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Business, Basis of Presentation, and Significant Accounting Policies
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2022
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Business, Basis of Presentation, and Significant Accounting Policies
1. Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies

Athene Holding Ltd. (AHL), a Bermuda exempted company, together with its subsidiaries (collectively, Athene, we, our, us, or the Company), is a leading financial services company that specializes in issuing, reinsuring and acquiring retirement savings products in the United States (US) and internationally.

We conduct business primarily through the following consolidated subsidiaries:

Our non-US reinsurance subsidiaries, to which AHL’s other insurance subsidiaries and third-party ceding companies directly and indirectly reinsure a portion of their liabilities, including Athene Life Re Ltd. (ALRe), a Bermuda exempted company, Athene Annuity Re Ltd. (AARe) and Athene Life Re International Ltd. (ALReI); and
Athene USA Corporation, an Iowa corporation (together with its subsidiaries, AUSA).

Consolidation and Basis of Presentation—Our consolidated financial statements include our wholly owned subsidiaries and investees in which we hold a controlling financial interest, including variable interest entities (VIEs). Investees in which we do not hold a controlling financial interest, but have the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financing decisions, other than investments for which we have elected the fair value option, are accounted for under the equity method. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

For entities that are consolidated, but not wholly owned, we allocate a portion of the income or loss and corresponding equity to the owners other than us. We include the aggregate of the income or loss and corresponding equity that is not owned by us in noncontrolling interests in the consolidated financial statements.

We report investments in related parties separately, as further described in the accounting policies that follow.

We have prepared the consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (US GAAP), which requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period. Actual experience could materially differ from these estimates and assumptions. Our principal estimates impact:

fair value of investments;
impairment of investments and allowances for expected credit losses;
derivatives valuation, including embedded derivatives;
deferred acquisition costs (DAC), deferred sales inducements (DSI) and value of business acquired (VOBA);
future policy benefit reserves; and
valuation allowances on deferred tax assets.

Additional details around these principal estimates and assumptions are discussed in the significant accounting policies that follow and the related footnote disclosures.

Merger – On January 1, 2022, we completed our merger with Apollo Global Management, Inc. (AGM, and together with its subsidiaries other than us or our subsidiaries, Apollo) and are now a direct wholly owned subsidiary of AGM. We have elected pushdown accounting in which we use AGM’s basis of accounting, which reflects the fair market value of our assets and liabilities at the time of the merger, unless otherwise prescribed by US GAAP. Our consolidated financial statements are presented as Predecessor for the periods prior to the merger and Successor for subsequent periods. See Note 2 – Business Combination for further information on the merger.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Investments

Fixed Maturity Securities – Fixed maturity securities includes bonds, collateralized loan obligations (CLO), asset-backed securities (ABS), residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS), commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) and redeemable preferred stock. We classify fixed maturity securities as available-for-sale (AFS) or trading at the time of purchase and subsequently carry them at fair value. Fair value hierarchy and valuation methodologies are discussed in Note 6 – Fair Value. Classification is dependent on a variety of factors including our expected holding period, election of the fair value option and asset and liability matching.

AFS Securities – AFS securities are held at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets with unrealized gains and losses, net of allowances for expected credit losses, tax and adjustments to DAC, DSI, VOBA and future policy benefits, if applicable, generally reflected in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI) on the consolidated balance sheets. Unrealized gains or losses relating to identified risks within AFS securities in fair value hedging relationships are reflected in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss).
Trading Securities – We elected the fair value option for certain fixed maturity securities. These fixed maturity securities are classified as trading, with changes to fair value included in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss). Although the securities are classified as trading, the trading activity related to these investments is primarily focused on asset and liability matching activities and is not intended to be an income strategy based on active trading. As such, the activity related to these investments on the consolidated statements of cash flows is classified as investing activities.

We generally record security transactions on a trade date basis, with any unsettled trades recorded in other assets or other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. Bank loans, private placements and investment funds are recorded on settlement date basis.

Equity Securities – Equity securities includes common stock, mutual funds and non-redeemable preferred stock. Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are carried at fair value with subsequent changes in fair value recognized in net income. We have elected to account for certain equity securities without readily determinable fair values that do not qualify for the practical expedient to estimate fair values based on net asset value (NAV) per share (or its equivalent) at cost less impairment, subject to adjustments based on observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments of the same issuer.

Purchased Credit Deteriorated (PCD) Investments – We purchase certain structured securities, primarily RMBS, which upon our assessment have been determined to meet the definition of PCD investments. Additionally, structured securities classified as beneficial interests follow the initial measurement guidance for PCD investments if there is a significant difference between contractual cash flows adjusted for expected prepayments and expected cash flows at the date of recognition. The initial allowance for credit losses for PCD investments is recorded through a gross-up adjustment to the initial amortized cost. For structured securities classified as beneficial interests, the initial allowance is calculated as the present value of the difference between contractual cash flows adjusted for expected prepayments and expected cash flows at the date of recognition. The non-credit purchase discount or premium is amortized into investment income using the effective interest method. The credit discount, represented by the allowance for expected credit losses, is remeasured each period following the policies for measuring credit losses described in the Credit Losses – Available-for-Sale Securities section below.

