Total lease cost $ 484 $ 407 $ 391
Other information on leases:
Cash payments included in operating cash flows from operating leases $ 406 $ 408 $ 340
Cash payments included in operating cash flows from finance leases 21 4 —
Cash payments included in financing cash flows from finance leases 99 16 —
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities 185 247 —
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities —
319 —
Weighted average discount rate – operating leases 4.48 % 3.94 % 3.25 %
Weighted average discount rate – finance leases 8.50 % 8.50 % —
Weighted average remaining lease term in years – operating leases 4.5 years 5.3 years 6.3 years
Weighted average remaining lease term in years – finance leases 1.8 years 2.8 years —
89
The following table presents the contractual maturities of the Company’s
lease liabilities for each of the five years in the period ending December 31, 2029, and thereafter, reconciled to our lease liability
at December 31, 2024:
Year ending December 31,
Operating Leases
Finance Leases
Total
2025
$ 393
$ 120
$ 513
2026
396
100
496
2027
401
—
401
2028
376
—
376
2029
212
—
212
Thereafter
—
—
—
Total undiscounted lease payments
1,778
220
1,998
Less: present value adjustment
160
15
175
Lease liability at December 31, 2024
$ 1,618
$ 205
$ 1,823
16. Contingencies
We are, from time to time, party to routine litigation incidental
to the normal course of our business. Based upon information presently available to us, we do not consider any litigation to be material.
However, given the uncertainties attendant to litigation, we cannot assure you that our results of operations and financial condition
will not be materially adversely affected by any litigation. Contingent liabilities arising from litigation, income taxes, and other matters
are not considered to be material to our financial position.
17. Common
and Preferred Stock
Common Stock
Changes in the number of common stock shares outstanding
were as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Shares outstanding, beginning of period
20,599,908
21,076,255
21,219,808
Treasury shares repurchased through stock repurchase authorization
—
( 548,549 )
( 269,160 )
Issuance of treasury shares for vesting of restricted stock units
49,045
47,887
101,292
Issuance of shares related to employee stock ownership plan
24,315
24,315
24,315
Shares outstanding, end of period
20,673,268
20,599,908
21,076,255
The changes in the number of common shares outstanding
excludes certain non-forfeitable stock award shares that are included in the weighted average common shares outstanding used in basic
earnings per common share calculations. The net loss per diluted common share for the year ended December 31, 2024, excluded the weighted
average effects of 120,626 shares of stock awards since the impacts of these potential shares of common stock were anti-dilutive. The
net loss per diluted common share for the year ended December 31, 2023, excluded the weighted average effects of 76,532 shares of stock
awards since the impacts of these potential shares of common stock were anti-dilutive. The net loss per diluted common share for the year
ended December 31, 2022, excluded the weighted average effects of 155,463 shares of stock awards since the impacts of these potential
shares of common stock were anti-dilutive.
On August 11, 2021, our Board of Directors approved
an authorization for the repurchase of up to approximately $ 5,000 of the Company’s outstanding common stock. During the year ended
December 31, 2021, we completed the repurchase of 81,095 shares of our common stock for $ 1,554 under this authorization. During the year
ended December 31, 2022, we completed the repurchase of 214,937 shares of our common stock for $ 3,446 to close out this authorization.
On May 9, 2022, our Board of Directors approved
an authorization for the repurchase of up to approximately $ 10,000 of the Company’s outstanding common stock. During the year ended
December 31, 2023, we completed the repurchase of 54,223 shares of our common stock for $ 734 under this authorization. During the year
ended December 31, 2023, we completed the repurchase of 548,549 shares of our common stock for $ 7,278 , including the applicable excise
tax discussed below. During the year ended
90
December 31, 2024, we did not repurchase any shares of our common stock. At December 31, 2024,
$ 2,052 remains available under this authorization.
