Amendment No. 3 to Form S-1
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As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 28, 2011

Registration No. 333-173198

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

AMENDMENT NO. 3

TO

FORM S-1

REGISTRATION STATEMENT

UNDER

THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

 

 

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

Delaware   6172   38-0572512
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)
  (Primary Standard Industrial
Classification Code Number)
  (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

200 Renaissance Center

P.O. Box 200

Detroit, MI 48265-2000

(866) 710-4623

(Address, Including Zip Code, and Telephone Number, Including Area Code, of Registrant’s Principal Executive Offices)

 

 

David J. DeBrunner

Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer, and Corporate Controller

Ally Financial Inc.

200 Renaissance Center

P.O. Box 200

Detroit, MI 48265-2000

(866) 710-4623

(Name, Address, Including Zip Code, and Telephone Number, Including Area Code, of Agent For Service)

 

 

Copies to:

 

Richard J. Sandler, Esq.
Richard A. Drucker, Esq.
Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP
450 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10017
(212) 450-4000
 

James J. Clark, Esq.

Noah B. Newitz, Esq.
Brian Kelleher, Esq.
Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP
80 Pine Street
New York, NY 10005-1702
(212) 701-3000

Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: As soon as practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement.

If any of the securities being registered on this form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), check the following box.  ¨

If this form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.  ¨

If this form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.  ¨

If this form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

  Large accelerated filer  ¨      Accelerated filer  ¨
  Non-accelerated filer   x (Do not check if a smaller  reporting company)    Smaller reporting company  ¨

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

 

 

Title Of Each Class

Of Securities To Be Registered

  Proposed Maximum Aggregate Offering
Price(1)(2)
 

Amount Of

Registration Fee

Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share

  $100,000,000   $11,610(3)

Tangible Equity Units

  $100,000,000   $11,610(3)

Stock Purchase Contracts(4)

       

Junior Subordinated Amortizing Notes

       
 
 

 

(1) Estimated solely for the purpose of computing the amount of the registration fee pursuant to Rule 457(o) under the Securities Act .
(2) Includes offering price of shares and units that the underwriters have the option to purchase pursuant to their over-allotment option.
(3) Previously paid.
(4) In accordance with Rule 457(i) under the Securities Act, this registration statement also registers                  shares of our common stock, which is our reasonable good-faith estimate of the maximum number of shares of our common stock that are initially issuable upon settlement of the stock purchase contracts registered hereby. The number of shares of our common stock issuable upon such settlement may vary based on the market price of the common stock registered hereby. In addition, the number of shares of our common stock issuable upon such settlement is subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of certain events described herein. Pursuant to Rule 416 under the Securities Act, the number of shares of our common stock to be registered includes an indeterminable number of shares of common stock that may become issuable upon settlement of the stock purchase contracts as a result of such events.

The Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act or until the Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.

 

 

 


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EXPLANATORY NOTE

This Registration Statement contains a prospectus relating to an offering of shares of our common stock (for purposes of this Explanatory Note, the Common Stock Prospectus), together with separate prospectus pages relating to an offering of our tangible equity units (for purposes of this Explanatory Note, the Units Prospectus). The complete Common Stock Prospectus follows immediately. Following the Common Stock Prospectus are the following alternative and additional pages for the Units Prospectus:

 

   

front and back cover pages, which will replace the front and back cover pages of the Common Stock Prospectus;

 

   

pages for the “Prospectus Summary—The Offering” section, which will replace the “Prospectus Summary—The Offering” section of the Common Stock Prospectus;

 

   

pages for the “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Ownership of the Units, Separate Purchase Contracts, Separate Amortizing Notes and Common Stock” section, which will replace the “Risk Factors—Risks Related to this Offering and Ownership of Our Common Stock” section of the Common Stock Prospectus;

 

   

pages for “Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividends” section, which will be added to the Units Prospectus;

 

   

pages for the “Description of the Units”, “Description of the Purchase Contracts” and “Description of the Amortizing Notes” sections, which will replace the “Concurrent Transactions” section of the Common Stock Prospectus;

 

   

pages for the “Book-Entry Procedures and Settlement” section, which will be added to the Units Prospectus;

 

   

pages for the “Concurrent Transactions” section, which will replace the “Concurrent Transactions” section of the Common Stock Prospectus;

 

   

pages for the “Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations” section, which will replace the “U.S. Federal Tax Considerations for Non-U.S. Holders” section of the Common Stock Prospectus; and

 

   

pages for the “Underwriting” section, which will replace the “Underwriting” section of the Common Stock Prospectus.

In addition, the references to common stock in “Validity of Common Stock” in the Common Stock Prospectus will be replaced with references to tangible equity units in the Units Prospectus.

Each of the complete Common Stock Prospectus and Units Prospectus will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in accordance with Rule 424 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The closing of the offering of common stock is conditioned upon the closing of the offering of Units, and the closing of the offering of Units is conditioned upon the closing of the offering of common stock.


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The information in this preliminary prospectus is not complete and may be changed. The selling stockholder may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This preliminary prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and the selling stockholder is not soliciting offers to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.

 

Subject to Completion, Dated June 28, 2011

PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS

            Shares

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

COMMON STOCK

 

 

The United States Department of the Treasury (the “selling stockholder” or “Treasury”) is offering             shares of common stock of Ally Financial Inc. (“Ally”). See “Principal and Selling Stockholders.” Ally Financial Inc. will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of shares of common stock by the selling stockholder.

 

 

This is our initial public offering and no public market exists for our shares. We anticipate that the initial public offering price will be between $             and $             per share. We have applied to list the common stock on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) under the symbol “ALLY”.

The selling stockholder has granted the underwriters the right to purchase up to              additional shares of common stock to cover over-allotments, if any, at the public offering price, less the underwriters’ discount, within 30 days from the date of this prospectus.

Concurrently with this offering, Treasury is also making a public offering of              tangible equity units issued by us (the “Units”). Treasury has granted the underwriters of that offering the right to purchase up to              additional Units to cover over-allotments, if any, at the public offering price of the Units, less the underwriters’ discount for the Units, within 30 days from the date of the prospectus for the concurrent Units offering. The closing of the offering of Units is conditioned upon the closing of the offering of our common stock, and the closing of the offering of our common stock is conditioned upon the closing of the offering of Units.

Investing in our common stock involves risks. See “Risk Factors” beginning on page 18 of this prospectus.

 

     Per Share      Total  

Public offering price and proceeds to the selling stockholder

   $                    $                

Underwriting discounts and commissions(1)

   $         $     

 

(1) Ally has agreed to pay all underwriting discounts and commissions, transfer taxes and transaction fees, if any, applicable to the sale of the common stock and the fees and disbursement of counsel for the selling stockholder incurred in connection with the sale.

 

 

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities regulators has approved or disapproved these securities, or passed upon the adequacy or accuracy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

The underwriters expect to deliver the shares of common stock to investors on or about                     , 2011.

 

 

 

Citi   Goldman, Sachs & Co.   J.P. Morgan   Morgan Stanley

 

Barclays Capital   Deutsche Bank Securities

 

 

The date of this prospectus is                     , 2011


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

     Page  

Prospectus Summary

     1   

Risk Factors

     18   

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

     42   

Use of Proceeds

     44   

Dividend Policy

     45   

Capitalization

     46   

Selected Consolidated Financial Data

     47   

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

     51   

Business

     193   

Management

     214   

Executive Compensation

     219   

Certain Stockholder Agreements

     241   

Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions

     245   

Principal and Selling Stockholders

     249   

Concurrent Transactions

     251   

Description of Capital Stock

     253   

U.S. Federal Tax Considerations For Non-U.S. Holders

     262   

Shares Eligible for Future Sale

     264   

Underwriting

     266   

Validity of Common Stock

     272   

Experts

     272   

Where You Can Find More Information

     272   

Index to Consolidated Financial Statements

     F-1   

 

 

In this prospectus, unless the context indicates otherwise, “Ally,” the “company,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Ally Financial Inc. and its direct and indirect subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. None of we, the underwriters, or the selling stockholder have authorized anyone to provide any information other than that contained in this prospectus or in any free writing prospectus prepared by or on behalf of us or to which we have referred you. Neither we nor the underwriters nor the selling stockholder take responsibility for, and can provide any assurance as to the reliability of, any other information that others may give you. The selling stockholder is offering to sell, and seeking offers to buy, shares of common stock only in jurisdictions where offers and sales are permitted. The information contained in this prospectus is accurate only as of the date of this prospectus, regardless of the time of delivery of this prospectus or of any sale of the common stock.

INDUSTRY AND MARKET DATA

We obtained the industry, market and competitive position data throughout this prospectus from our own internal estimates and research as well as from industry and general publications and research, surveys and studies conducted by third parties. Industry publications, studies and surveys generally state that they have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, although they do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information.

 

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PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

This summary highlights information contained elsewhere in this prospectus. This summary may not contain all of the information that you should consider before deciding to invest in our common stock. You should read this entire prospectus carefully, including the “Risk Factors” section and the consolidated financial statements and the notes to those statements, before making an investment decision.

Overview

Ally operates one of the world’s largest automotive finance companies. We have over 90 years of experience supporting automotive dealers and their retail customers with a broad array of financial products and services. Our automotive finance franchise operates on a global scale with strategic activities in the United States, Canada and 15 other countries worldwide. We are a bank holding company and also operate one of the largest residential mortgage loan companies in the United States. Our bank subsidiary, Ally Bank, is a leading competitor and well-recognized brand in the growing direct banking market. The bank provides us with a significant source of cost-efficient funding and had $35.4 billion of deposits at March 31, 2011. We had $174 billion of total assets at March 31, 2011 and $1.6 billion and $7.9 billion of total net revenue during the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, respectively.

 

   

We intend to extend our leading position as one of the world’s largest automotive finance companies by continuing to provide automotive dealers, retail consumers and our automotive manufacturing partners with consistent funding, competitive pricing, a comprehensive product suite and exceptional service reflecting our commitment to the automotive industry.

 

   

We also will continue to operate a complementary residential mortgage loan franchise focused on the origination and servicing of conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans.

 

   

We intend to continue to develop Ally Bank and its core brand to enhance the value proposition for its deposit customers and to efficiently support asset growth in our lending activities.

Our primary operations are conducted within Global Automotive Services and Mortgage. Ally Bank offers a full spectrum of deposit and checking products to its customers and provides us with stable and diversified funding.

Our Global Automotive Services

Our global automotive business is centered around our strong and longstanding relationships with automotive dealers and supports our automotive manufacturing partners and their marketing programs. We serve the financial needs of approximately 20,000 dealers worldwide and 5.6 million of their retail customers as of March 31, 2011. In the United States and Canada alone, we have approximately 2,200 automotive finance and insurance employees in five regions focused on serving the needs of our dealer customers with finance and insurance products, expanding the number of overall dealer and automotive manufacturer relationships, and supporting our dealer lending and underwriting functions. In addition, we have over 2,400 employees that support our North American servicing operations.

Our Dealer-Focused Business Model

Ally’s primary customers are automotive dealers, which are independently owned businesses. As part of the process of selling a vehicle, automotive dealers typically originate loans and leases to their retail customers. Dealers then select Ally or another automotive finance provider to which they sell loans and leases.

 

 

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Our longstanding success as an automotive finance provider is driven by the broad range and quality of products and services we offer to dealers. Our financial products offered to dealers and their customers include, among others, new vehicle retail loans and leases, used vehicle loans, floorplan loans, dealer capital and working capital loans, vehicle service contracts, wholesale inventory insurance and our SmartAuction service for remarketing vehicles. As of March 31, 2011, over 5,000 of our automotive dealer customers utilized four or more of our products.

Manufacturer Relationships

We are a preferred financing provider for a number of manufacturers including GM, Chrysler, Fiat, Saab, American Suzuki and Thor under contractual relationships. With our origination and servicing platform and competitive funding programs, we function as a strong and flexible partner that helps manufacturers fulfill their new vehicle marketing programs.

Our preferred financing relationships primarily relate to new retail loan incentive programs that support the manufacturers’ new vehicle marketing initiatives while allowing us to realize market based returns. Incentivized loans, originated through our preferred financing relationships, represented 33% and 41% of our North American new retail loan and lease origination volume in the first quarter 2011 and fiscal year 2010, respectively, compared to 52% in 2009 and 60% in 2008. For non-incentivized retail loan originations, we successfully compete at the dealer-level based on our strong dealer relationships, competitive pricing, full suite of products and comprehensive service.

Our History in the Automotive Market and Who We Are Today

During our 90-year history in the automotive finance business, we have developed extensive knowledge and experience in serving the financing needs of automotive dealers and their retail customers. Ally was formed in 1919 as the captive finance subsidiary of GM. In 2006, a majority ownership interest in Ally was sold to third parties. Since that sale, we have transformed into a market-driven independent automotive finance company. We continue to be a preferred financing provider to GM on incentivized retail loans and in 2009, we became the preferred financing provider to Chrysler of incentivized retail loans. We have developed full product relationships for the vast majority of Chrysler’s existing franchised dealers, including more than 1,700 Chrysler dealers that we successfully developed inventory financing relationships with over a three-month period in 2009. In addition, we have developed preferred financing relationships with Fiat, Saab, American Suzuki and Thor under contractual agreements.

We became a bank holding company on December 24, 2008, under the Bank Holding Company Act and are subject to supervision and examination by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “FRB”). Our bank subsidiary, Ally Bank, is supervised by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”) and the Utah Department of Financial Institutions (the “Utah DFI”).

 

 

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Our Global Automotive Services business is organized into three areas (the information below is as of March 31, 2011).

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North American Automotive Finance Operations

Our North American Automotive Finance Operations (“NAO”) consist of our automotive financing operations in the United States and Canada. According to Experian Automotive, we were the largest independent provider of new retail automotive loans in the United States during 2010. We funded one out of every ten new car purchases that were financed in the United States during 2010. We had total consumer originations in the United States and Canada of $35.4 billion in 2010 and $12.4 billion in the first quarter of 2011. Our penetration rate of GM and Chrysler new car purchases in the United States and Canada in the first quarter of 2011 was 51% and 30%, respectively. We financed an average of $27.9 billion of vehicle floorplan assets for our dealers, including 84% of GM’s and 68% of Chrysler’s total North American dealer new vehicle inventory, respectively, during the first quarter of 2011.

We manage commercial account servicing for over 5,000 dealers in the United States that utilize our floorplan inventory lending or other commercial loans. In the United States and Canada, we provide consumer asset servicing for a $72 billion portfolio at March 31, 2011. The extensive infrastructure and experience of our servicing operation are important to our ability to minimize our loan losses and enable us to deliver favorable customer experience to both our dealers and their retail customers. We provide comprehensive automotive remarketing services, including the use of SmartAuction, our online auction platform, which efficiently supports dealer-to-dealer and other commercial wholesale car transactions.

The following table sets forth our share of retail automotive loans for new purchases in the United States:

 

1st  Quarter
2011
  4th Quarter
2010
  3rd Quarter
2010
  2nd  Quarter
2010
  1st  Quarter
2010
 

Year ended December 31,

         

2010

 

2009

 

2008

%   Rank   %   Rank   %   Rank   %   Rank   %   Rank   %   Rank   %   Rank   %   Rank
13.5%   1   11.0%   1   10.0%   1   9.9%   1   8.5%   2   9.9%   1   6.1%   3   5.8%   4

 

Source: Experian Automotive

The used vehicle financing market is significant in size and highly fragmented. We have recently begun to increase our focus on used car financing, primarily through franchised dealers and certain national used vehicle dealers. According to Experian Automotive, over 14 million used vehicles were sold by franchised dealers in 2010. We believe that increased market share in this fragmented segment will further expand and support our dealer relationships and increase our volume of retail originations.

 

 

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International Automotive Finance Operations

Our International Automotive Finance Operations (“IO”) conduct business in Asia, Latin America and Europe. We focus on five core foreign markets: China (through our joint venture, GMAC-SAIC Automotive Finance Company Limited (“GMAC-SAIC”)), Brazil, Mexico, Germany and the United Kingdom. We also originate loans in 10 other countries. We provide financial services to approximately 4,800 automotive dealer customers in these 15 foreign markets.

 

   

China – Our GMAC-SAIC joint venture is a leading automotive finance company in China and offers a full suite of products. We believe there is significant opportunity for growth in loan origination in China due to the strong increase in overall car sales as well as the relatively low proportion of these sales that have been financed historically. In 2010, 10% of new car purchases in China were financed according to China Auto Market, compared with 79% in the United States, according to Experian Automotive. We own 40% of GMAC-SAIC alongside Shanghai Automotive Group Finance Company LTD and Shanghai General Motors Corporation Limited, which own 40% and 20% of GMAC-SAIC, respectively. At March 31, 2011, the joint venture had total finance receivables and loans of $4.2 billion.

 

   

Brazil and Mexico – Brazil is the largest automotive market in Latin America where we had total finance receivables and loans of $3.5 billion at March 31, 2011. In both Brazil and Mexico, we offer a full product line and have strong positions in the automotive dealer channel.

 

   

Germany and the United Kingdom – Germany and the United Kingdom remain our core markets in Europe with total finance receivables and loans of $5.7 billion at March 31, 2011. To improve operational efficiency, certain of our servicing and lending activities in Europe have been consolidated in Germany.

Insurance Operations

Our Insurance operations offer both consumer insurance products sold primarily through dealers and commercial insurance products sold to dealers. As part of our focus on offering dealers a broad range of products, we provide vehicle service contracts, mechanical breakdown and maintenance coverages. We also underwrite selected commercial insurance coverages which primarily insure dealers’ wholesale vehicle inventory in the United States and internationally.

We believe our national insurance platform provides us with a competitive advantage, allowing us to design products tailored to our dealer customers, control underwriting and retain the profits generated by this business. We sell insurance products to over 4,000 dealers in the United States. Among U.S. GM dealers to whom we provide wholesale financing, our wholesale insurance product penetration rate is approximately 80%. Dealers who receive wholesale financing from Ally are eligible for wholesale insurance incentives, such as automatic eligibility in our preferred insurance programs and increased financial benefits.

Mortgage

Our Origination and Servicing operations consist of originating, purchasing, selling and securitizing conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans in the United States and Canada; servicing residential mortgage loans for ourselves and others; and providing collateralized lines of credit to other mortgage loan originators, also called warehouse lending. We also originate a small amount of high quality prime jumbo mortgage loans in the United States. Our Origination and Servicing operations had $19.2 billion in assets at March 31, 2011.

In the first quarter of 2011 and full year 2010, we originated $11.8 billion and $69.5 billion, respectively, of U.S. residential mortgage loans, including $10.3 billion and $61.5 billion, respectively, through our network of over 900 correspondents. Conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans comprised approximately 97% and 98% of our first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010 originations, respectively. At

 

 

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March 31, 2011, we were the primary servicer of 2.4 million mortgage loans with $359.7 billion of unpaid principal balances. We have substantially derisked our mortgage operations since the onset of the housing crisis and reduced our overall mortgage assets from $135.1 billion in 2006 to $31.0 billion at March 31, 2011, primarily through the run-off and divestiture of noncore businesses and assets.

Our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations primarily consist of mortgage loans originated prior to January 1, 2009, and consist of noncore business activities including portfolios in run-off. Total assets of our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations decreased from $32.9 billion at December 31, 2008, to $11.8 billion at March 31, 2011.

Ally Bank

Ally Bank raises deposits directly from customers through the direct banking channel via the internet and over the telephone. We believe that Ally Bank is well-positioned to continue to take advantage of the consumer-driven shift from branch banking to direct banking. We believe internet banking is now the preferred banking channel by consumers. According to a 2010 American Bankers Association survey, the number of bank customers who prefer to do their banking online increased from 21% to 36% between 2007 and 2010, while those who prefer branch banking has declined from 39% to 25% over the same period.

We have quickly become a leader in direct banking with our recognizable brand, accessible 24/7 customer service, and competitively priced deposit products. We have distinguished our direct bank with our “Talk Straight, Do Right, Be Obviously Better” branding and products that are “Easy to Use” with “No Fine Print, Hidden Fees, Rules or Penalties”. Recent introductions of retail banking products include interest-bearing checking accounts, electronic bill pay, remote deposit, and no-fee debit cards.

Ally Bank provides our automotive finance and mortgage loan operations with a stable and low-cost funding source. At March 31, 2011, Ally Bank had $35.4 billion of deposits including $23.5 billion of retail deposits. The growth of our retail deposit base from $7.2 billion at the end of 2008 to $23.5 billion at March 31, 2011 has enabled us to reduce our cost of funds during that period. We expect to continue to lower our cost of funds over time and diversify our overall funding as our deposit base grows. Over the past two years, we have grown our retail deposits even as we have reduced the cost of our deposits.

The following chart shows the amount and type of Ally Bank’s customer deposits and the average retail deposit rate as of the dates indicated:

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Our Strengths

Automotive financial services category leader with full product suite.

We are one of the largest providers of retail and wholesale automotive financing in the world and are an integral part of the automotive industry. We believe that our 90-year history has provided us extensive knowledge of the automotive industry and the financial services needs of its dealers, automotive manufacturers, and retail consumers.

Our full suite of financing and insurance products and extensive on-site service relationships differentiate us from most of our competitors. As of March 31, 2011, over 5,000 of our automotive dealer customers utilized four or more of our products. We use incentive programs, such as our Ally Dealer Rewards program, to increase the volume of business and number of products used by our dealer customers. During the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, over 62% and 60%, respectively, of our U.S. dealer customers received benefits under the Ally Dealer Rewards program which was initiated in 2009.

Implementation of our market-driven strategies since 2008 has enabled us to grow our Global Automotive Services business within our existing dealer relationships and expand into new relationships with dealers of various manufacturers. Since 2008, we have successfully added preferred provider agreements, including Chrysler (U.S., Canada and Mexico), Fiat (U.S. and Mexico), Saab (U.S. and Europe), American Suzuki (U.S.) and Thor (U.S.). Our strong relationships with manufacturers have allowed us to offer more products, expand our dealer base and strengthen our existing network of dealer relationships. We have increased our new non-GM retail originations from $1.0 billion in 2006 to $9.5 billion in 2010 and from $1.7 billion in the first quarter of 2010 to $2.6 billion in the first quarter of 2011.

We believe that the combination of our full suite of products, service standards, global platform, incentive programs, and funding strategy put us in a strong position relative to competing financial institutions and future entrants to the market.

Scalable platform with significant growth opportunities.

We are well-positioned for growth as the U.S. economy recovers and U.S. Seasonally Adjusted Annualized Rate (SAAR) of vehicle sales rebounds from its 2008-2009 recessionary levels. Consumer and business spending on automobiles has recovered from recent lows but remains well below historical average levels. The chart below shows historical consumer, business and government spending on automobiles as a percentage of U.S. GDP.

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Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Department of Commerce

 

 

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The chart below shows historical and projected U.S. SAAR (in millions):

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Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis as to 2006-2010 data and Blue Chip Economic Indicators, Vol. 35, No. 10/Vol. 36, No. 6, as to projected 2011-2013 data.

In the United States and Canada, we have approximately 2,200 automotive finance and insurance employees dedicated to dealer sales, product support, lending and underwriting. This infrastructure allows us to accommodate our growing volume of business and support our existing customers. We maintain a dedicated sales force, which meets the needs of our existing dealer customers, expands our market penetration in the dealer network and supports our existing and new automotive manufacturing partners. Our sales force consists of direct dealer account relationship professionals, supplemental product support coverage professionals, and primary manufacturer relationship account professionals.

We also have invested significantly in our technology infrastructure and other initiatives to support our automotive financing and banking services platforms to further enhance our dealer and retail customer relationships and increase business volumes. This focus has resulted in increased credit application flow and originations from dealers representing various manufacturers, including GM and Chrysler. We are now able to access applications from almost all U.S. automotive dealerships under any brand. The combination of our extensive infrastructure, our relationships with finance and insurance departments of dealers, and our participation in the major credit application on-line networks, provides us with a strong platform to efficiently grow our consumer business volumes across a broad mix of automotive dealers.

In addition, we expect our incentive programs, such as Ally Dealer Rewards and other market-driven strategies, to increase business volumes and the number of products used by dealers. Other major initiatives underway such as dealer diversification strategies and additional preferred relationships with other manufacturers should increase our consumer retail, lease, and dealer funding volumes. The used vehicle financing market is highly fragmented and we believe this provides us with a growth opportunity within our franchised dealer relationships. We believe our significant presence in attractive markets such as China and Brazil also supports our growth opportunity internationally.

Leading direct banking franchise.

We believe Ally Bank is well-positioned for continued growth within the direct banking market. The Ally Bank brand has attained strong recognition since it was launched in 2009. Ally Bank provides us with a diversified source of stable, low-cost funding. The bank’s assets primarily consist of high quality commercial and

 

 

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consumer automotive finance receivables and conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans originated through our automotive and mortgage businesses, respectively. We believe there are opportunities to deliver other products to our growing banking customer base, in addition to our full suite of deposit, savings and checking products.

Complementary mortgage origination and servicing operations.

Our Origination and Servicing business is one of the largest participants in the U.S. residential mortgage loan market and provides us with an additional source of profitability. It is now focused on the segments of the mortgage loan market that have remained profitable for us during the housing crisis. We believe our Origination and Servicing operations are well-positioned as a result of our strong market position, scalable platform, well-known brands and extensive experience.

Strong balance sheet, liquidity position and risk management.

We believe that the consumer automotive loans on our balance sheet reflect the significantly tighter underwriting standards across the credit spectrum that we adopted since 2008. Our underwriting process utilizes a robust combination of credit metrics, including, among others, FICO scores, loan-to-value ratios, debt-to-income ratios and proprietary scoring models. The average FICO score at origination of the U.S. new retail loans in our outstanding portfolio as of March 31, 2011 was 733. We are prudently expanding automotive originations across the credit spectrum in accordance with our underwriting standards. During the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, the loss rate on our U.S. consumer automotive portfolio was 0.95% and 1.73%, respectively.

Our commercial automotive financing business consists primarily of wholesale financing in which credit is extended to individual dealers and is secured by vehicles in inventory and, in some circumstances, other assets owned by the dealer or by a personal guarantee. We manage risk in our commercial automotive financing business through our rigorous credit underwriting process, which utilizes our proprietary dealer credit evaluation system, our ongoing risk monitoring program, and vehicle inventory audits to verify collateral and dealer compliance with lending agreements. During the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, the loss rate on our U.S. commercial automotive portfolio was 0.04% and 0.27%, respectively.

The loans originated in our mortgage operations are currently comprised primarily of high credit quality conforming, government-insured and prime jumbo residential mortgage loans. We have substantially reduced and derisked our legacy mortgage exposure of nonconforming assets through writedowns, run-offs and divestitures over the last three years. We have also settled with Federal National Mortgage Association (“Fannie Mae”) and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“Freddie Mac”), as well as several other counterparties, which resolved certain material repurchase obligations with each counterparty. At March 31, 2011, we held reserves of $830 million for potential repurchase obligations for loans we sold to counterparties. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Off-balance Sheet Arrangements—Government-sponsored Enterprises” for further details with respect to the scope of our settlement agreements with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

We have demonstrated strong access to funding and liquidity that are critical to our business. In the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, we raised over $7 billion and nearly $36 billion of secured and unsecured funding in the capital markets, respectively. We also have significant liquidity available beyond capital markets funding with access to $33.4 billion of liquidity in the form of cash, highly liquid unencumbered securities, and available committed credit facility capacity at March 31, 2011.

Our access to deposits is an important source of diversified funding. Approximately 30% of our funding at the end of the first quarter of 2011 came from deposits compared to 14% at the end of 2008. We believe Ally Bank gives us the stable, low-cost benefits of deposit funding with a direct-to-consumer delivery model. Ally Bank’s leadership in direct banking, recognizable brand and compelling customer value proposition position us well for consistent growth.

 

 

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Our balance sheet is well capitalized. At March 31, 2011, we had a Tier 1 capital ratio of 14.68%, and a Tier 1 common ratio of     % pro forma for this offering. We believe this capitalization compares favorably to our peers and positions us well for the future.

Experienced management team.

Our senior management team is comprised of financial professionals with deep operating experience in automotive and consumer finance and extensive experience managing some of the largest and most successful financial institutions in the world. Our senior management team has successfully led our return to profitability and the development of our strong liquidity and capital position following the financial crisis. Our management team has taken significant actions to make our automotive finance business more efficient and better positioned for growth opportunities. Substantial actions have also been taken to materially reduce the legacy risk in our mortgage operations. Our capital structure and prudent liquidity actions by management have positioned us for growth as the automotive industry and overall economy continue to rebound.

Our Business Strategy

Expand our position as a leading global provider of automotive financial services products.

We believe that our dealer-focused business model, global platform, full range of product offerings and sales organization position us to further broaden our relationships with existing and new dealers and automotive manufacturers, and to originate attractive retail automotive loans and leases for our portfolio in addition to other products. Our market-driven strategies, including incentive programs, have been designed and implemented to drive higher business volumes with our dealer relationships. Furthermore, we have dedicated resources to the underwriting and financing of used vehicle sales that should allow us to expand loan origination volume with our existing dealer base. We are also leveraging our existing dealer relationships, product suite, and extensive operating experience to expand our diversified dealer network and facilitate financing relationships with additional automotive manufacturers. We intend to continue to strongly support our financing relationships with GM and Chrysler by providing dependable new car inventory and consumer financing through all economic cycles. We will continue to utilize our international infrastructure to build upon our strong presence in attractive, developing markets such as China, Brazil and Mexico. Our objective is to generate incremental profitability and asset growth without straying from our core competencies in automotive finance.

Continue to generate consistent results through our Mortgage operations.

Our Mortgage Origination and Servicing operations, which primarily originate and service high credit quality mortgage loans, provide a complementary source of consumer assets and a diversified source of profitability. The vast majority of our mortgage loans are originated, financed, and sold without significant balance sheet growth.

We plan to prudently expand our direct lending origination channel to complement our existing origination platform. Our servicing operations are fee-based and do not expose us to significant credit risk. We expect to sell the vast majority of our mortgage loans soon after origination, thereby reducing funding requirements.

Reduce our funding costs and continue funding diversification.

We continue to expand and diversify our funding in order to improve our profitability and enhance our competitiveness. Our success at developing our franchise at Ally Bank has supported the growth of our retail deposit base to $23.5 billion at March 31, 2011 from $7.2 billion at the end of 2008. Our retail deposit growth has enabled us to diversify and reduce our cost of funds since 2008. Our strategy is to continue to increase our retail deposit base through the delivery of our full suite of deposit products and continued investment in the Ally Bank brand name.

 

 

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Our objective is to attain investment grade credit ratings from the rating agencies. We believe that improved ratings will help us to reduce our cost of funds further and improve our ability to compete even more effectively with other large banks and financial institutions across all products. We believe that the stable performance of our asset base, strong capitalization, demonstrated access to diversified funding markets, and the ability to operate profitably will help us reach this goal over time.

By continuing to diversify our funding sources and lower our overall cost of funding, including the prudent growth of Ally Bank, we believe that we can provide even more efficient and consistent funding for our dealers and their retail customers through various economic cycles.

Maintain a strong balance sheet through disciplined origination, servicing and risk management.

We will continue to focus primarily on originating and managing secured automotive and mortgage loans and related products. The types of secured commercial and consumer automotive loans that we originate performed well through the recent financial crisis. Our Mortgage Origination and Servicing operations originate conforming, government-insured residential and prime jumbo residential mortgage loans, which we believe have an attractive risk return profile. We believe we have significantly reduced our risk profile and improved our profitability by divesting and discontinuing a number of noncore activities.

We believe that we maintain strong levels of capital and liquidity relative to other bank holding companies. Our strategy is to materially increase our volume of automotive finance assets within our existing infrastructure and with prudent underwriting criteria which we believe will allow us to efficiently utilize our capital and enhance our profitability.

Improve our shareholder return profile.

We seek to enhance our returns for shareholders by prudently originating loans and leases across the credit spectrum. We have also recently increased our focus on offering financing for used vehicles through our franchised dealer relationships. We have invested significant capital in risk management and technology to manage this expansion. By prudently expanding automotive originations across broad credit segments and with continued diversification, we believe we can increase asset yields and generate attractive risk-adjusted returns in a variety of interest rate and credit environments. We plan to continue to decrease our overall costs by increasing productivity, adding retail deposits, and efficiently accessing secured and unsecured wholesale markets as certain higher-cost legacy funding matures. The combination of higher asset yields and lower operating and funding costs with an efficient capital structure will provide opportunities for us to improve returns to our shareholders.

Recent Developments

We made payments to securitization trusts of $152 million in the second quarter of 2011 to cover losses to such trusts related to mortgage insurance rescissions. These payments resulted from a review of securitized mortgages as to which mortgage insurance was rescinded, although no claims have been made against us to date with respect to these mortgages. As a result, we expect to incur a second quarter charge of approximately $100 million related to these payments taking into account applicable reserves. Mortgage insurers are generally permitted to rescind existing mortgage insurance that covers mortgage loans related to a securitization transaction if they believe certain loan underwriting requirements have not been met. The rescission of mortgage insurance may constitute a breach of a representation in certain securitization transactions, which would then trigger our obligation to repurchase the associated loans from, or provide loss reimbursement to, the applicable securitization trust.

Corporate Information

Our principal executive offices are located at 200 Renaissance Center, P.O. Box 200, Detroit, Michigan 48265-2000 and our telephone number is (866) 710-4623. Our website is www.ally.com. Our website and the information included in, or linked to on, our website are not part of this prospectus. We have included our website address in this prospectus solely as a textual reference.

 

 

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THE OFFERING

 

Common stock offered by the selling stockholder

         shares.

 

Common stock to be outstanding after this offering

         shares (assuming no exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option and assuming that the public offering price of our common stock in this offering will be $             per share (the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus) for purposes of calculating the number of shares we issue to Treasury in the conversion under “Concurrent transactions” below). This number of shares to be outstanding after this offering does not include any shares of our common stock that may be issued upon settlement of the purchase contracts that are components of the Units being offered concurrently with this offering, as described opposite the caption “Concurrent transactions” below.

 

Over-allotment option

         shares from the selling stockholder to cover over-allotments.

 

Common stock listing

We have applied to list our common stock on the NYSE under the symbol “ALLY.”

 

Voting rights

One vote per share.

 

Use of proceeds

Ally will not receive any proceeds from sale of common stock in the offering.

 

Dividend policy

We have no current plans to commence payment of a dividend on our common stock. Our payment of dividends on our common stock in the future will be determined by our Board of Directors in its sole discretion and will depend on business conditions, our financial condition, earnings and liquidity, and other factors. Our Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G (the “Series G preferred stock”) prohibits us from making dividend payments on our common stock before January 1, 2014 and restricts our ability to pay dividends thereafter. In addition, so long as any share of our Fixed Rate / Floating Rate Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A (the “Series A preferred stock”) remains outstanding, no dividend or distribution may be declared or paid on our common stock unless all accrued and unpaid dividends have been paid on such series of preferred stock.

 

  In addition, any plans to commence payment of dividends on our common stock in the future would be subject to the FRB’s review and absence of objection.

 

Concurrent transactions

Treasury currently holds 118,750,000 shares of our Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2 (the “Series F-2 preferred stock”), having an aggregate liquidation amount of $5,937,500,000. In connection with this offering and the concurrent Units offering, Treasury intends (i) to convert (the

 

 

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“conversion”) 58,750,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock into shares of our common stock based on a conversion price equal to the public offering price of our common stock in this offering (the “common stock public offering price”), and (ii) to exchange (the “exchange”) the remaining 60,000,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock having an aggregate liquidation amount of $3 billion, for a number of our tangible equity units (the “Units”) having an aggregate stated amount of $3 billion.

 

  The number of shares of common stock we intend to issue to Treasury in connection with the conversion will depend upon the common stock public offering price. The higher the common stock public offering price is, the fewer the number of shares of common stock Treasury will receive and the lower the common stock public offering price is, the greater the number of shares of common stock Treasury will receive. The following table sets forth the number of shares we will issue to Treasury in connection with the conversion for each common stock public offering price set forth below:

 

Public Offering Price

   Number of Shares
Issued to Treasury
 

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

 

  In addition, we and Treasury intend to modify certain terms of the Series F-2 preferred stock relating to the anti-dilution provisions applicable to the common stock received by Treasury from its partial conversion of Series F-2 preferred stock in December 2010, so that Treasury will receive              additional shares of our common stock in connection with the offering.

 

  Treasury is offering in the concurrent Units offering a number of Units having an aggregate stated amount of $                , plus up to an additional number of Units having an aggregate stated amount of $                 to cover over-allotments, if any. Upon completion of the Units offering, Treasury will hold Units having an aggregate stated amount of $                 (or $                 if the underwriters for the Units offering exercise their over-allotment option in full). The Units that are retained by Treasury will be fungible with the Units being offered in the Units offering.

 

  The closing of each of the Units offering, this offering, the conversion and the exchange is conditioned upon the closing of each such other transaction.

 

 

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Certain Accounting Treatment of Treasury’s Conversion and Receipt of Additional Shares

In connection with Treasury’s intention to convert shares of Series F-2 preferred stock it holds into common stock as part of this offering and at the common stock public offering price, Treasury will receive a number of shares of our common stock in excess of the amount it would have received pursuant to the stated conversion rate in the Series F-2 preferred stock. In addition, as stated above, Treasury will also receive additional shares of our common stock as a result of an agreed upon modification to the terms of the Series F-2 preferred stock. The value of these additional shares received by Treasury will be treated as a dividend or equivalent for financial reporting purposes.

 

  The issuance of these additional shares will be a one-time non-cash transaction, which will not affect the amount of our total equity. It will increase our accumulated deficit with an offsetting increase to common stock and paid-in capital, and the value of the non-cash dividend will reduce our net income attributable to common shareholders and therefore will substantially affect the calculation of earnings per share in the quarter in which this offering closes and the full year.