Mortgage Loans – Effective January 1, 2022, we elected the fair value option on our mortgage loan portfolio. Interest income is accrued on the principal amount of the loan based on its contractual interest rate. We accrue interest on loans until it is probable we will not receive interest, or the loan is 90 days past due unless guaranteed by US government-sponsored agencies. Interest income and prepayment fees are reported in net investment income on the consolidated statements of income (loss). Changes in the fair value of the mortgage loan portfolio are reported in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

Prior to January 1, 2022, mortgage loans were primarily stated at unpaid principal balance, adjusted for any unamortized premium or discount, and net of allowances for expected credit losses. We recorded amortization of premiums and discounts using the effective yield method and contractual cash flows on the underlying loan. Amortization of premiums and discounts were reported in net investment income on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

Investment Funds – We invest in certain non-fixed income, alternative investments in the form of limited partnerships or similar legal structures (investment funds). For investment funds in which we do not hold a controlling financial interest, and therefore are not required to consolidate, we typically account for these investments using the equity method, where the cost is recorded as an investment in the fund, or we have elected the fair value option. Adjustments to the carrying amount reflect our pro rata ownership percentage of the operating results as indicated by NAV in the investment fund financial statements, which can be on a lag of up to three months when investee information is not received in a timely manner.

We record our proportionate share of investment fund income within net investment income on the consolidated statements of income (loss). Contributions paid or distributions received by us are recorded directly to the investment fund balance as an increase to carrying value or as a return of capital, respectively.

Policy Loans – Policy loans are funds provided to policyholders in return for a claim on the policyholder’s account balance. The funds provided are limited to a specified percentage of the account balance. The majority of policy loans do not have a stated maturity and the balances and accrued interest are repaid with proceeds from the policyholder’s account balance. Policy loans are reported at the unpaid principal balance. Interest income is recorded as earned using the contract interest rate and is reported in net investment income on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

Funds Withheld at Interest – Funds withheld at interest represents a receivable for amounts contractually withheld by ceding companies in accordance with funds withheld coinsurance (funds withheld) and modified coinsurance (modco) reinsurance agreements in which we are the reinsurer. Generally, assets equal to statutory reserves are withheld and legally owned by the ceding company, and any excess or shortfall is settled periodically. The underlying agreements contain embedded derivatives as discussed below.

Short-term Investments – Short-term investments consists of financial instruments with maturities of greater than three months but less than twelve months when purchased. Short-term debt securities are accounted for as trading or AFS consistent with our policies for those investments. Short-term loans are carried at amortized cost. Fair values are determined consistent with methodologies described in Note 6 – Fair Value for the respective investment type.
Other Investments – Other investments includes, but is not limited to, term loans collateralized by mortgages on residential and commercial real estate and other uncollateralized loans. Effective January 1, 2022, we elected the fair value option on these loans. Prior to January 1, 2022, mortgage collateralized term and uncollaterialized loans were stated at unpaid principal balance, adjusted for any unamortized premium or discount, and net of allowances for expected credit losses.

Interest income is accrued on the principal amount of the loan based on its contractual interest rate. We accrue interest on loans until it is probable we will not receive interest or the loan is 90 days past due. We recorded amortization of premiums and discounts using the effective interest method and contractual cash flows on the underlying loan. Interest income, amortization of premiums and discounts, and prepayment and other fees are included in net investment income on the consolidated statements of income (loss). Changes in fair value are included in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

Securities Repurchase and Reverse Repurchase Agreements – Securities repurchase and reverse repurchase transactions involve the temporary exchange of securities for cash or other collateral of equivalent value, with agreement to redeliver a like quantity of the same or similar securities at a future date and at a fixed and determinable price. We evaluate transfers of securities under these agreements to repurchase or resell to determine whether they satisfy the criteria for accounting treatment as secured borrowing or lending arrangements. Agreements not meeting the criteria would require recognition of the transferred securities as sales or purchases, with related forward repurchase or resale commitments. All of our securities repurchase transactions are accounted for as secured borrowings and are included in payables for collateral on derivatives and securities to repurchase on the consolidated balance sheets. Earnings from investing activities related to the cash received under our securities repurchase arrangements are included in net investment income on the consolidated statements of income (loss). The associated borrowing cost is included in policy and other operating expenses on the consolidated statements of income (loss). The investments purchased in reverse repurchase agreements, which represent collateral on a secured lending arrangement, are not reflected in our consolidated balance sheets; however, the secured lending arrangement is recorded as a short-term investment for the principal amount loaned under the agreement.

Investment Income – We recognize investment income as it accrues or is legally due, net of investment management and custody fees. Investment income on fixed maturity securities includes coupon interest, as well as the amortization of any premium and the accretion of any discount. Investment income on equity securities represents dividend income and preferred coupons interest. Realized gains and losses on sales of investments are included in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss). Realized gains and losses on investments sold are determined based on a first-in first-out method.