The cost of this treasury stock is a reduction
of shareholders’ equity within our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
On August 16, 2022, the U.S. government enacted
the Inflation Reduction Act (“IRA”) which, among other changes, created a new corporate alternative minimum tax (“AMT”)
based on adjusted financial statement income and imposes a 1 % excise tax on corporate stock repurchases, subject to certain adjustments.
The effective date of these provisions was January 1, 2023. The Company is not currently subject to the AMT based on our reported GAAP
earnings for the past three years. For periods subsequent to the effective date of the IRA, the cost of treasury stock acquired will include
any 1 % excise tax imposed by the IRA. The Company does not expect the IRA to have a material impact on the Company’s financial position
and results of operations.
Preferred Stock
The Company’s Articles of Incorporation
provide authority to issue up to five million shares of preferred stock. No preferred shares are issued or outstanding.
18. Share-Based
Compensation
The NI Holdings, Inc. 2020 Stock and Incentive
Plan (the “Plan”) is designed to promote the interests of the Company and its shareholders by aiding the Company in attracting
and retaining employees, officers, consultants, independent contractors, advisors, and non-employee directors capable of assuring the
future success of the Company, to offer such persons incentives to put forth maximum efforts for the success of the Company’s business
and to afford such persons an opportunity to acquire an ownership interest in the Company, thereby aligning the interests of such persons
with the Company’s shareholders.
The Plan provides for the grant of nonqualified
stock options, incentive stock options, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), stock appreciation rights, dividend equivalents,
and performance share units (“PSUs”) to employees, officers, consultants, advisors, non-employee directors, and independent
contractors designated by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Compensation Committee”). Awards made
under the Plan are based upon, among other things, a participant’s level of responsibility and performance within the Company.
The total aggregate number of shares of common
stock that may be issued under the Plan shall not exceed 1,000,000 shares, subject to adjustments as provided in the Plan. No eligible
participant may be granted any awards for more than 100,000 shares in the aggregate in any calendar year, subject to adjustment in accordance
with the Plan. The aggregate amount payable pursuant to all performance awards denominated in cash to any eligible person in any calendar
year is limited to $ 1,000 in value. Directors who are not also employees of the Company may not be granted awards denominated in shares
that exceed $ 150 in any calendar year.
Restricted Stock Units
The Compensation Committee has awarded RSUs to
non-employee directors and select executives. RSUs are promises to issue actual shares of common stock at the end of a vesting period.
The RSUs granted to executives under the Plan are based on salary. RSUs granted prior to 2024 vest equally over a five-year period. Effective
for executive grants in 2024, the RSUs vest equally over a three-year period. The RSUs granted to non-employee directors vest 100 % on
the date of the next annual meeting of shareholders following the grant date. Dividend equivalents on RSUs are accrued during the vesting
period and paid in cash at the end of the vesting period but are subject to forfeiture until the underlying shares become vested. Participants
do not have voting rights with respect to RSUs.
The Company recognizes stock-based compensation
costs for RSUs based on the grant date fair value. The compensation costs are normally expensed over the vesting periods to each vesting
date; however, the cost of RSUs granted to executives are expensed immediately if the executive has met certain retirement criteria and
the RSUs become non-forfeitable. Estimated forfeitures are included in the determination of compensation costs. No forfeitures are currently
estimated.
91
A summary of the Company’s outstanding and
unearned RSUs is presented below:
RSUs
Weighted-Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
Per Share
Units outstanding and unearned at January 1, 2022
108,380
$ 16.86
RSUs granted during 2022
59,600
17.61
RSUs earned during 2022
( 52,620 )
17.39
Units outstanding and unearned at December 31, 2022
115,360
17.00
RSUs granted during 2023
85,000
13.76
RSUs earned during 2023
( 53,780 )
16.32
Units outstanding and unearned at December 31, 2023
146,580
15.37
RSUs granted during 2024
119,398
14.67
RSUs earned during 2024
( 69,420 )
14.82
Forfeitures (1)
( 92,160 )
15.18
Units outstanding and unearned at December 31, 2024
104,398
$ 15.11
(1) Represents RSU forfeitures primarily related to the execution of the separation agreements with the former Chief Executive Officer and former Senior Vice President of Operations.