 

  Assuming that the public offering price of our common stock in this offering will be $             per share (the midpoint of the range set forth on the cover of this prospectus), net income attributable to common stock will be reduced by $                     in the quarter in which this offering closes and earnings per share will be reduced by $         per share due to this one time, non-cash transaction.

 

Risk factors

See “Risk Factors” beginning on page 18 of this prospectus for a discussion of risks you should carefully consider before deciding whether to invest in our common stock.

Unless we specifically state otherwise, the information in this prospectus (i) does not take into account shares issuable under our equity compensation incentive plan and (ii) assumes for purposes of calculating the number of shares of common stock we will issue to Treasury in the conversion that the common stock public offering price will be $             per share (the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus). All applicable share, per share and related information in this prospectus for periods on or subsequent to              has been adjusted retroactively for the         -for-one stock split on shares of our common stock effected on                     , 2011.

 

 

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SUMMARY CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL AND OTHER DATA

The following summary consolidated financial data of Ally should be read in conjunction with, and are qualified by reference to, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this prospectus. The consolidated statement of income data for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and the consolidated balance sheet data at December 31, 2010 and 2009 are derived from, and qualified by reference to, our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus and should be read in conjunction with those consolidated financial statements and notes thereto. The consolidated statement of income data for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 and the consolidated balance sheet data at December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this prospectus. The condensed consolidated statement of income data for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 and the condensed consolidated balance sheet data at March 31, 2011 and 2010 are derived from, and qualified by reference to, our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus and should be read in conjunction with those condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto. In our opinion, the unaudited financial statements provided herein have been prepared on substantially the same basis as the audited historical consolidated financial statements and reflect all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of our financial position and results of operations for the periods presented. Our results for the three months ended March 31, 2011 are not necessarily indicative of those to be expected for the fiscal year.

 

    At and for the
three months ended March 31,
    At and for the year ended December 31,  
        2011             2010         2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
   

($ in millions)

 

Financial statement data

             

Statement of income data:

             

Total financing revenue and other interest income

  $ 2,530      $ 3,110      $ 11,447      $ 13,100      $ 18,054      $ 21,761      $ 24,100   

Interest expense

    1,708        1,702        6,836        7,274        10,441        13,553        14,638   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

    285        656        2,030        3,748        5,478        4,551        5,055   

Impairment of investment in operating leases

                                1,218                 
                                                       

Net financing revenue

    537        752        2,581        2,078        917        3,657        4,407   

Total other revenue (a)

    1,070        1,098        5,321        4,417        15,271        6,161        7,860   
                                                       

Total net revenue

    1,607        1,850        7,902        6,495        16,188        9,818        12,267   

Provision for loan losses

    113        144        442        5,604        3,102        3,037        1,948   

Total other noninterest expense

    1,392        1,519        6,281        7,850        8,349        8,203        8,457   
                                                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense

    102        187        1,179        (6,959     4,737        (1,422     1,862   

Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations (b)

    (68     36        153        74        (136     496        22   
                                                       

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

    170        151        1,026        (7,033     4,873        (1,918     1,840   
                                                       

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

    (24     11        49        (3,265     (3,005     (414     285   
                                                       

Net income (loss)

  $ 146      $ 162      $ 1,075      $ (10,298   $ 1,868      $ (2,332   $ 2,125   
                                                       
   

($ in millions, except per share data)

 

Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders

             

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

  $ 170      $ 151      $ 1,026      $ (7,033   $ 4,873      $ (1,918   $ 1,840   

Less: Preferred stock dividends—U.S. Department of Treasury

    134        386        963        855                        

Less: Preferred stock dividends

    69        116        282        370               192        21   

Less: Impact of conversion of preferred stock and related amendment

                  616 (c)                             

Less: Impact of preferred stock accretion to redemption value

                                              274   

Less: Impact of preferred stock amendment

    (32                                          
                                                       

Net (loss) income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders (a)

    (1     (351     (835     (8,258     4,873        (2,110     1,545   
                                                       

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

    (24     11        49        (3,265     (3,005     (414     285   
                                                       

Net (loss) income attributable to common shareholders

  $ (25   $ (340   $ (786   $ (11,523   $ 1,868      $ (2,524   $ 1,830   
                                                       

Basic and diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding

    1,330,970        799,120        800,597        529,392        108,884        101,331        8,620   
                                                       
    (per share data in whole dollars)  

Basic and diluted earnings per common share (d)

             

Net (loss) income from continuing operations

  $ (1   $ (439   $ (1,042   $ (15,596   $ 44,747      $ (20,825   $ 179,229   

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

    (18     13        61        (6,169     (27,595     (4,086     33,062   
                                                       

Net (loss) income

  $ (19   $ (426   $ (981   $ (21,765   $ 17,152      $ (24,911   $ 212,291   
                                                       

 

 

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At and for the
three months ended March 31,
  
  
    At and for the year ended December 31,   
        2011             2010         2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
   

($ in millions)

 

Pro forma data (e):

             

Basic and diluted earnings per common share

             

Net (loss) income from continuing operations

             

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

             
                         

Net (loss) income

             

Basic and diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding

             
                         

Non-GAAP financial measures (f):

             

Net income (loss)

  $ 146      $ 162      $ 1,075      $ (10,298   $ 1,868      $ (2,332   $ 2,125   

Add: Original issue discount amortization expense (g)

    326        397        1,300        1,143        70                 

Add: Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations

    (68     36        153        74        (136     496        22   

Less: Gain on extinguishment of debt related to the 2008 bond exchange

                                11,460                 

Less: (Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

    (24     11        49        (3,265     (3,005     (414     285   
                                                       

Core pretax income (loss) (f)

  $ 428      $ 584      $ 2,479      $ (5,816   $ (6,653   $ (1,422   $ 1,862   
                                                       

Selected balance sheet data (period end):

     

Total assets

  $ 173,704      $ 179,427      $ 172,008      $ 172,306      $ 189,476      $ 248,939      $ 291,971   

Long-term debt

  $ 88,139      $ 90,276      $ 86,612      $ 88,021      $ 115,935      $ 159,342      $ 193,387   

Preferred stock/interests (d)

  $ 6,940      $ 12,180      $ 6,972      $ 12,180      $ 6,287      $ 1,052      $   

Total equity

  $ 20,407      $ 20,548      $ 20,489      $ 20,839      $ 21,854      $ 15,565      $ 14,369   

Financial ratios

             

Efficiency ratio (h)

    86.62     82.11     79.49     120.86     51.58     83.55     68.94

Core efficiency ratio (h)

    72.01     67.60     68.26     102.78     174.01     83.55     68.94

Return on assets (i)

             

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

    0.40     0.34     0.58     (3.95 )%      2.57     (0.77 )%      0.63

Net income (loss)

    0.34     0.36     0.61     (5.79 )%      0.99     (0.94 )%      0.73

Core pretax income (loss)

    1.00 %      1.31     1.40     (3.27 )%      (3.51 )%      (0.57 )%      0.64

Return on equity (i)

             

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

    3.38     2.92     4.95     (29.00 )%      22.30     (12.32 )%      12.81

Net income (loss)

    2.90     3.13     5.19     (42.46 )%      8.55     (14.98 )%      14.79

Core pretax income (loss)

    8.50 %      11.30     11.97     (23.98 )%      (30.44 )%      (9.14 )%      12.96

Equity to assets (i)

    11.72     11.61     11.72     13.63     11.53     6.25     4.92

Net interest spread (i)(j)

    0.82     1.59     1.23     0.65     (k     (k     (k

Net interest spread excluding original issue discount (i)(j)

    1.83     2.67     2.29     1.68     (k     (k     (k

Net yield on interest-earning assets (i)(l)

    1.44     2.13     1.79     1.37     (k     (k     (k

Net yield on interest-earning assets excluding original issue discount (i)(l)

    2.24     2.98     2.63     2.13     (k     (k     (k

Regulatory capital ratios

             

Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) (m)

    14.68     14.88     15.00     14.15     (k     (k     (k

Total risk-based capital (to risk-weighted assets) (n)

    15.97     16.42     16.36     15.55     (k     (k     (k

Tier 1 leverage (to adjusted average assets) (o)

    12.78     12.49     13.05     12.70     (k     (k     (k

Shareholders’ equity

  $ 20,407      $ 20,548      $ 20,489      $ 20,839        (k     (k     (k

Goodwill and certain other intangibles

    (533     (534     (532     (534     (k     (k     (k

Unrealized gains and other adjustments

    (272     (466     (309     (447     (k     (k     (k

Trust preferred securities

    2,541        2,540        2,541        2,540        (k     (k     (k
                                                       

Tier 1 capital (m)

    22,143        22,088        22,189        22,398        (k     (k     (k
                                                       

Preferred equity

    (6,940     (12,180     (6,971     (12,180     (k     (k     (k

Trust preferred securities

    (2,541     (2,540     (2,541     (2,540     (k     (k     (k
                                                       

Tier 1 common capital (non-GAAP) (p)

  $ 12,662      $ 7,368      $ 12,677      $ 7,678        (k     (k     (k
                                                       

Risk-weighted assets (q)

  $ 150,814      $ 148,408      $ 147,964      $ 158,314        (k     (k     (k

Tier 1 common (to risk-weighted assets) (p)

    8.40     4.96     8.57     4.85     (k     (k     (k

 

 

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(a) Total other revenue for 2008 includes $12.6 billion of gains on the extinguishment of debt, primarily related to private exchange and cash tender offers settled during the fourth quarter. Total other revenue for 2006 includes realized capital gains of $1.1 billion primarily related to the rebalancing of our investment portfolio at our Insurance operations.

 

(b) Effective June 30, 2009, we converted from a limited liability company into a corporation and, as a result, became subject to corporate U.S. federal, state, and local taxes beginning in the third quarter of 2009. Our conversion to a corporation resulted in a change in tax status and a net deferred tax liability of $1.2 billion was established through income tax expense. Effective November 28, 2006, we, along with certain of our U.S. subsidiaries, converted to limited liability companies (“LLCs”) and became pass-through entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Our conversion to an LLC resulted in a change in tax status and the elimination of a $791 million net deferred tax liability through income tax expense. Refer to Note 24 to the fiscal year Consolidated Financial Statements (the “Consolidated Financial Statements”) for additional information regarding our changes in tax status.

 

(c) This amount relates to the conversion by Treasury of 110,000,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock into 531,850 shares of our common stock that occurred on December 30, 2010. Refer to Note 20 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further detail.

 

(d) Effective June 30, 2009, we converted from a Delaware limited liability company into a Delaware corporation. Each unit of each class of common membership interest issued and outstanding immediately prior to the conversion was converted into an equivalent number of shares of common stock with substantially the same rights and preferences as the common membership interests. Upon conversion, holders of our preferred membership interests also received an equivalent number of shares of preferred stock with substantially the same rights and preferences as the former preferred membership interests.

 

(e) The pro forma financial information gives effect to this offering as if it has closed on January 1, 2010, and reflects (i) the receipt by Treasury                  of additional shares of common stock in connection with this offering, (ii) increased interest expense on the amortizing notes at an assumed interest rate of     % (tax affected at the historical rates reflected in the financial statements for 2010 and the six months ended June 30, 2011) and (iii) the elimination of dividends of $             on the Series F-2 preferred stock being converted into common stock and exchanged for Units in this offering. The pro forma financial information does not reflect the value of the additional shares received by Treasury that will be treated as a one-time, non-cash dividend of $              in the quarter in which this offering closes and the related reduction of $             per share in earnings per share.

 

(f) Core pretax income (loss) is not a financial measure defined by generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (GAAP). We define core pretax income as earnings from continuing operations before income taxes, original issue discount amortization expense primarily associated with our 2008 bond exchange, and the gain on extinguishment of debt related to the 2008 bond exchange. We believe that the presentation of core pretax income (loss) is useful information for the users of our financial statements in understanding the earnings from our core businesses. In addition, core pretax income (loss) is the primary measure that management uses to assess the performance of our operations. We believe that core pretax income (loss) is a useful alternative measure of our ongoing profitability and performance, when viewed in conjunction with GAAP measures. The presentation of this additional information is not a substitute for net income (loss) determined in accordance with GAAP.

 

(g) Primarily represents original issue discount amortization expense associated with the 2008 bond exchange, including $30 million and $101 million of accelerated amortization that was reported as a loss on extinguishment of debt in the first quarter 2011 Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income and fiscal year 2010 Consolidated Statement of Income, respectively.

 

 

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(h) The efficiency ratio equals total other noninterest expense divided by total net revenue. The core efficiency ratio equals total other noninterest expense divided by total net revenue excluding original issue discount amortization expense and gain on extinguishment of debt related to the 2008 bond exchange.

 

(i) The 2011, 2010 and 2009 ratios were computed based on average assets and average equity using a combination of monthly and daily average methodologies. The 2008, 2007, and 2006 ratios have been computed based on period-end total assets and period-end total equity at December 31, 2008, 2007, and 2006.

 

(j) Net interest spread represents the difference between the rate on total interest earning assets and the rate on total interest-bearing liabilities, excluding discontinued operations for the periods shown.

 

(k) Not applicable at December 31, 2008, 2007, and 2006, as we did not become a bank holding company until December 24, 2008.

 

(l) Net yield on interest-earning assets represents net financing revenue as a percentage of total interest-earning assets.

 

(m) Tier 1 capital generally consists of common equity, minority interests, qualifying preferred stock (including fixed rate cumulative preferred stock issued and sold to Treasury) and purchase contracts (including the purchase contracts that are components of the Units being offered in the concurrent offering) less goodwill and other adjustments.

 

(n) Total risk-based capital is the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital. Tier 2 capital generally consists of preferred stock not qualifying as Tier 1 capital, limited amounts of subordinated debt and the allowance for loan losses, and other adjustments. The amount of Tier 2 capital may not exceed the amount of Tier 1 capital.

 

(o) Tier 1 leverage equals Tier 1 capital divided by adjusted average total assets (which reflects adjustments for disallowed goodwill and certain intangible assets). The minimum Tier 1 leverage ratio is 3% or 4% depending on factors specified in the regulations.

 

(p) We define Tier 1 common as Tier 1 capital less noncommon elements including qualified perpetual preferred stock, qualifying minority interest in subsidiaries, and qualifying trust preferred securities. However, the purchase contracts that are components of the Units being offered in the concurrent offering are not subtracted from Tier 1 capital to determine Tier 1 common. Ally considers various measures when evaluating capital utilization and adequacy, including the Tier 1 common equity ratio, in addition to capital ratios defined by banking regulators. This calculation is intended to complement the capital ratios defined by banking regulators for both absolute and comparative purposes. Because GAAP does not include capital ratio measures, Ally believes there are no comparable GAAP financial measures to these ratios. Tier 1 common equity is not formally defined by GAAP or codified in the federal banking regulations and, therefore, is considered to be a non-GAAP financial measure. Ally believes the Tier 1 common equity ratio is important because we believe analysts and banking regulators may assess our capital adequacy using this ratio. Additionally, presentation of this measure allows readers to compare certain aspects of our capital adequacy on the same basis to other companies in the industry.

 

(q) Risk-weighted assets are defined by regulation and are determined by allocating assets and specified off-balance sheet financial instruments into several broad risk categories.

 

 

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RISK FACTORS

You should carefully consider the following risk factors that may affect our business, future operating results and financial condition, as well as the other information set forth in this prospectus before making a decision to invest in our common stock. Any of the following risks could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. In such case, the trading price of our common stock would likely decline due to any of these risks, and you may lose all or part of your investment.

Risks Related to Regulation

Our business, financial condition, and results of operations could be adversely affected by regulations to which we are subject as a result of our bank holding company status.

On December 24, 2008, the FRB approved our application to become a bank holding company under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the “BHC Act”). Many of the regulatory requirements to which we are subject as a bank holding company were not previously applicable to us and have and will continue to require significant expense and devotion of resources to fully implement processes that will be necessary to ensure compliance. Compliance with such laws and regulations involves substantial costs and may adversely affect our ability to operate profitably. Recent events, particularly in the financial and real estate markets, have resulted in bank regulatory agencies placing increased focus and scrutiny on participants in the financial services industry, including us. For a description of our regulatory requirements, see “Business—Certain Regulatory Matters”.

Ally is subject to ongoing supervision by the FRB, and Ally Bank by the FDIC and the Utah DFI, in each case, through regular examinations and other means that allow the regulators to gauge management’s ability to identify, assess, and control risk in all areas of operations in a safe-and-sound manner and to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. As a result of Ally’s conversion to a bank holding company, Ally and Ally Bank have been required to implement policies and procedures and take other actions to improve their current processes and to seek to ensure adherence to applicable regulatory guidelines and standards.

Ally is currently required by its banking supervisors to make improvements in areas such as board and senior management oversight, risk management, regulatory reporting, internal audit planning, capital adequacy process, stress testing, and Bank Secrecy Act / anti-money laundering compliance, and to continue to reduce problem assets. Separately, Ally Bank is currently required by its banking supervisors to make improvements in areas such as compliance management and training, consumer protection monitoring, consumer complaint resolution, internal audit program and residential mortgage loan pricing, and fee monitoring. These requirements are judicially enforceable, and if we are unable to implement and maintain these required actions, plans, policies and procedures in a timely and effective manner and otherwise comply with the requirements outlined above, we could become subject to formal supervisory actions which could subject us to significant restrictions on our existing business or on our ability to develop any new business. Such forms of supervisory action could include, without limitation, written agreements, cease and desist orders, and consent orders and may, among other things, result in restrictions on our ability to pay dividends, requirements to increase capital, restrictions on our activities, the imposition of civil monetary penalties, and enforcement of such action through injunctions or restraining orders. We could also be required to dispose of certain assets and liabilities within a prescribed period. The terms of any such supervisory action could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating flexibility, financial condition, and results of operations.

Our ability to engage in certain activities may be adversely affected by our status as a bank holding company.

As a bank holding company, Ally’s activities are generally limited to banking or to managing or controlling banks or other companies engaged in activities deemed closely related to banking or otherwise permissible under the BHC Act and related regulations. Likewise, Ally generally may not hold more than 5% of any class of voting

 

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shares of any company unless that company’s activities conform with the above requirements. Upon our bank holding company approval, we were permitted an initial two-year grace period to bring our activities and investments into conformity with these restrictions. This initial grace period expired in December 2010; however, the FRB has granted a one-year extension that expires in December 2011. We will be permitted to apply to the FRB for up to two additional one-year extensions. Certain of Ally’s existing activities and investments, including most of our insurance activities and our SmartAuction vehicle remarketing services, are deemed impermissible under the BHC Act and must be terminated or disposed of by the expiration of this extension and any additional extensions. While some of these activities may be continued if Ally is able to convert to a financial holding company under the BHC Act, Ally may be unable to satisfy the requirements to enable it to convert to a financial holding company prior to that time, and activities, businesses, or investments that would be permissible for a financial holding company will need to be terminated or disposed of. The FRB may also decline to grant any additional requested extensions, and Ally may be obligated to terminate or dispose of any impermissible activities, businesses, or investments more quickly than anticipated or under terms less advantageous to Ally than expected. Either situation could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial position.

As a bank holding company, our ability to expand into new business activities requires us to obtain the prior approval of the relevant banking supervisors. There can be no assurance that any required approval will be obtained or that we will be able to execute on these plans in a timely manner or at all. If we are unable to obtain approval to expand into new business activities, our business, results of operations, and financial position may be materially adversely affected.

Our business and financial condition could be adversely affected as a result of issues relating to mortgage foreclosures, home sales, and evictions in certain states and our entry into a related consent order.

Representatives of federal and state governments, including the United States Department of Justice, the FRB, the FDIC, the SEC and law enforcement authorities in all 50 states, have announced investigations into the procedures followed by mortgage servicing companies and banks, including subsidiaries of Ally, in connection with mortgage foreclosure home sales and evictions. As a result of an examination conducted by the FRB and FDIC, on April 13, 2011, each of Ally, Ally Bank, Residential Capital, LLC and GMAC Mortgage, LLC (collectively, the Ally Entities) entered into a Consent Order (the Order) with the FRB and the FDIC. The Order requires the Ally Entities to make improvements to various aspects of Ally’s mortgage servicing business, including board oversight, compliance programs, internal audit, communications with borrowers, vendor management, management information systems, and employee training. We estimate that incremental cash flows for implementation and ongoing compliance with the Order to be approximately $30-40 million annually during 2011 through 2013, but these amounts could be higher. The majority of these incremental annual costs are for additional servicing, vendor management, legal, compliance, and internal audit personnel. The estimated increased costs associated with future servicing and foreclosure costs as a result of the Order have been considered as part of the fair value adjustment of our existing mortgage servicing rights for the three months ended March 31, 2011.

The Order further requires the Ally Entities to retain independent consultants to conduct a risk assessment related to mortgage servicing activities and to conduct a review of certain past residential mortgage foreclosure actions. We cannot estimate the costs and cash flows associated with this review of foreclosure actions based on information currently available.

We continue to cooperate with the ongoing investigations of various regulators. Any additional results of these investigations are uncertain, but we expect that Ally or its subsidiaries will become subject to additional penalties, sanctions, or other adverse actions, including monetary fines, that could be substantial and have a material adverse impact on us.

On September 17, 2010, GMAC Mortgage, LLC (“GMACM”), our indirect wholly owned subsidiary, temporarily suspended mortgage foreclosure home sales and evictions and postponed hearings on motions for judgment in certain states. This decision was made after an operational matter was detected in the execution of certain affidavits used in connection with judicial foreclosures in some but not all states. The issue relates to whether persons signing the affidavits had appropriately verified the information in them and whether they were

 

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signed in the immediate physical presence of a notary. In response to this and to enhance existing procedures, GMACM has recently implemented supplemental procedures that are used in all new foreclosure cases to seek to ensure that affidavits are prepared in compliance with applicable law. GMACM is also conducting an additional review of all foreclosure files in all states prior to proceeding with foreclosure sales.

Our review related to this matter is ongoing, and we cannot estimate the ultimate impact of any deficiencies that have been or may be identified in our historical foreclosure procedures. There are potential risks related to these matters that extend beyond potential liability on individual foreclosure actions. Specific risks could include, for example, claims and litigation related to foreclosure file remediation and resubmission; claims from investors that hold securities that become adversely impacted by continued delays in the foreclosure process, the reduction in foreclosure proceeds due to delay, or by challenges to completed foreclosure sales to the extent, if any, not covered by title insurance obtained in connection with such sales; actions by courts, state attorneys general, or regulators to delay further the foreclosure process after submission of corrected affidavits, or to facilitate claims by borrowers alleging that they were harmed by our foreclosure practices (by, for example, foreclosing without offering an appropriate range of alternative home preservation options); regulatory fines, sanctions, and other additional costs; and reputational risks. To date we have borne all out-of-pocket costs associated with the remediation rather than passing any such costs through to investors for whom we service the related mortgages, and we expect that we will continue to do so. If the magnitude of any negative impact related to the foregoing risks proves to be material, it could have an adverse affect on our business, results of operations, financial position and reputation.

Our ability to execute our business strategy may be affected by regulatory considerations.

Our business strategy for Ally Bank, which includes further expansion of both automotive and mortgage lending, is subject to regulatory oversight from a safety and soundness perspective. If our banking supervisors determine that any aspect of our business strategy for Ally Bank raises any safety and soundness concerns, we may be obliged to alter our strategy, including by moving certain activities, such as certain types of lending, outside of Ally Bank to one of our nonbanking affiliates. Alternative funding sources outside of Ally Bank, such as asset securitization or financings in the capital markets, could be more expensive than funding through Ally Bank and could adversely affect our business prospects, results of operations and financial condition.

Our ability to rely on deposits as a part of our funding strategy may be limited.

Ally Bank continues to be a key part of our funding strategy, and we have increased our reliance on deposits as an alternative source of funding through Ally Bank. Ally Bank does not have a retail branch network, and it obtains its deposits through direct banking and brokered deposits (which, at December 31, 2010, included $10 billion of brokered certificates of deposit that may be more price sensitive than other types of deposits and may become less available if alternative investments offer higher interest rates). Our ability to maintain our current level of deposits or grow our deposit base could be affected by regulatory restrictions including the possible imposition of prior approval requirements, restrictions on deposit growth or restrictions on our rates offered. In addition, perceptions of our financial strength, rates offered by third parties, and other competitive factors beyond our control, including returns on alternative investments, will also impact our ability to grow our deposit base. As we have established the Ally Bank brand and increased our retail deposit base over the past two years, we have reduced offered rates on new retail deposits. However, a strategy of continuing to offer reduced rates in the future could limit our ability to further grow or maintain deposits. Even if we are able to grow the deposit base of Ally Bank, our regulators may impose restrictions on our ability to use Ally Bank deposits as a source of funding for certain business activities potentially raising the cost of funding those activities without the use of Ally Bank deposits.

The FDIC has indicated that it expects Ally to diversify Ally Bank’s overall funding and to focus on reducing Ally Bank’s overall funding costs including the interest rates paid on Ally Bank deposits. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity

 

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Management, Funding and Regulatory Capital—Funding Strategy” for additional information about these diversification activities. As stated above, over the past few years, we have reduced rates on retail deposits, resulting in lower cost of funds for deposits. However, it is possible that such further reductions of rates on retail deposits could limit Ally Bank’s ability to grow or maintain deposits, which could have a material adverse impact on the funding and capital position of Ally.

The regulatory environment in which we operate could have a material adverse effect on our business and earnings.

Our domestic operations are subject to various laws and judicial and administrative decisions imposing various requirements and restrictions relating to supervision and regulation by state and federal authorities. Such regulation and supervision are primarily for the benefit and protection of our customers, not for the benefit of investors in our securities, and could limit our discretion in operating our business. Noncompliance with applicable statutes, regulations, rules, or policies could result in the suspension or revocation of any license or registration at issue as well as the imposition of civil fines and criminal penalties.

Ally, Ally Bank, and many of our nonbank subsidiaries are heavily regulated by bank and other regulatory agencies at the federal and state levels. This regulatory oversight is established to protect depositors, the FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund, and the banking system as a whole, not security holders. Changes to statutes, regulations, rules, or policies including the interpretation or implementation of statutes, regulations, rules, or policies could affect us in substantial and unpredictable ways including limiting the types of financial services and products we may offer, limiting our ability to pursue acquisitions and increasing the ability of third parties to offer competing financial services and products.

Our operations are also heavily regulated in many jurisdictions outside the United States. For example, certain of our foreign subsidiaries operate either as a bank or a regulated finance company, and our insurance operations are subject to various requirements in the foreign markets in which we operate. The varying requirements of these jurisdictions may be inconsistent with U.S. rules and may materially adversely affect our business or limit necessary regulatory approvals, or if approvals are obtained, we may not be able to continue to comply with the terms of the approvals or applicable regulations. In addition, in many countries, the regulations applicable to the financial services industry are uncertain and evolving, and it may be difficult for us to determine the exact regulatory requirements.

Our inability to remain in compliance with regulatory requirements in a particular jurisdiction could have a material adverse effect on our operations in that market with regard to the affected product and on our reputation generally. No assurance can be given that applicable laws or regulations will not be amended or construed differently, that new laws and regulations will not be adopted, or that we will not be prohibited by local laws or regulators from raising interest rates above certain desired levels, any of which could materially adversely affect our business, operating flexibility, financial condition, or results of operations.

Financial services legislative and regulatory reforms may have a significant impact on our business and results of operations.

On July 21, 2010, the President of the United States signed into law the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”). The Dodd-Frank Act will have material implications for Ally and the entire financial services industry. Among other things, it will or potentially could:

 

   

result in Ally being subject to enhanced oversight and scrutiny as a result of being a bank holding company with $50 billion or more in consolidated assets;

 

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result in the appointment of the FDIC as receiver of Ally in an orderly liquidation proceeding if the Secretary of Treasury, upon recommendation of two-thirds of the FRB and the FDIC and in consultation with the President of the United States, finds Ally to be in default or danger of default;

 

   

affect the levels of capital and liquidity with which Ally must operate and how it plans capital and liquidity levels;

 

   

subject Ally to new and/or higher fees paid to various regulatory entities, including but not limited to deposit insurance fees to the FDIC;

 

   

impact Ally’s ability to invest in certain types of entities or engage in certain activities;

 

   

impact a number of Ally’s business and risk management strategies;

 

   

restrict the revenue that Ally generates from certain businesses; and

 

   

subject Ally to a new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which will have very broad rule-making and enforcement authorities.

As the Dodd-Frank Act requires that many studies be conducted and that hundreds of regulations be written in order to fully implement it, the full impact of this legislation on Ally, its business strategies, and financial performance cannot be known at this time and may not be known for a number of years. In addition, regulations may impact us differently in comparison to other more established financial institutions. However, these impacts are expected to be substantial and some of them are likely to adversely affect Ally and its financial performance. The extent to which Ally can adjust its strategies to offset such adverse impacts also is not knowable at this time.

Our business may be adversely affected upon our implementation of the revised capital requirements under the Basel III capital rules.

The Bank for International Settlements’ Basel Committee on Banking Supervision recently adopted new capital, leverage, and liquidity guidelines under the Basel Accord (“Basel III”), which when implemented in the United States, may have the effect of raising capital requirements beyond those required by current law and the Dodd-Frank Act. Basel III increases (i) the minimum Tier 1 common equity ratio from 2.0% to 4.5%, net of regulatory deductions, and introduces a capital conservation buffer of an additional 2.5% of common equity to risk-weighted assets, raising the target minimum common equity ratio to 7.0% and (ii) the minimum Tier 1 capital ratio to 8.5% inclusive of the capital conservation buffer, increases the minimum total capital ratio to 10.5% inclusive of the capital buffer, and introduces a countercyclical capital buffer of up to 2.5% of common equity or other fully loss absorbing capital for periods of excess credit growth. Basel III also introduces a nonrisk adjusted Tier 1 leverage ratio of 3% based on a measure of the total exposure rather than total assets and new liquidity standards. The Basel III capital, leverage, and liquidity standards will be phased in over a multiyear period. The Basel III rules, when implemented, will also impose a 15% cap on the amount of Tier 1 capital that can be met, in the aggregate, through significant investments in the common shares of unconsolidated financial subsidiaries, mortgage servicing rights (“MSRs”) and deferred tax assets through timing differences, as well as a 10% cap on the amount of each of the three individual items that may be included in Tier 1 capital. In addition, under Basel III rules, after a 10-year phase-out period beginning on January 1, 2013, trust preferred and other “hybrid” securities will no longer qualify as Tier 1 capital. However, under the Dodd-Frank Act, subject to certain exceptions, trust preferred and other “hybrid” securities are phased out from Tier 1 capital in a three-year period starting January 1, 2013. At March 31, 2011, Ally had $3.4 billion of MSRs and $2.5 billion of trust preferred securities, which were included as Tier 1 capital. Ally currently has no other “hybrid” securities outstanding. The Basel III rules, when implemented, will impose limits on Ally’s ability to meet its regulatory capital requirements through the use of MSRs, trust preferred securities, or other “hybrid” securities, if applicable.

 

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If we or Ally Bank fail to satisfy regulatory capital requirements, we or Ally Bank may be subject to serious regulatory sanctions ranging in severity from being precluded from making acquisitions or engaging in new activities to becoming subject to informal or formal supervisory actions by the FRB and/or FDIC and, potentially, FDIC receivership of Ally Bank. If any of these were to occur, such actions could prevent us from successfully executing our business plan and have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial position.

The actions of the FRB and international central banking authorities directly impact our cost of funds for lending, capital raising, and investment activities and may impact the value of financial instruments we hold. In addition, such changes in monetary policy may affect the credit quality of our customers. Changes in domestic and international monetary policy are beyond our control and difficult to predict.

Future consumer or mortgage legislation could harm our competitive position.

In addition to the recent enactment of the Dodd-Frank Act, various legislative bodies have also recently been considering altering the existing framework governing creditors’ rights and mortgage products including legislation that would result in or allow loan modifications of various sorts. Such legislation may change banking statutes and the operating environment in substantial and unpredictable ways. If enacted, such legislation could increase or decrease the cost of doing business; limit or expand permissible activities; or affect the competitive balance among banks, savings associations, credit unions, and other financial institutions. We cannot predict whether new legislation will be enacted, and if enacted, the effect that it or any regulations would have on our activities, financial condition, or results of operations.

Ally and its subsidiaries are or may become involved from time to time in information-gathering requests, investigations and proceedings by government and self-regulatory agencies which may lead to adverse consequences.

Ally and its subsidiaries, including Ally Bank, are or may become involved from time to time in information-gathering requests, reviews, investigations, and proceedings (both formal and informal) by government and self-regulatory agencies, including the FRB, FDIC, Utah DFI, SEC and the Federal Trade Commission regarding their respective operations. Such requests include subpoenas from each of the SEC and the U.S. Department Justice, served on Ally Financial Inc. and GMAC Mortgage LLC, respectively, which we received in June 2011 and include requests for documentation related to certain mortgage activities. The subpoena received from the SEC includes a broad request for documentation related to certain ‘bulk settlements’ relating to mortgage loans placed in securitization trusts, which are agreements we entered into with mortgage originators or mortgage sellers whereby we received value in lieu of such mortgage originator or mortgage seller repurchasing a loan from us, as well as a request for materials provided to investors and prospective investors in mortgage securitization transactions. The subpoena received from the U.S. Department of Justice includes a broad request for documentation and other information in connection with its investigation of potential fraud related to the origination and/or underwriting of mortgage loans. These subpoenas, or any other investigation or information-gathering request, may result in material adverse consequences including without limitation, adverse judgments, settlements, fines, penalties, injunctions, or other actions.

Our business, financial position, and results of operations could be adversely affected by the impact of affiliate transaction restrictions imposed in connection with certain financing transactions.

Certain transactions between Ally Bank and any of its nonbank “affiliates,” including but not limited to Ally Financial Inc. and Residential Capital, LLC (“ResCap”) are subject to federal statutory and regulatory restrictions. Pursuant to these restrictions, unless otherwise exempted, “covered transactions,” including Ally Bank’s extensions of credit to and asset purchases from its nonbank affiliates, generally (1) are limited to 10% of Ally Bank’s capital stock and surplus with an aggregate limit of 20% of Ally Bank’s capital stock and surplus for all such transactions; (2) in the case of certain credit transactions, are subject to stringent collateralization

 

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requirements; (3) in the case of asset purchases by Ally Bank, may not involve the purchase of any asset deemed to be a “low quality asset” under federal banking guidelines; and (4) must be conducted in accordance with safe-and-sound banking practices (collectively, the Affiliate Transaction Restrictions). Under the Dodd-Frank Act, among other changes to Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act, credit exposures resulting from derivatives transactions and securities lending and borrowing transactions will be treated as “covered transactions.” Furthermore, there is an “attribution rule” that provides that a transaction between Ally Bank and a third party will be treated as a transaction between Ally Bank and a nonbank affiliate to the extent that the proceeds of the transaction are used for the benefit of, or transferred to, a nonbank affiliate of Ally Bank. Retail financing transactions by Ally Bank involving vehicles which are floorplan financed by Ally Financial Inc. are subject to the Affiliate Transaction Restrictions because the proceeds of the retail financings are deemed to benefit, and are ultimately transferred to, Ally.

The FRB is authorized to exempt, in its discretion, transactions or relationships from the requirements of these rules if it finds such exemptions to be in the public interest and consistent with the purposes of the rules. The FRB has granted several such exemptions to Ally Bank. However, the existing exemptions are subject to various conditions and any requests for future exemptions may not be granted. Moreover, these limited exemptions generally do not encompass consumer leasing or used vehicle financing. Since there is no assurance that Ally Bank will be able to obtain any further exemptions or waivers with respect to these restrictions, the ability to grow Ally Bank’s business will be affected by the Affiliate Transaction Restrictions and the conditions set forth in these exemption letters.

Ally Financial Inc. may in the future require distributions from its subsidiaries.

We currently fund Ally Financial Inc.’s obligations, including dividend payments to our preferred shareholders, and payments of interest and principal on our indebtedness, from cash generated by Ally Financial Inc. In the future, Ally Financial Inc. may not generate sufficient funds at the parent company level to fund its obligations. As such, it may require dividends, distributions, or other payments from its subsidiaries to fund its obligations. However, regulatory and other legal restrictions may limit the ability of Ally Financial Inc.’s subsidiaries to transfer funds freely to Ally Financial Inc. In particular, many of Ally Financial Inc.’s subsidiaries are subject to laws, regulations, and rules that authorize regulatory bodies to block or reduce the flow of funds to it or that prohibit such transfers entirely in certain circumstances. These laws, regulations, and rules may hinder Ally Financial Inc.’s ability to access funds that it may need to make payments on its obligations in the future. Furthermore, as a bank holding company, Ally Financial Inc. may become subject to a prohibition or to limitations on its ability to pay dividends. The bank regulators have the authority and, under certain circumstances, the duty to prohibit or to limit payment of dividends by the banking organizations they supervise, including Ally Financial Inc. and its subsidiaries.

Current and future increases in FDIC insurance premiums, including the FDIC special assessment imposed on all FDIC-insured institutions, could decrease our earnings.

During 2008 and continuing in 2009 and 2010, higher levels of bank failures have dramatically increased resolution costs of the FDIC and depleted the Deposit Insurance Fund (the “DIF”). In May 2009, the FDIC announced that it had voted to levy a special assessment on insured institutions in order to facilitate the rebuilding of the DIF. In September 2009, the FDIC voted to adopt an increase in the risk-based assessment rate effective beginning January 1, 2011, by three basis points. Further, the Dodd-Frank Act alters the calculation of an insured institution’s deposit base for purposes of deposit insurance assessments and removes the upper limit for the reserve ratio designated by the FDIC each year. On February 7, 2011, the FDIC approved a final rule implementing these changes, which will take effect April 1, 2011. The FDIC will continue to assess the changes to the assessment rates at least annually. Future deposit premiums paid by Ally Bank depend on the level of the DIF and the magnitude and cost of future bank failures. Any increases in deposit insurance assessments could decrease our earnings.