Credit Losses – Assets Held at Amortized Cost and Off-Balance Sheet Credit Exposures – We establish an allowance for expected credit losses at the time of purchase for assets held at amortized cost, which primarily historically included our residential and commercial mortgage loan portfolios, but also includes certain other loans and reinsurance assets. The allowance for expected credit losses represents the portion of the asset's amortized cost basis that we do not expect to collect due to credit losses over the asset's contractual life, considering past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions or macroeconomic forecasts. We use a quantitative probability of default and loss given default methodology to develop our estimate of expected credit loss. We develop the estimate on a collective basis factoring in the risk characteristics of the assets in the portfolio. If an asset does not share similar risk characteristics with other assets, the asset is individually assessed.

Allowance estimates are highly dependent on expectations of future economic conditions and macroeconomic forecasts, which involve significant judgment and subjectivity. We use quantitative modeling to develop the allowance for expected credit losses. Key inputs into the model include data pertaining to the characteristics of the assets, historical losses and current market conditions. Additionally, the model incorporates management’s expectations around future economic conditions and macroeconomic forecasts over a reasonable and supportable forecast period, after which the model reverts to historical averages. These inputs, the reasonable and supportable forecast period, and reversion to historical average technique are subject to a formal governance and review process by management. Additionally, management considers qualitative adjustments to the model output to the extent that any relevant information regarding the collectability of the asset is available and not already considered in the quantitative model. If we determine that a financial asset has become collateral dependent, which we determine to be the point at which foreclosure is probable, the allowance is measured as the difference between amortized cost and the fair value of the collateral, less any expected costs to sell.

The initial allowance for assets held at amortized cost other than for PCD investments, and subsequent changes in the allowance including PCD investments, are recorded through the provision for credit losses within investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss). The provision for credit losses for reinsurance assets held at amortized cost is recorded through policy and other operating expenses on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

We limit accrued interest income on loans to 90 days of interest. Once a loan becomes 90 days past due, the loan is put on non-accrual status and any accrued interest is written off. Once a loan is on non-accrual status, we first apply any payments received to the principal of the loan, and once the principal is repaid, we include amounts received in net investment income. We have elected to present accrued interest receivable separately in accrued investment income on the consolidated balance sheets. We have also elected the practical expedient to exclude the accrued interest receivable from the amortized cost balance used to calculate the allowance given our policy to write off such balances in a timely manner. Any write-off of accrued interest is recorded through a reversal of net investment income on the consolidated statements of income (loss).
Upon determining that all or a portion of the amortized cost of an asset is uncollectible, which is generally when all efforts for collection are exhausted, the amortized cost is written off against the existing allowance. Any write off in excess of the existing allowance is recorded through the provision for credit losses within investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

We also have certain off-balance sheet credit exposures for which we establish a liability for expected credit losses. These exposures primarily relate to commitments to fund commercial or residential mortgage loans that are not unconditionally cancellable. The methodology for estimating the liability for these credit exposures is consistent with that described above, with the additional consideration pertaining to the probability of funding. At the time the commitment expires or is funded, the liability is reversed and an allowance for expected credit losses is established, as applicable. The liability for off-balance sheet credit exposures is included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The establishment of the initial liability and all subsequent changes are recorded through the provision for credit losses within investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

Credit Losses – Available-for-Sale Securities – We evaluate AFS securities with a fair value that has declined below amortized cost to determine how the decline in fair value should be recognized. If we determine, based on the facts and circumstances related to the specific security, that we intend to sell a security or it is more likely than not that we would be required to sell a security before the recovery of its amortized cost, any existing allowance for expected credit losses is reversed and the amortized cost of the security is written down to fair value. If neither of these conditions exist, we evaluate whether the decline in fair value has resulted from a credit loss or other factors.

For non-structured AFS securities, we qualitatively consider relevant facts and circumstances in evaluating whether a decline below fair value is credit-related. Relevant facts and circumstances include but are not limited to: (1) the extent to which the fair value is less than amortized cost; (2) changes in agency credit ratings, (3) adverse conditions related to the security’s industry or geographical area, (4) failure to make scheduled payments, and (5) other known changes in the financial condition of the issuer or quality of any underlying collateral or credit enhancements. For structured AFS securities meeting the definition of beneficial interests, the qualitative assessment is bypassed, and any securities having experienced a decline in fair value below amortized cost move directly to a quantitative analysis.

If upon completion of this analysis it is determined that a potential credit loss exists, an allowance for expected credit losses is established equal to the amount by which the present value of expected cash flows is less than amortized cost, limited by the amount by which fair value is less than amortized cost. A non-structured security’s cash flow estimates are derived from scenario-based outcomes of expected corporate restructurings or the disposition of assets using security-specific facts and circumstances including timing, security interests and loss severity. A structured security’s cash flow estimates are based on security-specific facts and circumstances that may include collateral characteristics, expectations of delinquency and default rates, loss severity, prepayments and structural support, including subordination and guarantees. The expected cash flows are discounted at the effective interest rate implicit to the security at the date of purchase or the current yield to accrete a structured security. For securities with a contractual interest rate that varies based on changes in an independent factor, such as an index or rate, the effective interest rate is calculated based on the factor as it changes over the life of the security. Inherently under the discounted cash flow model, both the timing and amount of expected cash flows affect the measurement of the allowance for expected credit losses.