The following table shows the impact of RSU activity to the Company’s
financial results:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
RSU compensation expense
$ 502
$ 1,095
$ 952
Income tax benefit
( 113 )
( 249 )
( 216 )
RSU compensation expense, net of income taxes
$ 389
$ 846
$ 736
Total grant-date fair value of vested RSUs at end of period
$ 1,028
$ 872
$ 915
At December 31, 2024, there was $ 741 of unrecognized
compensation cost related to outstanding RSUs. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.83 years.
Performance Share Units
The Compensation Committee has awarded PSUs to
select executives. PSUs are promises to issue actual shares of common stock at the end of a vesting period, if certain performance conditions
are met. The PSUs granted to employees under the Plan are based on salary and, prior to 2024, include a three-year adjusted book value
cumulative growth target with threshold and stretch goals. Effective for grants made in 2024, the performance metric is calculated based
on an adjusted return on equity over a three-year period, with annual resets. They will vest on the third anniversary of the grant date,
subject to the participant’s continuous employment through the vesting date and the level of performance achieved. Dividend equivalents
on PSUs are accrued and paid in cash at the end of the performance period in accordance with the level of performance achieved but are
subject to forfeiture until the underlying shares become vested. Participants do not have voting rights with respect to PSUs.
The Company recognizes stock-based compensation
costs for PSUs based on the grant date fair value over the performance period of the awards. Estimated forfeitures are included in the
determination of compensation costs. The current cost estimates represent the Company’s forecasted performance against cumulative
growth targets.
92
A summary of the Company’s outstanding PSUs
is presented below:
PSUs
Weighted-Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
Per Share
Units outstanding at January 1, 2022
190,600
$ 16.06
PSUs granted during 2022 (at target)
61,800
18.10
PSUs earned during 2022
( 86,684 )
15.21
Performance adjustment (1)
31,200
15.21
Forfeitures
( 6,916 )
15.21
Units outstanding at December 31, 2022
190,000
17.00
PSUs granted during 2023 (at target)
87,400
13.85
PSUs earned during 2023
—
—
Performance adjustment (1)
( 63,600 )
14.26
Forfeitures
—
—
Units outstanding at December 31, 2023
213,800
16.53
PSUs granted during 2024 (at target)
79,800
14.19
PSUs earned during 2024
—
—
Performance adjustment (1)
( 147,173 )
16.14
Forfeitures (2)
( 120,100 )
15.23
Units outstanding at December 31, 2024
26,327
$ 17.50
(1) Represents
the change in PSUs issued based upon the attainment of performance goals established by the Company.
(2) Represents
PSU forfeitures primarily related to the execution of the separation agreements with the former Chief Executive Officer and former Senior
Vice President of Operations.
The following table shows the impact of PSU activity to the Company’s
financial results:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
PSU compensation expense (benefit)
$ ( 264 )
$ 206
$ ( 1,022 )
Income tax benefit (expense)
60
( 47 )
232
PSU compensation expense (benefit), net of income taxes
$ ( 204 )
$ 159
$ ( 790 )
Total grant-date fair value of vested PSUs at end of period
$ —
$ —
$ 1,319
The cost estimates for PSU grants represent initial
target awards until we can reasonably forecast the financial performance of each PSU award grant. At the end of the performance period,
we will reflect a performance adjustment, which may be either an increase or decrease from the initial target awards. The actual number
of shares to be issued at the end of the performance period will range from 0 % to 200 % of the initial target awards. During the year ended
December 31, 2024, the previously recognized compensation expense related to the PSU awards granted during 2024 was reduced as a result
of a performance adjustment, and the compensation expense related to the PSU awards granted during 2023 was eliminated due to the Company's
expectation that the threshold performance goal will not be met. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the previously recognized compensation
expense related to the PSU awards granted during 2022 was eliminated due to the Company's expectation that the threshold performance goal
will not be met. During the year ended December 31, 2022, the previously recognized compensation expense related to the PSU awards granted
during 2020 and 2021 was eliminated due to the Company’s expectation that the threshold performance goal will not be met, and the
compensation expense related to the PSU awards granted during 2022 was decreased to the threshold level due to Company’s expectations
that the target goal will likely not be achieved.