 

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Risks Related to Our Business

The profitability and financial condition of our operations are heavily dependent upon the performance, operations, and prospects of GM and Chrysler.

GM, GM dealers, and GM-related employees compose a significant portion of our customer base, and our domestic and, in particular, our International Automotive Finance operations are highly dependent on GM production and sales volume. In 2010, 66% of our North American new vehicle dealer inventory financing and 66% of our North American new vehicle consumer automotive financing volume were for GM dealers and customers. In addition, 90% of our international new vehicle dealer inventory financing and 82% of our international new vehicle consumer automotive financing volume were for GM dealers and customers. Furthermore, we have expanded our financing footprint to Chrysler dealers and customers. We have entered into an agreement with Chrysler to provide automotive financing products and services to Chrysler dealers and customers pursuant to which we will be the preferred provider of new wholesale financing for Chrysler dealer inventory. In 2010, 26% of our North American new vehicle dealer inventory financing and 31% of our North American new vehicle consumer automotive financing volume were for Chrysler dealers and customers.

Ally’s agreements with GM and Chrysler to provide automotive financing products to their dealers and customers extend through December and April 2013, respectively. These agreements provide Ally with certain preferred provider benefits including limiting the use of other financing providers by GM and Chrysler in their incentive programs. The terms of the Ally agreement with GM changed after January 1, 2011, such that GM is now able to offer any incentive programs on a graduated basis through third parties on a nonexclusive, side-by-side basis with Ally, provided that the pricing of the third parties meets certain requirements. Due to the highly competitive nature of the market for financial services, Ally may be unable to extend one or both of these agreements or may face less favorable terms upon extension. If Ally is unable to extend one or both of these agreements or if GM enters a similar agreement with a third party, Ally’s retail financing volumes could be materially and adversely impacted.

On October 1, 2010, GM acquired AmeriCredit Corp. (which GM subsequently renamed General Motors Financial Company, Inc.), an independent automotive finance company that focuses on providing leasing and subprime financing options. If GM were to direct substantially more business, including wholesale financing business, to its captive on noncommercial terms thus reducing its reliance on our services over time, it could have a material adverse effect on our profitability and financial condition. In addition, it is possible that GM or other automotive manufacturers could utilize other existing companies to support their financing needs including offering products or terms that we would not or could not offer, which could have a material adverse impact on our business and operations. Furthermore, other automotive manufacturers could expand or establish or acquire captive finance companies to support their financing needs thus reducing their need for our services.

A significant adverse change in GM’s or Chrysler’s business, including significant adverse changes in their respective liquidity position and access to the capital markets; the production or sale of GM or Chrysler vehicles; the quality or resale value of GM or Chrysler vehicles; the use of GM or Chrysler marketing incentives; GM’s or Chrysler’s relationships with its key suppliers; or GM’s or Chrysler’s relationship with the United Auto Workers and other labor unions and other factors impacting GM or Chrysler or their respective employees, could have a material adverse effect on our profitability and financial condition. In addition, growth in our International Automotive Finance operations are highly dependent on GM, and therefore any significant change to GM’s international business or our relationship with GM may hinder our ability to achieve our stated goal of expanding internationally.

There is no assurance that the global automotive market or GM’s and Chrysler’s respective share of that market will not suffer downturns in the future. Vehicle sales volume could be further adversely affected by any additional restructuring activities that GM or Chrysler may decide to pursue, if any. Any negative impact could in turn have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial position.

 

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Our business requires substantial capital and liquidity, and disruption in our funding sources and access to the capital markets would have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, capital positions, and financial condition.

Our liquidity and the long-term viability of Ally depend on many factors including our ability to successfully raise capital and secure appropriate bank financing. We are currently required to maintain a Total risk-based capital ratio of 15% and a Tier 1 leverage ratio of 15% at Ally Bank. The latter will require that Ally maintain substantial equity funds in Ally Bank and inject substantial additional equity funds into Ally Bank as Ally Bank’s assets increase over time.

We have significant maturities of unsecured debt each year. While we have reduced our reliance on unsecured funding, it continues to remain a critical component of our capital structure and financing plans. At March 31, 2011, approximately $7.1 billion in principal amount of total outstanding consolidated unsecured debt is scheduled to mature in 2011, and approximately $12.8 billion and $1.9 billion in principal amount of consolidated unsecured debt is scheduled to mature in 2012 and 2013, respectively, which includes $7.4 billion in principal amount of debt issued under the FDIC’s Temporary Liquidity Guaranty Program that matures in 2012. We also obtain short-term funding from the sale by Ally of floating rate demand notes, all of which the holders may elect to have redeemed by Ally at any time without restriction. At March 31, 2011, a total of $2.3 billion in principal amount of Demand Notes were outstanding. We also rely on secured funding. At March 31, 2011, approximately $9.1 billion of outstanding consolidated secured debt is scheduled to mature in 2011, approximately $9.1 billion is scheduled to mature in 2012, and approximately $9.6 billion is scheduled to mature in 2013. Furthermore, at March 31, 2011, approximately $8.9 billion in certificates of deposit at Ally Bank is scheduled to mature in 2011, which is not included in the 2011 unsecured maturities provided above. Additional financing will be required to fund a material portion of the debt maturities over this period. The capital markets continue to be volatile, and Ally’s access to the debt markets may be significantly reduced during periods of market stress. In addition, we will continue to have significant original issue discount amortization expenses (“OID expense”) in the near future, which will adversely affect our net income and resulting capital position. OID expense was $299 million in the first quarter of 2011, and the scheduled amortization is $646 million, $350 million, and $264 million in 2011, 2012, and 2013, respectively.

As a result of the volatility in the markets and our current unsecured debt ratings, we have increased our reliance on various secured debt markets. Although market conditions have improved, there can be no assurances that this will continue. In addition, we continue to rely on our ability to borrow from other financial institutions, and many of our primary bank facilities are up for renewal on a yearly basis. Any weakness in market conditions and a tightening of credit availability could have a negative effect on our ability to refinance these facilities and increase the costs of bank funding. Ally and Ally Bank also continue to access the securitization markets. While markets have begun to stabilize following the recent liquidity crisis, there can be no assurances these sources of liquidity will remain available to us.

Our indebtedness and other obligations are significant and could materially and adversely affect our business.

We have a significant amount of indebtedness. At December 31, 2010, we had approximately $96.8 billion in principal amount of indebtedness outstanding (including $42.4 billion in secured indebtedness). Interest expense on our indebtedness constituted approximately 54% of our total financing revenue and other interest income for the year ended December 31, 2010. In addition, during the twelve months ending December 31, 2010, we declared and paid preferred stock dividends of $1.2 billion in the aggregate.

We have the ability to create additional unsecured indebtedness. If our debt service obligations increase, whether due to the increased cost of existing indebtedness or the incurrence of additional indebtedness, we may be required to dedicate a significant portion of our cash flow from operations to the payment of principal of, and

 

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interest on, our indebtedness, which would reduce the funds available for other purposes. Our indebtedness also could limit our ability to withstand competitive pressures and reduce our flexibility in responding to changing business and economic conditions.

The worldwide financial services industry is highly competitive. If we are unable to compete successfully or if there is increased competition in the automotive financing, mortgage, and/or insurance markets or generally in the markets for securitizations or asset sales, our business could be negatively affected.

The markets for automotive and mortgage financing, banking, and insurance are highly competitive. The market for automotive financing has recently grown increasingly more competitive as more consumers are financing their vehicle purchases and as more competitors continue to enter this market as a result of how well automotive finance assets generally performed relative to other asset classes during the recent economic downturn. For example, on April 1, 2011, TD Bank Group announced the closing of its acquisition of Chrysler Financial, which could enhance Chrysler Financial’s ability to expand its product offerings and may result in increased competition. Our mortgage business and Ally Bank face significant competition from commercial banks, savings institutions, mortgage companies, and other financial institutions. Our insurance business faces significant competition from insurance carriers, reinsurers, third-party administrators, brokers, and other insurance-related companies. Many of our competitors have substantial positions nationally or in the markets in which they operate. Some of our competitors have lower cost structures, substantially lower costs of capital, and are much less reliant on securitization activities, unsecured debt, and other public markets. We face significant competition in most areas including product offerings, rates, pricing and fees, and customer service. If we are unable to compete effectively in the markets in which we operate, our profitability and financial condition could be negatively affected.

The markets for asset and mortgage securitizations and whole-loan sales are competitive, and other issuers and originators could increase the amount of their issuances and sales. In addition, lenders and other investors within those markets often establish limits on their credit exposure to particular issuers, originators, and asset classes, or they may require higher returns to increase the amount of their exposure. Increased issuance by other participants in the market or decisions by investors to limit their credit exposure to (or to require a higher yield for) us or to automotive or mortgage securitizations or whole-loans could negatively affect our ability and that of our subsidiaries to price our securitizations and whole loan sales at attractive rates. The result would be lower proceeds from these activities and lower profits for our subsidiaries and us.

Our allowance for loan losses may not be adequate to cover actual losses, and we may be required to materially increase our allowance, which may adversely affect our capital, financial condition, and results of operations.

We maintain an allowance for loan losses, which is a reserve established through a provision for loan losses charged to expenses, which represents management’s best estimate of probable credit losses that have been incurred within the existing portfolio of loans, all as described under Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. The allowance, in the judgment of management, is established to reserve for estimated loan losses and risks inherent in the loan portfolio. The determination of the appropriate level of the allowance for loan losses inherently involves a high degree of subjectivity and requires us to make significant estimates of current credit risks using existing qualitative and quantitative information, all of which may undergo material changes. Changes in economic conditions affecting borrowers, new information regarding existing loans, identification of additional problem loans, and other factors, both within and outside of our control, may require an increase in the allowance for loan losses.

Bank regulatory agencies periodically review our allowance for loan losses, as well as our methodology for calculating our allowance for loan losses and may require an increase in the provision for loan losses or the recognition of additional loan charge-offs, based on judgments different than those of management. An increase in the allowance for loan losses results in a decrease in net income and capital and may have a material adverse effect on our capital, financial condition and results of operations.

 

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Our mortgage subsidiary, ResCap, requires substantial liquidity and capital which could have an adverse effect on our own capital and liquidity position.

ResCap remains heavily reliant on support from us to meet its liquidity and capital requirements, which includes approximately $2.3 billion in principal amount of indebtedness scheduled to mature in 2011, 2012 and 2013. In addition, ResCap has commitments to lend up to $2.3 billion under existing home equity lines of credit it has extended to customers. Recent developments in the market for many types of mortgage products (including mortgage-backed securities) have resulted in reduced liquidity for these assets. As a result, a significant portion of ResCap’s assets are relatively illiquid. Any negative events with respect to ResCap could serve as a further drain on our financial resources.

Pursuant to an existing contractual arrangement, ResCap is precluded from paying any dividends to us, including any additional capital that we may provide in the future, if any.

ResCap employs various economic hedging strategies to mitigate the interest rate and prepayment risk inherent in many of its assets including its mortgage loans held-for-sale portfolio, MSRs, its portfolio of held-for-investment mortgage loans, and interests from securitizations. A significant portion of ResCap’s operating cash at any given time may consist of funds delivered to it as credit support by counterparties to these arrangements. However, interest rate movements during 2010 required ResCap to return a significant amount of such funds. As interest rates change and dependent upon the hedge position, ResCap may need to continue to repay or deliver cash as credit support for these arrangements. If the amount ResCap must repay or deliver is substantial, depending on its liquidity position at that time, ResCap may not be able to pay such amounts as required.

The protracted period of adverse developments in the mortgage finance and credit markets has adversely affected ResCap’s business, liquidity, and its capital position and has raised substantial doubt about ResCap’s ability to continue as a going concern.

ResCap has been adversely affected by the events and conditions in the broader mortgage banking industry, most severely but not limited to the domestic nonprime and nonconforming and international mortgage loan markets. Fair market valuations of held-for-sale mortgage loans, MSRs, and securitized interests that continue to be held by ResCap and other assets and liabilities ResCap records at fair value may continue to deteriorate if there continues to be weakness in housing prices, increasing mortgage rates, or increased severity of delinquencies and defaults of mortgage loans. These deteriorating factors previously resulted in higher provision for loan losses on ResCap’s held-for-investment mortgage loans and real estate-lending portfolios. As a direct result of these events and conditions, ResCap discontinued new originations in all of its international operations and sold its U.K. and European operations and currently generally only purchases or originates mortgage loans that can be sold in the form of securitizations guaranteed by the GSEs. If the GSEs became unable or unwilling to purchase mortgage loans from ResCap, it would have a materially adverse impact on ResCap’s funding and liquidity and on its ability to originate or purchase new mortgage loans.

ResCap is highly leveraged relative to its cash flow and has previously recognized substantial losses resulting in a significant deterioration in capital. There continues to be a risk that ResCap will not be able to meet its debt service obligations, will default on its financial debt covenants due to insufficient capital or liquidity, and/or be in a negative liquidity position in 2011 or beyond. ResCap remains heavily dependent on Ally for funding and capital support, and there can be no assurance that Ally will continue to provide such support.

In light of ResCap’s liquidity and capital needs combined with volatile conditions in the marketplace, there is substantial doubt about ResCap’s ability to continue as a going concern. If Ally determines to no longer support ResCap’s capital or liquidity needs or if ResCap or Ally are unable to successfully execute effective initiatives, it could have a material adverse effect on ResCap’s business, results of operations, and financial position.

 

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There is a significant risk that ResCap will not be able to meet its debt service obligations and other funding obligations in the near term.

ResCap expects its liquidity pressures to continue in 2011. ResCap is highly leveraged relative to its cash flow. At December 31, 2010, ResCap’s unrestricted liquidity (cash readily available to cover operating demands from across its business operations) totaled $444 million with cash and cash equivalents totaling $672 million.

ResCap expects that additional and continuing liquidity pressure, which is difficult to forecast with precision, will result from the obligation of its subsidiaries to advance delinquent principal, interest, property taxes, casualty insurance premiums, home equity line advances, and certain other amounts with respect to mortgage loans its subsidiaries service that become delinquent. In addition, ResCap continues to be subject to financial covenants requiring it to maintain minimum consolidated tangible net worth and consolidated liquidity balances. ResCap will attempt to meet these and other liquidity and capital demands through a combination of cash flow from operations and financings, potential asset sales, and other various alternatives. To the extent these sources prove insufficient, ResCap will be dependent on continued support from Ally to the extent Ally agrees to provide such support. Ally currently provides funding and capital support to ResCap through various facilities, including a $500 million unsecured line of credit. The sufficiency of these sources of additional liquidity cannot be assured, and any asset sales, even if they raise sufficient cash to meet ResCap’s liquidity needs, may adversely affect its overall profitability and financial condition.

Moreover, even if ResCap is successful in implementing all of the actions described above, its ability to satisfy its liquidity needs and comply with any covenants included in its debt agreements requiring maintenance of minimum cash balances may be affected by additional factors and events (such as interest rate fluctuations and margin calls) that increase ResCap’s cash needs making ResCap unable to independently satisfy its near term liquidity requirements.

We have extensive financing and hedging arrangements with ResCap, which could be at risk of nonpayment if ResCap were to file for bankruptcy.

We have secured financing arrangements and secured hedging agreements in place with ResCap. At March 31, 2011, we had $1.9 billion in secured financing arrangements with ResCap, of which $1.3 billion in loans was utilized. At March 31, 2011, there was no net exposure under hedging arrangements because the arrangements were fully collateralized. Amounts outstanding under the secured financing and hedging arrangements fluctuate. If ResCap were to file for bankruptcy, ResCap’s repayments of its financing facilities, including those with us, will be subject to bankruptcy proceedings and regulations, or ResCap may be unable to repay its financing facilities. In addition, we could be an unsecured creditor of ResCap to the extent that the proceeds from the sale of our collateral are insufficient to repay ResCap’s obligations to us. In addition, it is possible that other ResCap creditors would seek to recharacterize our loans to ResCap as equity contributions or to seek equitable subordination of our claims so that the claims of other creditors would have priority over our claims. We may also find it advantageous to provide debtor-in-possession financing to ResCap in a bankruptcy proceeding in order to preserve the value of the collateral ResCap has pledged to us. In addition, should ResCap file for bankruptcy, our investment related to ResCap’s equity position would likely be reduced to zero, and creditors of ResCap may attempt to assert claims directly against us for payment of their obligations.

We may be required to repurchase mortgage or other loans or indemnify investors if we breach representations and warranties, which could harm our profitability.

When we sell mortgage or other loans (such as retail automotive contracts) through whole-loan sales or securitizations, we are required to make customary representations and warranties about the loans to the purchaser or securitization trust. These representations and warranties relate to, among other things, the ownership of the loan, the validity of the lien securing the loan, the loan’s compliance with the criteria for inclusion in the transaction, including compliance with underwriting standards or loan criteria established by the buyer, ability to deliver required documentation, and compliance with applicable laws. Generally, the representations and warranties described above may be enforced at any time over the life of the loan.

 

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We use estimates and assumptions in determining our reserves for representation and warranty exposure. It is difficult to determine the accuracy of our estimates and assumptions, and our actual experience may differ materially from these estimates and assumptions. A material difference between our estimates and assumptions and our actual experience may require us to substantially increase our reserves, which could materially adversely affect our cash flow, profitability and financial condition.

As the mortgage industry continues to experience higher repurchase requirements and additional investors begin to attempt to put back loans, a significant increase in activity beyond that experienced today could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial position.

Certain of our mortgage subsidiaries face potential legal liability resulting from legal claims related to the sale of private-label mortgage-backed securities.

Claims related to private-label mortgage-backed securities (“PLS”) have been brought under federal and state securities laws and contract laws (among other theories), and additional similar claims, including claims from other third-party claimants (such as third-party investors, other insurers who have guaranteed payments on mortgages in our securitizations, or other third-party claimants), are likely to be brought in the future. The claims made to date are similar in some respects to the repurchase demands we have previously disclosed related to alleged breaches of representations and warranties that our mortgage subsidiaries made in connection with mortgage loans they sold or securitized. Further, and as previously disclosed, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (“FHFA”), as conservator of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, announced on July 12, 2010, that it issued 64 subpoenas to various entities seeking documents related to PLS in which Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac had invested. Certain of our mortgage subsidiaries received such subpoenas. In connection with our settlement with Fannie Mae announced on December 23, 2010, the FHFA has agreed to withdraw the subpoenas that relate to Fannie Mae. However, we continue to respond to the subpoenas related to Freddie Mac. The FHFA has indicated that documents provided in response to the subpoenas will enable the FHFA to determine whether they believe issuers of PLS are potentially liable to Freddie Mac for losses they might have suffered. A final outcome in any existing or future legal proceeding related to the foregoing, if unfavorable, could result in additional liability, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, reputation, results of operations, or financial condition.

Changes in existing U.S. government-sponsored mortgage programs, restrictions on our access to such programs, or disruptions in the secondary markets in the United States or in other countries in which we operate could adversely affect our profitability and financial condition.

Our ability to generate revenue through mortgage loan sales to institutional investors in the United States depends to a significant degree on programs administered by the GSEs and others that facilitate the issuance of mortgage-backed securities in the secondary market. These GSEs play a powerful role in the residential mortgage industry and we have significant business relationships with them. Proposals have been enacted in the U.S. Congress and are under consideration by various regulatory authorities that would affect the manner in which these GSEs conduct their business to require them to register their stock with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to reduce or limit certain business benefits that they receive from the U.S. government and to limit the size of the mortgage loan portfolios that they may hold. Furthermore, the Obama administration recently released a report that recommended winding down Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. We do not know what impact, if any, the report would have on the future of the GSEs. In addition, the GSEs themselves have been negatively affected by recent mortgage market conditions, including conditions that have threatened their access to debt financing. Any discontinuation of, or significant reduction in, the operation of these GSEs could adversely affect our revenues and profitability. Also, any significant adverse change in the level of activity in the secondary market including declines in institutional investors’ desire to invest in our mortgage products could materially adversely affect our business.

 

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We are exposed to consumer credit risk, which could adversely affect our profitability and financial condition.

We are subject to credit risk resulting from defaults in payment or performance by customers for our contracts and loans, as well as contracts and loans that are securitized and in which we retain a residual interest. For example, the continued decline in the domestic housing market and the increase in unemployment rates resulted in an increase in delinquency rates related to mortgage loans that ResCap and Ally Bank either hold or retain an interest in. Furthermore, a weak economic environment, high unemployment rates, and the continued deterioration of the housing market could exert pressure on our consumer automotive finance customers resulting in higher delinquencies, repossessions, and losses. There can be no assurances that our monitoring of our credit risk as it affects the value of these assets and our efforts to mitigate credit risk through our risk-based pricing, appropriate underwriting policies, and loss-mitigation strategies are, or will be, sufficient to prevent a further adverse effect on our profitability and financial condition. In addition, we have begun to increase our used automobile and nonprime automobile financing (“nonprime automobile financing”). We define nonprime consumer automobile loans as those loans with a FICO score (or an equivalent score) at origination of less than 620. At March 31, 2011, the carrying value of our North American Automotive Finance Operations (“NAO”) nonprime consumer automobile loans before allowance for loan losses was $3,329 million, or approximately 7.0% of our total NAO consumer automobile loans. Of these loans, $42 million were considered nonperforming as they had been placed on nonaccrual status in accordance with internal loan policies. Refer to the Nonaccrual Loans section of Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information. As we grow our automotive asset portfolio in nonprime automobile financing loans over time, our credit risk may increase. As part of the underwriting process, we rely heavily upon information supplied by third parties. If any of this information is intentionally or negligently misrepresented and the misrepresentation is not detected before completing the transaction, the credit risk associated with the transaction may be increased.

General business and economic conditions may significantly and adversely affect our revenues, profitability, and financial condition.

Our business and earnings are sensitive to general business and economic conditions in the United States and in the markets in which we operate outside the United States. A downturn in economic conditions resulting in increased short and long term interest rates, inflation, fluctuations in the debt capital markets, unemployment rates, consumer and commercial bankruptcy filings, or a decline in the strength of national and local economies and other factors that negatively affect household incomes could decrease demand for our financing and mortgage products and increase mortgage and financing delinquency and losses on our customer and dealer financing operations. We have been negatively affected due to the recent significant stress in the residential real estate and related capital markets and, in particular, the lack of home price appreciation in many markets in which we lend. Further, a significant and sustained increase in fuel prices could lead to diminished new and used vehicle purchases and negatively affect our automotive finance business.

If the rate of inflation were to increase, or if the debt capital markets or the economies of the United States or our markets outside the United States were to weaken, or if home prices or new and used vehicle purchases experience declines, we could be significantly and adversely affected, and it could become more expensive for us to conduct our business. For example, business and economic conditions that negatively affect household incomes, housing prices, and consumer behavior related to our businesses could decrease (1) the demand for our mortgage loans and new and used vehicle financing and (2) the value of the collateral underlying our portfolio of held-for-investment mortgages and new and used vehicle loans and interests that continue to be held by us, thus further increasing the number of consumers who become delinquent or default on their loans. In addition, the rate of delinquencies, foreclosures, and losses on our loans (especially our nonprime mortgage loans) as experienced recently could be higher during more severe economic slowdowns.

Any sustained period of increased delinquencies, foreclosures, or losses could further harm our ability to sell our mortgage and new and used vehicle loans, the prices we receive for our mortgage and new and used vehicle loans, or the value of our portfolio of mortgage and new and used vehicle loans held-for-investment or

 

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interests from our securitizations, which could harm our revenues, profitability, and financial condition. Continued adverse business and economic conditions could affect demand for housing, new and used vehicles, the cost of construction, and other related factors that could harm the revenues and profitability of our business.

In addition, our business and earnings are significantly affected by the fiscal and monetary policies of the U.S. government and its agencies and similar governmental authorities in the markets in which we operate outside the United States. We are particularly affected by the policies of the FRB, which regulates the supply of money and credit in the United States. The FRB’s policies influence the new and used vehicle financing market and the size of the mortgage origination market, which significantly affects the earnings of our businesses and the earnings of our business capital activities. The FRB’s policies also influence the yield on our interest earning assets and the cost of our interest-bearing liabilities. Changes in those policies are beyond our control and difficult to predict and could adversely affect our revenues, profitability, and financial condition.

Acts or threats of terrorism and political or military actions taken by the United States or other governments could adversely affect general economic or industry conditions.

Geopolitical conditions may affect our earnings. Acts or threats of terrorism and political or military actions taken by the United States or other governments in response to terrorism, or similar activity, could adversely affect general economic or industry conditions.

Treasury (or its designee) will continue to own a substantial interest in us following this offering, and its interests may differ from those of our other stockholders.

Immediately following this offering, and the concurrent transactions described under “Concurrent Transactions,” Treasury will own approximately     % of our outstanding shares of common stock (     % if the underwriters in the offering of common stock and the underwriters in the concurrent offering of Units exercise their over-allotment options in full), assuming the common stock public offering price is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, and Treasury will own approximately     % of the outstanding Units (    % if the underwriters in the concurrent offering of Units exercise their over-allotment options in full). Pursuant to the Amended and Restated Governance Agreement dated May 21, 2009, as of the date hereof, Treasury also has the right to appoint six of the eleven members to our board of directors. As a result of this stock ownership interest and Treasury’s right to appoint six directors to our board of directors, Treasury has the ability to exert control, through its power to vote for the election of our directors, over various matters. To the extent Treasury elects to exert such control over us, its interests (as a government entity) may differ from those of our other stockholders and it may influence, through its ability to vote for the election of our directors, matters including:

 

   

The selection, tenure and compensation of our management;

 

   

Our business strategy and product offerings;

 

   

Our relationship with our employees and other constituencies; and

 

   

Our financing activities, including the issuance of debt and equity securities.

In particular, Treasury may have a greater interest in promoting U.S. economic growth and jobs than our other stockholders. In the future we may also become subject to new and additional laws and government regulations regarding various aspects of our business as a result of participation in the TARP program and the U.S. government’s ownership in our business. These regulations could make it more difficult for us to compete with other companies that are not subject to similar regulations.

 

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The limitations on compensation imposed on us due to our participation in TARP, including the restrictions placed on our compensation by the Special Master for TARP Executive Compensation, may adversely affect our ability to retain and motivate our executives and employees.

Our performance is dependent on the talent and efforts of our management team and employees. As a result of our participation in TARP, the compensation of certain members of our management team and employees is subject to extensive restrictions under the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, as amended by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the “ARRA”), which was signed into law on February 17, 2009, as implemented by the Interim Final Rule issued by Treasury on June 15, 2009 (the “IFR”). In addition, due to our level of participation in TARP, pursuant to ARRA and the IFR, the Office of the Special Master for TARP Executive Compensation has the authority to further regulate our compensation arrangements with certain of our executives and employees. In addition, we may become subject to further restrictions under any other future legislation or regulation limiting executive compensation. Many of the restrictions are not limited to our senior executives and affect other employees whose contributions to revenue and performance may be significant. These limitations may leave us unable to create a compensation structure that permits us to retain and motivate certain of our executives and employees or to attract new executives or employees, especially if we are competing against institutions that are not subject to the same restrictions. Any such inability could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Our borrowing costs and access to the unsecured debt capital markets depend significantly on our credit ratings.

The cost and availability of unsecured financing are materially affected by our short- and long-term credit ratings. Each of Standard & Poor’s Rating Services; Moody’s Investors Service, Inc.; Fitch, Inc.; and Dominion Bond Rating Service rates our debt. Our current ratings as assigned by each of the respective rating agencies are below investment grade, which negatively impacts our access to liquidity and increases our borrowing costs in the unsecured market. Ratings reflect the rating agencies’ opinions of our financial strength, operating performance, strategic position, and ability to meet our obligations. Future downgrades of our credit ratings would increase borrowing costs and further constrain our access to the unsecured debt markets and, as a result, would negatively affect our business. In addition, downgrades of our credit ratings could increase the possibility of additional terms and conditions being added to any new or replacement financing arrangements as well as impact elements of certain existing secured borrowing arrangements.

Agency ratings are not a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security and may be revised or withdrawn at any time by the issuing organization. Each agency’s rating should be evaluated independently of any other agency’s rating.

Our profitability and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected if the residual value of off-lease vehicles decrease in the future.

Our expectation of the residual value of a vehicle subject to an automotive lease contract is a critical element used to determine the amount of the lease payments under the contract at the time the customer enters into it. As a result, to the extent the actual residual value of the vehicle, as reflected in the sales proceeds received upon remarketing at lease termination, is less than the expected residual value for the vehicle at lease inception, we incur additional depreciation expense and/or a loss on the lease transaction. General economic conditions, the supply of off lease and other vehicles to be sold, new vehicle market prices, perceived vehicle quality, overall price and volatility of gasoline or diesel fuel, among other factors, heavily influence used vehicle prices and thus the actual residual value of off lease vehicles. Consumer confidence levels and the strength of auto manufacturers and dealers can also influence the used vehicle market. For example, during 2008, sharp declines in demand and used vehicle sale prices adversely affected Ally’s remarketing proceeds and financial results.

Vehicle brand images, consumer preference, and vehicle manufacturer marketing programs that influence new and used vehicle markets also influence lease residual values. In addition, our ability to efficiently process and effectively market off lease vehicles affects the disposal costs and proceeds realized from the vehicle sales.

 

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While manufacturers, at times, may provide support for lease residual values including through residual support programs, this support does not in all cases entitle us to full reimbursement for the difference between the remarketing sales proceeds for off lease vehicles and the residual value specified in the lease contract. Differences between the actual residual values realized on leased vehicles and our expectations of such values at contract inception could have a negative impact on our profitability and financial condition.

Current conditions in the residential mortgage market and housing markets may continue to adversely affect Ally’s mortgage business.

The residential mortgage market in the United States and other international markets in which our Mortgage operations conduct, or previously conducted, business have experienced a variety of difficulties and changed economic conditions that adversely affected our mortgage business’ results of operations and financial condition. Delinquencies and losses with respect to our Legacy Portfolio and Other segment’s nonprime mortgage loans increased significantly. Housing prices in many parts of the United States, the United Kingdom, and other international markets also declined or stopped appreciating after extended periods of significant appreciation. In addition, the liquidity provided to the mortgage sector had been significantly reduced. This liquidity reduction combined with our decision to reduce our mortgage business’ exposure to the nonprime mortgage market caused its nonprime mortgage production to decline. Similar trends have emerged beyond the nonprime sector, especially at the lower end of the prime credit quality scale, and have had a similar effect on our mortgage business’ related liquidity needs and businesses. These trends have resulted in significant write-downs to our Legacy Portfolio and Other’s held-for-sale mortgage loans and trading securities portfolios and additions to its allowance for loan losses for its held-for-investment mortgage loans and warehouse-lending receivables portfolios. A continuation of these conditions may continue to adversely affect our mortgage business’ financial condition and results of operations.

Moreover, the continued deterioration of the U.S. housing market and decline in home prices since 2008 in many U.S. markets, which may continue for the near term, could result in increased delinquencies or defaults on the mortgage assets ResCap owns and services as well as those mortgage assets owned by Ally Bank. Further, loans that our Mortgage operations historically made based on limited credit or income documentation also increase the likelihood of future increases in delinquencies or defaults on mortgage loans. An increase in delinquencies or defaults will result in a higher level of credit losses and credit-related expenses and increased liquidity requirements to fund servicing advances, all of which in turn will reduce revenues and profits of our mortgage business. Higher credit losses and credit-related expenses also could adversely affect our financial condition.

Our lending volume is generally related to the rate of growth in U.S. residential mortgage debt outstanding and the size of the U.S. residential mortgage market. Recently, the rate of growth in total U.S. residential mortgage debt outstanding has slowed sharply in response to the reduced activity in the housing market and national declines in home prices. In addition, most of our mortgage business is currently conducted through the correspondent channel, which relies heavily on the mortgage refinancing business. The volume of mortgage refinancing experienced a significant increase in 2009 and 2010 due to interest rate decreases, but we expect it will experience a significant decrease in 2011 as interest rates increase. A decline in the rate of growth in mortgage debt outstanding reduces the number of mortgage loans available for us to purchase or securitize, which in turn could lead to a reduction in our revenue, profits, and business prospects.

Our earnings may decrease because of increases or decreases in interest rates.

Changes in interest rates could have an adverse impact on our business. For example:

 

   

rising interest rates will increase our cost of funds;

 

   

rising interest rates may reduce our consumer automotive financing volume by influencing customers to pay cash for, as opposed to financing, vehicle purchases or not to buy new vehicles;

 

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rising interest rates may negatively impact our ability to remarket off lease vehicles;

 

   

rising interest rates generally reduce our residential mortgage loan production as borrowers become less likely to refinance and the costs associated with acquiring a new home become more expensive; and

 

   

rising interest rates will generally reduce the value of mortgage and automotive financing loans and contracts and retained interests and fixed income securities held in our investment portfolio.

We are also subject to risks from decreasing interest rates. For example, a significant decrease in interest rates could increase the rate at which mortgages are prepaid, which could require us to write down the value of our retained interests and MSRs. Moreover, if prepayments are greater than expected, the cash we receive over the life of our held-for-investment mortgage loans and our retained interests would be reduced. Higher-than-expected prepayments could also reduce the value of our MSRs and, to the extent the borrower does not refinance with us, the size of our servicing portfolio. Therefore, any such changes in interest rates could harm our revenues, profitability, and financial condition.

Throughout 2009 and 2010 the credit risk embedded in the balance sheet was reduced as a result of asset sales, asset markdowns, and a change in the mix of our loan assets as the legacy portfolios were replaced with assets underwritten to tighter credit standards. This reduction in risk has resulted in a mix of assets outstanding on the balance sheet as of March 31, 2011 with a lower yielding profile than the prior year period. During this same period of time we experienced a significant decline in our consumer automotive operating lease portfolio that was realizing higher yields from remarketing gains due to historically high used vehicle prices. The combination of the above factors resulted in a decline in asset yields more than the decline in liability rates, and therefore the decline in the net interest spread on the balance sheet throughout 2010 and into 2011.

Our hedging strategies may not be successful in mitigating our risks associated with changes in interest rates and could affect our profitability and financial condition as could our failure to comply with hedge accounting principles and interpretations.

We employ various economic hedging strategies to mitigate the interest rate and prepayment risk inherent in many of our assets and liabilities. Our hedging strategies rely on assumptions and projections regarding our assets, liabilities, and general market factors. If these assumptions and projections prove to be incorrect or our hedges do not adequately mitigate the impact of changes in interest rates or prepayment speeds, we may experience volatility in our earnings that could adversely affect our profitability and financial condition. In addition, we may not be able to find market participants that are willing to act as our hedging counterparties, which could have an adverse effect on the success of our hedging strategies.

In addition, hedge accounting in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires the application of significant subjective judgments to a body of accounting concepts that is complex and for which the interpretations have continued to evolve within the accounting profession and among the standard-setting bodies.

A failure of or interruption in, as well as, security risks of the communications and information systems on which we rely to conduct our business could adversely affect our revenues and profitability.

We rely heavily upon communications and information systems to conduct our business. Any failure or interruption of our information systems or the third-party information systems on which we rely as a result of inadequate or failed processes or systems, human errors, or external events could cause underwriting or other delays and could result in fewer applications being received, slower processing of applications, and reduced efficiency in servicing. In addition, our communication and information systems may present security risks, and could be susceptible to hacking or identity theft. The occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our business.

 

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We use estimates and assumptions in determining the fair value of certain of our assets in determining lease residual values and in determining our reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses. If our estimates or assumptions prove to be incorrect, our cash flow, profitability, financial condition, and business prospects could be materially and adversely affected.

We use estimates and various assumptions in determining the fair value of many of our assets, including certain held-for-investment and held-for-sale loans for which we elected fair value accounting, retained interests from securitizations of loans and contracts, MSRs, and other investments, which do not have an established market value or are not publicly traded. We also use estimates and assumptions in determining the residual values of leased vehicles. In addition, we use estimates and assumptions in determining our reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses which represent the accumulation of estimates for both reported losses and those incurred, but not reported, including claims adjustment expenses relating to direct insurance and assumed reinsurance agreements. For further discussion related to estimates and assumptions, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Critical Accounting Estimates.” It is difficult to determine the accuracy of our estimates and assumptions, and our actual experience may differ materially from these estimates and assumptions. A material difference between our estimates and assumptions and our actual experience may adversely affect our cash flow, profitability, financial condition, and business prospects.

Our business outside the United States exposes us to additional risks that may cause our revenues and profitability to decline.

We conduct a significant portion of our business outside the United States exposing us to risks such as the following:

 

   

multiple foreign regulatory requirements that are subject to change;

 

   

differing local product preferences and product requirements;

 

   

fluctuations in foreign interest rates;

 

   

difficulty in establishing, staffing, and managing foreign operations;

 

   

differing labor regulations;

 

   

consequences from changes in tax laws;

 

   

restrictions on our ability to repatriate profits or transfer cash into or out of foreign countries; and

 

   

political and economic instability, natural calamities, war and terrorism.

The effects of these risks may, individually or in the aggregate, adversely affect our revenues and profitability.

Our business could be adversely affected by changes in foreign-currency exchange rates.

We are exposed to risks related to the effects of changes in foreign-currency exchange rates. Changes in currency exchange rates can have a significant impact on our earnings from international operations as a result of foreign-currency-translation adjustments. While we carefully monitor and attempt to manage our exposure to fluctuation in currency exchange rates through foreign-currency hedging activities, these types of changes could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

 

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Fluctuations in valuation of investment securities or significant fluctuations in investment market prices could negatively affect revenues.

Investment market prices in general are subject to fluctuation. Consequently, the amount realized in the subsequent sale of an investment may significantly differ from the reported market value that could negatively affect our revenues. Additionally, negative fluctuations in the value of available for sale investment securities could result in unrealized losses recorded in equity. Fluctuation in the market price of a security may result from perceived changes in the underlying economic characteristics of the investee, the relative price of alternative investments, national and international events, and general market conditions.