The allowance for expected credit losses is remeasured each period for the passage of time, any change in expected cash flows, and changes in the fair value of the security. All impairments, whether intent or requirement to sell or credit-related, are recorded through a charge to the provision for credit losses within investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss). All changes in the allowance for expected credit losses are recorded through the provision for credit losses within investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

We have elected to present accrued interest receivable separately in accrued investment income on the consolidated balance sheets. We have also elected the practical expedient to exclude the accrued interest receivable from the amortized cost balance used to calculate the allowance for expected credit losses, as we have a policy to write off such balances in a timely manner, when they become 90 days past due. Any write-off of accrued interest is recorded through a reversal of net investment income on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

Upon determining that all or a portion of the amortized cost of an asset is uncollectible, which is generally when all efforts for collection are exhausted, the amortized cost is written off against the existing allowance. Any write off in excess of the existing allowance is recorded through the provision for credit losses within investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

Derivative Instruments—We invest in derivatives to hedge the risks experienced in our ongoing operations, such as equity, interest rate and cash flow risks, or for other risk management purposes, which primarily involve managing liability risks associated with our indexed annuity products and reinsurance agreements. Derivatives are financial instruments with values that are derived from interest rates, foreign exchange rates, financial indices or other combinations of an underlying and notional. Derivative assets and liabilities are carried at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. We elect to present any derivatives subject to master netting provisions as a gross asset or liability and gross of collateral. Disclosures regarding balance sheet presentation of derivatives subject to master netting agreements are discussed in Note 4 – Derivative Instruments. We may designate derivatives as cash flow, fair value or net investment hedges.
Hedge Documentation and Hedge Effectiveness – To qualify for hedge accounting, at the inception of the hedging relationship, we formally document our designation of the hedge as a cash flow, fair value or net investment hedge and our risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedging transaction. In this documentation, we identify how the hedging instrument is expected to hedge the designated risks related to the hedged item and the method that will be used to retrospectively and prospectively assess the hedge effectiveness and the method which will be used to measure ineffectiveness. A derivative designated as a hedging instrument must be assessed as being highly effective in offsetting the designated risk of the hedged item. Hedge effectiveness is formally assessed at inception and periodically throughout the life of the hedge accounting relationship.

For a cash flow hedge, all changes in the fair value of the hedging derivative are reported within AOCI and the related gains or losses on the derivative are reclassified into the consolidated statements of income (loss) when the cash flows of the hedged item affect earnings.

For a fair value hedge, changes in the fair value of the hedging derivative and changes in the fair value of the hedged item related to the designated risk being hedged are reported on the consolidated statements of income (loss) according to the nature of the risk being hedged. Additionally, changes in the fair value of amounts excluded from the assessment of effectiveness are recorded in AOCI and amortized into income over the life of the hedge accounting relationship.

For a net investment hedge, changes in the fair value of the hedging derivative are reported within AOCI to offset the translation adjustments for subsidiaries with functional currencies other than US dollar.

We discontinue hedge accounting prospectively when: (1) we determine the derivative is no longer highly effective in offsetting changes in the estimated cash flows or fair value of a hedged item; (2) the derivative expires, is sold, terminated, or exercised; or (3) the derivative is de-designated as a hedging instrument. When hedge accounting is discontinued, the derivative continues to be carried on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

For a derivative not designated as a hedge, changes in the derivative’s fair value and any income received or paid on derivatives at the settlement date are included in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

Embedded Derivatives – We issue and reinsure products, primarily indexed annuity products, or purchase investments that contain embedded derivatives. If we determine the embedded derivative has economic characteristics not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the host contract, and a separate instrument with the same terms would qualify as a derivative instrument, the embedded derivative is bifurcated from the host contract and accounted for separately, unless the fair value option is elected on the host contract. Under the fair value option, bifurcation of the embedded derivative is not necessary as the entire contract is carried at fair value with all related gains and losses recognized in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss). Embedded derivatives are carried on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value in the same line item as the host contract.

Fixed indexed annuity, index-linked variable annuity and indexed universal life insurance contracts allow the policyholder to elect a fixed interest rate return or an equity market component for which interest credited is based on the performance of certain equity market indices. The equity market option is an embedded derivative. The benefit reserve is equal to the sum of the fair value of the embedded derivative and the host (or guaranteed) component of the contracts. The fair value of the embedded derivatives represents the present value of cash flows attributable to the indexed strategies. The embedded derivative cash flows are based on assumptions for future policy growth, which include assumptions for expected index credits on the next policy anniversary date, future equity option costs, volatility, interest rates and policyholder behavior assumptions including lapses and the use of benefit riders. The embedded derivative cash flows are discounted using a rate that reflects our own credit rating. The host contract is established at contract inception as the initial account value less the initial fair value of the embedded derivative and accreted over the policy’s life. Contracts acquired through a business combination which contain an embedded derivative are re-bifurcated as of the acquisition date. Changes in the fair value of embedded derivatives associated with fixed indexed annuities, index-linked variable annuities and indexed universal life insurance contracts are included in interest sensitive contract benefits on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

Additionally, reinsurance agreements written on a funds withheld or modco basis contain embedded derivatives. We have determined that the right to receive or obligation to pay the total return on the assets supporting the funds withheld at interest or funds withheld liability, respectively, represents a total return swap with a floating rate leg. The fair value of embedded derivatives on funds withheld and modco agreements is computed as the unrealized gain (loss) on the underlying assets and is included within funds withheld at interest for assumed agreements, and for ceded agreements the funds withheld liability is included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The change in the fair value of the embedded derivatives is recorded in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income (loss). Assumed and ceded earnings from funds withheld at interest, funds withheld liability and changes in the fair value of embedded derivatives are reported in operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows. Contributions to and withdrawals from funds withheld at interest and funds withheld liability are reported in operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows.