At December 31, 2024, there was $ 255 of unrecognized
compensation cost related to outstanding PSUs. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.16 years.
93
19. Allowance for Expected Credit Losses
Premiums Receivable
Beginning on December 31, 2022, credit losses
are recognized through an allowance account developed using the CECL model. The adoption of this guidance resulted in an allowance for
expected credit losses of $ 425 for premiums and agents' balances receivable as of December 31, 2022. See Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent
Accounting Pronouncements” for additional information. The following table presents the balances of premiums and agents’ receivable
balances, net of the allowance for expected credit losses as of December 31, 2024, and the changes in the allowance for expected credit
losses for the year ended December 31, 2024.
Year Ended
December 31, 2024
Premiums and
Agents’ Balances
Receivable, Net of
Allowance for
Expected Credit
Losses
Allowance for
Expected Credit
Losses
Continuing operations
Balance, beginning of period
$ 56,154
$ 394
Current period charge for expected credit losses
210
Write-offs of uncollectible premiums receivable
( 267 )
Balance, end of period
$ 52,907
$ 337
Year Ended
December 31, 2024
Premiums and
Agents’ Balances
Receivable, Net of
Allowance for
Expected Credit
Losses
Allowance for
Expected Credit
Losses
Discontinued operations
Balance, beginning of period
$ 17,904
$ 8
Current period charge for expected credit losses
4
Write-offs of uncollectible premiums receivable
( 4 )
Westminster balances disposed in sale
$ 16,030
$ ( 8 )
Balance, end of period
$ —
$ —
94
The following table presents the balances of premiums
and agents’ receivable balances, net of the allowance for expected credit losses as of December 31, 2023, and the changes in the
allowance for expected credit losses for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Year Ended
December 31, 2023
Premiums and
Agents’ Balances
Receivable, Net of
Allowance for
Expected Credit
Losses
Allowance for
Expected Credit
Losses
Continuing operations
Balance, beginning of period
$ 47,346
$ 417
Current period charge for expected credit losses
327
Write-offs of uncollectible premiums receivable
( 350 )
Balance, end of period
$ 56,154
$ 394
Year Ended
December 31, 2023
Premiums and
Agents’ Balances
Receivable, Net of
Allowance for
Expected Credit
Losses
Allowance for
Expected Credit
Losses
Discontinued operations
Balance, beginning of period
$ 14,827
$ 8
Current period charge for expected credit losses
8
Write-offs of uncollectible premiums receivable
( 8 )
Balance, end of period
$ 17,904
$ 8
95
20. Discontinued Operations
On May 7, 2024, we entered into a definitive agreement
to sell our subsidiary, Westminster, to Scott Insurance Holdings, for a cash purchase price of $ 10,500 , as well as a $ 1,772 post-closing
adjustment pursuant to the purchase agreement, for a net amount of $ 12,272 . The sale closed on June 30, 2024, and we reported an after-tax
loss on the sale of discontinued operations of $ 11,148 . For additional information see Part II, Item 8, Note 3 “Summary of Significant
Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation.”