Significant indemnification payments or contract, lease, or loan repurchase activity of retail contracts or leases or mortgage loans could harm our profitability and financial condition.

We have repurchase obligations in our capacity as servicer in securitizations and whole-loan sales. If a servicer breaches a representation, warranty, or servicing covenant with respect to an automotive receivable or mortgage loan, the servicer may be required by the servicing provisions to repurchase that asset from the purchaser or otherwise compensate one or more classes of investors for losses caused by the breach. If the frequency at which repurchases of assets or other payments occurs increases substantially from its present rate, the result could be a material adverse effect on our financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations.

In connection with its servicing of securitized mortgage loans, ResCap is subject to contractual caps on the percentage of mortgage loans it is permitted to modify in any securitized pool. The financial crisis has resulted in dramatic increases in the volume of delinquent mortgage loans over the past three years. In an effort to achieve the best net present value recovery for the securitization trust, ResCap increased the volume of modifications of distressed mortgage loans to assist homeowners and avoid liquidating properties in a collapsing and opaque housing market. In certain securitization transactions, ResCap has exceeded the applicable contractual modification cap. The securitization documents provide that the contractual caps can be raised or eliminated with the concurrence of each rating agency rating the transaction. For certain transactions with respect to which loan modifications have exceeded the contractual caps, the rating agencies have concurred in raising or eliminating the caps, but they have not consented in connection with other such transactions. ResCap will continue to seek their concurrence in connection with other transactions as it deems appropriate and will suspend modifications in excess of applicable caps pending receipt of such consent or investor approval to amend the servicing contracts. An investor in a specific mortgage security class might claim that modifications in excess of the applicable cap amounted to a material failure of ResCap to perform its servicing obligations and that the investor was damaged as a result. Such claims, if successful, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations.

A loss of contractual servicing rights could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations.

We are the servicer for all of the receivables we have acquired or originated and transferred to other parties in securitizations and whole-loan sales of automotive receivables. Our mortgage subsidiaries service the mortgage loans we have securitized, and we service the majority of the mortgage loans we have sold in whole-loan sales. In each case, we are paid a fee for our services, which fees in the aggregate constitute a substantial revenue stream for us. In each case, we are subject to the risk of termination under the circumstances specified in the applicable servicing provisions.

In most securitizations and whole-loan sales, the owner of the receivables or mortgage loans will be entitled to declare a servicer default and terminate the servicer upon the occurrence of specified events. These events typically include a bankruptcy of the servicer, a material failure by the servicer to perform its obligations, and a failure by the servicer to turn over funds on the required basis. The termination of these servicing rights, were it to occur, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations and those of our mortgage subsidiaries.

 

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Changes in accounting standards issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) could adversely affect our reported revenues, profitability, and financial condition.

Our financial statements are subject to the application of GAAP, which are periodically revised and/or expanded. The application of accounting principles is also subject to varying interpretations over time. Accordingly, we are required to adopt new or revised accounting standards or comply with revised interpretations that are issued from time to time by various parties, including accounting standard setters and those who interpret the standards, such as the FASB and the SEC, banking regulators, and our independent registered public accounting firm. Those changes could adversely affect our reported revenues, profitability, or financial condition.

Recently, the FASB has proposed new financial accounting standards, and has many active projects underway, that could materially affect our reported revenues, profitability, or financial condition. These proposed standards or projects include the potential for significant changes in the accounting for financial instruments (including loans, deposits, and debt) and the accounting for leases, among others. It is possible that any changes, if enacted, could adversely affect our reported revenues, profitability, or financial condition.

The soundness of other financial institutions could adversely affect us.

Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty, or other relationships. We have exposure to different counterparties, and we routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry, including brokers and dealers, commercial banks, investment banks, and other institutions. Many of these transactions expose us to credit risk in the event of default of our counterparty.

Our inability to maintain relationships with dealers could have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Our business depends on the continuation of our relationships with our customers, particularly the automotive dealers with whom we do business. If we are not able to maintain existing relationships with key automotive dealers or if we are not able to develop new relationships for any reason, including if we are not able to provide services on a timely basis or offer products that meet the needs of the dealers, our business, results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.

Adverse economic conditions or changes in laws in states in which we have customer concentrations may negatively affect our operating results and financial condition.

We are exposed to consumer loan portfolio concentration in California and Texas and consumer mortgage loan concentration in California, Florida, and Michigan. Factors adversely affecting the economies and applicable laws in these states could have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial position.

Risks Related to this Offering and Ownership of Our Common Stock

The sale or availability for sale of substantial amounts of our common stock could cause our common stock price to decline or impair our ability to raise capital.

Sales of a substantial number of shares of our common stock in the public market following this offering, or the perception that large sales could occur, or the settlement of the purchase contracts that are components of the Units being offered in the concurrent offering or the perception that settlement could occur, could depress the market price of our common stock and could impair our ability to raise capital through the sale of equity and equity-related securities. Upon completion of this offering, there will be         shares of common stock issued and outstanding, assuming the common stock public offering price is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus.

 

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Of the         outstanding shares of common stock, the         shares of common stock to be sold in this offering (         shares if the underwriters in this offering exercise their over-allotment option in full) will be freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act, unless those shares are held by any of our “affiliates,” as that term is defined under Rule 144 of the Securities Act. Following the expiration of any applicable lock-up periods referred to in the section of this prospectus entitled “Shares Eligible for Future Sale,” the          remaining outstanding shares of common stock may be eligible for resale under Rule 144 under the Securities Act subject to applicable restrictions under Rule 144. In addition, pursuant to Exhibit A of the Bylaws of Ally Financial Inc. (the “Registration Rights Agreement”), we have granted our existing common stockholders the right to require us in certain circumstances to file registration statements under the Securities Act covering additional resales of our common stock held by them and the right to participate in other registered offerings in certain circumstances. As restrictions on resale end or if these stockholders exercise their registration rights or otherwise sell their shares, the market price of our common stock could decline.

In particular, following this offering, Treasury or GMAC Common Equity Trust I might sell a large number of the shares of our common stock that they hold. Such sales of a substantial number of shares of our common stock could adversely affect the market price of our common stock.

The number of shares of our common stock Treasury will receive upon conversion of our Series F-2 preferred stock will depend upon the public offering price of the common stock in this offering.

Treasury currently holds 118,750,000 shares of our Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2 (the “Series F-2 preferred stock”), having an aggregate liquidation amount of $5,937,500,000. In connection with this offering and the concurrent Units offering, Treasury intends to convert 58,750,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock into shares of our common stock based on a conversion price equal to the common stock public offering price, which, based on the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, would result in the conversion of the Series F-2 preferred stock into              shares of common stock. See “Concurrent Transactions.”

Accordingly, the number of shares of our common stock we will issue to Treasury in connection with the conversion will depend upon the common stock public offering price. For example, if the common stock public offering price is $             (the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus), then we will issue              shares of our common stock to Treasury upon conversion. By contrast, if the common stock public offering price were to increase by $1.00, then we will issue              shares of our common stock to Treasury upon conversion and if the common stock public offering price were to decrease by $1.00, then we will issue              shares of our common stock to Treasury upon conversion.

We have no current plans to pay dividends on our common stock, and our ability to pay dividends on our common stock may be limited.

We have no current plans to commence payment of a dividend on our common stock. Our payment of dividends on our common stock in the future will be determined by our Board of Directors in its sole discretion and will depend on business conditions, our financial condition, earnings and liquidity, and other factors. Our Series G preferred stock prohibits us from making dividend payments on our common stock before January 1, 2014 and allows dividend payments thereafter only if 1) our senior guaranteed notes issued on December 31, 2008 are rated investment grade and 2) the payment, together with other dividend payments we made since December 31, 2008, is less than 25% of the excess of our cumulative consolidated net income from January 1, 2014 to the most recently ended fiscal quarter for which financial statements are available at the time of such dividend payment. In addition, so long as any share of our Series A preferred stock remains outstanding, no dividend or distribution may be declared or paid on our common stock unless all accrued and unpaid dividends have been paid on such series of preferred stock.

Any indentures and other financing agreements that we enter into in the future may limit our ability to pay cash dividends on our capital stock, including our common stock. In the event that any of our indentures or other

 

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financing agreements in the future restrict our ability to pay dividends in cash on our common stock, we may be unable to pay dividends in cash on our common stock unless we can refinance the amounts outstanding under those agreements.

In addition, under Delaware law, our Board of Directors may declare dividends on our capital stock only to the extent of our statutory “surplus” (which is defined as the amount equal to total assets minus total liabilities, in each case at fair market value, minus statutory capital), or if there is no such surplus, out of our net profits for the then current and/or immediately preceding fiscal year. Further, even if we are permitted under our contractual obligations and Delaware law to pay cash dividends on our common stock, we may not have sufficient cash to pay dividends in cash on our common stock.

Any plans to commence payment of dividends on our common stock in the future would be subject to the FRB’s review and absence of objection. See “Business—Certain Regulatory Matters—Bank Holding Company Status”. There is no assurance that, upon the FRB’s review of our future capital plans, we would be permitted to make any planned payments of dividends on our common stock.

Anti-takeover provisions contained in our organizational documents and Delaware law could delay or prevent a takeover attempt or change in control of our company, which could adversely affect the price of our common stock.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, our amended and restated bylaws, and Delaware law contain provisions that could have the effect of rendering more difficult or discouraging an acquisition deemed undesirable by our Board of Directors. Our organizational documents include provisions:

 

   

Limiting the liability of our directors, and providing indemnification to our directors and officers; and

 

   

Limiting the ability of our stockholders to call and bring business before special meetings.

These provisions, alone or together, could delay hostile takeovers and changes in control of the company or changes in management.

In addition, after the completion of this offering, we will be subject to Section 203 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “DGCL”), which generally prohibits a corporation from engaging in various business combination transactions with any “interested stockholder” (generally defined as a stockholder who owns 15% or more of a corporation’s voting stock) for a period of three years following the time that such stockholder became an interested stockholder, except under certain circumstances including receipt of prior board approval.

Any provision of our Certificate of Incorporation or our Bylaws or Delaware law that has the effect of delaying or deterring a hostile takeover or change in control could limit the opportunity for our stockholders to receive a premium for their shares of our common stock and could also affect the price that some investors are willing to pay for our common stock.

See “Description of Capital Stock” for a further discussion of these provisions.

Because there has not been any public market for our common stock, the market price and trading volume of our common stock may be volatile.

You should consider an investment in our common stock to be risky and you should invest in our common stock only if you can withstand a significant loss and wide fluctuations in the market value of your investment.

 

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The price of our common stock after the closing of this offering may fluctuate widely, depending upon many factors, including, but not limited to:

 

   

the perceived prospects for the auto finance and mortgage industries in general or for our company;

 

   

differences between our actual financial and operating results and those expected by investors;

 

   

changes in the share price of public companies with which we compete;

 

   

news about our new products or services, enhancements, significant contracts, acquisitions or strategic investments;

 

   

changes in our capital structure, such as future issuances of securities, repurchases of our common stock or our incurrence of debt;

 

   

changes in general economic or market conditions;

 

   

broad market fluctuations;

 

   

regulatory actions or changes in applicable laws, rules or regulations;

 

   

unfavorable or lack of published research by securities or industry analysts; and

 

   

departure of key personnel.

In addition, the market price of our common stock is likely to be influenced by the purchase contracts that are components of the Units being offered in the concurrent offering. For example, the market price of our common stock could become more volatile and could be depressed by investors’ anticipation of the potential resale in the market of a substantial number of additional shares of our common stock, including shares of common stock received upon settlement of the purchase contracts that are components of the Units being offered in the concurrent offering, possible sales of our common stock by investors who view the Units as a more attractive means of equity participation in us than owning shares of our common stock; and hedging or arbitrage trading activity that may develop involving the Units and our common stock.

Our common stock may trade at prices significantly below the initial public offering price. In addition, when the market price of a company’s common equity drops significantly, stockholders often institute securities class action lawsuits against the company. A lawsuit against us could cause us to incur substantial costs and could divert the time and attention of our management and other resources.

Treasury, which is the selling stockholder, is a federal agency and your ability to bring a claim against Treasury under the federal securities laws may be limited.

The doctrine of sovereign immunity, as limited by the Federal Tort Claims Act (the “FTCA”), provides that claims may not be brought against the United States of America or any agency or instrumentality thereof unless specifically permitted by act of Congress. The FTCA bars claims for fraud or misrepresentation. At least one federal court, in a case involving a federal agency, has held that the United States may assert its sovereign immunity to claims brought under the federal securities laws. In addition, Treasury and its officers, agents, and employees are exempt from liability for any violation or alleged violation of the anti-fraud provisions of Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act by virtue of Section 3(c) thereof. The underwriters are not claiming to be agents of Treasury in this offering. Accordingly, any attempt to assert such a claim against the officers, agents or employees of Treasury for a violation of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or the Exchange Act resulting from an alleged material misstatement in or material omission from this prospectus or the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part or resulting from any other act or omission in connection with the offering of the common stock by Treasury would likely be barred.

 

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SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

We have made statements under the captions “Prospectus Summary,” “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” “Business” and in other sections of this prospectus that may contain certain statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. The words “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “initiative,” “objective,” “plan,” “goal,” “project,” “outlook,” “priorities,” “target,” “intend,” “evaluate,” “pursue,” “seek,” “may,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” or the negatives of any of these words or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. All statements herein, other than statements of historical fact, including without limitation statements about future events and financial performance, are forward-looking statements that involve certain risks and uncertainties. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statement and should consider all uncertainties and risks discussed in this prospectus, including those under the caption “Risk Factors.” Forward-looking statements apply only as of the date they are made, and Ally undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date the forward looking statement is made. Factors that could cause our actual results to be materially different from our expectations include, among others, the risk factors set forth herein under the caption “Risk Factors,” and the following:

 

   

Maintaining the mutually beneficial relationship between the company and GM, and the company and Chrysler;

 

   

The profitability and financial condition of GM and Chrysler;

 

   

Securing low cost funding for us and ResCap;

 

   

Our ability to realize the anticipated benefits associated with being a bank holding company, and the increased regulation and restrictions that we are now subject to;

 

   

Any impact resulting from delayed foreclosure sales or related matters;

 

   

The potential for legal liability resulting from claims related to the sale of private-label mortgage-backed securities;

 

   

Risks related to potential repurchase obligations due to alleged breaches of representations and warranties in mortgage securitization transactions;

 

   

Changes in U.S. government-sponsored mortgage programs or disruptions in the markets in which our mortgage subsidiaries operate;

 

   

Continued challenges in the residential mortgage markets;

 

   

The continuing negative impact on ResCap and our mortgage business generally due to the recent decline in the U.S. housing market;

 

   

Uncertainty of our ability to enter into transactions or execute strategic alternatives to realize the value of our ResCap operations;

 

   

The potential for deterioration in the residual value of off-lease vehicles;

 

   

Disruptions in the market in which we fund our operations, with resulting negative impact on our liquidity;

 

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Changes in our accounting assumptions that may require or that result from changes in the accounting rules or their application, which could result in an impact on earnings;

 

   

Changes in the credit ratings of Ally, ResCap, Chrysler, or GM;

 

   

Changes in economic conditions, currency exchange rates or political stability in the markets in which we operate; and

 

   

Changes in the existing or the adoption of new laws, regulations, policies or other activities of governments, agencies and similar organizations (including as a result of the Dodd-Frank Act).

 

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USE OF PROCEEDS

The selling stockholder is selling all of the shares of common stock in this offering and Ally will not receive any proceeds from the sale of the shares.

 

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DIVIDEND POLICY

We have no current plans to commence payment of a dividend on our common stock. Our payment of dividends on our common stock in the future will be determined by our Board of Directors in its sole discretion and will depend on business conditions, our financial condition, earnings and liquidity, and other factors. Our Series G preferred stock prohibits us from making dividend payments on our common stock before January 1, 2014 and allows dividend payments thereafter only if (1) our senior guaranteed notes issued on December 31, 2008 are rated investment grade and (2) the payment, together with other dividend payments we made since December 31, 2008, is less than 25% of the excess of our cumulative consolidated net income from January 1, 2014 to the most recently ended fiscal quarter for which financial statements are available at the time of such dividend payment. In addition, so long as any share of our Series A preferred stock remains outstanding, no dividend or distribution may be declared or paid on our common stock unless all accrued and unpaid dividends have been paid on such series of preferred stock.

Any plans to commence payment of dividends on our common stock in the future would, as announced by the FRB on March 18, 2011, with respect to the completion of its Comprehensive Capital Analysis and Review of the capital plans of the nineteen largest U.S. bank holding companies, including Ally, be subject to the FRB’s review and absence of objection. See “Business—Certain Regulatory Matters—Bank Holding Company Status”.

 

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CAPITALIZATION

The following table sets forth our capitalization as of March 31, 2011, actual and pro forma to reflect:

 

   

the concurrent conversion and exchange by Treasury of our Series F-2 preferred stock and the concurrent offering by Treasury of our Units (assuming no exercise by the underwriters of that offering of their over-allotment option and that the public offering price of our common stock in this offering will be $             per share (the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus) for purposes of calculating the number of shares we issue to Treasury in the conversion), in each case as described under “Concurrent Transactions,” and

 

   

the         -for-one stock split on shares of our common stock effected on             , 2011.

This table should be read in conjunction with “Selected Consolidated Financial Data” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this prospectus.

 

     As of March 31, 2011  
     Actual     Pro forma  
     ($ in millions)  

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 12,946      $                
          

Short-term borrowings

     7,395     

Long-term debt (1)

     88,139     

Series A preferred stock, 1,021,764 shares issued and outstanding, actual and
pro forma

     1,021     

Series F-2 preferred stock, 118,750,000 shares issued and outstanding, actual and 0 shares issued and outstanding, pro forma (2)

     5,685     

Series G preferred stock, 2,576,601 shares issued and outstanding, actual and pro forma

     234     

Tangible Equity Units, 0 units issued and outstanding, actual and              units issued and outstanding, pro forma

     0     

Common stock, $0.01 par value per share, 1,330,970 shares issued and outstanding, actual,              shares issued and outstanding pro forma and additional paid-in capital (2)

     19,668     

Accumulated deficit (2)

     (6,435  

Accumulated other comprehensive income

     234     
                

Total equity (2)

     20,407     
                

Total capitalization

   $ 115,941      $     
                

 

(1) Since March 31, 2011, we have issued $1.5 billion in aggregate principal amount of senior guaranteed notes due 2014. See Note 25 to the first quarter 2011 Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (the “Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements”). The amortizing notes which are a component of the Units are included in pro forma long-term debt.

 

(2) In connection with this offering and the concurrent Units offering, Treasury intends to convert (the “conversion”) 58,750,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock it holds into shares of our common stock based on a conversion price equal to the common stock public offering price.

Because the conversion price in the conversion is based on the common stock public offering price, the number of shares of common stock we will issue to Treasury in connection with the conversion will depend on the common stock public offering price. The higher the common stock public offering price is, the fewer the number of shares of common stock Treasury will receive and the lower the common stock public offering price is, the greater the number of shares of common stock Treasury will receive. The following table sets forth the number of shares we will issue to Treasury in connection with the conversion for each common stock public offering price set forth below:

 

Public Offering Price

   Number of Shares Issued
to Treasury
 

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

In addition, we and Treasury intend to modify certain terms of the Series F-2 preferred stock so that Treasury will receive                  additional shares of our common stock in connection with the offering.

The issuance of these additional shares will be a one-time non-cash transaction, which will not affect the amount of our total equity. It will increase our accumulated deficit with an offsetting increase to common stock and paid-in capital, and the value of the non-cash dividend will reduce our net income attributable to common shareholders and therefore will substantially affect the calculation of earnings per share in the quarter in which this offering closes and the full year.

Assuming that the public offering price of our common stock in this offering will be $             per share (the midpoint of the range set forth on the cover of this prospectus), net income attributable to common stock will be reduced by $                     in the quarter in which this offering closes and earnings per share will be reduced by $         per share due to this one time, non-cash transaction.

 

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SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

The following selected consolidated financial data of Ally should be read in conjunction with, and are qualified by reference to, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this prospectus. The consolidated statement of income data for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and the consolidated balance sheet data at December 31, 2010 and 2009 are derived from, and qualified by reference to, our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus and should be read in conjunction with those consolidated financial statements and notes thereto. The consolidated statement of income data for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 and the consolidated balance sheet data at December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this prospectus. The condensed consolidated statement of income data for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 and the condensed consolidated balance sheet data at March 31, 2011 and 2010 are derived from, and qualified by reference to, our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus and should be read in conjunction with those condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto. In our opinion, the unaudited financial statements provided herein have been prepared on substantially the same basis as the audited historical consolidated financial statements and reflect all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of our financial position and results of operations for the periods presented. Our results for the three months ended March 31, 2011 are not necessarily indicative of those to be expected for the fiscal year.

 

    At and for the
three months ended March 31,
    At and for the
year ended December 31,
 
        2011             2010         2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
    ($ in millions)  

Financial statement data

             

Statement of income data:

             

Total financing revenue and other interest income

  $ 2,530      $ 3,110      $ 11,447      $ 13,100      $ 18,054      $ 21,761      $ 24,100   

Interest expense

    1,708        1,702        6,836        7,274        10,441        13,553        14,638   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

    285        656        2,030        3,748        5,478        4,551        5,055   

Impairment of investment in operating leases

                                1,218                 
                                                       

Net financing revenue

    537        752        2,581        2,078        917        3,657        4,407   

Total other revenue (a)

    1,070        1,098        5,321        4,417        15,271        6,161        7,860   
                                                       

Total net revenue

    1,607        1,850        7,902        6,495        16,188        9,818        12,267   

Provision for loan losses

    113        144        442        5,604        3,102        3,037        1,948   

Total other noninterest expense

    1,392        1,519        6,281        7,850        8,349        8,203        8,457   
                                                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense

    102        187        1,179        (6,959     4,737        (1,422     1,862   

Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations (b)

    (68     36        153        74        (136     496        22   
                                                       

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

    170        151        1,026        (7,033     4,873        (1,918     1,840   
                                                       

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

    (24     11        49        (3,265     (3,005     (414     285   
                                                       

Net income (loss)

  $ 146      $ 162      $ 1,075      $ (10,298   $ 1,868      $ (2,332   $ 2,125   
                                                       
   

($ in millions, except per share data)

 

Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders

             

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

  $ 170      $ 151      $ 1,026      $ (7,033   $ 4,873      $ (1,918   $ 1,840   

Less: Preferred stock dividends—U.S. Department of Treasury

    134        386        963        855                        

Less: Preferred stock dividends

    69        116        282        370               192        21   

Less: Impact of conversion of preferred stock and related amendment

                  616 (c)                             

Less: Impact of preferred stock accretion to redemption value

                                              274   

Less: Impact of preferred stock amendment

    (32                                          
                                                       

Net (loss) income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders (a)

    (1     (351     (835     (8,258     4,873        (2,110     1,545   
                                                       

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

    (24     11        49        (3,265     (3,005     (414     285   
                                                       

Net (loss) income attributable to common shareholders

  $ (25   $ (340   $ (786   $ (11,523   $ 1,868      $ (2,524   $ 1,830   
                                                       

Basic and diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding

    1,330,970        799,120        800,597        529,392        108,884        101,331        8,620   
                                                       
    (per share data in whole dollars)  

Basic and diluted earnings per common share (d)

             

Net (loss) income from continuing operations

  $ (1   $ (439   $ (1,042   $ (15,596   $ 44,747      $ (20,825   $ 179,229   

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

    (18     13        61        (6,169     (27,595     (4,086     33,062   
                                                       

Net (loss) income

  $ (19   $ (426   $ (981   $ (21,765   $ 17,152      $ (24,911   $ 212,291   
                                                       

 

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    At and for the
three months ended March 31,
    At and for the
year ended December 31,
 
        2011             2010         2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
    ($ in millions)  

Pro forma data (e):

     

Basic and diluted earnings per common share

             

Net (loss) income from continuing operations

             

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

             
                         

Net (loss) income

             

Basic and diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding

             
                         

Non-GAAP financial measures (f):

             

Net income (loss)

  $ 146      $ 162      $ 1,075      $ (10,298   $ 1,868      $ (2,332   $ 2,125   

Add: Original issue discount amortization expense (g)

    326        397        1,300        1,143        70                 

Add: Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations

    (68     36        153        74        (136     496        22   

Less: Gain on extinguishment of debt related to the 2008 bond exchange

                                11,460                 

Less: (Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

    (24     11        49        (3,265     (3,005     (414     285   
                                                       

Core pretax income (loss) (f)

  $ 428      $ 584      $ 2,479      $ (5,816   $ (6,653   $ (1,422   $ 1,862   
                                                       
Selected balance sheet data (period end):      

Total assets

  $ 173,704      $ 179,427      $ 172,008      $ 172,306      $ 189,476      $ 248,939      $ 291,971   

Long-term debt

  $ 88,139      $ 90,276      $ 86,612      $ 88,021      $ 115,935      $ 159,342      $ 193,387   

Preferred stock/interests (d)

  $ 6,940      $ 12,180      $ 6,972      $ 12,180      $ 6,287      $ 1,052      $   

Total equity

  $ 20,407      $ 20,548      $ 20,489      $ 20,839      $ 21,854      $ 15,565      $ 14,369   

Financial ratios

             

Efficiency ratio (h)

    86.62     82.11     79.49     120.86     51.58     83.55     68.94

Core efficiency ratio (h)

    72.01     67.60     68.26     102.78     174.01     83.55     68.94

Return on assets (i)

             

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

    0.40     0.34     0.58     (3.95 )%      2.57     (0.77 )%      0.63

Net income (loss)

    0.34     0.36     0.61     (5.79 )%      0.99     (0.94 )%      0.73

Core pretax income (loss)

    1.00 %      1.31     1.40     (3.27 )%      (3.51 )%      (0.57 )%      0.64

Return on equity (i)

             

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

    3.38     2.92     4.95     (29.00 )%      22.30     (12.32 )%      12.81

Net income (loss)

    2.90     3.13     5.19     (42.46 )%      8.55     (14.98 )%      14.79

Core pretax income (loss)

    8.50 %      11.30     11.97     (23.98 )%      (30.44 )%      (9.14 )%      12.96

Equity to assets (i)

    11.72     11.61     11.72     13.63     11.53     6.25     4.92

Net interest spread (i)(j)

    0.82     1.59     1.23     0.65     (k     (k     (k

Net interest spread excluding original issue
discount (i)(j)

    1.83     2.67     2.29     1.68     (k     (k     (k

Net yield on interest-earning assets (i)(l)

    1.44     2.13     1.79     1.37     (k     (k     (k

Net yield on interest-earning assets excluding original issue discount (i)(l)

    2.24     2.98     2.63     2.13     (k     (k     (k

Regulatory capital ratios

             

Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) (m)

    14.68     14.88     15.00     14.15     (k     (k     (k

Total risk-based capital (to risk-weighted
assets) (n)

    15.97     16.42     16.36     15.55     (k     (k     (k

Tier 1 leverage (to adjusted average assets) (o)

    12.78     12.49     13.05     12.70     (k     (k     (k

Shareholders’ equity

  $ 20,407      $ 20,548      $ 20,489      $ 20,839        (k     (k     (k

Goodwill and certain other intangibles

    (533     (534     (532     (534     (k     (k     (k

Unrealized gains and other adjustments

    (272     (466     (309     (447     (k     (k     (k

Trust preferred securities

    2,541        2,540        2,541        2,540        (k     (k     (k
                                                       

Tier 1 capital (m)

    22,143        22,088        22,189        22,398        (k     (k     (k
                                                       

Preferred equity

    (6,940     (12,180     (6,971     (12,180     (k     (k     (k

Trust preferred securities

    (2,541     (2,540     (2,541     (2,540     (k     (k     (k
                                                       

Tier 1 common capital (non-GAAP) (p)

  $ 12,662      $ 7,368      $ 12,677      $ 7,678        (k     (k     (k
                                                       

Risk-weighted assets (q)

  $ 150,814      $ 148,408      $ 147,964      $ 158,314        (k     (k     (k

Tier 1 common (to risk-weighted assets) (p)

    8.40     4.96     8.57     4.85     (k     (k     (k

 

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(a) Total other revenue for 2008 includes $12.6 billion of gains on the extinguishment of debt, primarily related to private exchange and cash tender offers settled during the fourth quarter. Total other revenue for 2006 includes realized capital gains of $1.1 billion primarily related to the rebalancing of our investment portfolio at our Insurance operations.

 

(b) Effective June 30, 2009, we converted from a limited liability company into a corporation and, as a result, became subject to corporate U.S. federal, state, and local taxes beginning in the third quarter of 2009. Our conversion to a corporation resulted in a change in tax status and a net deferred tax liability of $1.2 billion was established through income tax expense. Effective November 28, 2006, we, along with certain of our U.S. subsidiaries, converted to LLCs and became pass-through entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Our conversion to an LLC resulted in a change in tax status and the elimination of a $791 million net deferred tax liability through income tax expense. Refer to Note 24 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding our changes in tax status.

 

(c) This amount relates to the conversion by Treasury of 110,000,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock into 531,850 shares of our common stock that occurred on December 30, 2010. Refer to Note 20 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further detail.

 

(d) Effective June 30, 2009, we converted from a Delaware limited liability company into a Delaware corporation. Each unit of each class of common membership interest issued and outstanding immediately prior to the conversion was converted into an equivalent number of shares of common stock with substantially the same rights and preferences as the common membership interests. Upon conversion, holders of our preferred membership interests also received an equivalent number of shares of preferred stock with substantially the same rights and preferences as the former preferred membership interests.

 

(e) The pro forma financial information gives effect to this offering as if it has closed on January 1, 2010, and reflects (i) the receipt by Treasury                  of additional shares of common stock in connection with this offering, (ii) increased interest expense on the amortizing notes at an assumed interest rate of     % (tax affected at the historical rates reflected in the financial statements for 2010 and the six months ended June 30, 2011) and (iii) the elimination of dividends of $             on the Series F-2 preferred stock being converted into common stock and exchanged for Units in this offering. The pro forma financial information does not reflect the value of the additional shares received by Treasury that will be treated as a one-time, non-cash dividend of $              in the quarter in which this offering closes and the related reduction of $             per share in earnings per share.

 

(f) Core pretax income (loss) is not a financial measure defined by GAAP. We define core pretax income as earnings from continuing operations before income taxes, original issue discount amortization expense primarily associated with our 2008 bond exchange, and the gain on extinguishment of debt related to the 2008 bond exchange. We believe that the presentation of core pretax income (loss) is useful information for the users of our financial statements in understanding the earnings from our core businesses. In addition, core pretax income (loss) is the primary measure that management uses to assess the performance of our operations. We believe that core pretax income (loss) is a useful alternative measure of our ongoing profitability and performance, when viewed in conjunction with GAAP measures. The presentation of this additional information is not a substitute for net income (loss) determined in accordance with GAAP.

 

(g) Primarily represents original issue discount amortization expense associated with the 2008 bond exchange, including $30 million and $101 million of accelerated amortization that was reported as a loss on extinguishment of debt in the first quarter 2011 Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income and fiscal year 2010 Consolidated Statement of Income, respectively.

 

(h) The efficiency ratio equals total other noninterest expense divided by total net revenue. The core efficiency ratio equals total other noninterest expense divided by total net revenue excluding original issue discount amortization expense and gain on extinguishment of debt related to the 2008 bond exchange.

 

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(i) The 2011, 2010 and 2009 ratios were computed based on average assets and average equity using a combination of monthly and daily average methodologies. The 2008, 2007, and 2006 ratios have been computed based on period-end total assets and period-end total equity at December 31, 2008, 2007, and 2006.

 

(j) Net interest spread represents the difference between the rate on total interest earning assets and the rate on total interest-bearing liabilities, excluding discontinued operations for the periods shown.

 

(k) Not applicable at December 31, 2008, 2007, and 2006, as we did not become a bank holding company until December 24, 2008.

 

(l) Net yield on interest-earning assets represents net financing revenue as a percentage of total interest-earning assets.

 

(m) Tier 1 capital generally consists of common equity, minority interests, qualifying preferred stock (including fixed rate cumulative preferred stock issued and sold to Treasury) and purchase contracts (including the purchase contracts that are components of the Units being offered in the concurrent offering) less goodwill and other adjustments.

 

(n) Total risk-based capital is the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital. Tier 2 capital generally consists of preferred stock not qualifying as Tier 1 capital, limited amounts of subordinated debt and the allowance for loan losses, and other adjustments. The amount of Tier 2 capital may not exceed the amount of Tier 1 capital.

 

(o) Tier 1 leverage equals Tier 1 capital divided by adjusted average total assets (which reflects adjustments for disallowed goodwill and certain intangible assets). The minimum Tier 1 leverage ratio is 3% or 4% depending on factors specified in the regulations.

 

(p) We define Tier 1 common as Tier 1 capital less noncommon elements including qualified perpetual preferred stock, qualifying minority interest in subsidiaries, and qualifying trust preferred securities. However, the purchase contracts that are components of the Units being offered in the concurrent offering are not subtracted from Tier 1 capital to determine Tier 1 common. Ally considers various measures when evaluating capital utilization and adequacy, including the Tier 1 common equity ratio, in addition to capital ratios defined by banking regulators. This calculation is intended to complement the capital ratios defined by banking regulators for both absolute and comparative purposes. Because GAAP does not include capital ratio measures, Ally believes there are no comparable GAAP financial measures to these ratios. Tier 1 common equity is not formally defined by GAAP or codified in the federal banking regulations and, therefore, is considered to be a non-GAAP financial measure. Ally believes the Tier 1 common equity ratio is important because we believe analysts and banking regulators may assess our capital adequacy using this ratio. Additionally, presentation of this measure allows readers to compare certain aspects of our capital adequacy on the same basis to other companies in the industry.

 

(q) Risk-weighted assets are defined by regulation and are determined by allocating assets and specified off-balance sheet financial instruments into several broad risk categories.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Overview

Ally Financial Inc. (formerly GMAC Inc.) is a leading, independent, globally diversified, financial services firm with $172 billion in assets. Founded in 1919, we are a leading automotive financial services company with over 90 years experience providing a broad array of financial products and services to automotive dealers and their customers. We are also one of the largest residential mortgage companies in the United States. We became a bank holding company on December 24, 2008, under the BHC Act. Our banking subsidiary, Ally Bank, is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Ally Financial Inc. and a leading franchise in the growing direct (online and telephonic) banking market, with $35.4 billion of deposits at March 31, 2011. Ally Bank’s assets and operating results are divided between our Global Automotive Services and Mortgage operations based on its underlying business activities.

Our Business

Global Automotive Services

Our Global Automotive Services operations offer a wide range of financial services and insurance products to approximately 20,000 automotive dealers and their retail customers. We have deep dealer relationships that have been built over our 90-year history. Our dealer-focused business model makes us a preferred automotive finance company for many automotive dealers. Our broad set of product offerings and customer-focused marketing programs differentiate Ally in the marketplace and help drive higher product penetration in our dealer relationships. Our ability to generate attractive automotive assets is driven by our global platform and scale, strong relationships with automotive dealers, a full suite of dealer financial products, automotive loan-servicing capabilities, dealer-based incentive programs, and superior customer service.

Our automotive financial services include providing retail installment sales contracts, loans, and leases, offering term loans to dealers, financing dealer floorplans and other lines of credit to dealers, fleet leasing, and vehicle remarketing services. We also offer vehicle service contracts and commercial insurance primarily covering dealers’ wholesale vehicle inventories in the United States and internationally. We are a leading provider of automobile vehicle service contracts with mechanical breakdown and maintenance coverages.

We have a longstanding relationship with GM and have developed strong relationships directly with GM-franchised dealers as well as gained extensive operating experience with GM-franchised dealers relative to other automotive finance companies. Since GM sold a majority interest in us in 2006, we have transformed ourselves to a market-driven independent automotive finance company. We continue to be a preferred financing provider to GM on incentivized retail loans. In May 2009, we became the preferred financing provider to Chrysler of incentivized retail loans and we have developed full product relationships, including wholesale financing for many of Chrysler’s franchised dealers. We have further diversified our customer base by establishing agreements to become preferred financing providers with other manufacturers including Fiat (for North America), Spyker Cars N.V. (Saab), and Thor Industries (recreational vehicles) in 2010. Currently, a significant portion of our business is originated through GM- and Chrysler-franchised dealers and their customers.

As a result of the recessionary environment and disruption in the capital markets beginning in late 2008, we experienced significantly lower new asset originations in late 2008 and throughout 2009. Additionally, we recognized a $1.2 billion impairment on our automotive operating lease portfolio in 2008 as a result of significant declines in used vehicle prices and separately realized higher loan loss provisions on our nonprime automotive loan portfolio. As a result, we significantly curtailed our leasing and nonprime automotive loan originations in late 2008, which resulted in a reduction in the size of these existing portfolios during 2009 and 2010.

 

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During 2009 and much of 2010 our primary emphasis has been on originating loans of higher credit tier borrowers. For this reason, our current operating results continue to reflect higher credit quality, lower yielding loans with lower credit loss experience. Ally however seeks to be an increasingly meaningful lender to a wide spectrum of borrowers. In 2010 we enhanced our risk management practices and efforts on risk-based pricing. We intend to gradually increase volumes in lower credit tiers in 2011. We have also selectively re-entered the leasing market with a more targeted product approach since late 2009. Both of these business opportunities are expected to gradually benefit net interest margin through time by earning higher yields on our assets.