Variable Interest Entities—An entity that does not have sufficient equity to finance its activities without additional financial support, or in which the equity investors, as a group, do not have the characteristics typically afforded to common shareholders is a VIE. The determination as to whether an entity qualifies as a VIE depends on the facts and circumstances surrounding each entity and may require significant judgment. Our investment funds typically qualify as VIEs and are evaluated for consolidation under the VIE model.
We are required to consolidate a VIE if we are the primary beneficiary, defined as the variable interest holder with both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and rights to receive benefits or obligations to absorb losses that could be potentially significant to the VIE. We determine whether we are the primary beneficiary of an entity based on a qualitative assessment of the VIE’s capital structure, contractual terms, nature of the VIE’s operations and purpose and our relative exposure to the related risks of the VIE. Since affiliates of AGM, a related party under common control, are the decision makers in certain of the investment funds and securitization vehicles, we and a member of our related party group may together have the characteristics of the primary beneficiary of an investment fund. In this situation, we have concluded we consolidate the VIE when we have significant economic exposure to the entity. We reassess the VIE and primary beneficiary determinations on an ongoing basis.

For entities that we do not consolidate but can exercise significant influence over the entities’ operating and financing decisions, we record our investment under the equity method. If we do not consolidate and do not have significant influence, generally on investment funds in which we own a less than 3% interest, we elect the fair value option.
See Note 5 – Variable Interest Entities for discussion of our interest in entities that meet the definition of a VIE.
Goodwill—Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of identifiable net assets of an acquired business. Goodwill is tested annually for impairment or more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. The impairment test is performed at the reporting unit level. Goodwill on the consolidated balance sheets includes the impacts of foreign currency translation.

We performed our annual goodwill impairment test as of October 1, 2022 and did not identify any impairment. See Note 2 – Business Combination for disclosure regarding the goodwill recorded related to our merger with AGM.

Reinsurance—We assume and cede insurance and investment contracts under coinsurance, funds withheld and modco. We follow reinsurance accounting for transactions that provide indemnification against loss or liability relating to insurance risk (risk transfer). To meet risk transfer requirements, a reinsurance agreement must transfer insurance risk arising from uncertainties about both underwriting and timing risks. Cessions under reinsurance do not discharge our obligations as the primary insurer, unless the requirements of assumption reinsurance have been met. We generally have the right of offset on reinsurance contracts, but have elected to present reinsurance settlement amounts due to and from us on a gross basis.

Assets and liabilities assumed or ceded under coinsurance, funds withheld, or modco are presented gross on the consolidated balance sheets. For investment contracts, the change in assumed and ceded reserves are presented net in interest sensitive contract benefits on the consolidated statements of income (loss). For insurance contracts, the change in assumed and ceded reserves and benefits are presented net in future policy and other policy benefits on the consolidated statements of income (loss). Assumed or ceded premiums are included in premiums on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

Accounting for reinsurance requires the use of assumptions, particularly related to the future performance of the underlying business and the potential impact of counterparty credit risks. We attempt to minimize our counterparty credit risk through the structuring of the terms of our reinsurance agreements, including the use of trusts, and we monitor credit ratings of counterparties for signs of declining credit quality. When a ceding company does not report information on a timely basis, we record accruals based on the best available information at the time, which includes the reinsurance agreement terms and historical experience. We periodically compare actual and anticipated experience to the assumptions used to establish reinsurance assets and liabilities. See Note 7 – Reinsurance for more information.

Funds Withheld and Modco – For business assumed or ceded on a funds withheld or modco basis, a funds withheld segregated portfolio, comprised of invested assets and other assets is maintained by the ceding entity, which is sufficient to support the current balance of statutory reserves. The fair value of the funds withheld is recorded as a funds withheld asset or liability and any excess or shortfall in relation to statutory reserves is settled periodically.

Cash and Cash Equivalents—Cash and cash equivalents include deposits and short-term highly liquid investments with an original maturity of less than 90 days from the date of acquisition. Amounts included are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and are subject to an insignificant risk of change in value.

Restricted Cash—Restricted cash primarily consists of cash and cash equivalents held in funds in trust as part of certain coinsurance agreements to secure statutory reserves and liabilities of the coinsured parties. Restricted cash is reported separately on the consolidated balance sheets, but is included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period amounts shown on the consolidated statements of cash flows.