The assets and liabilities associated with discontinued
operations prior to the closing of the sale have been presented separately in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company’s Consolidated
Statements of Cash Flows presents operating, investing, and financing cash flows of the discontinued operations separately. The major
assets and liability categories were as follows as of the dates indicated:
December 31, 2024
December 31, 2023
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$ —
$ 15,656
Fixed income securities, at fair value
—
58,332
Equity securities, at fair value
—
5,784
Total cash and investments
—
79,772
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable
—
17,904
Deferred policy acquisition costs
—
7,330
Reinsurance premiums receivable
—
5,464
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
—
42,509
Accrued investment income
—
438
Property and equipment, net
—
2,445
Deferred income taxes
—
( 815 )
Goodwill and other intangibles
—
7,311
Other assets
—
99
Total assets of discontinued operations
$ —
$ 162,457
Liabilities:
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
$ —
$ 97,934
Unearned premiums
—
38,000
Income tax payable (receivable)
—
( 59 )
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
—
5,422
Total liabilities of discontinued operations
$ —
$ 141,297
Summary operating results of discontinued operations
were as follows for the periods indicated:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Revenues:
Net premiums earned
$ 31,056
$ 59,020
$ 56,552
Fee and other income
14
39
72
Net investment income
1,419
2,422
1,181
Net investment gains (losses)
116
195
( 1,152 )
Total revenues
32,605
61,676
56,653
Expenses
Losses and loss adjustment expenses
23,506
57,896
52,682
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
7,928
15,360
13,199
Other underwriting and general expenses
3,088
6,474
6,925
Goodwill impairment charge
—
6,756
—
Total expenses
34,522
86,486
72,806
Loss before income taxes
( 1,917 )
( 24,810 )
( 16,153 )
Income tax benefit
( 405 )
247
( 1,063 )
Net loss
$ ( 1,512 )
$ ( 25,057 )
$ ( 15,090 )
Loss per common share from discontinued operations:
Basic
$ ( 0.07 )
$ ( 1.18 )
$ ( 0.71 )
Diluted
$ ( 0.07 )
$ ( 1.18 )
$ ( 0.71 )
96
21. Segment
Information
We have five reportable operating segments of
our continuing operations, which consist of Private Passenger Auto, Non-Standard Auto, Home and Farm, Crop, and All Other (which primarily
consists of commercial, assumed reinsurance, and our excess liability business). Prior to the sale of Westminster on June 30, 2024, we
also reported a Commercial segment that consisted primarily of Westminster’s balances and results. Subsequent to the sale, Westminster
is reported as part of discontinued operations, which is not included in our segment information. The commercial business that remains
a part of our continuing operations has been included in the All Other segment for the current and prior periods presented. We operate
only in the U.S., and no single customer or agent provides 10 percent or more of our revenues. The following tables provide available
information of these segments for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022.
Our CODM is currently our President and Chief
Executive Officer (CEO). The primary profitability measurement used by the CEO to review segment operating results is underwriting gain
(loss). The CEO uses segment underwriting gain (loss) to allocate resources (including employees, financial and capital resources) for
each segment predominantly in the annual planning process. Segment underwriting gain (loss) is used to monitor segment results compared
to prior period, forecasted results, and the annual plan. For purposes of evaluating profitability of the Non-Standard Auto segment, we
combine the policy fees paid by the insured with the underwriting gain or loss as its primary profitability measure. As a result, these
fees are allocated to the Non-Standard Auto segment (included in fee and other income) in the tables below. The remaining fee and other
income amounts are not allocated to any segment.
We do not assign or allocate all line items in
our Consolidated Statement of Operations or Consolidated Balance Sheets to our operating segments. Those line items include net investment
income, net investment gains (losses), fee and other income excluding Non-Standard Auto, and income tax expense (benefit) within the Unaudited
Consolidated Statement of Operations. For the Consolidated Balance Sheets, those items include cash and investments, property and equipment,
other assets, accrued expenses and other liabilities, income taxes recoverable or payable, and shareholders’ equity.