We would also expect net financing revenue to increase and gains on the sale of automotive loans to decrease as we fund a greater proportion of our business through Ally Bank and reduce the amount of whole-loan sales. Additionally, we expect operating lease remarketing gains to diminish as a result of declines in the size of the operating lease portfolio and changes in used vehicle prices. We plan to continue to increase the proportion of our non-GM and Chrysler business, as we focus on maintaining and growing our dealer-customer base through our full suite of products, our dealer relationships, the scale of our platform, and our dealer-based incentive programs. We also expect a greater amount of non-GM and Chrysler consumer applications from dealers as we have recently joined a new credit application network, DealerTrack, which provides access to a more expansive universe of dealers.

Our international automotive lending operations currently originates loans in 15 countries with a focus on operations in five core markets: Germany, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico, and China through our joint venture, GMAC-SAIC.

Our Insurance operations offer both consumer insurance products sold primarily through the automotive dealer channel and commercial insurance products sold to dealers. As part of our focus on offering dealers a broad range of products, we provide vehicle service contracts and mechanical breakdown coverages and underwrite selected commercial insurance coverages in the United States and internationally, primarily covering dealers’ wholesale vehicle inventory as well as personal automobile insurance in certain countries outside of the United States. In 2010, we sold our U.S. personal automotive insurance and certain international insurance operations in order to focus on products that support automotive dealers.

Mortgage

We report our Mortgage operations as two distinct segments: (1) Origination and Servicing operations and (2) Legacy Portfolio and Other operations.

Our Origination and Servicing operations is one of the leading originators of conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans in the United States. We also originate and purchase high-quality government-insured residential mortgage loans in Canada. We are one of the largest residential mortgage loan servicers in the United States, and we provide collateralized lines of credit to other mortgage originators, which we refer to as warehouse lending. We finance our mortgage loan originations primarily in Ally Bank in the United States and in ResMor Trust in Canada. We sell the conforming mortgages we originate or purchase in sales that take the form of securitizations guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, and we sell government-insured mortgage loans we originate or purchase in securitizations guaranteed by the Government National Mortgage Association (“Ginnie Mae”) in the United States and sell the insured mortgages we originate in Canada as National Housing Act Mortgage-Backed Securities (“NHA-MBS”) issued under the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s NHA-MBS program or through whole-loan sales. We also selectively originate prime jumbo mortgage loans in the United States.

Our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations primarily consist of loans originated prior to January 1, 2009, and includes noncore business activities including discontinued operations, portfolios in runoff, and cash held in the ResCap legal entity. These activities, all of which we have discontinued, include, among other things: lending to real estate developers and homebuilders in the United States and the United Kingdom; purchasing, selling and

 

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securitizing nonconforming residential mortgage loans (with the exception of U.S. prime jumbo mortgage loans) in both the United States and internationally; and certain conforming origination channels closed in 2008 and our mortgage reinsurance business.

We recently re-aligned our business model to focus on our Origination and Servicing operations in response to market developments and based on our strategic review of the mortgage business during 2009 and 2010. We have substantially eliminated nonconforming U.S. and international loan production (with the exception of U.S. prime jumbo mortgage loans) and have focused primarily on correspondent, direct, and warehouse-lending channels as opposed to high cost retail branch offices. Our origination platforms deliver products that have liquid market distribution and sales outlets and are structured to respond quickly as market conditions change. We have also consolidated our servicing operations to streamline our costs and align ourselves to capture future opportunities as mortgage servicing markets reform.

Additionally, we have implemented several strategic initiatives to reduce the risk related to our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations. These actions have included, but are not limited to, restructuring of ResCap debt in 2008, moving mortgage loans held-for-investment to held-for sale in 2009 while recording appropriate market value adjustments, the sale of legacy business platforms including our international operations in the United Kingdom and continental Europe, and other targeted asset dispositions including domestic and international mortgage loans and commercial finance receivables and loans. The consolidated assets of our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations have decreased to $11.8 billion at March 31, 2011, from $32.9 billion at December 31, 2008, due to these actions.

Mortgage loan origination volume is driven by the volume of home sales and prevailing interest rates. Our mortgage origination volume in 2010 was primarily driven by refinancings that were influenced by historically low interest rates. Refinancing originations are expected to decline in 2011 as a result of projected rising interest rates. Our focus in 2011 and future periods will be on sustaining our position as a leading originator and servicer of conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans with limited expansion of our balance sheet while using agency securitizations to provide liquidity and continuing to align our origination and servicing platforms to take advantage of mortgage market reforms as they occur.

Corporate and Other

Corporate and Other includes our Commercial Finance Group, certain equity investments, the amortization of the discount associated with new debt issuances and bond exchanges, most notably from the December 2008 bond exchange, as well as the residual impacts of our corporate funds-transfer-pricing (“FTP”) and treasury asset liability management (“ALM”) activities. Refer to the section of this prospectus titled Critical Accounting Estimates—Private Debt Exchange and Cash Tender Offers for additional information on the December 2008 bond exchange.

Loss from continuing operations before income tax expense for Corporate and Other was $624 million, $2.6 billion and $2.5 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. These losses were primarily driven by net financing losses of $522 million, $2.1 billion and $2.5 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The net financing losses at Corporate and Other are largely driven by the amortization of original issue discount, primarily related to our 2008 bond exchange, and the net financing loss that results from our FTP methodology.

The net financing revenue of our Global Automotive Services and Mortgage operations includes the results of a FTP process that insulates these operations from interest rate volatility by matching assets and liabilities with similar interest rate sensitivity and maturity characteristics. The FTP process assigns charge rates to the assets and credit rates to the liabilities within our Global Automotive Services and Mortgage operations, respectively, based on anticipated maturity and a benchmark index plus an assumed credit spread. The assumed credit spread represents the cost of funds for each asset class based on a blend of funding channels available to the enterprise,

 

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including unsecured and secured capital markets, private funding facilities, and deposits. In addition, a risk-based methodology, which incorporates each operations credit, market, and operational risk components is used to allocate equity to these operations.

The negative residual impact of our FTP methodology that is realized in Corporate and Other primarily represents the cost of certain funding and liquidity management activities not allocated through our FTP methodology. Most notably, the net interest expense of maintaining our liquidity and investment portfolios, the value of which was approximately $21.9 billion at March 31, 2011, is maintained in Corporate and Other and not allocated to the businesses through our FTP methodology. In addition, other unassigned funding costs, including the results of our ALM activities, are also not allocated to the businesses.

The following tables summarize the components of net financing losses for Corporate and Other reflecting bond exchange and conversion to a bank holding company in December 2008.

 

     Three months ended
March 31,
 
         2011             2010      
     ($ in millions)  

Original issue discount amortization (a)

   $ (299   $ (296

Net impact of the FTP methodology

    

Cost of carry on the cash and investment portfolio

     (157     (113

ALM/FTP cost of funds mismatch

     (110     (72

Net other unallocated interest income (costs)

     15        (52
                

Total net impact of the FTP methodology

     (252     (237

Commercial Finance Group net financing revenue and other

     29        23   
                

Total net financing losses for Corporate and Other

   $ (522   $ (510
                

 

(a) The original issue discount associated with our 2008 bond exchange and cash tender offers in 2008 was $286 million during both the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010. The remaining amount is attributable to new debt issuance discount amortization.
     Year ended December 31,  
             2010                     2009          
     ($ in millions)  

Original issue discount amortization (a)

   $ (1,204   $ (1,143

Net impact of the FTP methodology

    

Cost of carry on the cash and investment portfolio

     (504     (543

ALM / FTP cost of funds mismatch

     (366     (600

Other unallocated interest costs

     (130     (294
                

Total net impact of the FTP methodology

     (1,000     (1,437

Commercial Finance Group net financing revenue and other

     105        119   
                

Total net financing losses for Corporate and Other

   $ (2,099   $ (2,461
                

 

(a) The original issue discount associated with our 2008 bond exchange and cash tender offers in 2008 was $1,158 million and $1,108 million during the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

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The following table presents the amortization of the original issue discount.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
             2010                      2009          
     ($ in millions)  

Original issue discount

     

Outstanding balance

   $ 3,169       $ 4,373   

Total amortization (a)

     1,204         1,143   

2008 bond exchange amortization (b)

     1,158         1,108   

 

(a) Amortization is included as interest on long-term debt on the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(b) 2008 bond exchange amortization is included in total amortization.

The amortization of original issue discount will decline from what was recognized during 2010 and 2009. The following table presents the scheduled amortization of the original issue discount at March 31, 2011.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2011(a)      2012      2013      2014      2015      2016 and
thereafter
(a)
     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Original issue discount

                    

Outstanding balance

   $ 2,194       $ 1,844       $ 1,580       $ 1,390       $ 1,334       $      

Total amortization (b)

     646         350         264         190         56         1,334       $ 2,840   

2008 bond exchange amortization (c)

     620         320         241         166         43         1,178         2,568   

 

(a) Represents the remaining future original issue discount amortization expense to be taken during 2011.

 

(b) The maximum annual scheduled amortization for any individual year is $158 million in 2030 of which $152 million is related to 2008 bond exchange amortization.

 

(c) The amortization is included as interest on long-term debt on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(d) 2008 bond exchange amortization is included in total amortization.

Ally Bank

Ally Bank, our direct banking platform, provides our Automotive Finance and Mortgage operations with a stable, low-cost funding source and facilitates prudent asset growth. Our focus is on building a stable deposit base driven by our compelling brand and strong value proposition. Ally Bank raises deposits directly from customers through a direct banking channel via the internet and by telephone. We have become a leader in direct banking with our recognizable brand, accessible 24/7 customer service, and competitively priced products.

Ally Bank offers a full spectrum of deposit product offerings including certificates of deposits, savings accounts, money market accounts, and an online checking product. In addition, brokered deposits are obtained through third-party intermediaries. At March 31, 2011, Ally Bank had $35.4 billion of deposits, including $23.5 billion of retail deposits. The growth of our retail deposit base from $7.2 billion at the end of 2008 to $23.5 billion at the end of the first quarter 2011 has enabled us to reduce our cost of funds during that period. The growth in deposits is primarily attributable to our retail deposits while our brokered deposits have remained at historical levels. Strong retention rates, reflecting the strength of the franchise, have materially contributed to our growth in retail deposits.

 

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Growth in retail deposits is key to further reducing our cost of funds and decreasing our reliance on the capital markets and other sources of funding. We believe deposits provide a more stable, lower-cost source of funds than other funding sources by being less sensitive to interest rate changes, market volatility or changes in our credit ratings. As we have been successful in establishing Ally Bank and increasing our retail deposit portfolio over the past two years, we have reduced offered rates on new retail deposits without offering any significant rate advantage against the broader market.

One of Ally Bank’s objectives is to reduce its overall cost of funds and build a stable deposit base. We believe that pricing is a key lever to acquiring new accounts but does not alone assure growth of our deposit base. Rather, a combination of consistently competitive rates, effective marketing and a quality customer experience are all critical ingredients for successful growth. Ally Bank does not aim to price at the top of the market or to drive deposit pricing across the industry. However, it is our strategy to consistently price products competitively without including promotional pricing or teaser rates. Ally Bank’s deposit strategy consistently prices below the top five institutions listed on Bankrate.com in various deposit products. We also independently monitor deposit rates across a significantly larger group of financial institutions and our deposit strategy is to price lower than national market leading levels.

We anticipate growth in lower rate products, including online savings and interest checking. As a result, our overall portfolio rate on deposits should become less sensitive to interest rate changes. Therefore, the impact on our profitability due to a higher interest rate environment would be mitigated to the extent we have continued growth in deposits. We believe deposits will continue to be one of the lowest cost funding options available to us. As such, we expect to continue to lower our cost of funds over time and diversify our overall funding as our deposit base grows.

Funding and Liquidity

Our funding strategy largely focuses on the development of diversified funding sources across a global investor base to meet all of our liquidity needs throughout different market cycles, including periods of financial distress. Prior to becoming a bank holding company, our funding largely came from the following sources.

 

   

Public unsecured debt capital markets;

 

   

Asset-backed securitizations, both public and private;

 

   

Asset sales;

 

   

Committed and uncommitted credit facilities; and

 

   

Brokered and retail deposits

The diversity of our funding sources enhances funding flexibility, limits dependence on any one source and results in a more cost-effective strategy over the long term. Throughout 2008 and 2009, the global credit markets experienced extraordinary levels of volatility and stress. As a result, access by market participants, including Ally, to the capital markets was significantly constrained and borrowing costs increased as a result. In response, numerous government programs were established aimed at improving the liquidity position of U.S. financial services firms. After converting to a bank holding company in late 2008, we participated in several of the programs, including Temporary Liquidity Guaranty Program (“TLGP”), Term Auction Facility (“TAF”), Commercial Paper Funding Facility (“CPFF”), and Term Asset-Backed Securities Loan Facility (“TALF”). Our diversification strategy and participation in these programs helped us to maintain sufficient liquidity during this period of financial distress to meet all maturing unsecured debt obligations and to continue our lending and operating activities.

 

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During 2009, as part of our overall transformation from an independent financial services company to a bank holding company, we began to take actions to further diversify and develop more stable funding sources and, in particular, embark on initiatives to grow our consumer deposit-taking capabilities. In addition, we began distinguishing our liquidity management strategies between bank funding and nonbank funding.

Today, maximizing bank funding continues to be the cornerstone of our long-term liquidity strategy. We have made significant progress in migrating assets to Ally Bank and growing our retail deposit base since becoming a bank holding company. Deposits provide a low-cost source of funds that are less sensitive to interest rate changes, market volatility or changes in our credit ratings than other funding sources. At December 31, 2010, deposit liabilities totaled $39.0 billion, which constituted 29% of our total funding. This compares to just 14% at December 31, 2008.

In addition to building a larger deposit base, we continue to remain active in the securitization markets to finance our Ally Bank automotive loan portfolios. During 2010, we issued $8.1 billion in secured funding backed by retail and dealer floorplan automotive loans of Ally Bank. While deposits provide for a more stable funding base, our efficiencies in securitizations and improving capital market conditions have resulted in a reduction in the cost of funds achieved through secured funding transactions, making them a very attractive source of funding. For retail loans and leases, the primary reason why securitizations are an attractive funding source is that the term structure locks in funding for a specified pool of loans and leases for the life of the underlying asset. Once a pool of retail automobile loans are selected and placed into a securitization, the underlying assets and corresponding debt amortize simultaneously resulting in committed funding for the life of the asset. Performance of the underlying assets will have no bearing on any incremental liquidity risk. We manage the execution risk arising from secured funding by maintaining a diverse investor base and maintaining committed secured facilities.

As we have shifted our focus to migrating assets to Ally Bank and growing our bank funding capabilities, our reliance on parent company liquidity has similarly been reduced. Funding sources at the parent company generally consist of longer-term unsecured debt, private credit facilities, and asset-backed securitizations notably to fund our automotive loan portfolios in Canada, Europe, and Latin America. Historically, the unsecured term debt markets were a key source of long-term financing for us. However, given our ratings profile and market environment, during the second half of 2007 and throughout 2008 and 2009 we chose not to target transactions in the unsecured term debt markets due to the expected high market rates and alternative funding sources. In 2010, we re-entered the unsecured long-term debt capital markets and issued over $8.0 billion of unsecured debt globally through several issuances. At December 31, 2010, we had $9.5 billion and $12.6 billion of unsecured long-term debt with maturities in 2011 and 2012, respectively. To fund these maturities, we will continue to follow this approach of being aggressive, yet opportunistic, in the unsecured debt markets to prefund upcoming debt maturities.

The strategies described above have resulted in us achieving and maintaining a conservative liquidity position. Total available liquidity at the parent company was $23.8 billion, and Ally Bank had $7.5 billion of available liquidity at December 31, 2010. At the same time, these strategies have also resulted in a cost of funds improvement of approximately 100 basis points since becoming a bank holding company. Looking forward, as we seek to enhance our liquidity and capital position and improve credit ratings, we expect that our cost of funds will continue to improve over time.

Credit Strategy

We are a full spectrum automotive finance lender with most of our automotive loan originations underwritten within the prime-lending markets and with a plan to prudently expand further into nonprime markets. Our Mortgage Origination and Servicing operations now primarily focus on selling conforming mortgages we originate or purchase in sales that take the form of securitizations guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac and sells government-insured mortgage loans we originate or purchase in securitizations guaranteed by Ginnie Mae in the United States (collectively, the “Government-sponsored Enterprises” or “GSEs”).

 

 

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During 2010, we noted significant improvement in our credit risk profile as a result of proactive credit risk initiatives that were taken in 2009 and 2010 and improvement in the overall economic environment. Risk initiatives undertaken included repositioning the loan portfolios from higher-risk, higher-yielding legacy assets to higher quality and lower risk assets. In addition, strategies were implemented to focus primarily on prime-lending markets, participation in mortgage loan modification programs, implementing tighter underwriting standards, and enhanced collection efforts. We discontinued and sold multiple nonstrategic operations, mainly in our international businesses, including our commercial construction portfolio. Within our Automotive Finance operations, we exited certain underperforming dealer relationships, curtailed leasing activities, and curtailed the origination of nonprime retail financings. Within our Mortgage operations, we reclassified certain legacy mortgage loans from held-for-investment to held-for-sale, which resulted in negative valuation adjustments.

During the year ended December 31, 2010, the credit performance of our portfolios improved overall as we benefited from lower frequency and severity of losses within our automotive portfolios and stabilization of asset quality trends within our mortgage portfolios. Nonperforming loans and charge-offs declined, and our provision for loan losses decreased from $5.6 billion in 2009 to $442 million in 2010.

We continue to see signs of economic stabilization in the housing and vehicle markets, although our total credit portfolio will continue to be affected by sustained levels of high unemployment and continued uncertainty in the housing market.

Representation and Warranty Obligations

We have made significant progress in mitigating repurchase reserve exposure through both settlements with key counterparties and continuing to maintain an appropriate reserve for representation and warranty obligations. We have settled with both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which resolve material repurchase obligations with each counterparty. We also settled with five counterparties related to whole-loan sales. Our representation and warranty expense decreased to $670 million in 2010 from $1.5 billion in 2009. The repurchase reserve of $830 million at March 31, 2011, primarily represents exposure not related to the GSEs.

Outstanding claims during 2010 have remained relatively constant with GSE claim activity declining and monoline and other claims activity increasing. Typically, the obligations under representation and warranties provided to monolines and other whole-loan investors are not as comprehensive as those to the GSEs. As such, we believe a significant portion of these claims are ineligible for a repurchase.

Our Mortgage operations have issued private-label mortgage-backed securities infrequently since 2007. This exposure is notably different from GSE exposure since representation and warranties are not as comprehensive, collateral is segregated into different programs based on risk, and many transactions include overcollateralization. We have a limited amount of repurchase experience with these investors, and therefore it is currently not possible to estimate future obligations and any related range of loss.

Bank Holding Company and Treasury’s Investments

During 2008, and continuing into 2009, the credit, capital, and mortgage markets became increasingly disrupted. This disruption led to severe reductions in liquidity and adversely affected our capital position. As a result, Ally sought approval to become a bank holding company to obtain access to capital at a lower cost to remain competitive in our markets. On December 24, 2008, Ally and IB Finance Holding Company, LLC, the holding company of Ally Bank, were each approved as bank holding companies under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956. At the same time, Ally Bank converted from a Utah-chartered industrial bank into a Utah-chartered commercial nonmember bank. Ally Bank as an FDIC-insured depository institution, is subject to the supervision and examination of the FDIC and the Utah DFI. Ally Financial Inc. is subject to the supervision and examination of the FRB. We are required to comply with regulatory risk-based and leverage capital requirements, as well as various safety and soundness standards established by the FRB, and are subject to

 

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certain statutory restrictions concerning the types of assets or securities that we may own and the activities in which we may engage.

As one of the conditions to becoming a bank holding company, the FRB required several actions of Ally, including meeting a minimum amount of regulatory capital. In order to meet this requirement, Ally took several actions, the most significant of which were the execution of private debt exchanges and cash tender offers to purchase and/or exchange certain of our and our subsidiaries outstanding notes held by eligible holders for a combination of cash, newly issued notes of Ally, and in the case of certain of the offers, preferred stock. The transactions resulted in an extinguishment of all notes tendered or exchanged into the offers and the new notes and stock were recorded at fair value on the issue date. This resulted in a pretax gain on extinguishment of debt of $11.5 billion and a corresponding increase to our capital levels. The gain included a $5.4 billion original issue discount representing the difference between the face value and the fair value of the new notes and is being amortized as interest expense over the term of the new notes. In addition, Treasury made an initial investment in Ally on December 29, 2008, pursuant to the Troubled Asset Relief Program (“TARP”) with a $5.0 billion purchase of Ally perpetual preferred stock with a total liquidation preference of $5.25 billion (“Perpetual Preferred Stock”).

On May 21, 2009, Treasury made a second investment of $7.5 billion in exchange for Ally’s mandatorily convertible preferred stock with a total liquidation preference of approximately $7.9 billion (the “Old MCP”), which included a $4 billion investment to support our agreement with Chrysler to provide automotive financing to Chrysler dealers and customers and a $3.5 billion investment related to the FRB’s Supervisory Capital Assessment Program requirements. Shortly after this second investment, on May 29, 2009, Treasury acquired 35.36% of Ally common stock when it exercised its right to acquire 190,921 shares of Ally common stock from General Motors Corporation (“GM”) as repayment for an $884 million loan that Treasury had previously provided to GM.

On December 30, 2009, we entered into another series of transactions with Treasury under TARP, pursuant to which Treasury (i) converted 60 million shares of Old MCP (with a total liquidation preference of $3.0 billion) into 259,200 shares of additional Ally common stock; (ii) invested $1.25 billion in new Ally mandatorily convertible preferred stock with a total liquidation preference of approximately $1.3 billion (the “Series F-2 preferred stock”); and (iii) invested $2.54 billion in new trust preferred securities with a total liquidation preference of approximately $2.7 billion (the “Trust Preferred Securities”). At this time, Treasury also exchanged all of its Perpetual Preferred Stock and remaining Old MCP (following the conversion of Old MCP described above) into additional Series F-2 preferred stock.

On December 30, 2010, Treasury converted 110 million shares of Series F-2 preferred stock (with a total liquidation preference of approximately $5.5 billion) into 531,850 shares of additional Ally common stock. This action represented a critical step in our path to fully repay Treasury’s investments. The conversion reduced dividends by approximately $500 million per year, assisted with capital preservation, and is expected to improve profitability with a lower cost of funds.

On March 1, 2011, the Declaration of Trust and certain other documents related to the Trust Preferred Securities were amended, and all of the outstanding Trust Preferred Securities held by Treasury were designated 8.125% Fixed Rate / Floating Rate Trust Preferred Securities, Series 2. On March 7, 2011, Treasury sold 100% of the Series 2 Trust Preferred Securities in an offering registered with the SEC. Ally did not receive any proceeds from the sale.

 

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Following the transactions described above, Treasury currently holds 73.8% of Ally common stock and approximately $5.9 billion in aggregate liquidation preference amount of Series F-2 preferred stock. As a result of its current common stock investment, Treasury is entitled to appoint six of the eleven total members of the Ally Board of Directors.

The following table summarizes the investments in Ally made by Treasury in 2008 and 2009.

 

    

Investment type

   Date    Cash
investment
     Warrants      Total  
               ($ in millions)  

TARP

   Preferred equity    December 29, 2008    $ 5,000       $ 250       $ 5,250   

GM Loan Conversion (a)

   Common equity    May 21, 2009      884                 884   

SCAP 1

   Preferred equity (MCP)    May 21, 2009      7,500         375         7,875   

SCAP 2

   Preferred equity (MCP)    December 30, 2009      1,250         63         1,313   

SCAP 2

   Trust preferred securities    December 30, 2009      2,540         127         2,667   
                                

Total cash investments

   $ 17,174       $ 815       $ 17,989   
                                

 

(a) In January 2009, Treasury loaned $884 million to General Motors. In connection with that loan, Treasury acquired rights to exchange that loan for 190,921 shares. In May 2009, Treasury exercised that right.

The following table summarizes Treasury’s investment in Ally at March 31, 2011 not reflecting the conversion or the exchange. See “Concurrent Transactions.”

 

     March 31, 2011  
     Book Value      Face Value  
     ($ in millions)  

MCP (a)

   $ 5,685       $ 5,938   

Common equity (b)

        73.8

 

(a) This reflects the exchange of face value of $5.25 billion of Perpetual Preferred Stock to MCP in December 2009 and the conversion of face value of $3.0 billion and $5.5 billion of MCP to common equity in December 2009 and December 2010, respectively.

 

(b) Represents the current common equity ownership position by Treasury.

Discontinued Operations

During 2009 and 2010, we committed to sell certain operations of our International Automotive Finance operations, Insurance operations, Mortgage Legacy Portfolio and Other operations, and Commercial Finance Group, and have classified certain of these operations as discontinued. For all periods presented, all of the operating results for these operations have been removed from continuing operations. Refer to Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more details.

 

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Primary Lines of Business

Our primary lines of business are Global Automotive Services and Mortgage. The following tables summarize the operating results excluding discontinued operations of each line of business. Operating results for each of the lines of business are more fully described in the sections of this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations that follow.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2011     2010     Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
     ($ in millions)     % change  

Total net revenue (loss)

      

Global Automotive Services

      

North American Automotive Finance operations

   $ 927      $ 1,075        (14

International Automotive Finance operations

     246        270        (9

Insurance operations

     520        621        (16

Mortgage operations

      

Origination and Servicing operations

     321        335        (4

Legacy Portfolio and Other operations

     90        216        (58

Corporate and Other

     (497     (667     25   
                  

Total

   $ 1,607      $ 1,850        (13
                  

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense
Global Automotive Services

      

North American Automotive Finance operations

   $ 518      $ 612        (15

International Automotive Finance operations

     40        47        (15

Insurance operations

     134        183        (27

Mortgage operations

      

Origination and Servicing operations

     73        71        3   

Legacy Portfolio and Other operations

     (39     85        (146

Corporate and Other

     (624     (811     23   
                  

Total

   $ 102      $ 187        (45
                  

 

     Year ended December 31,     Favorable/(unfavorable)  
     2010     2009     2008     2010-2009     2009-2008  
     ($ in millions)     (% change)  

Total net revenue (loss)

          

Global Automotive Services

          

North American Automotive Finance operations

   $ 4,011      $ 3,831      $ 2,597        5        48   

International Automotive Finance operations

     999        968        1,242        3        (22

Insurance operations

     2,360        2,271        2,961        4        (23

Mortgage

          

Origination and Servicing operations

     1,808        1,005        1,132        80        (11

Legacy Portfolio and Other operations

     865        (59     678        n/m        (109

Corporate and Other

     (2,141     (1,521     7,578        (41     (120
                                        

Total

   $ 7,902      $ 6,495      $ 16,188        22        (60
                                        

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense (benefit)

          

Global Automotive Services

          

North American Automotive Finance operations

   $ 2,344      $ 1,624      $ (322     44        n/m   

International Automotive Finance operations

     228        (157     102        n/m        n/m   

Insurance operations

     569        329        499        73        (34

Mortgage

          

Origination and Servicing operations

     917        39        462        n/m        (92

Legacy Portfolio and Other operations

     (254     (6,304     (3,070     96        (105

Corporate and Other

     (2,625     (2,490     7,066        (5     (135
                                        

Total

   $ 1,179      $ (6,959   $ 4,737        117        n/m   
                                        

 

n/m = not meaningful

 

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Consolidated Results of Operations

The following table summarizes our consolidated operating results excluding discontinued operations for the periods shown. Refer to the sections of this prospectus entitled “—Global Automotive Services” and “—Mortgage” for a more complete discussion of operating results by line of business.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2011     2010     Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
     ($ in millions)     (% change)  

Net financing revenue

      

Total financing revenue and other interest income

   $ 2,530      $ 3,110        (19

Interest expense

     1,708        1,702          

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

     285        656        57   
                  

Net financing revenue

     537        752        (29

Other revenue

      

Net servicing income

     284        252        13   

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned

     433        468        (7

Gain on mortgage and automotive loans, net

     92        271        (66

Loss on extinguishment of debt

     (39     (118     67   

Other gain on investments, net

     84        143        (41

Other income, net of losses

     216        82        163   
                  

Total other revenue

     1,070        1,098        (3

Total net revenue

     1,607        1,850        (13

Provision for loan losses

     113        144        22   

Noninterest expense

      

Compensation and benefits expense

     434        426        (2

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

     186        211        12   

Other operating expenses

     772        882        12   
                  

Total noninterest expense

     1,392        1,519        8   

Income from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense

     102        187        (45

Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations

     (68     36        n/m   
                  

Net income from continuing operations

   $ 170      $ 151        13   
                  

 

n/m = not meaningful

First Quarter 2011 Compared to First Quarter 2010

We earned net income from continuing operations of $170 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $151 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010. Continuing operations for the three months ended March 31, 2011, were favorably impacted by an increase in net servicing income, net derivative activity, our continued focus on cost reduction efforts, which resulted in lower operating expenses, and an income tax benefit resulting from the reversal of the valuation allowance in Canada. This favorability was partially offset by lower operating lease revenue (along with the related depreciation expense) related to a decline in the size of our operating lease portfolio and lower gains on the sale of loans related to the expiration of our automotive forward flow agreements during the fourth quarter of 2010.

Total financing revenue and other interest income decreased by 19% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. Operating lease revenue (along with the related depreciation expense) at our Automotive Finance operations decreased as a result of a decline in the size of our operating lease portfolio due to our decision in late 2008 to significantly curtail leasing. The decrease at our

 

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Mortgage Legacy Portfolio and Other operations resulted from a decline in average asset levels due to loan sales, the deconsolidation of previous on-balance sheet securitizations, and portfolio runoff.

Net servicing income was $284 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $252 million for the same period in 2010. The increase was primarily due to favorable net valuations related to market movement, partially offset by a fair value adjustment due to higher expected future servicing and foreclosure costs and a decline in production due to lower mortgage industry volume.

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned decreased 7% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010, primarily due to the sale of certain international insurance operations during the fourth quarter of 2010.

Gain on mortgage and automotive loans decreased 66% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. The decrease was primarily due to the expiration of our automotive forward flow agreements during the fourth quarter of 2010 and lower gains from whole-loan mortgage sales and mortgage loan liquidations in 2011.

We incurred a loss on extinguishment of debt of $39 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $118 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010. The activity in both periods related to the extinguishment of certain Ally debt, which for the three months ended March 31, 2011, included $30 million of accelerated amortization of original issue discount.

Other gain on investments was $84 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $143 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010. The decrease during the three months ended March 31, 2011, was primarily due to lower realized investment gains on our Insurance operations investment portfolio.

Other income, net of losses, increased $134 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. The increase was primarily due to net derivative activity and a lower fair value option election adjustment at our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations due to lower assets resulting from deconsolidations and better performance of the remaining asset portfolio.

The provision for loan losses was $113 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $144 million for the same period in 2010. The decrease for the three months ended March 31, 2011, was primarily due to improved credit quality and asset mix including the continued runoff and improved loss performance of our Nuvell nonprime automotive financing portfolio.

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses decreased 12% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010, primarily due to the sale of certain international insurance operations during the fourth quarter of 2010 and lower losses in our U.S. dealership-related products.

Other operating expenses decreased 12% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. The improvement was primarily due to lower restructuring expense, lower mortgage representation and warranty reserve expense, lower insurance commissions, lower technology and communications expense, lower vehicle remarketing and repossession expense, and lower full-service leasing vehicle maintenance costs for the three months ended March 31, 2011. The favorable impacts during the three months ended March 31, 2011, were partially offset by increased advertising and marketing expense.

We recognized a consolidated income tax benefit from continuing operations of $68 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to income tax expense of $36 million for the same period in 2010. The decrease in income tax expense was primarily related to the income tax benefit resulting from a $101 million reversal of valuation allowance in Canada related to modifications to the legal structure of our Canadian operations.

 

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The following table summarizes our consolidated operating results excluding discontinued operations for the periods shown. Refer to the sections of this prospectus entitled “—Global Automotive Services” and “—Mortgage” for a more complete discussion of operating results by line of business.

 

     Year ended December 31,     Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
     2010     2009     2008     2010-2009     2009-2008  
     ($ in millions)     (% change)  

Net financing revenue

          

Total financing revenue and other interest income

   $ 11,447      $ 13,100      $ 18,054        (13     (27

Interest expense

     6,836        7,274        10,441        6        30   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

     2,030        3,748        5,478        46        32   

Impairment of investment in operating leases

                   1,218               100   
                                        

Net financing revenue

     2,581        2,078        917        24        127   

Other revenue

          

Net servicing income

     1,169        445        1,484        163        (70

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned

     1,865        1,977        2,710        (6     (27

Gain on mortgage and automotive loans, net

     1,267        811        159        56        n/m   

(Loss) gain on extinguishment of debt

     (123     665        12,628        (118     (95

Other gain (loss) on investments, net

     505        166        (378     n/m        144   

Other income, net of losses

     638        353        (1,332     81        127   
                                        

Total other revenue

     5,321        4,417        15,271        20        (71

Total net revenue

     7,902        6,495        16,188        22        (60

Provision for loan losses

     442        5,604        3,102        92        (81

Noninterest expense

          

Compensation and benefits expense

     1,622        1,576        1,916        (3     18   

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

     876        1,042        1,402        16        26   

Other operating expenses

     3,783        5,232        5,031        28        (4
                                        

Total noninterest expense

     6,281        7,850        8,349        20        6   

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense (benefit)

     1,179        (6,959     4,737        117        n/m   

Income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations

     153        74        (136     (107     (154
                                        

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 1,026      $ (7,033   $ 4,873        115        n/m   
                                        

 

n/m = not meaningful

2010 Compared to 2009

We earned net income from continuing operations of $1.0 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to a net loss from continuing operations of $7.0 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009. Continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2010, were favorably impacted by our strategic mortgage actions taken during 2009 to stabilize our consumer and commercial portfolios that resulted in a significant decrease in our provision for loan losses and our continued focus on cost reduction resulted in lower operating expenses. The year ended December 31, 2010, was also favorably impacted by an increase in net servicing income; higher gains on the sale of loans; and lower impairments on equity investments, lot option projects, model homes, and foreclosed real estate.

Total financing revenue and other interest income decreased by 13% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. Our International Automotive Finance operations experienced lower consumer and commercial asset levels due to adverse business conditions in Europe and the runoff of wind-down portfolios in certain international countries as we shifted our focus to five core international markets: Germany, the United

 

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Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico, and China through our joint venture. A decline in asset levels in our Mortgage Legacy Portfolio and Other operations resulted from asset sales and portfolio runoff. Operating lease revenue (along with the related depreciation expense) at our North American Automotive Finance operations decreased as a result of a net decline in the size of our operating lease portfolio due to our decision in late 2008 to significantly curtail leasing. The decrease was partially offset by lease portfolio remarketing gains due to strong used vehicle prices and higher remarketing volume as well as an increase in consumer and commercial financing revenue related to the addition of non-GM automotive financing business.

Interest expense decreased 6% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. Interest expense decreased as a result of a change in our funding mix with an increased amount of funding coming from deposit liabilities as well as favorable trends in the securitization markets.

Net servicing income was $1.2 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $445 million in 2009. The increase was primarily due to projected cash flow improvements related to slower prepayment speeds as well as higher Home Affordable Modification Program (“HAMP”) loss mitigation incentive fees compared to prior year unfavorable hedge performance with respect to mortgage servicing rights.

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned decreased 6% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The decrease was primarily driven by lower earnings from our U.S. extended service contracts due to a decrease in domestic written premiums related to lower vehicle sales volume during the period 2007 to 2009. The decrease was partially offset by increased volume in our international operations.

Gain on mortgage and automotive loans increased 56% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The increase was primarily related to unfavorable valuation adjustments taken during 2009 on our held-for-sale automobile loan portfolios, higher gains on mortgage whole-loan sales and securitizations in 2010 compared to 2009, higher gains on mortgage loan resolutions in 2010, and the recognition of a gain on the deconsolidation of an on-balance sheet securitization. The increase was partially offset by gains on the sale of wholesale automotive financing receivables during 2009 as there were no off-balance sheet wholesale funding transactions during 2010.

We incurred a loss on extinguishment of debt of $123 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to a gain of $665 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. The activity in all periods related to the extinguishment of certain Ally debt that for the year ended December 31, 2010, included $101 million of accelerated amortization of original issue discount.

Other gain on investments was $505 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $166 million in 2009. The increase was primarily due to higher realized investment gains driven by market repositioning and the sale of our tax-exempt securities portfolio. During the year ended December 31, 2009, we recognized other-than-temporary impairments of $55 million.

Other income, net of losses, increased 81% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The improvement in 2010 was primarily related to the absence of loan origination income deferral due to the fair value option election for our held-for-sale loans during the third quarter of 2009 and the impact of significant impairments recognized in 2009. In 2009, we recorded impairments on equity investments, lot option projects, model homes, and an $87 million fair value impairment upon the transfer of our resort finance portfolio from held-for-sale to held-for-investment. Also in 2010, we recognized gains on the sale of foreclosed real estate compared to losses and impairments in 2009.

The provision for loan losses was $442 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $5.6 billion in 2009. The Mortgage Legacy Portfolio and Other provision decreased $4.1 billion from the prior year due to an improved asset mix as a result of the strategic actions taken during the fourth quarter of 2009 to write-down and reclassify certain legacy mortgage loans from held-to-investment to held-for-sale. The decrease in provision was also driven by the continued runoff and improved loss performance of our Nuvell nonprime automotive financing portfolio.

 

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Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses decreased 16% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The decrease was primarily driven by lower loss experience in our Mortgage Legacy Portfolio and Other operations’ captive reinsurance portfolio.

Other operating expenses decreased 28% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009, reflecting our continued expense reduction efforts. The improvements were primarily due to lower mortgage representation and warranty expenses, reduced professional service expenses, lower technology and communications expense, lower full-service leasing vehicle maintenance costs, lower insurance commissions, and lower advertising and marketing expenses for the year ended December 31, 2010.