Investments in Related Parties—Investments in related parties and associated earnings, other comprehensive income and cash flows are separately identified on the consolidated financial statements and accounted for consistently with the policies described above for each category of investment. Investments in related parties are primarily comprised of investments over which Apollo can exercise significant influence.
Deferred Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements and Value of Business Acquired

Deferred Acquisition Costs and Deferred Sales Inducements – Costs related directly to the successful acquisition of new, or renewal of, insurance or investment contracts are deferred to the extent they are recoverable from future premiums or gross profits. These costs consist of commissions and policy issuance costs, as well as sales inducements credited to policyholder account balances, and are included in deferred acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and value of business acquired on the consolidated balance sheets. We perform periodic tests, including at issuance, to determine if the deferred costs are recoverable. If we determine that the deferred costs are not recoverable, we record a cumulative charge to the current period.

Deferred costs related to universal life-type policies and investment contracts with significant revenue streams from sources other than investment of the policyholder funds are amortized over the lives of the policies, based upon the proportion of the present value of actual and expected deferred costs to the present value of actual and expected gross profits to be earned over the life of the policies. Gross profits include investment spread margins, surrender charge income, policy administration charges and expenses, changes in the guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit (GLWB) and guaranteed minimum death benefit (GMDB) reserves and realized gains and losses on investments. Current period gross profits for fixed indexed annuities also include the change in fair value of both freestanding and embedded derivatives. Estimates of the expected gross profits and margins are based on assumptions using accepted actuarial methods related to policyholder behavior, including lapses and the utilization of benefit riders, mortality, yields on investments supporting the liabilities, future interest credited amounts (including indexed related credited amounts on fixed indexed annuity products), and other policy changes as applicable, and the level of expenses necessary to maintain the policies over their expected lives. Each reporting period, we update estimated gross profits with actual gross profits as part of the amortization process and adjust the DAC and DSI balances due to the other comprehensive income (OCI) effects of unrealized investment gains and losses on AFS securities. We also periodically revise the key assumptions used in the amortization calculation, which results in revisions to the estimated future gross profits. The effects of changes in assumptions are recorded as unlocking in the period in which the changes are made.

Deferred costs related to investment contracts without significant revenue streams from sources other than investment of the policyholder funds are amortized using the effective interest method. The effective interest method amortizes the deferred costs by discounting the future liability cash flows at a break-even rate. The break-even rate is solved for such that the present value of future liability cash flows is equal to the net liability at the inception of the contract.

Value of Business Acquired – We establish VOBA for blocks of insurance contracts acquired through the acquisition of insurance entities and through application of pushdown accounting. We record the fair value of the liabilities assumed in two components: reserves and VOBA. Reserves are established using our best estimate assumptions, plus a provision for adverse deviation where applicable, as of the business combination date. VOBA is the difference between the fair value of the liabilities and the reserves. VOBA can be either positive or negative. Any negative VOBA is recorded to the same financial statement line on the consolidated balance sheets as the associated reserves. Positive VOBA is recorded in deferred acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and value of business acquired on the consolidated balance sheets. We perform periodic tests to determine if the VOBA remains recoverable. If we determine that VOBA is not recoverable, we record a cumulative charge to the current period.

In connection with the application of pushdown accounting, we changed our VOBA amortization such that all VOBA and negative VOBA balances are amortized in relation to applicable policyholder liabilities. Significant assumptions that impact VOBA and negative VOBA amortization are consistent with those that impact the measurement of policyholder liabilities.

Prior to the application of pushdown accounting, VOBA associated with investment contracts without significant revenue streams from sources other than investment of the policyholder funds was amortized using the effective interest method. VOBA associated with immediate annuity contracts classified as long duration contracts was amortized at a constant rate in relation to net policyholder liabilities. For universal life-type policies and investment contracts with significant revenue streams from sources other than investment of policyholder funds, VOBA was amortized in relation to the present value of estimated gross profits using methods consistent with those used to amortize DAC and DSI. Negative VOBA was amortized at a constant rate in relation to applicable net policyholder liabilities.

See Note 8 – Deferred Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements and Value of Business Acquired for further information.

Interest Sensitive Contract Liabilities—Universal life-type policies and investment contracts include fixed indexed and traditional fixed annuities in the accumulation phase, funding agreements, universal life insurance, fixed indexed universal life insurance and immediate annuities without significant mortality risk (which includes pension group annuities without life contingencies). We carry liabilities for fixed annuities, universal life insurance and funding agreements at the account balances without reduction for potential surrender or withdrawal charges, except for a block of universal life business ceded to Global Atlantic Financial Group Limited (together with its subsidiaries, Global Atlantic) which we carry at fair value. Liabilities for immediate annuities without significant mortality risk are calculated as the present value of future liability cash flows and policy maintenance expenses discounted at contractual interest rates. For a discussion regarding our indexed products, refer above to the embedded derivative discussion.