97
Year Ended December 31, 2024
Private
Passenger Auto
Non-Standard
Auto
Home and
Farm
Crop
All Other
Total
Direct premiums earned
$ 94,865
$ 95,502
$ 102,073
$ 36,421
$ 13,024
$ 341,885
Assumed premiums earned
—
—
—
2,147
837
2,984
Ceded premiums earned
( 4,551 )
( 277 )
( 11,312 )
( 17,426 )
( 1,193 )
( 34,759 )
Net premiums earned
90,314
95,225
90,761
21,142
12,668
310,110
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
54,340
76,130
66,968
12,310
11,243
220,991
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
—
—
—
537
247
784
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
( 2,471 )
—
( 2,407 )
( 3,776 )
( 5,656 )
( 14,310 )
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
51,869
76,130
64,561
9,071
5,834
207,465
Gross margin
38,445
19,095
26,200
12,071
6,834
102,645
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
17,177
30,395
17,970
3,465
2,250
71,257
Other underwriting and general expenses (1)
10,861
6,337
10,603
1,417
4,491
33,709
Underwriting and general expenses
28,038
36,732
28,573
4,882
6,741
104,966
Underwriting gain (loss)
10,407
( 17,637 )
( 2,373 )
7,189
93
( 2,321 )
Fee and other income
1,219
1,938
( 16,418 )
Goodwill impairment charge
( 2,628 )
( 2,628 )
Net investment income
10,943
Net investment gains (losses)
2,213
Income (loss) before income taxes
10,145
Income tax expense (benefit)
3,545
Net income (loss)
6,600
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest
—
Net income (loss) attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.
$ 6,600
Operating Ratios:
Loss and loss adjustment expense ratio
57.4 %
79.9 %
71.1 %
42.9 %
46.1 %
66.9 %
Expense ratio
31.0 %
38.6 %
31.5 %
23.1 %
53.2 %
33.8 %
Combined ratio
88.4 %
118.5 %
102.6 %
66.0 %
99.3 %
100.7 %
Balances at December 31, 2024:
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable
$ 25,843
$ 13,757
$ 10,560
$ 103
$ 2,644
$ 52,907
Deferred policy acquisition costs
6,535
9,135
9,437
—
1,193
26,300
Reinsurance recoverables on
losses
2,358
—
1,934
478
7,791
12,561
Receivable from Federal Crop Insurance Corporation
—
—
—
13,223
—
13,223
Goodwill and other intangibles
—
100
—
—
—
100
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
28,103
77,580
16,162
1,789
13,654
137,288
Unearned premiums
37,711
28,391
53,319
—
7,077
126,498
(1) Other underwriting and general
expenses for each segment include expenses related to compensation, vendor services, and other administrative items.
98
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Private
Passenger Auto
Non-Standard
Auto
Home and
Farm
Crop
All Other
Total
Direct premiums earned
$ 87,431
$ 88,170
$ 93,130
$ 45,273
$ 11,586
$ 325,590
Assumed premiums earned
—
—
—
2,262
1,308
3,570
Ceded premiums earned
( 4,071 )
( 410 )
( 9,741 )
( 21,718 )
( 1,103 )
( 37,043 )
Net premiums earned
83,360
87,760
83,389
25,817
11,791
292,117
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
59,385
63,041
52,455
17,669
2,588
195,138
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
—
—
—
787
353
1,140
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
819
—
( 1,520 )
( 7,663 )
( 1,398 )
( 9,762 )
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
60,204
63,041
50,935
10,793
1,543
186,516
Gross margin
23,156
24,719
32,454
15,024
10,248
105,601
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
15,797
29,585
16,446
3,828
1,975
67,631
Other underwriting and general expenses (1)
8,895
7,994
8,451
2,494
1,492
29,326
Underwriting and general expenses
24,692
37,579
24,897
6,322
3,467
96,957
Underwriting gain (loss)
( 1,536 )
( 12,860 )
7,557
8,702
6,781
8,644
Fee and other income
1,293
1,940
( 11,567 )
Goodwill impairment charge
—
Net investment income
8,034
Net investment gains (losses)
1,929
Income (loss) before income taxes
20,547
Income tax expense (benefit)
716
Net income (loss)
19,831
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest
250
Net income (loss) attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.