Management focuses on efficiency ratio as an important measure to assess the performance of our operations. Throughout 2010, expense reduction was a strategic objective of management as we continued to focus on increasing operational efficiency by decreasing expenses as well as streamlining our operations through the disposition or wind-down of non-core businesses and related legacy infrastructure. We remain focused on efforts to control costs to support overall profitability while still investing in key customer-facing areas critical to our core franchises. Additionally, advertising and marketing expenses decreased in 2010 as compared to 2009. These reductions largely reflect higher expenses incurred in 2009 to establish the new Ally brand. Going-forward our advertising and marketing dollars will primarily be directed to customers and initiatives that we believe support our growth strategy.

We recognized consolidated income tax expense of $153 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $74 million in 2009. The increase was driven primarily by foreign taxes on higher pretax profits not subject to valuation allowance and U.S. state income taxes in states where profitable subsidiaries are required to file separately from other loss companies in the group or where the use of prior year losses is restricted.

2009 Compared to 2008

We reported a net loss from continuing operations of $7.0 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to net income from continuing operations of $4.9 billion for the year ended December 31, 2008. The 2009 results from continuing operations were adversely affected by strategic actions taken in the fourth quarter of 2009 to sell certain legacy mortgage assets resulting in the reclassification of these loans from held-for-investment to held-for-sale. These actions resulted in provision for loan losses of $2.0 billion. Additionally, 2009 was adversely impacted by higher mortgage representation and warranty expense of $1.2 billion compared to 2008 and a $1.2 billion income tax expense impact related to our conversion from a limited liability company to a corporation effective June 30, 2009. The income tax expense related to our conversion was largely offset by income tax benefits resulting from the operating loss recognized in 2009. These adverse impacts were partially offset by a strengthening used vehicle market, which resulted in higher remarketing proceeds that favorably impacted depreciation expense and reduced the provision for loan losses as a result of higher collateral values that reduced our loss severity. Additionally, 2008 results benefited from an $11.5 billion pretax gain from the extinguishment of debt related to our bond exchange.

Total financing revenue and other interest income decreased by 27% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008, primarily due to lower asset levels at our Global Automotive Services and Mortgage Legacy Portfolio and Other operations as a result of lower asset origination levels and portfolio runoff. Consumer and operating lease revenue (along with the related depreciation expense) at our North American Automotive Finance operations and International Automotive Finance operations decreased as a result of our strategic decisions in late 2008 to significantly curtail leasing due to credit market dislocation, negative economic conditions, low consumer confidence, and decreasing lease residual values. In addition, our International Automotive Finance operations’ consumer and commercial asset levels were lower due to operations winding down in several countries. Declines in Legacy Mortgage asset levels resulted from asset sales and portfolio runoff. Additionally, we recognized lower yields on consumer mortgage loans as a result of higher delinquencies, increases in nonaccrual levels, and the impact of lower rates on adjustable-rate mortgage loans.

Interest expense was $7.3 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $10.4 billion in 2008. Interest expense decreased at our North American Automotive Finance operations and at our International

 

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Automotive Finance operations primarily due to reductions in the average balance of interest-bearing liabilities consistent with lower average asset levels. The decrease at Mortgage was primarily due to a lower average cost of funds due to declining interest rates and lower average borrowings related to a reduction in asset levels and extinguishments of ResCap debt. These decreases were partially offset by the amortization of the original issue discount associated with the December 2008 bond exchange.

No impairment of investment in operating leases was recognized in 2009. In 2008 we recognized a $1.2 billion impairment on our investment in operating leases that resulted from significant declines in used vehicle demand and used vehicle sales prices. The impairment consisted of $1.2 billion within our North American Automotive Finance operations and $26 million within our International Automotive Finance operations.

Net servicing income decreased 70% during the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The decrease was mainly due to unfavorable mortgage servicing valuations reflecting a projected reduction in cash flows and increased prepayment assumptions as a result of lower market interest rates compared to favorable valuation adjustments due to decreasing prepayment trends in 2008. Additionally, we recognized unfavorable hedge performance due to changes in the spreads between our servicing assets and the derivative hedge portfolio, which is used to manage interest rate risk. Our ability to fully hedge interest rate risk and volatility was restricted in the latter half of 2008 and during the year ended December 31, 2009, by the limited availability of willing counterparties to enter into forward agreements and liquidity constraints hindering our ability to take positions in the option markets. Servicing fees also declined as a result of portfolio runoff and sales of certain servicing assets during the second half of 2008.

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned decreased 27% during the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The decrease was primarily due to the sale of our U.S. reinsurance agency in November 2008. Additionally, lower earned premiums on extended service contracts written in current and prior periods, lower dealer inventory levels, and decreases within our international operations contributed to a decrease in revenue. These decreases were primarily due to the overall negative economic environment and lower dealership volumes.

The net gain on mortgage and automotive loans was $811 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $159 million for the year ended December 31, 2008. The net improvement in 2009 was primarily due to realized losses related to Legacy Mortgage asset sales in 2008. Additionally, we recognized improved margins on sales of loans in 2009 as a result of our focus on originating conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans. Partially offsetting the improvement was decreased gains from lower whole-loan sales volumes and securitization transactions in our North American Finance Automotive operations due to a shift in our strategy to a deposit-based funding model through Ally Bank with less reliance on the securitization markets.

Gain on extinguishment of debt totaled $665 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $12.6 billion for the year ended December 31, 2008. The 2009 results were primarily driven by the recognition of a $634 million gain on the extinguishment of certain debt as part of privately negotiated transactions. The 2008 results were impacted largely by the fourth quarter private debt exchange and cash tender offers that generated pretax gains of $11.5 billion. The 2008 results also include additional debt extinguishment gains of $1.1 billion recognized by Mortgage offset by losses of $23 million recognized by Corporate and Other due to the repurchase and extinguishment of ResCap debt.

Other net gain on investments was $166 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to a net loss of $378 million in 2008. The increase was primarily related to the write-off of certain investment securities in 2008 and lower other-than-temporary impairments on investment securities in 2009.

Other income, net of losses, increased $1.7 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The improvement was primarily related to the absence of certain 2008 events including a $570 million full equity-method investment impairment due to the decline in credit market conditions and unfavorable asset

 

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revaluations, significant equity investment losses, and the recognition of a $255 million impairment on the assets of our resort finance business in 2008. Additionally, the improvement was driven by lower losses on the sale of foreclosed real estate due to lower volume and severity and lower impairments on lot option projects and model homes, and lower losses on residual interests due to the write-down of home equity residuals in 2008. Partially offsetting these increases was a decrease in real estate brokerage fee income due to the 2008 sale of our business that provided brokerage and relocation services.

The provision for loan losses was $5.6 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $3.1 billion in 2008. The Mortgage provision for loan losses increased $2.6 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009. The increase was primarily due to strategic actions in the fourth quarter of 2009 as a result of the decision to sell certain legacy mortgage assets resulting in the reclassification of these assets from held-for-investment to held-for-sale and consequently the recognition of $2.0 billion in expense. Additionally, we recognized higher provision for loan losses on the Ally Bank held-for-investment portfolio due to higher projected delinquencies and loss severities, as well as regulatory input. The increase was partially offset by lower provision for loan losses as a result of lower mortgage loan and lending receivables balances in 2009 compared to 2008. Our North American Automotive Finance operations’ provision decreased $587 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, primarily due to a decrease in the provision for retail balloon contracts as a result of a strengthening used vehicle market in the United States and portfolio runoff as this product was curtailed in September 2008. Our Commercial Finance Group’s provision increased $481 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, due to an increase in provision for loan losses within the resort finance business and in our European operations.

Compensation and benefits expense decreased 18% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008, primarily due to lower employee headcount.

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses decreased 26% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The decrease was primarily driven by the sale of our U.S. reinsurance agency and lower loss experience in our dealership-related products as a result of lower volumes.

Other operating expenses increased 4% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. Other operating expenses were largely impacted by higher mortgage representation and warranty expense of $1.2 billion in 2009 compared to 2008. Excluding the effects of mortgage representation and warranty expense, other operating expenses decreased 22% in 2009 compared to 2008. Contributing to this improvement was a decrease in insurance commissions, reduced restructuring expenses, reduced professional service expenses, and lower vehicle remarketing and repossession expenses.

We recognized consolidated tax expense of $74 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to a tax benefit of $136 million in 2008. The increase in tax expense was primarily due to our conversion from a limited liability company to a corporation effective June 30, 2009, which resulted in the recognition of a $1.2 billion net deferred tax liability through income tax expense. Additionally, we recognized higher valuation allowances in 2009 compared to 2008. Partially offsetting the increase in expense was higher tax benefits on operating losses as a result of our conversion to a corporation. Refer to Note 24 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding our change in tax status.

Global Automotive Services

Results for Global Automotive Services are presented by reportable segment, which includes our North American Automotive Finance operations, our International Automotive Finance operations, and our Insurance operations.

Automotive Finance Operations

Our North American Automotive Finance operations and our International Automotive Finance operations (Automotive Finance operations) provide automotive financing services to consumers and to automotive dealers.

 

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For consumers, we offer retail automobile financing and leasing for new and used vehicles, and through our commercial automotive financing operations, we fund dealer purchases of new and used vehicles through wholesale or floorplan financing.

Consumer Automotive Financing

Historically, we have provided two basic types of financing for new and used vehicles: retail automobile contracts (retail contracts) and automobile lease contracts. In most cases, we purchase retail contracts and leases for new and used vehicles from dealers when the vehicles are purchased or leased by consumers. In a number of markets outside the United States, we are a direct lender to the consumer. Our consumer automotive financing operations generate revenue through finance charges or lease payments and fees paid by customers on the retail contracts and leases. In connection with lease contracts, we also recognize a gain or loss on the remarketing of the vehicle at the end of the lease.

The amount we pay a dealer for a retail contract is based on the negotiated purchase price of the vehicle and any other products, such as service contracts, less any vehicle trade-in value and any down payment from the consumer. Under the retail contract, the consumer is obligated to make payments in an amount equal to the purchase price of the vehicle (less any trade-in or down payment) plus finance charges at a rate negotiated between the consumer and the dealer. In addition, the consumer is also responsible for charges related to past-due payments. When we purchase the contract, it is normal business practice for the dealer to retain some portion of the finance charge as income for the dealership. Our agreements with dealers place a limit on the amount of the finance charges they are entitled to retain. Although we do not own the vehicles we finance through retail contracts, we hold a perfected security interest in those vehicles. Due to funding challenges related to the general economic recession at the time, in January 2009, we ceased originating financing volume through Nuvell, which had focused on nonprime automotive financing through GM-affiliated dealers.

With respect to consumer leasing, we purchase leases (and the associated vehicles) from dealerships. The purchase price of consumer leases is based on the negotiated price for the vehicle less any vehicle trade-in and any down payment from the consumer. Under the lease, the consumer is obligated to make payments in amounts equal to the amount by which the negotiated purchase price of the vehicle (less any trade-in value or down payment) exceeds the projected residual value (including residual support) of the vehicle at lease termination, plus lease charges. The consumer is also generally responsible for charges related to past due payments, excess mileage, and excessive wear and tear. When the lease contract is entered into, we estimate the residual value of the leased vehicle at lease termination. We generally base our determination of the projected residual values on a guide published by an independent publisher of vehicle residual values, which is stated as a percentage of the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. These projected values may be upwardly adjusted as a marketing incentive if the manufacturer or Ally considers above-market residual support necessary to encourage consumers to lease vehicles.

Consumer automobile leases are operating leases; therefore, credit losses on the operating lease portfolio are not as significant as losses on retail contracts because lease losses are limited to payments and assessed fees. Since some of these fees are not assessed until the vehicle is returned, these losses on the lease portfolio are correlated with lease termination volume. North American operating lease accounts past due over 30 days represented 2.36% and 3.12% of the total portfolio at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. In late 2008, we significantly curtailed leasing due to distress in the capital markets and the significant decline in used vehicle prices that resulted in increased residual losses. We selectively re-entered the leasing market in 2009; however, originations are significantly lower than in past years. We did not receive residual support from GM or Chrysler on lease originations in 2010 or 2009.

Our standard U.S. leasing plan, SmartLease, requires a monthly payment by the consumer. We also offer an alternative leasing plan, SmartLease Plus, that requires one up-front payment of all lease amounts at the time the consumer takes possession of the vehicle. In addition to the SmartLease plans, prior to September 2008, we offered the SmartBuy plan through U.S. dealerships to consumers. SmartBuy combined certain features of a lease

 

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contract with those of a traditional retail contract. Under the SmartBuy plan, the customer pays regular monthly payments that are generally lower than would otherwise be owed under a traditional retail contract. At the end of the contract, the customer has several options including keeping the vehicle by making a final balloon payment, refinancing the balloon payment, or returning the vehicle to us and paying a disposal fee plus any applicable excess wear and excess mileage charges. Unlike a lease contract, during the course of a SmartBuy contract, the customer owns the vehicle, and we hold a perfected security interest in the vehicle. Effective September 2008, we ceased new originations of the SmartBuy product.

With respect to all financed vehicles, whether subject to a retail contract or a lease contract, we require that property damage insurance be obtained by the consumer. In addition, for lease contracts, we require that bodily injury and comprehensive and collision insurance be obtained by the consumer.

The consumer financing revenue of our Automotive Finance operations totaled $3.4 billion, $3.1 billion, and $4.0 billion in 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

Consumer Automotive Financing Volume

The following tables summarize our new and used vehicle consumer financing volume and our share of consumer sales.

 

     Ally consumer  automotive
financing volume
     % Share of
consumer sales
 
     Three months ended
March 31,
     Three months ended
March 31,
 
     2011      2010      2011      2010  
     (units in thousands)     

(%)

 

GM new vehicles

           

North America

     266         126         51         34   

International (excluding China) (a)

     75         60         24         19   

China (b)

     25         23         10         11   
                       

Total GM new units financed

     366         209         
                       

Chrysler new vehicles

           

North America

     75         57         30         36   
                       

Total Chrysler new units financed

     75         57         
                       

Other non-GM / Chrysler new vehicles

           

North America

     19         5         

International (excluding China)

     1         1         

China (b)

     21         12         
                       

Total other non-GM / Chrysler new units financed

     41         18         
                       

Used vehicles

           

North America

     125         59         

International (excluding China)

     9         5         
                       

Total used units financed

     134         64         
                       

Total consumer automotive financing volume

     616         348         
                       

 

(a) Excludes financing volume and GM consumer sales of discontinued operations as well as GM consumer sales for other countries in which GM operates and in which we have no financing volume.

 

(b) Includes all vehicles financed through our joint venture GMAC-SAIC. We own 40% of GMAC-SAIC alongside Shanghai Automotive Group Finance Company LTD and Shanghai General Motors Corporation LTD.

 

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Growth in consumer automotive financing volume and related penetration levels in 2011 compared to 2010 were primarily driven by the expansion of our retail originations platform, strong dealer relationships, and higher industry sales. Our first quarter 2011 penetration results reflect a high level of GM incentive programs that were available in the last two quarters. We expect that GM will moderate their use of incentives and, therefore, our penetration rate will not remain at this level in future quarters.

 

     Ally consumer automotive
financing volume
     % Share of consumer sales  
     Year ended December 31,      Year ended December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008      2010      2009      2008  
     (units in thousands)      (%)  

GM new vehicles

                 

North America

     694         488         929         40         27         38   

International (excluding China) (a)

     299         272         421         22         20         32   

China (b)

     119         74         59         11         11         13   
                                   

Total GM new units financed

     1,112         834         1,409            
                                   

Chrysler new vehicles

                 

North America

     322         64         8         38         8           

International (excluding China)

     1                            
                                   

Total Chrysler new units financed

     323         64         8            
                                   

Other non-GM/Chrysler new vehicles

                 

North America

     33         10         52            

International (excluding China)

     4         4         25            

China (b)

     89         33         11            
                                   

Total other non-GM/Chrysler new units financed

     126         47         88            
                                   

Used vehicles

                 

North America

     269         142         339            

International (excluding China)

     25         22         103            
                                   

Total used units financed

     294         164         442            
                                   

Total consumer automotive financing volume

     1,855         1,109         1,947            
                                   

 

(a) Excludes financing volume and GM consumer sales of discontinued operations as well as GM consumer sales for other countries in which GM operates and in which we have no financing volume.

 

(b) Includes vehicles financed through our joint venture GMAC-SAIC. We own 40% of GMAC-SAIC alongside Shanghai Automotive Group Finance Company LTD and Shanghai General Motors Corporation LTD.

Growth in consumer automotive financing volume and related penetration levels in 2010 compared to 2009 were primarily driven by higher industry sales, growth of our leasing business, and full implementation of Ally Dealer Rewards. Volume and penetration levels were also favorably impacted by the addition of Chrysler consumer automotive financing.

Manufacturer Marketing Incentives

GM and Chrysler may elect to sponsor incentive programs (on both retail contracts and leases) by supporting finance rates below the standard market rates at which we purchase retail contracts. These marketing incentives are also referred to as rate support or subvention. When GM or Chrysler utilize these marketing incentives, we are compensated at contract inception for the present value of the difference between the customer rate and our standard rates, which we defer and recognize as a yield adjustment over the life of the contract.

GM historically provided incentives, referred to as residual support, on leases, although we currently do not have residual support arrangements on 2010 or 2009 originated leases. As previously mentioned, under these

 

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programs, we bear a portion of the risk of loss to the extent the value of a leased vehicle upon remarketing is below the projected residual value of the vehicle at the time the lease contract is signed. However, these projected values may be upwardly adjusted as a marketing incentive if GM considers an above-market residual appropriate to encourage consumers to lease vehicles. Residual support by GM results in a lower monthly lease payment for the consumer. GM reimburses us to the extent remarketing sales proceeds are less than the residual value set forth in the lease contract and no greater than our standard residual rates.

In addition to the residual support arrangement for leases originated prior to 2009, GM shares in residual risk on a significant portion of off-lease vehicles sold at auction. Specifically, we and GM share a portion of the loss when resale proceeds fall below the standard residual values on vehicles sold at auction. GM reimburses us for a portion of the difference to the extent that proceeds are lower than our standard residual values (limited to a cap).

Under what we refer to as GM-sponsored pull-ahead programs, consumers may be encouraged to terminate leases early in conjunction with the acquisition of a new GM vehicle. As part of these programs, we waive all or a portion of the customer’s remaining payment obligation. Under most programs, GM compensates us for a portion of the foregone revenue from the waived payments partially offset to the extent that our remarketing sales proceeds are higher than otherwise would be realized if the vehicle had been remarketed at lease contract maturity.

On November 30, 2006, and in connection with the sale by GM of a 51% interest in Ally, GM and Ally entered into several service agreements that codified the mutually beneficial historic relationship between the companies. One such agreement was the United States Consumer Financing Services Agreement (the “Financing Services Agreement”). The Financing Services Agreement, among other things, provided that subject to certain conditions and limitations, whenever GM offers vehicle financing and leasing incentives to customers (e.g., lower interest rates than market rates), it would do so exclusively through Ally. This requirement was effective through November 2016, and in consideration for this, Ally paid to GM an annual exclusivity fee and was required to meet certain targets with respect to consumer retail and lease financings of new GM vehicles.

Effective December 29, 2008, and in connection with the approval of our application to become a bank holding company, GM and Ally modified certain terms and conditions of the Financing Services Agreement. Certain of these amendments include the following: (1) for a two-year period, GM can offer retail financing incentive programs through a third-party financing source under certain specified circumstances and, in some cases, subject to the limitation that pricing offered by the third party meets certain restrictions, and after the two-year period GM can offer any such incentive programs on a graduated basis through third parties on a nonexclusive, side-by-side basis with Ally, provided that the pricing of such third parties meets certain requirements; (2) Ally will have no obligation to provide operating lease financing products; and (3) Ally will have no targets against which it could be assessed penalties. The modified Financing Services Agreement will expire on December 31, 2013. After December 31, 2013, GM will have the right to offer retail financing incentive programs through any third-party financing source, including Ally, without restrictions or limitations. A primary objective of the Financing Services Agreement continues to be supporting distribution and marketing of GM products.

 

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The following table shows GM subvented retail and lease volume acquired by Ally.

 

     Three months ended
March  31,
    Year ended December 31,  
     2011     2010     2010     2009     2008  

GM subvented volume in North America

          

As % of GM North American new retail and lease volume acquired by Ally

     46     52     51     69     84

As % of total North American new and used retail and lease volume acquired by Ally

     25     27     27     48     59

GM subvented International (excl. China) volume (a)

          

As % of GM International new retail and lease volume acquired by Ally

     61     52     55     67     48

As % of total International new and used retail and lease volume acquired by Ally

     54     47     50     61     37

GM subvented volume in China (b)

          

As % of GM China new retail and lease volume acquired by Ally

     1     1     14     1     2

As % of total China new and used retail and lease volume acquired by Ally

     1         8     1     2

 

(a) Represents subvention for continuing operations only.

 

(b) Through our joint venture GMAC-SAIC. We own 40% of GMAC-SAIC alongside Shanghai Automotive Group Finance Company LTD and Shanghai General Motors Corporation LTD.

The following table shows Chrysler subvented retail and lease volume acquired by Ally.

 

     Three months ended
March 31,
    Year ended December 31,  
     2011     2010     2010     2009     2008  

Chrysler subvented volume North America

          

As % of Chrysler North American new retail and lease volume acquired by Ally

     48     53     57     39     0

As % of total North American new and used retail and lease volume acquired by Ally

     7     12     14     4     0

Retail contracts acquired that included rate and residual subvention from GM and Chrysler decreased as a percentage of total new retail contracts acquired due to reductions in our standard rates, which allowed us to be more competitive with market pricing, coupled with a change in incentivized programs.

On August 6, 2010, we entered into an agreement with Chrysler LLC (Chrysler) to be the preferred provider of financial services for Chrysler vehicles. The agreement replaced and superseded the legally binding term sheet that we entered into with Chrysler on April 30, 2009, which contemplated this definitive agreement. We provide retail financing to Chrysler dealers and customers as we deem appropriate according to our credit policies and in our sole discretion. Chrysler is obligated to provide us with certain exclusivity privileges including the use of Ally for designated minimum threshold percentages of certain of Chrysler’s retail financing subvention programs. The agreement extends through April 30, 2013, with automatic one-year renewals unless either we or Chrysler provides sufficient notice of nonrenewal.

Servicing

We have historically serviced all retail contracts and leases we retained on-balance sheet. We historically sold a portion of the retail contracts we originated and retained the right to service and earn a servicing fee for

 

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our servicing functions. Ally Servicing Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary, performs most servicing activities for U.S. retail contracts and consumer automobile leases.

Servicing activities consist largely of collecting and processing customer payments, responding to customer inquiries such as requests for payoff quotes, processing customer requests for account revisions (such as payment extensions and rewrites), maintaining a perfected security interest in the financed vehicle, monitoring vehicle insurance coverage, and disposing of off-lease vehicles. Servicing activities are generally consistent for our Automotive Finance operations; however, certain practices may be influenced by local laws and regulations.

Our U.S. customers have the option to receive monthly billing statements or coupon books, to remit payment by mail or through electronic fund transfers, or to establish online web-based account administration through the Ally Account Center. Customer payments are processed by regional third-party processing centers that electronically transfer payment data to customers’ accounts.

Servicing activities also include initiating contact with customers who fail to comply with the terms of the retail contract or lease. These contacts begin with a reminder notice when the account is 5 to 15 days past due. Telephone contact typically begins when the account is 1 to 15 days past due. Accounts that become 20 to 30 days past due are transferred to special collection teams that track accounts more closely. The nature and timing of these activities depend on the repayment risk of the account.

During the collection process, we may offer a payment extension to a customer experiencing temporary financial difficulty. A payment extension enables the customer to delay monthly payments for 30, 60, or 90 days, thereby deferring the maturity date of the contract by the period of delay. Extensions granted to a customer typically do not exceed 90 days in the aggregate during any 12-month period or 180 days in aggregate over the life of the contract. If the customer’s financial difficulty is not temporary and management believes the customer could continue to make payments at a lower payment amount, we may offer to rewrite the remaining obligation, extending the term and lowering the monthly payment obligation. In those cases, the principal balance generally remains unchanged while the interest rate charged to the customer generally increases. Extension and rewrite collection techniques help mitigate financial loss in those cases where management believes the customer will recover from financial difficulty and resume regularly scheduled payments or can fulfill the obligation with lower payments over a longer period. Before offering an extension or rewrite, collection personnel evaluate and take into account the capacity of the customer to meet the revised payment terms. Although the granting of an extension could delay the eventual charge-off of an account, typically we are able to repossess and sell the related collateral, thereby mitigating the loss. As an indication of the effectiveness of our consumer credit practices, of the total amount outstanding in the U. S. traditional retail portfolio at December 31, 2007, only 8.2% of the extended or rewritten accounts were subsequently charged off through December 31, 2010. A three-year period was utilized for this analysis as this approximates the weighted average remaining term of the portfolio. At December 31, 2010, 7.4% of the total amount outstanding in the servicing portfolio had been granted an extension or was rewritten.

Subject to legal considerations, in the United States we normally begin repossession activity once an account becomes greater than 60-days past due. Repossession may occur earlier if management determines the customer is unwilling to pay, the vehicle is in danger of being damaged or hidden, or the customer voluntarily surrenders the vehicle. Approved third-party repossession firms handle repossessions. Normally the customer is given a period of time to redeem the vehicle by paying off the account or bringing the account current. If the vehicle is not redeemed, it is sold at auction. If the proceeds do not cover the unpaid balance, including unpaid financing charges and allowable expenses, the resulting deficiency is charged off. Asset recovery centers pursue collections on accounts that have been charged off, including those accounts where the vehicle was repossessed, and skip accounts where the vehicle cannot be located.

At December 31, 2010 and 2009, our total consumer automotive serviced portfolio was $78.8 billion and $82.6 billion, respectively, compared to our consumer automotive on-balance sheet portfolio of $60.4 billion at

 

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December 31, 2010, and our managed portfolio of $63.1 billion at December 31, 2009. Prior to 2010, our managed portfolio included retail receivables held on-balance sheet for investment and receivables securitized and sold that we continued to service and in which we had a continuing involvement (i.e., in which we retain an interest or risk of loss in the underlying receivables). On January 1, 2010, we adopted ASU 2009-17, Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities (ASU 2009-17), that resulted in the consolidation of all receivables that had been considered off-balance sheet and included as part of our managed portfolio becoming on-balance sheet assets.

Remarketing and Sales of Leased Vehicles

When we acquire a consumer lease, we assume ownership of the vehicle from the dealer. Neither the consumer nor the dealer is responsible for the value of the vehicle at the time of lease termination. When vehicles are not purchased by customers or the receiving dealer at lease termination, the vehicle is returned to us for remarketing through an auction. We generally bear the risk of loss to the extent the value of a leased vehicle upon remarketing is below the projected residual value determined at the time the lease contract is signed. GM may share this risk with us for certain leased GM vehicles, as described previously under Manufacturer Marketing Incentives.

The following table summarizes our methods of vehicle sales in the United States at lease termination stated as a percentage of total lease vehicle disposals.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  

Auction

      

Internet

     60     57     47

Physical

     18     25     38

Sale to dealer

     12     11     10

Other (including option exercised by lessee)

     10     7     5

We primarily sell our off-lease vehicles through:

 

   

Internet auctions—We offer off-lease vehicles to dealers and certain other third parties in the United States through our proprietary internet site (SmartAuction). This internet sales program maximizes the net sales proceeds from off-lease vehicles by reducing the time between vehicle return and ultimate disposition, reducing holding costs, and broadening the number of prospective buyers. We maintain the internet auction site, set the pricing floors on vehicles, and administer the auction process. We earn a service fee for every vehicle sold through SmartAuction.

 

   

Physical auctions—We dispose of our off-lease vehicles not purchased at termination by the lease consumer or dealer or sold on an internet auction through traditional official manufacturer-sponsored auctions. We are responsible for handling decisions at the auction including arranging for inspections, authorizing repairs and reconditioning, and determining whether bids received at auction should be accepted.

Commercial Automotive Financing

Automotive Wholesale Dealer Financing

One of the most important aspects of our dealer relationships is supporting the sale of vehicles through wholesale or floorplan financing. We primarily support automotive finance purchases by dealers of new and used vehicles manufactured or distributed before sale or lease to the retail customer. Wholesale automotive financing

 

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represents the largest portion of our commercial financing business and is the primary source of funding for dealers’ purchases of new and used vehicles. During 2010, we financed an average of $18.9 billion of new GM vehicles, representing an 86% share of GM’s North American dealer inventory and a 75% share of GM’s international dealer inventory in countries where GM operates and we had dealer inventory financing, excluding China. We also financed an average of $5.8 billion of new Chrysler vehicles representing a 75% share of Chrysler’s North American dealer inventory. In addition, we financed an average of $2.4 billion of new non-GM/Chrysler vehicles.

On August 6, 2010, we entered into an agreement with Chrysler to provide automotive financing products and services to Chrysler dealers. The agreement replaced and superseded the legally binding term sheet that we entered into with Chrysler on April 30, 2009, which contemplated this definitive agreement. We are Chrysler’s preferred provider of new wholesale financing for dealer inventory in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and other international markets upon the mutual agreement of the parties. We provide dealer financing and services to Chrysler dealers as we deem appropriate according to our credit policies and in our sole discretion. The agreement extends through April 30, 2013, with automatic one-year renewals unless either we or Chrysler provides sufficient notice of nonrenewal.

Wholesale credit is arranged through lines of credit extended to individual dealers. In general, each wholesale credit line is secured by all vehicles and by other assets owned by the dealer or the operator’s or owner’s personal guarantee. Additionally, to minimize our risk, both GM and Chrysler are bound by repurchase obligations that, under certain circumstances, require them to repurchase new vehicle inventory, such as dealer default. The amount we advance to dealers is equal to 100% of the wholesale invoice price of new vehicles, which includes destination and other miscellaneous charges, and with respect to vehicles manufactured by GM and other motor vehicle manufacturers, a price rebate, known as a holdback, from the manufacturer to the dealer in varying amounts stated as a percentage of the invoice price. Interest on wholesale automotive financing is generally payable monthly. Most wholesale automotive financing of our North American Automotive Finance operations is structured to yield interest at a floating rate indexed to the Prime Rate. The wholesale automotive financing of our International Automotive Finance operations is structured to yield interest at a floating rate indexed to benchmark rates specific to the relevant country. The rate for a particular dealer is based on, among other things, competitive factors, the amount and status of the dealer’s creditworthiness, and various incentive programs.

Under the terms of the credit agreement with the dealer, we may demand payment of interest and principal on wholesale credit lines at any time; however, unless we terminate the credit line or the dealer defaults, we generally require payment of the principal amount financed for a vehicle upon its sale or lease by the dealer to the customer. Ordinarily, a dealer has between one and five days, based on risk and exposure of the account, to satisfy the obligation.

Under wholesale financing arrangements, we lend money to GM-franchised dealers to finance their vehicle inventory purchases from GM. We advance the loan proceeds directly to GM. Under an agreement with GM, the advances were made before the date the vehicles were expected to be delivered to the dealers. We earned $178 million of interest under the terms of this arrangement during the year ended December 31, 2010. At the end of 2010 GM terminated this advance payment arrangement. We expect any remaining interest payments in 2011 in connection with the terminated arrangement to be minimal.

The commercial wholesale revenue of our Automotive Finance operations totaled $1.4 billion, $1.2 billion, and $1.3 billion in 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

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Commercial Wholesale Financing Volume

The following table summarizes the average balances of our commercial wholesale floorplan finance receivables of new and used vehicles and share of dealer inventory in markets where we operate.

 

     Average balance      % Share of
dealer inventory
 
     Three months ended
March 31,
     Three months ended
March 31,
 
     2011      2010      2011      2010  
     ($ in millions)      (%)  

GM new vehicles

           

North America (a)

   $ 15,413       $ 13,691         84         86   

International (excluding China) (b) (c)

     3,830         3,125         80         75   

China (b) (d)

     884         953         75         81   
                       

Total GM new vehicles financed

     20,127         17,769         
                       

Chrysler new vehicles

           

North America (a)

     7,182         5,296         68         71   

International

     21         44         
                       

Total Chrysler new vehicles financed

     7,203         5,340         
                       

Other non-GM / Chrysler new vehicles

           

North America

     2,215         1,910         

International (excluding China)

     131         117         

China (d)

                     
                       

Total other non-GM / Chrysler new vehicles financed

     2,346         2,027         
                       

Used vehicles

           

North America

     3,076         2,944         

International (excluding China)

     135         81         
                       

Total used vehicles financed

     3,211         3,025         
                       

Total commercial wholesale finance receivables

   $ 32,887       $ 28,161         
                       

 

(a) Share of dealer inventory based on end of period dealer inventory (excluding in-transit units).

 

(b) Share of dealer inventory based on wholesale financing share of GM shipments.

 

(c) Excludes commercial wholesale finance receivables and dealer inventory of discontinued and wind-down operations as well as dealer inventory for other countries in which GM operates and we had no commercial wholesale finance receivables.

 

(d) Includes vehicles financed through a joint venture in China in which Ally owns a minority interest.

Commercial wholesale financing average balance increased for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010 primarily due to increasing global automotive sales and the corresponding increase in dealer inventories in virtually every market.

 

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     Average balance          % Share of dealer inventory      
     Year ended December 31,      Year ended December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008      2010      2009      2008  
     ($ in millions)      (%)  

GM new vehicles

                 

North America (a)

   $ 14,948       $ 17,107       $ 24,306         86         86         88   

International (excluding China) (b)(c)

     2,919         3,311         4,804         75         91         97   

China (b)(d)

     1,075         573         633         81         80         84   
                                   

Total GM new vehicles financed

     18,942         20,991         29,743            
                                   

Chrysler new vehicles

                 

North America (a)

     5,793         1,762         512         75         25           

International

     42         27                    
                                   

Total Chrysler new vehicles financed

     5,835         1,789         512            
                                   

Other non-GM/Chrysler new vehicles

                 

North America

     1,951         1,741         2,381            

International (excluding China)

     414         621         1,300            

China (d)

             5         39            
                                   

Total other non-GM/Chrysler new vehicles financed

     2,365         2,367         3,720            
                                   

Used vehicles

                 

North America

     3,044         2,401         3,203            

International (excluding China)

     358         255         407            
                                   

Total used vehicles financed

     3,402         2,656         3,610            
                                   

Total commercial wholesale finance receivables

   $ 30,544       $ 27,803       $ 37,585            
                                   

 

(a) Share of dealer inventory based on end of period dealer inventory.

 

(b) Share of dealer inventory based on wholesale financing share of GM shipments.

 

(c) Excludes commercial wholesale finance receivables and dealer inventory of discontinued operations as well as dealer inventory for other countries in which GM operates and in which we had no commercial wholesale finance receivables.

 

(d) Includes vehicles financed through a joint venture in China in which Ally owns a minority interest.

Commercial wholesale financing average volume increased during 2010 compared to 2009, primarily due to the addition of Chrysler wholesale automotive financing. The reduction in GM’s wholesale volume reflects the elimination of the Hummer, Saturn, and Pontiac brands, along with the reduction of total GM dealers. North American penetration levels remained strong in 2010.

Other Commercial Automotive Financing

We also provide other forms of commercial financing for the automotive industry including automotive dealer term loans and automotive fleet financing. Automotive dealer term loans are loans that we make to dealers to finance other aspects of the dealership business. These loans are typically secured by real estate, other dealership assets, and the personal guarantees of the individual owners of the dealership. Automotive fleet financing may be obtained by dealers, their affiliates, and other companies and be used to purchase vehicles, which they lease or rent to others. We generally have a security interest in these vehicles and in the rental payments; however, competitive factors may occasionally limit the security interest in this collateral.

 

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Servicing and Monitoring

We service all of the wholesale credit lines in our portfolio and the wholesale automotive finance receivables that we have securitized. A statement setting forth billing and account information is distributed on a monthly basis to each dealer. Interest and other nonprincipal charges are billed in arrears and are required to be paid immediately upon receipt of the monthly billing statement. Generally, dealers remit payments to Ally through wire transfer transactions initiated by the dealer through a secure web application.

Dealers are assigned a risk rating based on various factors, including capital sufficiency, operating performance, financial outlook, and credit and payment history. The risk rating affects the amount of the line of credit, the determination of further advances, and the management of the account. We monitor the level of borrowing under each dealer’s account daily. When a dealer’s balance exceeds the credit line, we may temporarily suspend the granting of additional credit or increase the dealer’s credit line or take other actions following evaluation and analysis of the dealer’s financial condition and the cause of the excess.

We periodically inspect and verify the existence of dealer vehicle inventories. The timing of the verifications varies, and no advance notice is given to the dealer. Among other things, verifications are intended to determine dealer compliance with the financing agreement and confirm the status of our collateral.

 

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North American Automotive Finance Operations

Results of Operations

The following table summarizes the operating results of our North American Automotive Finance operations for the periods shown. North American Automotive Finance operations consist of automotive financing in the United States and Canada and include the automotive activities of Ally Bank and ResMor Trust. The amounts presented are before the elimination of balances and transactions with our other reportable segments.