Changes in the interest sensitive contract liabilities, excluding deposits and withdrawals, are recorded in interest sensitive contract benefits or product charges on the consolidated statements of income (loss). Interest sensitive contract liabilities are not reduced for amounts ceded under reinsurance agreements which are reported as reinsurance recoverable on the consolidated balance sheets. See the reinsurance accounting policy discussed in –Reinsurance above and Note 7 – Reinsurance for more information on reinsurance.
Future Policy Benefits—We issue contracts classified as long-duration, which includes term and whole life, accident and health, disability, and deferred and immediate annuities with life contingencies (which includes pension group annuities with life contingencies). Liabilities for nonparticipating long-duration contracts are established using accepted actuarial valuation methods which require the use of assumptions related to expenses, investment yields, mortality, morbidity and persistency, with a provision for adverse deviation, at the date of issue or acquisition. As of December 31, 2022, the reserve investment yield assumptions for nonparticipating contracts range from 2.3% to 6.6% and are specific to our expected earned rate on the asset portfolio supporting the reserves. We base other key assumptions, such as mortality and morbidity, on industry standard data adjusted to align with actual company experience, if necessary.

For long-duration contracts, the assumptions are locked in at contract inception and only modified if we deem the reserves to be inadequate. We periodically review actual and anticipated experience compared to the assumptions used to establish policy benefits. If the net US GAAP liability (gross reserves less DAC, DSI and VOBA) is less than the gross premium liability, impairment is deemed to have occurred, and the DAC, DSI and VOBA asset balances are reduced until the net US GAAP liability is equal to the gross premium liability. If the DAC, DSI and VOBA asset balances are completely written off and the net US GAAP liability is still less than the gross premium liability, then an additional liability is recorded to arrive at the gross premium liability.

We issue and reinsure deferred annuity contracts which contain GLWB and GMDB riders. We establish future policy benefits for GLWB and GMDB riders by estimating the expected value of withdrawal and death benefits in excess of the projected policyholder account balances. We recognize the excess proportionally over the accumulation period based on total actual and expected assessments. The methods we use to estimate the liabilities have assumptions about policyholder behavior, which includes lapses, withdrawals and utilization of benefit riders; mortality, expected yield on investments supporting the liability; and market conditions affecting the account balance growth.

Future policy benefits includes liabilities for no-lapse guarantees on universal life insurance and fixed indexed universal life insurance. We establish future policy benefits for no-lapse guarantees by estimating the expected value of death benefits paid after policyholder account balances have been exhausted. We recognize these benefits proportionally over the life of the contracts based on total actual and expected assessments. The methods we use to estimate the liabilities have assumptions about policyholder behavior, mortality, expected yield on investments supporting the liability, and market conditions affecting policyholder account balance growth.

For the liabilities associated with GLWB and GMDB riders and no-lapse guarantees, each reporting period, we update expected excess benefits and assessments with actual excess benefits and assessments and adjust the liability balances due to the OCI effects of unrealized investment gains and losses on AFS securities. We also periodically revise the key assumptions used in the calculation of the liabilities which results in revisions to the expected excess benefits and assessments. The effects of changes in assumptions are recorded as unlocking in the period in which the changes are made.

Changes in future policy benefits other than the adjustment for the OCI effects of unrealized investment gains and losses on AFS securities, are recorded in future policy and other policy benefits on the consolidated statements of income (loss). Future policy benefits are not reduced for amounts ceded under reinsurance agreements which are reported as reinsurance recoverable on the consolidated balance sheets. See the reinsurance accounting policy discussed in –Reinsurance above and Note 7 – Reinsurance for more information on reinsurance.

Closed Block Business—We established closed blocks of policies in connection with the reorganization of two predecessor subsidiaries from mutual companies to stock companies, collectively referred to as the Closed Blocks, and individually referred to as the AmerUs Life Insurance Company (AmerUs) closed block (AmerUs Closed Block) and the Indianapolis Life Insurance Company (ILICO) closed block (ILICO Closed Block). Insurance policies which had a dividend scale in effect as of each closed block establishment date were included in the respective closed block. The Closed Blocks were designed to give reasonable assurance to owners of insurance policies included therein that, after the reorganization, assets would be available to maintain the dividend scales and interest credits in effect prior to the reorganization, if the experience underlying such scales and crediting continued. The assets, including related revenue, allocated to the Closed Blocks will accrue solely to the benefit of the policyholders included in the Closed Blocks until they no longer exist. A policyholder dividend obligation is required to be established for earnings in the Closed Blocks that are not available to the shareholders. We have elected the fair value option for the AmerUs Closed Block and the ILICO Closed Block. See Note 9 – Closed Block for more information on the Closed Blocks.

Foreign Currency—The accounts of foreign-based subsidiaries and equity method investments are measured using their functional currency. Revenue and expenses of these subsidiaries are translated into US dollars at the average exchange rate for the period. Assets and liabilities are translated at the exchange rate as of the end of the reporting period. For the equity method investments, our proportionate share of the investee’s income is translated into US dollars at the average exchange rate for the period and our investment is translated using the exchange rate as of the end of the reporting period. The resulting translation adjustments are included in equity as a component of AOCI. Gains or losses arising from transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the entity that is party to the transaction are included in net income. The impacts of any non-US dollar denominated AFS securities are included in AOCI along with the change in its fair value unless in a fair value hedging relationship as discussed in –Derivative Instruments above.
Recognition of Revenues and Related Expenses—Revenues for universal life-type policies and investment contracts, including surrender and market value adjustments, costs of insurance, policy administration, GMDB, GLWB and no-lapse guarantee charges, are earned when assessed against policyholder account balances during the period. Interest credited to policyholder account balances and the change in fair value of embedded derivatives within fixed indexed annuity contracts is included in interest sensitive contract benefits on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