$ 19,581
Operating Ratios:
Loss and loss adjustment expense ratio
72.2 %
71.8 %
61.1 %
41.8 %
13.1 %
63.8 %
Expense ratio
29.6 %
42.8 %
29.9 %
24.5 %
29.4 %
33.2 %
Combined ratio
101.8 %
114.6 %
91.0 %
66.3 %
42.5 %
97.0 %
Balances at December 31, 2023:
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable
$ 24,152
$ 19,853
$ 9,755
$ 89
$ 2,305
$ 56,154
Deferred policy acquisition costs
5,834
11,966
8,005
—
985
26,790
Reinsurance recoverables on
losses
15
—
2,949
1,343
2,153
6,460
Receivable from Federal Crop Insurance Corporation
—
—
—
17,404
—
17,404
Goodwill and other intangibles
—
2,728
—
—
—
2,728
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
28,037
61,272
18,205
3,884
7,787
119,185
Unearned premiums
35,367
36,426
48,210
—
6,097
126,100
(1) Other underwriting and general expenses for each segment include
expenses related to compensation, vendor services, and other administrative items.
99
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Private
Passenger Auto
Non-Standard
Auto
Home and
Farm
Crop
All Other
Total
Direct premiums earned
$ 80,410
$ 67,178
$ 88,143
$ 53,215
$ 10,661
$ 299,607
Assumed premiums earned
—
—
—
2,254
4,296
6,550
Ceded premiums earned
( 2,805 )
( 267 )
( 9,762 )
( 20,748 )
( 835 )
( 34,417 )
Net premiums earned
77,605
66,911
78,381
34,721
14,122
271,740
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses
66,250
39,400
114,195
27,146
8,196
255,187
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses
—
—
—
634
1,735
2,369
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
( 830 )
—
( 6,372 )
( 8,362 )
( 242 )
( 15,806 )
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
65,420
39,400
107,823
19,418
9,689
241,750
Gross margin
12,185
27,511
( 29,442 )
15,303
4,433
29,990
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
13,584
20,831
14,764
2,667
1,759
53,605
Other underwriting and general expenses (1)
8,149
6,172
8,438
400
2,144
25,303
Underwriting and general expenses
21,733
27,003
23,202
3,067
3,903
78,908
Underwriting gain (loss)
( 9,548 )
508
( 52,644 )
12,236
530
( 48,918 )
Fee and other income
831
1,381
1,339
Goodwill impairment charge
—
Net investment income
6,636
Net investment gains (losses)
( 11,975 )
Income (loss) before income taxes
( 52,876 )
Income tax expense (benefit)
( 14,191 )
Net income (loss)
( 38,685 )
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest
( 679 )
Net income (loss) attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.
$ ( 38,006 )
Operating Ratios:
Loss and loss adjustment expense ratio
84.3 %
58.9 %
137.6 %
55.9 %
68.6 %
89.0 %
Expense ratio
28.0 %
40.4 %
29.6 %
8.8 %
27.6 %
29.0 %
Combined ratio
112.3 %
99.3 %
167.2 %
64.7 %
96.2 %
118.0 %
Balances at December 31, 2022:
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable
$ 20,669
$ 14,884
$ 9,388
$ 381
$ 2,024
$ 47,346
Deferred policy acquisition costs
5,040
9,378
7,376
—
881
22,675
Reinsurance recoverables on losses
1,440
—
5,732
589
825
8,586
Receivable from Federal Crop Insurance Corporation
—
—
—
15,462
—
15,462
Goodwill and other intangibles
—
2,761
—
—
—
2,761
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
27,439
46,231
27,989
2,145
10,492
114,296
Unearned premiums
30,721
29,301
44,957
—
5,947
110,926
(1) Other underwriting and general expenses for each segment include
expenses related to compensation, vendor services, and other administrative items.