 

     Three months ended
March 31,
     Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
     2011      2010     
     ($ in millions)      (% change)  

Net financing revenue

        

Consumer

   $ 668       $ 539         24   

Commercial

     326         336         (3

Loans held-for-sale

             69         (100

Operating leases

     651         1,095         (41

Interest and dividend income

     23         56         (59
                    

Total financing revenue and other interest income

     1,668         2,095         (20

Interest expense

     582         616         6   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

     268         607         56   
                    

Net financing revenue

     818         872         (6

Other revenue

        

Servicing fees

     45         60         (25

Gain on automotive loans, net

             113         (100

Other income

     64         30         113   
                    

Total other revenue

     109         203         (46

Total net revenue

     927         1,075         (14

Provision for loan losses

     46         101         54   

Noninterest expense

        

Compensation and benefits expense

     116         101         (15

Other operating expenses

     247         261         5   
                    

Total noninterest expense

     363         362           

Income before income tax (benefit) expense

   $ 518       $ 612         (15
                    

Total assets

   $ 87,662       $ 74,786         17   
                    

Operating data

        

Retail originations

   $ 10,140       $ 5,967         70   

Lease originations

     2,219         711         n/m   

 

n/m = not meaningful

First Quarter 2011 Compared to First Quarter 2010

Our North American Automotive Finance operations earned income before income tax expense of $518 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $612 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010. The decrease in 2011 was primarily driven by a decrease in operating lease revenue (along with the related depreciation expense) related to the decline in the operating lease portfolio and the absence of gains on the sale of automotive loans related to the expiration of our forward flow agreements during the fourth quarter

 

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of 2010. This decline was partially offset by increased consumer financing revenue driven by strong loan origination volume related to the improvement of automotive industry sales and automotive manufacturer penetration (primarily GM).

Consumer financing revenue increased 24% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010, due to an increase in consumer asset levels primarily related to strong loan origination volume during 2010 and 2011 resulting from the recovery of automotive industry sales. Additionally, we expanded our presence into the more fragmented market for used automotive financing and have also begun to prudently expand our origination volume further into the nonprime markets. The increase in consumer revenue was partially offset by a change in the consumer asset mix related to the runoff of the higher yielding Nuvell nonprime automotive financing portfolio.

Loans held-for-sale financing revenue decreased $69 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010, due to the expiration of our automotive forward flow agreements during the fourth quarter of 2010. Subsequent to the expiration of these agreements, we have continued to retain consumer loan originations on-balance sheet utilizing deposit funding from Ally Bank and on-balance sheet securitization transactions.

Operating lease revenue decreased 41% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. Operating lease revenue (along with the related depreciation expense) decreased due to a decline in the size of our operating lease portfolio. In 2008, we significantly curtailed leasing based on credit market dislocation and the significant decline in used vehicle prices that resulted in increasing residual losses and an impairment of our lease portfolio. During the latter half of 2009, we re-entered the leasing market with targeted lease product offerings and have continued to expand lease originations during 2010 and the first quarter of 2011. While the wind-down of our legacy lease portfolio has exceeded new origination volume, we anticipate that the declines in the size of our lease portfolio will begin to moderate as lease termination volumes decline, and we continue to support our new lease product offerings.

Interest and dividend income decreased 59% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, primarily due to lower FTP income related to lower rates and a change in funding mix.

Net gain on automotive loans decreased $113 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. There were no gains on the sale of loans during the three months ended March 31, 2011, primarily due to the expiration of our forward flow agreements during the fourth quarter of 2010.

Other income increased 113% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. The increase was primarily due to unfavorable swap mark-to-market activity related to the held-for-sale loan portfolio in 2010.

The provision for loan losses was $46 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $101 million for the same period in 2010. The decrease for the three months ended March 31, 2011, was primarily due to decreased losses and runoff of the Nuvell portfolio and improved loss performance in the consumer loan portfolio reflecting higher credit quality of recent originations and continued favorable pricing in the used vehicle market, partially offset by continued growth in the consumer loan portfolio.

 

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     Year ended December 31,     Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
     2010      2009      2008       2010-2009         2009-2008    
     ($ in millions)     (% change)  

Net financing revenue

            

Consumer

   $ 2,339       $ 1,804       $ 2,358        30        (23

Commercial

     1,425         1,136         1,044        25        9   

Loans held-for-sale

     112         320         473        (65     (32

Operating leases

     3,570         5,408         7,236        (34     (25

Interest and dividend income

     149         269         374        (45     (28
                                          

Total financing revenue and other interest income

     7,595         8,937         11,485        (15     (22

Interest expense

     2,377         2,363         3,534        (1     33   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

     1,897         3,500         5,228        46        33   

Impairment of investment in operating leases

                     1,192               100   
                                          

Net financing revenue

     3,321         3,074         1,531        8        101   

Other revenue

            

Servicing fees

     226         238         295        (5     (19

Gain on automotive loans, net

     249         220         442        13        (50

Other income

     215         299         329        (28     (9
                                          

Total other revenue

     690         757         1,066        (9     (29

Total net revenue

     4,011         3,831         2,597        5        48   

Provision for loan losses

     286         611         1,198        53        49   

Noninterest expense

            

Compensation and benefits expense

     387         435         482        11        10   

Other operating expenses

     994         1,161         1,239        14        6   
                                          

Total noninterest expense

     1,381         1,596         1,721        13        7   

Income (loss) before income tax expense

   $ 2,344       $ 1,624       $ (322     44        n/m   
                                          

Total assets

   $ 81,893       $ 68,282       $ 71,981        20        (5
                                          

Operating data

            

Retail originations

   $ 31,471       $ 19,519       $ 25,197        61        (23

Lease originations

     3,888         259         10,074        n/m        (97

 

n/m = not meaningful

2010 Compared to 2009

Our North American Automotive Finance operations earned income before income tax expense of $2.3 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $1.6 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009. Results for the year ended December 31, 2010, were favorably impacted by increased loan origination volume related to improved economic conditions, the growth of our non-GM consumer and commercial automotive financing business, and favorable remarketing results, which reflected continued strength in the used vehicle market.

Total financing revenue and other interest income decreased 15% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The decrease was primarily related to a decline in operating lease revenue, which exceeded the growth in consumer and commercial net financing revenue. Operating lease revenue (along with the related depreciation expense) decreased primarily due to a decline in the size of our operating lease portfolio resulting from our decision in late 2008 to significantly curtail leasing. This decision was based on the significant decline in used vehicle prices that resulted in increasing residual losses during 2008 and an impairment of our lease portfolio. During the latter half of 2009, we selectively re-entered the leasing market with more targeted lease

 

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product offerings. As a result, runoff of the legacy portfolio exceeded new origination volume. The decrease in operating lease revenue was largely offset by an associated decline in depreciation expense, which was also favorably impacted by remarketing gains as a result of continued strength in the used vehicle market and higher remarketing volume. Consumer financing revenue (combined with interest income on consumer loans held-for-sale) increased 15% during the year ended December 31, 2010, primarily due to an increase in consumer loan origination volume as a result of improved economic conditions and increased volume from non-GM channels. Additionally, consumer asset levels increased due to the consolidation of consumer loans included in securitization transactions that were previously classified as off-balance sheet. Refer to Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding the consolidation of these assets. The increase was partially offset by a change in the consumer asset mix related to the runoff of the higher-yielding Nuvell nonprime automotive financing portfolio. Commercial revenue increased 25%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2009, primarily due to an increase in dealer wholesale funding driven by improved economic conditions, the growth of non-GM wholesale floorplan business, and the recognition of all wholesale funding transactions on-balance sheet in 2010 compared to certain transactions that were off-balance sheet in 2009. Interest and dividend income decreased 45% for the year ended December 31, 2010, primarily due to a change in funding mix including lower levels of off-balance sheet securitizations.

Net gain on automotive loans increased 13% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The increase was primarily related to higher levels of retail whole-loan sales in 2010, higher gains on the sale of loans during 2010, and unfavorable valuation adjustments taken during 2009 on the held-for-sale portfolio. The increase was partially offset by higher gains on the sale of wholesale receivables during 2009 as there were no off-balance sheet wholesale funding transactions during 2010.

Other income decreased 28% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The decrease was primarily due to unfavorable swap mark-to-market activity related to the held-for-sale loan portfolio in 2010.

The provision for loan losses was $286 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $611 million in 2009. The decrease was primarily driven by the continued runoff of our Nuvell portfolio and improved loss performance in the consumer loan portfolio reflecting improved pricing in the used vehicle market and higher credit quality of more recent originations.

Noninterest expense decreased 13% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The decrease was primarily due to lower compensation and benefits expense primarily related to lower employee headcount resulting from rightsizing the cost structure with business volumes along with further productivity improvements, unfavorable foreign-currency movements during the year ended December 31, 2009, and lower IT and professional services costs due to continued focus on cost reduction.

2009 Compared to 2008

Our North American Automotive Finance operations earned income before income tax expense of $1.6 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to a loss before income tax expense of $322 million for the year ended December 31, 2008. The year ended December 31, 2009, was favorably impacted by a significant improvement in the used vehicle market, which resulted in higher remarketing proceeds that favorably impacted operating lease depreciation expense. Additionally, we incurred lower provision for loan losses related to our liquidating retail balloon portfolio as a result of higher collateral values that reduced our loss severity. Further, because of this improvement in the used vehicle market, we did not recognize operating lease impairments in 2009, compared to impairments of $1.2 billion in 2008. These favorable items were partially offset by lower financing revenue related to a declining asset base resulting from reduced originations due to the economic recession and the dislocation in the capital and credit markets.

 

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Total financing revenue and other interest income decreased 22% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. Consumer financing revenue (combined with interest income on consumer loans held-for-sale) decreased 25% during the year ended December 31, 2009, primarily due to lower average consumer asset levels. These lower asset levels were driven by significantly lower originations beginning in late 2008 due to the general economic recession and significantly tighter credit markets in the United States and Canada as well as the runoff of the higher-yielding Nuvell nonprime automotive financing portfolio. The $320 million of income on loans held-for-sale for the year ended December 31, 2009, related to interest on loans that are expected to be sold in whole-loan and full securitization transactions over the next twelve months. Commercial revenue increased 9%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2008, primarily due to an increase in average commercial loan balances that was primarily due to the growth in non-GM related wholesale floorplan business and the reconsolidation of certain off- balance sheet wholesale securitization transactions in 2009. Operating lease revenue (along with the related depreciation expense) decreased as new lease originations significantly declined due to our strategic decision in late 2008 to significantly curtail leasing. This decision was based on the significant decline in used vehicle prices that resulted in an impairment charge and increasing residual losses during 2008. The decrease in operating lease revenue was partially offset by remarketing gains resulting from higher used vehicle selling prices due to a strengthening used vehicle market in 2009. Interest and dividend income decreased 28% for the year ended December 31, 2009, primarily due to a change in funding mix including lower levels of off-balance sheet securitizations.

Interest expense decreased 33% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The decrease was driven by lower funding requirements due to lower average asset levels in 2009.

No impairment of investment in operating leases was recognized in 2009. In 2008, we recognized a $1.2 billion impairment that resulted from sharp declines in demand and used vehicle sale prices, which adversely affected vehicle remarketing proceeds.

Servicing fees decreased 19% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The decrease in servicing fees related to declines in the serviced asset base primarily resulting from the runoff of the serviced lease portfolio.

We earned a net gain on automotive loans of $220 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $442 million for the year ended December 31, 2008. The decrease was primarily due to a shift in our strategy in 2009 to a deposit-based funding model through Ally Bank, with less reliance on the securitization markets. Lower whole-loan sales volumes and other off-balance sheet securitization transactions resulted in decreased gains on the sale of retail and wholesale loans.

The provision for loan losses decreased 49% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The decrease was due primarily to decreases in the provision for retail balloon contracts primarily as a result of a strengthening used vehicle market and portfolio runoff as this product was curtailed in September 2008. A lower supply of used vehicles in 2009, among other factors, resulted in increased residual values and, in turn, lower provision for loan losses. Additionally, during 2008, the commercial provision had trended higher in response to concerns over GM and associated GM-dealer financial health. These favorable developments were partially offset by an increase in provision for loan loss expense related to unfavorable loss trends in consumer loans in the Nuvell portfolio, primarily in the second half of 2009.

Other noninterest expense decreased 7% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The decrease was primarily driven by lower compensation and benefits expense and lower restructuring charges due to headcount reductions resulting from prior restructuring actions.

 

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International Automotive Finance Operations

Results of Operations

The following table summarizes the operating results of our International Automotive Finance operations excluding discontinued operations for the periods shown. The amounts presented are before the elimination of balances and transactions with our other reportable segments and include eliminations of balances and transactions among our North American Automotive Finance operations and Insurance operations.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2011      2010      Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
     ($ in millions)      % change  

Net financing revenue

        

Consumer

   $ 287       $ 279         3   

Commercial

     104         102         2   

Loans held-for-sale

             4         (100

Operating leases

     29         66         (56

Interest and dividend income

     26         8         n/m   
                    

Total financing revenue and other interest income

     446         459         (3

Interest expense

     258         232         (11

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

     17         49         65   
                    

Net financing revenue

     171         178         (4

Other revenue

        

Gain on automotive loans, net

             7         (100

Other income

     75         85         (12
                    

Total other revenue

     75         92         (18

Total net revenue

     246         270         (9

Provision for loan losses

     37         21         (76

Noninterest expense

        

Compensation and benefits expense

     44         44           

Other operating expenses

     125         158         21   
                    

Total noninterest expense

     169         202         16   

Income from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense

   $ 40       $ 47         (15
                    

Total assets

   $ 16,295       $ 19,378         (16
                    

Operating data

        

Consumer originations

   $ 1,898       $ 1,487         28   
                    

 

n/m = not meaningful

First Quarter 2011 Compared to First Quarter 2010

Our International Automotive Finance operations earned income from continuing operations before income tax expense of $40 million during the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to income from continuing operations before income tax expense of $47 million during the three months ended March 31, 2010. Results for the three months ended March 31, 2011, were unfavorably impacted by increased provisions for loan losses.

Total financing revenue and other interest income decreased 3% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010, primarily due to a decline in operating lease revenue. Operating lease revenue (along with the related depreciation expense) decreased primarily due to the continued runoff of the full-service leasing portfolio.

 

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Interest expense increased 11% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. The increase was primarily due to the implementation of funds transfer pricing in certain countries.

Other income decreased 12% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. The decrease was primarily due to favorable mark-to-market adjustments on derivatives during the first quarter of 2010.

The provision for loan losses increased $16 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. The increase in provision is related to recent concerns with certain commercial credits.

Noninterest expense decreased 16% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. The decrease was primarily due to lower expenses associated with the wind-down of operations in certain countries and our continued focus on cost reduction.

 

     Year ended December 31,      Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
   2010      2009     2008        2010-2009         2009-2008    
     ($ in millions)      (% change)  

Net financing revenue

            

Consumer

   $ 1,075       $ 1,271      $ 1,604         (15     (21

Commercial

     390         495        819         (21     (40

Loans held-for-sale

     15         2                n/m        n/m   

Operating leases

     205         305        344         (33     (11

Interest and dividend income

     59         55        197         7        (72
                                          

Total financing revenue and other interest income

     1,744         2,128        2,964         (18     (28

Interest expense

     924         1,176        1,814         21        35   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

     137         247        247         45          

Impairment of investment in operating leases

                    26                100   
                                          

Net financing revenue

     683         705        877         (3     (20

Other revenue

            

Gain (loss) on automotive loans, net

     21         (77     2         127        n/m   

Other income

     295         340        363         (13     (6
                                          

Total other revenue

     316         263        365         20        (28

Total net revenue

     999         968        1,242         3        (22

Provision for loan losses

     54         230        204         77        (13

Noninterest expense

            

Compensation and benefits expense

     164         202        202         19          

Other operating expenses

     553         693        734         20        6   
                                          

Total noninterest expense

     717         895        936         20        4   

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense

   $ 228       $ (157   $ 102         n/m        n/m   
                                          

Total assets

   $ 15,979       $ 21,802      $ 29,290         (27     (26
                                          

Operating data

            

Consumer originations

   $ 7,612       $ 5,710      $ 9,272         33        (38

 

n/m = not meaningful

 

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2010 Compared to 2009

Our International Automotive Finance operations earned income from continuing operations before income tax expense of $228 million during the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to a loss from continuing operations before income tax expense of $157 million during the year ended December 31, 2009. Results for 2010 were favorably impacted by lower provision for loan losses and lower restructuring charges on wind-down operations.

Total financing revenue and other interest income decreased 18% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009, primarily due to decreases in consumer and commercial asset levels as the result of adverse business conditions in Europe and the runoff of wind-down portfolios.

Interest expense decreased 21% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009, primarily due to reductions in borrowing levels consistent with a lower asset base.

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets decreased 45% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009, primarily due to the continued runoff of the full-service leasing portfolio.

Net gain on automotive loans was $21 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to a net loss of $77 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. The losses for the year ended December 31, 2009, were due primarily to lower-of-cost or market adjustments on certain loans held-for-sale in certain wind down operations. The gains for the year ended December 31, 2010, were primarily due to the partial release of lower-of-cost or market adjustments on loans held-for-sale in wind-down operations due to improved market values.

The provision for loan losses was $54 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $230 million in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to improved loss performance on the consumer portfolio reflecting higher origination quality in 2009 and 2010 and the improving financial position of our dealer customers in Europe.

Noninterest expense decreased 20% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The decrease was primarily due to lower compensation and benefits expense primarily related to lower employee headcount resulting from restructuring activities, unfavorable foreign-currency movements during the year ended December 31, 2009, and lower IT and professional service costs due to continued focus on cost reduction.

2009 Compared to 2008

Our International Automotive Finance operations incurred a loss from continuing operations before income tax expense of $157 million during the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to income from continuing operations before income tax expense of $102 million during the year ended December 31, 2008. The year ended December 31, 2009, was unfavorably impacted by lower financing revenue related to a declining asset base. The asset base decline resulted from reduced originations due to the wind-down of operations in several countries and lower GM sales volume due to the general economic recession. The decrease was partially offset by lower funding costs commensurate with a lower asset base.

Total financing revenue and other interest income decreased 28% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. Consumer financing revenue decreased 21% during the year ended December 31, 2009, primarily due to lower consumer asset levels as a result of significantly lower originations due to the general economic recession, lower GM vehicle sales volume in 2009, and the wind-down of operations in several countries. Consumer asset levels at December 31, 2009, decreased $3.7 billion, or 24%, compared to December 31, 2008. Commercial revenue decreased 40% during 2009 compared to 2008, primarily due to lower commercial asset levels resulting from decreased GM sales volume and the wind-down of operations in several

 

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countries. Operating lease revenue decreased due to the significant curtailment of the lease product beginning in late 2008 and the runoff of assets in the full-service leasing portfolio. Interest and dividend income decreased 72% during the year ended December 31, 2009, primarily due to lower intercompany income resulting from a decline in intercompany-lending activity with our Commercial Finance Group and the reclassification of interest income on a one-time Brazil judicial deposit in 2008. Additionally, total financing revenue and other interest income were unfavorably impacted by foreign-currency movements as a result of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar in 2009 compared to 2008.

Interest expense decreased 35% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The decrease was driven by reductions in the average balance of interest-bearing liabilities consistent with a lower asset base and favorable foreign-currency movements.

No impairment of investment in operating leases was recognized in 2009. The $26 million recognized for the year ended December 31, 2008, related to the full-service leasing portfolio and resulted from declines in demand and used vehicle sale prices.

We incurred a net loss on automotive loans of $77 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to a net gain of $2 million for the year ended December 31, 2008. The loss for the year ended December 31, 2009, was primarily due to the recognition of a $61 million lower-of-cost or fair value adjustment on the held-for-sale Spanish consumer portfolio. Additionally, during 2009, we recognized a $16 million loss on the sale of our India portfolio.

Other income decreased 6% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The decrease was primarily related to lower full-service leasing fees as a result of asset runoff and the absence of a U.K. value added tax (“VAT”) refund received in 2008. The decrease was partially offset by favorable mark-to-market adjustments on derivatives and increased vehicle remarketing income on full-service leasing vehicles resulting from a stronger used vehicle market.

Other noninterest expense decreased 4% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The 2009 results were favorably impacted by the reclassification of interest income on a one-time Brazil judicial deposit in 2008 and lower IT and marketing expenses. The decrease in expense was partially offset by unfavorable foreign-currency movements and higher severance and restructuring expenses.

Insurance

Our Insurance operations offer consumer insurance products sold primarily through dealers and commercial insurance products sold to dealers. As part of our focus on offering dealers a broad range of products, we provide vehicle extended service contracts and we underwrite selected commercial insurance coverages, primarily covering dealers’ wholesale vehicle inventory in the United States and internationally. We also sell vehicle extended service contracts with mechanical breakdown and maintenance coverages.

 

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The following tables show premium and service revenue written by insurance product.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
         2011              2010      
     ($ in millions)  

Vehicle service contracts

     

New retail

   $ 90       $ 69   

Used retail

     104         106   
                 

Total vehicle service contracts

     194         175   

Wholesale

     22         27   

Other finance and insurance (a)

     30         24   
                 

North American operations

     246         226   

International operations (b)

     165         197   
                 

Total

   $ 411       $ 423   
                 

 

(a) Other finance and insurance includes GAP insurance, excess wear and tear, and other ancillary products.

 

(b) International operations for the three months ended March 31, 2010, includes $40 million of written premium from certain international insurance operations that were sold during the fourth quarter of 2010.

Insurance premiums and service revenue written was $411 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $423 million for the same period in 2010. Insurance premiums and service revenue written decreased due to the sale of certain international insurance operations during the fourth quarter of 2010. This decrease was partially offset by higher written premiums in our U.S. dealership-related products, particularly our vehicle service contract products. Vehicle service contract revenue is earned over the life of the service contract on a basis proportionate to the expected loss pattern. As such, the majority of earnings from vehicle service contracts written during the three months ended March 31, 2011, will be recognized as income in future periods.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008  
     ($ millions)  

Vehicle service contracts

        

New retail

   $ 315       $ 281       $ 431   

Used retail

     426         384         546   
                          

Total vehicle service contracts

     741         665         977   

Wholesale

     103         100         137   

Other finance and insurance (a)

     113         75         80   

Wind-down

             2         242   
                          

North American operations

     957         842         1,436   

International operations

     631         594         722   
                          

Total

   $ 1,588       $ 1,436       $ 2,158   
                          

 

(a) Other finance and insurance includes GAP insurance, excess wear and tear and other ancillary products.

Dealers who receive wholesale financing are eligible for wholesale insurance incentives, such as automatic eligibility and increased financial incentives within our rewards programs.

Underwriting and Risk Management

We determine the premium pricing for our vehicle service contracts and rates for our insurance policies based upon an analysis of expected losses using historical experience and anticipated future trends. For example,

 

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in pricing our vehicle service contracts, we make assumptions as to the price of replacement parts and repair labor rates in the future.

In underwriting our vehicle service contracts and insurance policies, we assess the particular risk involved and determine the acceptability of the risk as well as the categorization of the risk for appropriate pricing. We base our determination of the risk on various assumptions tailored to the respective insurance product. With respect to automotive service contracts, assumptions include the quality of the vehicles produced and new model introductions.

In some instances, ceded reinsurance is used to reduce the risk associated with volatile businesses, such as catastrophe risk in U.S. dealer vehicle inventory insurance or smaller businesses, such as Canadian automobile or European-dealer vehicle inventory insurance. Our commercial products business is covered by traditional catastrophe protection, aggregate stop loss protection, and an extension of catastrophe coverage for hurricane events. In addition, loss control techniques, such as hail nets or storm path monitoring to assist dealers in preparing for severe weather, help to mitigate loss potential.

We mitigate losses by the active management of claim settlement activities using experienced claims personnel and the evaluation of current period reported claims. Losses for these events may be compared to prior claims experience, expected claims, or loss expenses from similar incidents to assess the reasonableness of incurred losses.

Cash and Investments

A significant aspect of our Insurance operations is the investment of proceeds from premiums and other revenue sources. We use these investments to satisfy our obligations related to future claims at the time these claims are settled. Our Insurance operations have an Investment Committee, which develops guidelines and strategies for these investments. The guidelines established by this committee reflect our risk tolerance, liquidity requirements, regulatory requirements, and rating agency considerations, among other factors.

The following table summarizes the composition of our Insurance operations cash and investment portfolio at fair value.

 

     March  31,
2011
     December 31,  
        2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Cash

        

Noninterest-bearing cash

   $ 36       $ 28       $ 17   

Interest-bearing cash

     866         1,168         104   
                          

Total cash

     902         1,196         121   
                          

Available-for-sale securities

        

Debt securities

        

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

     398         219         198   

States and political subdivisions

                     806   

Foreign government

     805         744         844   

Mortgage-backed

     837         826         462   

Asset-backed

     52         11         58   

Corporate debt

     1,378         1,559         1,354   

Other debt

                     261   
                          

Total debt securities

     3,470         3,359         3,983   
                          

Equity securities

     1,165         796         671   
                          

Total available-for-sale securities

     4,635         4,155         4,654   
                          

Total cash and securities

   $ 5,537       $ 5,351       $ 4,775   
                          

 

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Loss Reserves

In accordance with industry and accounting practices and applicable insurance laws and regulatory requirements, we maintain reserves for reported losses, losses incurred but not reported, and loss adjustment expenses. These reserves are based on various estimates and assumptions and are maintained both for business written on a current basis and policies written and fully earned in prior years to the extent there continues to be outstanding and open claims in the process of resolution. Refer to “—Critical Accounting Estimates” and Note 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion. The estimated values of our prior reported loss reserves and changes to the estimated values are routinely monitored by credentialed actuaries. Our reserve estimates are regularly reviewed by management; however, since the reserves are based on estimates and numerous assumptions, the ultimate liability may differ from the amount estimated.

Results of Operations

The following table summarizes the operating results of our Insurance operations excluding discontinued operations for the periods shown. The amounts presented are before the elimination of balances and transactions with our other operating segments.

First Quarter 2011 Compared to First Quarter 2010

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2011     2010     Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
     ($ in millions)     % change  

Insurance premiums and other income

      

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned

   $ 427      $ 460        (7

Investment income

     80        141        (43

Other income

     13        20        (35
                  

Total insurance premiums and other income

     520        621        (16

Expense

      

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

     173        196        12   

Acquisition and underwriting expense

      

Compensation and benefits expense

     33        29        (14

Insurance commissions expense

     129        150        14   

Other expenses

     51        63        19   
                  

Total acquisition and underwriting expense

     213        242        12   
                  

Total expense

     386        438        12   

Income from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense

   $ 134      $ 183        (27
                  

Total assets

   $ 9,024      $ 9,083        (1
                  

Insurance premiums and service revenue written

   $ 411      $ 423        (3

Combined ratio (a)

     88.0     91.3  

 

(a) Management uses combined ratio as a primary measure of underwriting profitability with its components measured using accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Underwriting profitability is indicated by a combined ratio under 100% that is calculated as the sum of all incurred losses and expenses (excluding interest and income tax expense) divided by the total of premiums and service revenues earned and other income.

Our Insurance operations earned income from continuing operations before income tax expense of $134 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $183 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010. The decrease was primarily attributable to lower realized investment gains and lower insurance premiums and service revenue earned.

 

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Insurance premiums and service revenue earned decreased 7% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010, primarily due to the sale of certain international insurance operations during the fourth quarter of 2010.

Investment income totaled $80 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $141 million for the same period in 2010. The decrease during the three months ended March 31, 2011, was primarily due to lower realized investment gains. The fair value of the investment portfolio was $4.6 billion and $4.5 billion at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

The insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses totaled $173 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $196 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010. The decrease is primarily due to the sale of certain international insurance operations during the fourth quarter of 2010 and lower losses in our U.S. dealership-related products.

Acquisition and underwriting expense decreased 12% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. The decrease was primarily due to the sale of certain international insurance operations during the fourth quarter of 2010 and lower commissions expense in our U.S. dealership-related products matching our decrease in earned premiums. The decrease was partially offset by increased expenses within our international insurance operations to match the increase in earned premiums.

 

     Year ended December 31,     Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
   2010     2009     2008       2010-2009         2009-2008    
     ($ in millions)     (% change)  

Insurance premiums and other income

          

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned

   $ 1,836      $ 1,933      $ 2,666        (5     (27

Investment income

     451        266        112        70        138   

Other income

     73        72        183        1        (61
                                        

Total insurance premiums and other income

     2,360        2,271        2,961        4        (23

Expense

          

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

     840        875        1,311        4        33   

Acquisition and underwriting expense

          

Compensation and benefits expense

     117        136        156        14        13   

Insurance commissions expense

     601        654        821        8        20   

Other expenses

     233        277        174        16        (59
                                        

Total acquisition and underwriting expense

     951        1,067        1,151        11        7   
                                        

Total expense

     1,791        1,942        2,462        8        21   

Income from continuing operations before income tax expense

   $ 569      $ 329      $ 499        73        (34
                                        

Total assets

   $ 8,789      $ 10,614      $ 12,013        (17     (12
                                        

Insurance premiums and service revenue written

   $ 1,588      $ 1,436      $ 2,158        11        (33

Combined ratio (a)

     94.1     97.0     89.1    

 

(a) Management uses combined ratio as a primary measure of underwriting profitability with its components measured using accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Underwriting profitability is indicated by a combined ratio under 100% and is calculated as the sum of all incurred losses and expenses (excluding interest and income tax expense) divided by the total of premiums and service revenues earned and other income.

 

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2010 Compared to 2009

Our Insurance operations earned income from continuing operations before income tax expense of $569 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $329 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. The increase was primarily due to higher realized investment gains driven by overall market improvement and reduced expenses.

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned was $1.8 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $1.9 billion in 2009. Insurance premiums and service revenue earned decreased primarily due to lower earnings from our U.S. extended service contracts due to a decrease in domestic written premiums related to lower vehicle sales volume from 2007 to 2009. The decrease was partially offset by increased volume in our international operations.

Investment income totaled $451 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $266 million in 2009. The increase was primarily due to higher realized investment gains driven by market repositioning. During the year ended December 31, 2009, we realized other-than-temporary impairments of $55 million. The increase in investment income was also slightly offset by reductions in the average size of the investment portfolio throughout the year and a decrease in the average security investment yield. The fair value of the investment portfolio was $4.2 billion and $4.7 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Acquisition and underwriting expense decreased 11% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The decrease was primarily due to lower expenses in our U.S. dealership-related products matching our decrease in earned premiums. The decrease was partially offset by increased expenses within our international operations to match the increase in earned premiums.

Insurance premiums and service revenue written was $1.6 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $1.4 billion in 2009. Insurance premiums and service revenue written increased due to higher written premiums in our U.S. dealership-related products, particularly our vehicle service contract products. Vehicle service contract revenue is earned over the life of the service contract on a basis proportionate to the expected loss pattern. As such, the majority of earnings from vehicle service contracts written during the year ended December 31, 2010, will be recognized as income in future periods.

2009 Compared to 2008

Our Insurance operations earned income from continuing operations before income tax expense of $329 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $499 million for 2008. Income from continuing operations before income tax expense decreased primarily due to unfavorable underwriting results, principally driven by decreases in premiums earned, and a $93 million gain on the sale of our U.S. reinsurance agency in 2008. These negative impacts were offset by higher realized investment gains during 2009 compared to realized investment losses taken in 2008.

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned decreased 27% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. Insurance premiums and service revenue earned decreased primarily due to the sale of our U.S. reinsurance agency in November 2008. Additionally, decreases were recognized due to lower earned premiums on extended service contracts written in 2009 and prior periods, lower dealer inventory levels, and decreases in international operations. These decreases were primarily due to the overall negative economic environment.

Investment income totaled $266 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $112 million in 2008. Investment income increased primarily due to the recognition of $79 million of realized capital gains during 2009 compared to $139 million of realized capital losses in 2008, which were driven by unfavorable investment market volatility. The increase was offset by a reduction in the size of the investment portfolio

 

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primarily driven by the sale of our U.S. reinsurance agency. The value of the investment portfolio was $4.7 billion and $5.1 billion at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Additionally, during the year ended December 31, 2009, other-than-temporary impairments of $55 million were recognized on certain investment securities due to unfavorable market conditions.

Other income totaled $72 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $183 million in 2008. The decrease was primarily due to a $93 million gain recognized in 2008 related to the sale of our U.S. reinsurance agency.

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses decreased 33% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The decrease was primarily driven by the sale of our U.S. reinsurance agency and lower loss experience in our dealership-related products as a result of lower volumes.

Acquisition and underwriting expense decreased 7% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The decrease was primarily due to the sale of our U.S. reinsurance agency and lower volumes, which was partially offset by an increase in corporate overhead allocations.

Mortgage

Our Mortgage operations include the ResCap legal entity, the mortgage operations of Ally Bank, and the Canadian mortgage operations of ResMor Trust. Results for our Mortgage operations are presented by reportable segment, which includes our Origination and Servicing operations and our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations.

Loan Production

U.S. Mortgage Loan Production Channels

We have two primary channels for residential mortgage loan production: the origination of loans through our direct-lending network and the purchase of loans in the secondary market (primarily from Ally Bank correspondent lenders).

 

   

Correspondent lender and secondary market purchases—Loans purchased from correspondent lenders are originated or purchased by the correspondent lenders and subsequently sold to us. All of the purchases from correspondent lenders are conducted through Ally Bank. We qualify and approve any correspondent lenders who participate in the loan purchase programs.

 

   

Direct-lending network—Our direct-lending network consists of internet (including through the ditech.com brand) and telephone-based call center operations as well as our virtual retail network. During 2009 and 2010, virtually all of the residential mortgage loans of this channel are brokered to Ally Bank.

 

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The following tables summarize domestic consumer mortgage loan production by channel for our Origination and Servicing operations.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2011      2010  
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
 
    

($ in millions)

 
           

Correspondent lender and secondary market purchases

     45,543       $ 10,270         47,785       $ 10,983   

Direct lending

     7,014         1,369         9,450         1,962   

Mortgage brokers

     866         208         79         23   
                                   

Total U.S. production

     53,423       $ 11,847         57,314       $ 12,968   
                                   

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008  
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
 
     ($ in millions)  

Correspondent lender and secondary market purchases

     263,963       $ 61,465         260,772       $ 56,042         166,885       $ 35,579   

Direct lending

     36,064         7,586         42,190         8,524         35,044         6,249   

Mortgage brokers

     2,035         491         607         165         1,200         292   
                                                     

Total U.S. production

     302,062       $ 69,542         303,569       $ 64,731         203,129       $ 42,120   
                                                     

The following table summarizes the composition of our domestic consumer mortgage loan production for our Origination and Servicing operations.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008  
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
 
     ($ in millions)  

Ally Bank

     300,738       $ 69,320         299,302       $ 64,001         163,868       $ 34,980   

ResCap

     1,324         222         4,267         730         39,261         7,140   
                                                     

Total U.S. production

     302,062       $ 69,542         303,569       $ 64,731         203,129       $ 42,120   
                                                     

Mortgage Loan Production by Type

Consistent with our focus on GSE loan products, we primarily originate prime conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans. In addition, we originate and purchase high-quality nonconforming jumbo loans, mostly from correspondent lenders, for the Ally Bank held-for-investment portfolio. Our mortgage loans are categorized as follows.

 

   

Prime conforming mortgage loans—Prime credit quality first-lien mortgage loans secured by single- family residences that meet or conform to the underwriting standards established by the GSEs for inclusion in their guaranteed mortgage securities programs.

 

   

Prime nonconforming mortgage loans—Prime credit quality first-lien mortgage loans secured by single-family residences that either (1) do not conform to the underwriting standards established by the GSEs because they had original principal amounts exceeding GSE limits, which are commonly referred

 

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to as jumbo mortgage loans, or (2) have alternative documentation requirements and property or credit-related features (e.g., higher loan-to-value or debt-to-income ratios) but are otherwise considered prime credit quality due to other compensating factors.

 

   

Prime second-lien mortgage loans—Open- and closed-end mortgage loans secured by a second or more junior-lien on single-family residences, which include home equity mortgage loans and lines of credit.

 

   

Government mortgage loans—First-lien mortgage loans secured by single-family residences that are insured by the Federal Housing Administration (the “FHA”) or guaranteed by the Veterans Administration (the “VA”).

 

   

Nonprime mortgage loans—First-lien and certain junior-lien mortgage loans secured by single-family residences made to individuals with credit profiles that do not qualify for a prime loan, have credit-related features that fall outside the parameters of traditional prime mortgage products, or have performance characteristics that otherwise exposes us to comparatively higher risk of loss. Nonprime includes mortgage loans the industry characterizes as “subprime,” as well as high combined loan-to-value second-lien loans that fell out of our standard loan programs due to noncompliance with one or more criteria.

 

   

International loans—Consumer mortgage loans originated in Canada and Mexico.

The following tables summarize consumer mortgage loan production by type for our Origination and Servicing operations.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2011      2010  
     Number of
loans
     Dollar
amount of
loans
     Number of
loans
     Dollar
amount of
loans
 
     ($ in millions)  
           

Prime conforming

     45,431       $ 9,926         40,934       $ 9,476   

Prime nonconforming

     455         384         446         371   

Prime second-lien

                               

Government

     7,537         1,537         15,934         3,121   

Nonprime

                               
                                   

Total U.S. production

     53,423         11,847         57,314         12,968   

International production

     1,464         312         1,544         291   
                                   

Total production

     54,887       $ 12,159         58,858       $ 13,259   
                                   

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008  
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
 
                          ($ in millions)                

Prime conforming

     228,936       $ 53,721         164,780       $ 37,651         134,853       $ 29,711   

Prime nonconforming

     1,837         1,548         1,236         992         3,245         1,425   

Prime second-lien

                     3         1         6,335         478   

Government

     71,289         14,273         137,550         26,087         58,696         10,506   

Nonprime

                                               
                                                     

Total U.S. production

     302,062         69,542         303,569         64,731         203,129         42,120   

International production (a)

     7,674         1,501         7,955         1,362         10,879         2,038   
                                                     

Total production

     309,736       $ 71,043         311,524       $ 66,093         214,008       $ 44,158   
                                                     

 

(a) International mortgage loan production represents high-quality government-insured residential mortgages in Canada.