Premiums for long-duration contracts, including products with fixed and guaranteed premiums and benefits, are recognized as revenue when due from policyholders. When premiums are due over a significantly shorter period than the period over which benefits are provided, such as immediate annuities with life contingencies (which includes pension group annuities), a deferred profit liability is established equal to the excess of the gross premium over the net premium. The deferred profit liability is recognized in future policy benefits on the consolidated balance sheets and amortized into income in relation to applicable policyholder liabilities through future policy and other policy benefits on the consolidated statements of income (loss).

All insurance related revenue is reported net of reinsurance ceded.

Income Taxes—We compute income taxes using the asset and liability method, under which deferred income taxes are provided for the temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of our assets and liabilities using estimated tax rates expected to be in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Such temporary differences are primarily due to the tax basis of reserves, DAC, VOBA, unrealized investment gains/losses, reinsurance related differences, embedded derivatives and net operating loss carryforwards. Changes in deferred income tax assets and liabilities associated with components of OCI are recorded directly to OCI. Deferred income taxes related to investments in our corporate foreign subsidiaries are computed using an outside basis approach. We record deferred taxes for those components of the outside basis difference, which are expected to reverse in the foreseeable future, without limitation to the overall outside basis difference. We evaluate the likelihood of realizing the benefit of our deferred tax assets and may record a valuation allowance if, based on all available evidence, we determine that it is more likely than not that some portion of the tax benefit will not be realized. We adjust the valuation allowance if, based on our evaluation, there is a change in the amount of deferred income tax assets that are deemed more-likely-than-not to be realized. Changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to changes in enacted income tax rates are recorded through net income in the period of enactment. We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the relevant taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of our position. For those tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, we recognize the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority. We recognize any income tax interest and penalties in income tax expense.

See Note 12 – Income Taxes for discussion on withholding taxes for undistributed earnings of subsidiaries.

Reclassifications—Certain reclassifications have been made to conform with current year presentation.

Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848) (Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2022-06, ASU 2021-01, ASU 2020-04)

We adopted ASU 2020-04 and ASU 2021-01 and elected to apply certain of the practical expedients related to contract modifications, hedge accounting relationships, and derivative modifications pertaining to discounting, margining, or contract price alignment. The main purpose of the practical expedients is to ease the administrative burden of accounting for contracts impacted by reference rate reform, and these elections did not have, and are not expected to have, a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. ASU 2022-06 amended and deferred the sunset date of Topic 848 from December 31, 2022, to December 31, 2024, after which we will no longer be permitted to apply the expedients provided in Topic 848. We will continue to evaluate the impact of reference rate reform on contract modifications and hedging relationships.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

Insurance – Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Long-Duration Contracts (ASU 2020-11, ASU 2019-09, ASU 2018-12)
These updates amend four key areas pertaining to the accounting and disclosures for long-duration insurance and investment contracts.
The update requires cash flow assumptions used to measure the liability for future policy benefits to be updated at least annually and no longer allows a provision for adverse deviation. The remeasurement of the liability associated with the update of assumptions is required to be recognized in net income. Loss recognition testing is eliminated for traditional and limited-payment contracts. The update also requires the discount rate used in measuring the liability to be an upper-medium grade fixed-income instrument yield, which is to be updated at each reporting date. The change in liability due to changes in the discount rate is to be recognized in other comprehensive income.
The update simplifies the amortization of deferred acquisition costs and other balances amortized in proportion to premiums, gross profits, or gross margins, requiring such balances to be amortized on a constant level basis over the expected term of the contracts. Deferred costs are required to be written off for unexpected contract terminations but are not subject to impairment testing.
The update requires certain contract features meeting the definition of market risk benefits to be measured at fair value. Among the features included in this definition are the GLWB and GMDB riders attached to our annuity products. The change in fair value of the market risk benefits is to be recognized in net income, excluding the portion attributable to changes in instrument-specific credit risk which is recognized in other comprehensive income.
The update also introduces disclosure requirements around the liability for future policy benefits, policyholder account balances, market risk benefits, separate account liabilities, and deferred acquisition costs. This includes disaggregated rollforwards of these balances and information about significant inputs, judgments, assumptions and methods used in their measurement.

We were required to adopt these updates on January 1, 2023. Certain provisions of the update are required to be adopted on a fully retrospective basis, while others may be adopted on a modified retrospective basis. Early adoption was permitted. We do not expect that the adoption of this standard will have a material effect on our shareholders’ equity as of our transition date, which is January 1, 2022. Subsequent to the transition date, the remeasurement of liabilities for certain products and features that include use of current discount rates can reasonably be expected to have a significant positive impact on our US GAAP shareholders’ equity as of December 31, 2022, given the increase in rates during 2022. We are continuing to evaluate the quantitative impact of adopting this guidance on our consolidated financial statements for periods subsequent to our transition date.