100
22. Statutory
Net Income (Loss), Capital and Surplus, and Dividend Restrictions
The following table presents selected information,
as filed with insurance regulatory authorities, for our insurance subsidiaries as determined in accordance with accounting practices prescribed
or permitted by such insurance regulatory authorities as of and for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022:
2024
2023
2022
Nodak Insurance:
Statutory capital and surplus
$ 189,694
$ 176,783
$ 175,673
Statutory unassigned surplus
184,694
171,783
170,673
Statutory net income (loss)
8,492
7,839
( 29,978 )
American West:
Statutory capital and surplus
16,315
15,423
14,957
Statutory unassigned surplus
10,314
9,422
8,956
Statutory net income (loss)
1,001
( 38 )
( 3,228 )
Primero:
Statutory capital and surplus
9,056
8,585
8,677
Statutory unassigned surplus
( 203 )
( 675 )
( 582 )
Statutory net income (loss)
395
( 136 )
( 1,211 )
Battle Creek:
Statutory capital and surplus
6,132
6,047
5,660
Statutory unassigned surplus
3,132
3,047
2,660
Statutory net income (loss)
162
146
( 1,189 )
Direct Auto:
Statutory capital and surplus
36,875
32,843
32,054
Statutory unassigned surplus
33,875
29,843
29,054
Statutory net income (loss)
3,325
90
( 6,074 )
Westminster:
Statutory capital and surplus
—
21,328
20,090
Statutory unassigned surplus
—
16,328
15,090
Statutory net income (loss)
—
1,200
( 3,861 )
State insurance laws require our insurance subsidiaries
to maintain certain minimum capital and surplus amounts on a statutory basis. Our insurance subsidiaries are subject to regulations that
restrict the payment of dividends from statutory surplus and may require prior approval from their domiciliary insurance regulatory authorities.
Our insurance subsidiaries are also subject to risk-based capital requirements that may further affect their ability to pay dividends.
Our insurance subsidiaries statutory capital and surplus at December 31, 2024 and 2023 exceeded
the amount of statutory capital and surplus necessary to satisfy risk-based capital requirements by a significant margin .
Amounts available for distribution in 2025 to
Nodak Insurance as dividends from its insurance subsidiaries without prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department are $ 1,001
from American West, $ 324 from Primero, and $ 158 from Battle Creek. No dividends were paid to Nodak Insurance from any of these entities
during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, or 2022.
The amount available for payment of dividends from Nodak Insurance
to NI Holdings during 2025 without the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department is approximately $ 8,273 as of December
31, 2024. No dividends were declared or paid by Nodak Insurance during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. The Nodak Insurance
Board of Directors declared and paid dividends of $ 3,000 to NI Holdings during the year ended December 31, 2022.
101
The amount available for payment of dividends from Direct Auto to
NI Holdings during 2025 without the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department is approximately $ 3,146 as of December 31,
2024. No dividends were declared or paid by Direct Auto during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, or 2022.
Prior to its payment of any dividend, each insurance company will
be required to provide notice of the dividend to the North Dakota Insurance Department. This notice must be provided to the North Dakota
Insurance Department 30 days prior to the payment of an extraordinary dividend and 10 days prior to the payment of an ordinary dividend.
The North Dakota Insurance Department has the power to limit or prohibit dividend payments if an insurance company is in violation of
any law or regulation. These restrictions or any subsequently imposed restrictions may affect our future liquidity.
Westminster was sold on June 30, 2024, and therefore no dividends
are available to be paid to NI Holdings subsequent to that date. No dividends were declared or paid by Westminster during the years ended
December 31, 2024, 2023 or 2022. See Part II, Item 8, Note 20 “Discontinued Operations” for additional information.
102
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
There have been no changes or disagreements with
accountants on accounting and financial disclosure.