 

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U.S. Warehouse Lending

We are a provider of warehouse-lending facilities to correspondent lenders and other mortgage originators in the United States. These facilities enable lenders and originators to finance residential mortgage loans until they are sold in the secondary mortgage loan market. We provide warehouse-lending facilities principally for prime conforming and government mortgage loans. We have continued to refine our warehouse-lending portfolio, offering such lending only to current Ally Bank correspondent clients. Advances under warehouse-lending facilities are collateralized by the underlying mortgage loans and bear interest at variable rates. At December 31, 2010, we had total warehouse line of credit commitments of $2.9 billion, against which we had $1.5 billion of advances outstanding. We also have $42 million of warehouse-lending receivables outstanding related to other offerings at December 31, 2010. We purchased approximately 44% of the mortgage loans financed by our warehouse-lending facilities in 2010.

Loans Outstanding

Consumer mortgage loans held-for-sale for our Origination and Servicing operations were as follows.

 

     March 31,     December 31,  
     2011     2010     2009  
    

($ in millions)

 

Prime conforming

   $ 2,450      $ 5,585      $ 3,455   

Prime nonconforming

                   1   

Prime second-lien

                     

Government (a)

     3,007        3,434        3,878   

Nonprime

                     

International

     57        351        49   
                        

Total

     5,514        9,370        7,383   

Net premiums

     53        135        88   

Fair value option election adjustment

     32        (61     23   

Lower-of-cost or fair value adjustment

     (3     (2     (6
                        

Total, net

   $ 5,596      $ 9,442      $ 7,488   
                        

 

(a) Includes loans subject to conditional repurchase options of $2.3 billion, $2.3 billion and $1.7 billion sold to Ginnie Mae guaranteed securitizations at March 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The corresponding liability is recorded in accrued expenses and other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Consumer mortgage loans held-for-investment for our Origination and Servicing operations were as follows.

 

     March 31,     December 31,  
     2011     2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Prime conforming

   $      $      $   

Prime nonconforming

     2,287        2,068        947   

Prime second-lien

                     

Government

                     

Nonprime

                     

International

     276        289        316   
                        

Total

     2,563        2,357        1,263   

Net premiums

     8        11        4   

Fair value option election adjustment

                     

Allowance for loan losses

     (14     (14     (33
                        

Total, net

   $ 2,557      $ 2,354      $ 1,234   
                        

 

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Consumer mortgage loans held-for-sale for our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations were as follows.

 

     March 31,
2011
    December 31,  
       2010     2009  
    

($ in millions)

 

Prime conforming

   $ 337      $ 336      $ 314   

Prime nonconforming

     656        674        1,220   

Prime second-lien

     601        634        775   

Government

     19        18        37   

Nonprime

     614        637        978   

International

     23        13        575   
                        

Total (a)

     2,250        2,312        3,899   

Net discounts

     (296     (296     (407

Fair value option election adjustment

     (12     (1       

Lower-of-cost or fair value adjustment

     (48     (46     (113
                        

Total, net (b)

   $ 1,894      $ 1,969      $ 3,379   
                        

 

(a) Includes unpaid principal balance write-downs of $1.7 billion, $1.8 billion and $3.6 billion at March 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The amounts are for write-downs taken upon the transfer of mortgage loans from held-for-investment to held-for-sale during the fourth quarter of 2009 and charge-offs taken in accordance with our charge-off policy.

 

(b) Includes loans subject to conditional repurchase options of $136 million, $146 million and $237 million sold to off-balance sheet private-label securitizations at March 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The corresponding liability is recorded in accrued expenses and other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Consumer mortgage loans held-for-investment for our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations were as follows.

 

     March 31,
2011
    December 31,  
       2010     2009  
    

($ in millions)

 

Prime conforming

   $ 309      $ 323      $ 386   

Prime nonconforming

     5,821        6,059        7,301   

Prime second-lien

     2,517        2,642        3,201   

Government

                     

Nonprime

     1,521        1,583        6,055   

International

     538        573        9   
                        

Total

     10,706        11,180        16,952   

Net premiums

     24        26        95   

Fair value option election adjustment

     (1,840     (1,890     (5,789

Allowance for loan losses

     (525     (542     (607
                        

Total, net (a)

   $ 8,365      $ 8,774      $ 10,651   
                        

 

(a) At March 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and 2009, the carrying value of mortgage loans held-for-investment relating to securitization transactions accounted for as on-balance sheet securitizations and pledged as collateral totaled $971 million, $1.0 billion and $1.5 billion, respectively. The investors in these on-balance sheet securitizations have no recourse to our other assets beyond the loans pledged as collateral other than market customary representation and warranty provisions.

ASU 2009-17 became effective on January 1, 2010, and required the prospective consolidation of certain securitization assets and liabilities that were previously held off-balance sheet. The adoption on day one resulted

 

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in $1.2 billion in off-balance sheet consumer mortgage loans being brought on-balance sheet. Refer to Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding the adoption of ASU 2009-17.

Mortgage Loan Servicing

While we sell most of the residential mortgage loans we originate or purchase, we generally retain the rights to service these loans. The retained mortgage servicing rights consist of primary and master-servicing rights. When we act as primary servicer, we collect and remit mortgage loan payments, respond to borrower inquiries, account for principal and interest, hold custodial and escrow funds for payment of property taxes and insurance premiums, counsel or otherwise work with delinquent borrowers, supervise foreclosures and property dispositions, and generally administer the loans. When we act as master servicer, we collect mortgage loan payments from primary servicers and distribute those funds to investors in mortgage-backed and mortgage-related asset-backed securities and whole-loan packages. Key services in this regard include loan accounting, claims administration, oversight of primary servicers, loss mitigation, bond administration, cash flow waterfall calculations, investor reporting, and tax-reporting compliance. In return for performing primary and master-servicing functions, we receive servicing fees equal to a specified percentage of the outstanding principal balance of the loans being serviced and may also be entitled to other forms of servicing compensation, such as late payment fees or prepayment penalties. Servicing compensation also includes interest income or the float earned on collections that are deposited in various custodial accounts between their receipt and the scheduled/contractual distribution of the funds to investors.

The value of mortgage servicing rights is sensitive to changes in interest rates and other factors. We have developed and implemented an economic hedge program to, among other things, mitigate the overall risk of loss due to a change in the fair value of our mortgage servicing rights. Accordingly, we hedge the change in the total fair value of our mortgage servicing rights. The effectiveness of this economic hedging program may have a material effect on the results of operations. Refer to “—Critical Accounting Estimates” for further discussion.

The following table summarizes the primary consumer mortgage loan-servicing portfolio.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008  
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
     No. of loans      Dollar
amount of
loans
 
                          ($ in millions)                

On-balance sheet mortgage loans Held-for-sale and held-for-investment

     222,469       $ 20,224         276,996       $ 26,333         284,321       $ 21,153   

Operations held-for-sale

                     17,260         3,160         19,879         5,932   

Off-balance sheet mortgage loans

                 

Loans sold to third-party investors Nonagency

     421,416         63,685         489,258         71,505         701,369         91,654   

GSEs

     1,531,075         255,388         1,437,896         231,310         1,395,283         221,977   

Whole-loan

     123,490         17,524         147,385         21,120         198,490         27,585   

Purchased servicing rights

     76,262         3,946         88,516         4,800         124,536         7,300   

Operations held-for-sale

                     82,978         17,526         89,630         18,187   
                                                     

Total primary mortgage loan-servicing portfolio (a)

     2,374,712       $ 360,767         2,540,289       $ 375,754         2,813,508       $ 393,788   
                                                     

 

(a) Excludes loans for which we acted as a subservicer. Subserviced loans totaled 115,701 with an unpaid principal balance of $24.2 billion at December 31, 2010; 129,954 with an unpaid balance of $28.7 billion at December 31, 2009; and 164,938 with an unpaid principal balance of $35.5 billion at December 31, 2008.

 

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The following table summarizes our primary consumer mortgage loan-servicing portfolio by product category.

 

     March  31,
2011
     December 31,  
        2010      2009      2008  
    

($ in millions)

 

U.S. primary servicing portfolio

           

Prime conforming

   $ 225,223       $ 220,762       $ 210,914       $ 225,142   

Prime nonconforming

     48,703         52,643         58,103         67,034   

Prime second-lien

     7,900         10,851         14,729         24,260   

Government

     48,814         48,550         40,230         20,323   

Nonprime

     22,692         22,874         25,837         28,275   

International primary servicing portfolio

     6,350         5,087         25,941         28,754   
                                   

Total primary mortgage loan-servicing portfolio(a)

   $ 359,682       $ 360,767       $ 375,754       $ 393,788   
                                   

 

(a) Excludes loans for which we acted as a subservicer. Subserviced loans totaled $23.4 billion, $24.2 billion, $28.7 billion and $35.5 billion at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Temporary Suspension of Mortgage Foreclosure Sales and Evictions and Consent Order

Refer to Note 24 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to this matter.

Origination and Servicing Operations

Results of Operations

The following table summarizes the operating results for our Origination and Servicing operations for the periods shown. Our Origination and Servicing operations principal activities include originating, purchasing, selling, and securitizing conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans in the United States and Canada; servicing residential mortgage loans for ourselves and others; and providing collateralized lines of credit to other mortgage originators, which we refer to as warehouse lending. We also originate high-quality prime jumbo mortgage loans in the United States. We finance our mortgage loan originations primarily in Ally Bank in the United States and in our trust company, ResMor Trust, in Canada.

 

     Three months ended
March 31,
    Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
     2011     2010    
     ($ in millions)     (% change)  

Net financing loss

      

Total financing revenue and other interest income

   $ 108      $ 100        8   

Interest expense

     138        111        (24
                  

Net financing loss

     (30     (11     (173

Servicing fees

     327        326          

Servicing asset valuation and hedge activities, net

     (87     (133     35   
                  

Total servicing income, net

     240        193        24   

Gain on mortgage loans, net

     74        86        (14

Other income, net of losses

     37        67        (45
                  

Total other revenue

     351        346        1   

Total net revenue

     321        335        (4

Provision for loan losses

     2        1        (100

Noninterest expense

      

Compensation and benefits expense

     69        75        8   

Representation and warranty expense

     (2     21        110   

Other operating expenses

     179        167        (7
                  

Total noninterest expense

     246        263        6   

Income before income tax (benefit) expense

   $ 73      $ 71        3   
                  

Total assets

   $ 19,164      $ 16,491        16   
                  

 

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First Quarter 2011 Compared to First Quarter 2010

Our Origination and Servicing operations earned income before income tax expense of $73 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $71 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010. The 2011 results were primarily driven by consistent servicing fees and favorable servicing asset valuation, net of hedge.

Net financing loss was $30 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $11 million for the same period in 2010. Net financing loss was unfavorably impacted by higher interest expense related to Ginnie Mae repurchases and an increase in average borrowings commensurate with a higher asset base.

Net servicing income was $240 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $193 million for the same period in 2010. The increase was primarily due to favorable net valuations related to market movement, partially offset by a fair value adjustment due to higher than expected future servicing and foreclosure costs.

Other income, net of losses, was $37 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $67 million for the same period in 2010. The decrease in other income was primarily related to lower mortgage processing fee income resulting from lower origination volume due to lower industry volume and higher interest rates and the write-down of retained interests.

Total noninterest expense decreased 6% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010, primarily due to higher representation and warranty reserve expense in 2010 related to expected repurchases.

 

     Year ended December 31,     Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
   2010     2009     2008     2010-2009     2009-2008  
     ($ in millions)     (% change)  

Net financing loss

          

Total financing revenue and other interest income

   $ 460      $ 362      $ 484        27        (25

Interest expense

     486        420        633        (16     34   
                                        

Net financing loss

     (26     (58     (149     55        61   

Servicing fees

     1,340        1,322        1,456        1        (9

Servicing asset valuation and hedge activities, net

     (394     (1,113     (277     65        n/m   
                                        

Total servicing income, net

     946        209        1,179        n/m        (82

Gain on mortgage loans, net

     616        708        324        (13     119   

Other income, net of losses

     272        146        (222     86        166   
                                        

Total other revenue

     1,834        1,063        1,281        73        (17

Total net revenue

     1,808        1,005        1,132        80        (11

Provision for loan losses

     (29     41        8        171        n/m   

Noninterest expense

          

Compensation and benefits expense

     267        286        162        7        (77

Representation and warranty expense

     (22     32               169        n/m   

Other operating expenses

     675        607        500        (11     (21
                                        

Total noninterest expense

     920        925        662        1        (40

Income before income tax expense

   $ 917      $ 39      $ 462        n/m        (92
                                        

Total assets

   $ 24,478      $ 20,010      $ 11,870        22        69   
                                        

 

n/m = not meaningful

2010 Compared to 2009

Our Origination and Servicing operations earned income before income tax expense of $917 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $39 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. The 2010 results were primarily driven by strong production and margins as a result of increased refinancings, higher net servicing income, lower provision for loan losses, and lower noninterest expense.

 

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Net financing loss was $26 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $58 million in 2009. During 2010, net financing loss was favorably impacted by an increase in interest income primarily due to an increase in the average balance driven by an increase in our jumbo mortgage loan originations, which we resumed originating in the middle part of 2009, and a larger average loans held-for-sale portfolio due to an increase in production. Partially offsetting the increase was higher interest expense driven primarily by higher borrowings due to increased production and higher cost of funds.

Net servicing income was $946 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $209 million in 2009. The increase was primarily due to projected cash flow improvements related to slower prepayment speeds as well as higher HAMP loss mitigation incentive fees compared to prior year unfavorable hedge performance with respect to mortgage servicing rights.

The net gain on mortgage loans was $616 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $708 million in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to unfavorable mark-to-market movement on the mortgage pipeline and a favorable mark-to-market taken in 2009 on released lower-of-cost or market adjustments related to implementation of fair value accounting on the held-for-sale portfolio.

Other income, net of losses, increased 86% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009, primarily due to favorable mortgage processing fees related to the absence of loan origination income deferral in 2010 due to the fair value option election for our held-for-sale loans during the third quarter of 2009.

Total noninterest expense decreased 1% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The decrease was primarily driven by lower representation and warranty expense, a decrease in compensation and benefits expense related to lower headcount, and a decrease in professional services expense.

2009 Compared to 2008

Our Origination and Servicing operations earned income before income tax expense of $39 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $462 million for the year ended December 31, 2008. Results in 2009 were impacted by unfavorable mortgage servicing valuations, net of hedge, partially offset by improved margins on conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans sales, a slower pace of decline in the home prices, and lower interest expense related to a declining interest rate environment.

Net financing loss was $58 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $149 million in 2008. Interest expense declined at a faster rate than financing revenue and other interest income reflecting the favorable cost of funding impacts resulting from a declining interest rate environment and reduced reliance on higher rate unsecured debt. Partially offsetting the favorability was a decrease in interest income related to a lower LIBOR rate on interest-bearing cash balances and a decrease in trading securities interest income due to the runoff of trading positions in early 2009.

Net servicing income was $209 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $1.2 billion in 2008. The decrease was due to unfavorable mortgage servicing valuations reflecting reduced cash flows and increased prepayment assumptions resulting from lower market mortgage interest rates as compared to favorable 2008 valuations due to decreasing prepayment trends in 2008. Additionally, we recognized unfavorable hedge performance due to changes in the spreads between our servicing assets and the derivatives used to manage our interest rate risk. Our ability to fully hedge interest rate risk and volatility was restricted during the latter half of 2008 and early 2009 by the limited availability of willing counterparties to enter into forward agreements and liquidity constraints hindering our ability to take positions in the option markets. Servicing fees also declined as a result of portfolio runoff and the sales of certain servicing assets during the second half of 2008.

Gain on mortgage loans, net, was $708 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $324 million in 2008. In 2009, we recognized improved margins due to shifts in our product mix to conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loan securitizations guaranteed by the GSEs. Contributing to the increase was higher commitment volume due to increased market size as a result of lower mortgage rates.

 

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Other income, net of losses, was $146 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to a loss of $222 million in 2008. The increase in income was primarily due to lower losses on the sale of servicing advances and higher mortgage processing fees due to higher production and loan fees as a result of a change in product mix.

Total noninterest expense increased 40% during the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The increase resulted primarily from higher corporate overhead allocations related to a change in the allocation methodology and the build-out of new corporate functions, an increase in representation and warranty expense, and higher compensation and benefits expense due to the elimination of our loan origination deferral upon election of the fair value option for our held-for-sale loans during the third quarter of 2009. The increase was partially offset by lower advertising expense due to cost reduction initiatives.

Legacy Portfolio and Other Operations

Results of Operations

The following table summarizes the operating results for our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations excluding discontinued operations for the periods shown. Our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations primarily consists of loans originated prior to January 1, 2009, and includes noncore business activities, portfolios in runoff, our mortgage reinsurance business, and cash held in the ResCap legal entity. These activities, all of which we have discontinued, included, among other things: lending to real estate developers and homebuilders in the United States and United Kingdom; and purchasing, selling, and securitizing nonconforming residential mortgage loans (with the exception of U.S. prime jumbo mortgage loans) in both the United States and internationally.

 

     Three months ended
March 31,
    Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
     2011     2010    
     ($ in millions)     (% change)  

Net financing revenue

      

Total financing revenue and other interest income

   $ 218      $ 382        (43

Interest expense

     140        189        26   
                  

Net financing revenue

     78        193        (60

Servicing fees

     (2     (2       

Servicing asset valuation and hedge activities, net

                     
                  

Total servicing income, net

     (2     (2       

Gain on mortgage loans, net

     18        65        (72

Other income, net of losses

     (4     (40     90   
                  

Total other revenue

     12        23        (48

Total net revenue

     90        216        (58

Provision for loan losses

     45        6        n/m   

Noninterest expense

      

Compensation and benefits expense

     36        21        (71

Representation and warranty expense

     28        29        3   

Other operating expenses

     20        75        73   
                  

Total noninterest expense

     84        125        33   

(Loss) income from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense

   $ (39   $ 85        (146
                  

Total assets

   $ 11,809      $ 28,045        (58
                  

 

n/m = not meaningful

 

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First Quarter 2011 Compared to First Quarter 2010

Our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations incurred a loss from continuing operations before income tax expense of $39 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to income from continuing operations before income tax expense of $85 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010. The decrease in 2011 was primarily due to lower financing revenue related to a decrease in asset levels and a lower net gain on the sale of mortgage loans.

Net financing revenue was $78 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $193 million in 2010. The decrease was driven by lower financing revenue and other interest income due primarily to a decline in average asset levels due to loan sales, the deconsolidation of previous on-balance sheet securitizations, and portfolio runoff. The decrease was partially offset by lower interest expense related to a reduction in average borrowings commensurate with a smaller asset base.

The net gain on mortgage loans was $18 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $65 million in 2010. The decrease during 2011 was primarily due to lower gains from whole-loan sales and mortgage loan liquidations.

Other income, net of losses, was a loss of $4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to a loss of $40 million in 2010. The improvement in 2011 compared to 2010 was primarily due to a lower fair value adjustment and better performance of the remaining asset portfolio.

The provision for loan losses was $45 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $6 million in 2010. The provision for the three months ended March 31, 2011, was the result of continued portfolio seasoning. The provision for the three months ended March 31, 2010, benefited from the improved asset mix as a result of the strategic actions taken during the fourth quarter of 2009 to write down and reclassify certain legacy mortgage loans from held-for-investment to held-for-sale.

 

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Total noninterest expense decreased 33% for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to 2010. The decrease was primarily driven by lower real estate owned expense due to fewer foreclosures, lower balances, favorable average real estate owned values, and lower taxes related to real estate owned properties as well as lower data processing expenses.

 

     Year ended December 31,     Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
   2010     2009     2008     2010-2009     2009-2008  
     ($ in millions)     (% change)  

Net financing revenue

          

Total financing revenue and other interest income

   $ 1,332      $ 1,559      $ 2,538        (15     (39

Interest expense

     727        933        2,028        22        54   
                                        

Net financing revenue

     605        626        510        (3     23   

Servicing fees

     (8     (10     (4     20        (150

Servicing asset valuation and hedge activities, net

            9        14        (100     (36
                                        

Total servicing income, net

     (8     (1     10        n/m        (110

Gain (loss) on mortgage loans, net

     380        (40     (609     n/m        93   

Gain on extinguishment of debt

            4        1,875        (100     (100

Other income, net of losses

     (112     (648     (1,108     83        42   
                                        

Total other revenue (expense)

     260        (685     168        138        n/m   

Total net revenue (expense)

     865        (59     678        n/m        (109

Provision for loan losses

     173        4,231        1,682        96        (152

Noninterest expense

          

Compensation and benefits expense

     73        112        634        35        82   

Representation and warranty expense

     692        1,453        242        52        n/m   

Other operating expenses

     181        449        1,190        60        62   
                                        

Total noninterest expense

     946        2,014        2,066        53        3   

Loss from continuing operations before income tax expense

   $ (254   $ (6,304   $ (3,070     96        (105
                                        

Total assets

   $ 12,308      $ 18,884      $ 32,893        (35     (43
                                        

 

n/m = not meaningful

2010 Compared to 2009

Our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations incurred a loss from continuing operations before income tax expense of $254 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $6.3 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009. The 2010 results from continuing operations were primarily driven by the stabilization of our loan portfolio resulting in a decrease in provision for loan losses, lower representation and warranty expense, and gains on the sale of domestic legacy assets.

Net financing revenue was $605 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $626 million in 2009. The decrease was driven by lower financing revenue and other interest income due primarily to a decline in average asset levels due to loan sales, on-balance deconsolidations, and portfolio runoff. The decrease was partially offset by lower interest expense related to a reduction in average borrowings commensurate with a smaller asset base.

The net gain on mortgage loans was $380 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to a loss of $40 million in 2009. The increase was primarily due to higher gains on loan sales in 2010 compared to 2009, higher gains on loan resolutions in 2010, and the recognition of a gain on the deconsolidation of an on-balance sheet securitization. Refer to Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for information on the deconsolidation.

 

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Other income, net of losses, was a loss of $112 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to a loss of $648 million in 2009. The improvement from 2009 was primarily related to the recognition of gains on the sale of foreclosed real estate in 2010 compared to losses and impairments in 2009 and impairments and higher losses on trading securities in 2009. Additionally, during the year ended December 31, 2009, we recognized significant impairments on equity investments, lot option projects, and model homes.

The provision for loan losses was $173 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $4.2 billion in 2009. The provision decreased $4.1 billion due to the improved asset mix as a result of the strategic actions taken during the fourth quarter of 2009 to write down and reclassify certain legacy mortgage loans from held-for- investment to held-for-sale. Additionally, the higher provision in 2009 was driven by significant increases in delinquencies and severity in our domestic mortgage loan portfolio and higher reserves were recognized against our commercial real estate-lending portfolio.

Total noninterest expense decreased 53% for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The decrease was driven by lower representation and warranty expense related to an increase in reserve in 2009 related to higher repurchase demands and loss severity. The decrease was also impacted by a decrease in compensation and benefits expense related to lower headcount and a decrease in professional services expense related to cost reduction efforts. During 2009, our captive reinsurance portfolio experienced deterioration due to higher delinquencies, which drove higher insurance reserves. The decrease in 2010 was partially offset by unfavorable foreign-currency movements on hedge positions.

2009 Compared to 2008

Our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations incurred a net loss from continuing operations before income tax expense of $6.3 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $3.1 billion for the year ended December 31, 2008. The 2009 results from continuing operations were driven by our strategic actions taken in the fourth quarter of 2009 to sell certain legacy mortgage assets resulting in the reclassification of these loans from held- for-investment to held-for-sale. These actions resulted in provision for loan losses of $2.0 billion. Refer to Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information. Results were also adversely impacted by an increase in mortgage representation and warranty reserve expense of $1.2 billion related to higher repurchase demand requests and loss severity.

Net financing revenue increased 23% for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. Interest expense decreased significantly due to a reduction in average borrowings in association with a smaller asset base and through ResCap debt extinguishments. Interest expense declined at a faster rate than financing revenue and other interest income reflecting the favorable cost of funding impacts resulting from a declining interest rate environment and reduced reliance on higher-rate unsecured debt. Our total financing revenue and other interest income decreased significantly in comparison to 2008 due to a decline in legacy mortgage asset levels resulting from asset sales and portfolio runoff. Additionally, we earned lower yields as a result of higher delinquencies, increases in nonaccrual loan levels, and the impact of lower rates on adjustable-rate mortgage loans.

Gain on mortgage loans, net, was a loss of $40 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to a loss of $609 million in 2008. Results in 2008 were significantly impacted by realized losses related to legacy mortgage asset sales and valuation losses on certain held-for-sale assets.

Gain on extinguishment of debt was $4 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $1.9 billion for the year ended December 31, 2008. The debt extinguishment gains in 2008 included $1.1 billion following our contribution to ResCap of ResCap notes obtained through open-market repurchase (“OMR”) transactions or debt tender and exchange offerings and $757 million related to the private debt exchange and cash tender offers completed during the fourth quarter of 2008. Refer to “—Critical Accounting Estimates” for further discussion related to the private debt exchange and cash tender offers.

Other income, net of losses, was a loss of $648 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to a loss of $1.1 billion in 2008. The decrease in the loss was driven by lower losses on the sale of foreclosed real estate due to lower volume and severity, the recognition of a $255 million impairment on the resort finance

 

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business in 2008, lower impairments on lot option projects and model homes, and lower losses on residual interests due to the write-down of home equity residuals in 2008. The 2009 results were adversely impacted by a $220 million impairment of our equity investments and lower real estate brokerage fee income due to the 2008 sale of our brokerage and relocation services business.

The provision for loan losses was $4.2 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to $1.7 billion in 2008. The increase in provision expense was primarily related to our strategic actions in the fourth quarter of 2009 as a result of the decision to sell certain legacy mortgage assets resulting in the reclassification of these assets from held-for-investment to held-for-sale. These actions resulted in negative valuation adjustments of $2.0 billion. Additionally, we recognized higher provision expenses on the Ally Bank held-for-investment portfolio due to higher delinquencies and loss severities as well as regulatory input. The increase was partially offset by lower provision for loan losses as a result of lower mortgage loan and lending receivables balances in 2009 compared to 2008.

Total noninterest expense decreased 3% during the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to 2008. The decrease was driven primarily by a decrease in compensation and benefits expense primarily due to lower headcount associated with our restructuring efforts, favorable foreign-currency movements, a reduction in professional fees primarily due to advisory and legal fees related to ResCap’s debt restructuring in 2008, and lower severance and other restructuring charges. The decrease was offset significantly by higher representation and warranty reserve expense due to higher repurchase demand requests and loss severity and higher expenses as a result of higher corporate overhead allocations related to a change in allocation methodology and the build-out of new corporate functions.

Corporate and Other

The following table summarizes the activities of Corporate and Other excluding discontinued operations for the periods shown. Corporate and Other includes our Commercial Finance Group, certain equity investments, the amortization of the discount associated with new debt issuances and bond exchanges, most notably from the December 2008 bond exchange, as well as, the residual impacts of our corporate FTP and treasury ALM, and reclassifications and eliminations between the reportable operating segments.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2011     2010     Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
     ($ in millions)     (% change)  

Net financing loss

      

Total financing revenue and other interest income

   $ 47      $ 31        52   

Interest expense

      

Original issue discount amortization

     299        296        (1

Other interest expense

     270        245        (10
                        

Total interest expense

     569        541        (5
                        

Net financing loss

     (522     (510     (2

Other revenue

      

Loss on extinguishment of debt

     (39     (118     67   

Other gain on investments, net

     25        32        (22

Other income, net of losses

     39        (71     155   
                        

Total other revenue (expense)

     25        (157     116   

Total net expense

     (497     (667     25   

Provision for loan losses

     (17     15        n/m   

Noninterest expense

      

Compensation and benefits expense

     136        156        13   

Other operating expense

     8        (27     (130
                        

Total noninterest expense

     144        129        (12

Loss from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense

   $ (624   $ (811     23   
                        

Total assets

   $ 29,750      $ 31,644        (6
                        

 

n/m = not meaningful

 

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The following table summarizes the components of net financing losses for Corporate and Other.

 

     Three months
ended
March 31,
 
     2011     2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Original issue discount amortization (a)

   $ (299   $ (296

Net impact of the FTP methodology

    

Cost of carry on the cash and investment portfolio

     (157     (113

ALM/FTP cost of funds mismatch

     (110     (72

Net other unallocated interest income (costs)

     15        (52
                

Total net impact of the FTP methodology

     (252     (237

Commercial Finance Group net financing revenue and other

     29        23   
                

Total net financing losses for Corporate and Other

   $ (522   $ (510
                

 

(a) The original issue discount associated with our 2008 bond exchange and cash tender offers in 2008 was $286 million during both the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010. The remaining amount is attributable to new debt issuance discount amortization.

The following table presents the scheduled remaining amortization of the original issue discount at March 31, 2011.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2011 (a)      2012      2013      2014      2015      2016 and
thereafter

(b)
     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Original issue discount

                    

Outstanding balance

   $ 2,194       $ 1,844       $ 1,580       $ 1,390       $ 1,334       $      

Total amortization (c)

     646         350         264         190         56         1,334       $ 2,840   

2008 bond exchange amortization (d)

     620         320         241         166         43         1,178         2,568   

 

(a) Represents the remaining future original issue discount amortization expense to be taken during 2011.

 

(b) The maximum annual scheduled amortization for any individual year is $158 million in 2030 of which $152 million is related to 2008 bond exchange amortization.

 

(c) Amortization is included as interest on long-term debt on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(d) 2008 bond exchange amortization is included in total amortization.

First Quarter 2011 Compared to First Quarter 2010

Loss from continuing operations before income tax expense for Corporate and Other was $624 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $811 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010. Corporate and Other’s loss from continuing operations before income tax expense for both periods was primarily due to net financing losses, which primarily represented original issue discount amortization expense and the net impact of our FTP methodology. The net impact of our FTP methodology included the unallocated cost of maintaining our liquidity and investment portfolios and other unassigned funding costs and unassigned equity.

The improvement in the loss from continuing operations before income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2011, was primarily due to favorable net derivative activity, a lower loss related to the extinguishment of certain Ally debt (which included $30 million of accelerated amortization of original discount during the three months ended March 31, 2011), and lower restructuring expense. This favorable activity was partially offset by an increase in unsecured interest expense related to the 2010 and 2011 debt issuances and higher marketing expenses.

 

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Corporate and Other also includes the results of our Commercial Finance Group. Our Commercial Finance Group earned income from continuing operations before income tax expense of $51 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $13 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010. The increase was primarily due to a decline in provision for loan losses due to European-based recoveries.

 

     Year ended December 31,     Favorable/
(unfavorable)
 
   2010     2009     2008     2010-2009     2009-2008  
     ($ in millions)     (% change)  

Net financing loss

          

Total financing revenue and other interest income

   $ 155      $ (78   $ 322        n/m        (124

Interest expense

          

Original issue discount amortization

     1,204        1,143        70        (5     n/m   

Other interest expense

     1,054        1,239        2,362        15        48   
                                        

Total interest expense

     2,258        2,382        2,432        5        2   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

     (4     1        3        n/m        67   
                                        

Net financing loss

     (2,099     (2,461     (2,113     15        (16

Other revenue

          

(Loss) gain on extinguishment of debt

     (123     661        10,753        (119     (94

Other gain (loss) on investments, net

     146        85        (239     72        136   

Other income, net of losses

     (65     194        (823     (134     124   
                                        

Total other (expense) revenue

     (42     940        9,691        (104     (90

Total net (expense) revenue

     (2,141     (1,521     7,578        (41     (120

Provision for loan losses

     (42     491        10        109        n/m   

Noninterest expense

          

Compensation and benefits expense

     614        405        281        (52     (44

Other operating expense

     (88     73        221        n/m        67   
                                        

Total noninterest expense

     526        478        502        (10     5   

(Loss) income from continuing operations before income tax expense

   $ (2,625   $ (2,490   $ 7,066        (5     (135
                                        

Total assets

   $ 28,561      $ 32,714      $ 31,429        (13     4   
                                        

 

n/m = not meaningful

The following table presents the scheduled remaining amortization of the original issue discount at December 31, 2010.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2011      2012      2013      2014      2015      2016 and
thereafter
(a)
     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Original issue discount

                    

Outstanding balance

   $ 2,194       $ 1,844       $ 1,581       $ 1,390       $ 1,333       $      

Total amortization (b)

     975         350         263         191         57         1,333       $ 3,169   

2008 bond exchange amortization (c)

     937         320         241         168         43         1,177         2,886   

 

(a) The maximum annual scheduled amortization for any individual year is $157 million in 2030 of which $151 million is related to 2008 bond exchange amortization.

 

(b) The amortization is included as interest on long-term debt on the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(c) 2008 bond exchange amortization is included in total amortization.

 

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2010 Compared to 2009

Loss from continuing operations before income tax expense for Corporate and Other was $2.6 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $2.5 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009. The losses in 2010 and 2009 were driven by $1.2 billion and $1.1 billion of original issue discount amortization expenses primarily related to our 2008 bond exchange and the net impact of our FTP methodology. The net financing revenue of our Global Automotive Services and Mortgage operations includes the results of a FTP process that insulates these operations from interest rate volatility by matching assets and liabilities with similar interest rate sensitivity and maturity characteristics. The FTP process assigns charge rates to the assets and credit rates to the liabilities within our Global Automotive Services and Mortgage operations, respectively, based on anticipated maturity and a benchmark index plus an assumed credit spread. The assumed credit spread represents the cost of funds for each asset class based on a blend of funding channels available to the enterprise, including unsecured and secured capital markets, private funding facilities, and deposits. In addition, a risk-based methodology, which incorporates each operation’s credit, market, and operational risk components, is used to allocate equity to these operations. The residual net impact of the FTP methodology is realized in our Corporate and Other results. This residual net impact primarily represents the unallocated cost of maintaining our liquidity and investment portfolios and other unassigned funding costs, like the results of our ALM activities, as well as any unassigned equity. The unfavorable results for 2010 were also impacted by net derivative activity, higher marketing expenses, and higher FDIC fees. Additionally, we recognized a $123 million loss related to the extinguishment of certain Ally debt, which includes $101 million of accelerated amortization of original issue discount compared to a $661 million gain in the prior year. Partially offsetting the unfavorable results were lower professional and legal fees.

Corporate and Other also includes the results of our Commercial Finance Group. Our Commercial Finance Group earned income from continuing operations before income tax expense of $177 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to a net loss from continuing operations before income tax expense of $537 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. The increase in income was primarily due to significant provision for loan losses in 2009. The $533 million decrease in provision expense from 2009 was driven by lower specific reserves in both the resort finance portfolio and in our European operations. In addition, we recognized a recovery in 2010 from the sale of the resort finance portfolio. Additionally, the favorable variance was impacted by the absence of an $87 million fair value impairment recognized upon transfer of the resort finance portfolio from held-for-sale to held-for-investment during 2009 and lower interest expense related to a reduction in borrowing levels consistent with a lower asset base.

2009 Compared to 2008

Loss from continuing operations before income tax expense for Corporate and Other was $2.5 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to income from continuing operations before income tax expense of $7.1 billion for the year ended December 31, 2008. The decrease was primarily due to a $10.7 billion pretax gain in 2008 that resulted from the December 2008 private debt exchange offers and cash tender offers. Refer to “—Critical Accounting Estimates” and Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information related to the private debt exchange and cash tender offers. The 2009 results were favorably impacted by a $634 million gain related to privately negotiated transactions that extinguished certain debt during 2009, a decrease in total noninterest expense primarily due to increased corporate overhead allocation reimbursements, and lower equity investment losses. In 2008, we recognized equity investment net losses of $176 million and a full impairment on an equity investment of $570 million, primarily attributed to the decline in credit market conditions and unfavorable asset revaluations. Additionally, we experienced an increase in the fair value of asset-backed securities due to improvements in credit spreads used to value the notes. The improved credit spreads result from improving conditions in the asset-backed securities market. Interest expense for the year decreased due to lower debt levels and rates, and lower allocated funds-transfer-pricing charges, offset by the amortization of the original issue discount associated with the December 2008 bond exchange.

 

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For the year ended December 31, 2009, our Commercial Finance Group had a loss from continuing operations before income tax expense of $537 million compared to income from continuing operations before income tax expense of $55 million in 2008. The results were primarily impacted by an increase of $481 million in provision for loan losses in the resort finance business and our European operations and the absence of a $29 million gain recognized during July 2008 related to the sale of operations in Poland. The results were also impacted by an $87 million fair value impairment recognized upon transfer of the resort finance business assets from held-for-sale to held-for-investment during 2009. Additionally, we recognized lower fee income and interest expense resulting from lower factored sales volume and lower asset levels.

Cash and Securities

The following table summarizes the composition of the cash and securities portfolio held at fair value by Corporate and Other.

 

     March 31,      December 31,  
     2011      2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Cash

        

Noninterest-bearing cash

   $ 1,543       $ 1,637       $ 1,500   

Interest-bearing cash

     9,630         7,964         11,241   
                          

Total cash

     11,173         9,601         12,741   
                          

Trading securities

        

U.S. Treasury

             75           

Mortgage-backed

     34         25         45   

Asset-backed

             93         595   
                          

Total trading securities

     34         193         640   
                          

Available-for-sale securities

        

Debt securities

        

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

     2,490         3,097         3,285   

States and political subdivisions

     2         2         5   

Foreign government

     508         499           

Mortgage-backed

     4,999         4,973         2,941   

Asset-backed

     2,245         1,936         969   

Corporate debt

                     119   

Other debt (a)

     489         151         (261
                          

Total debt securities

     10,733         10,658         7,058   
                          

Equity securities

                     4   
                          

Total available-for-sale securities

     10,733         10,658         7,062   
                          

Total cash and securities

   $ 21,940       $ 20,452       $ 20,443   
                          

 

(a) Includes intersegment eliminations.

 

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Risk Management

Managing the risk to reward trade-off is a fundamental component of operating our businesses. Our risk management process is overseen by the Ally Board of Directors (the “Board”), various risk committees, and the executive leadership team. The Board sets the risk appetite across our company while the risk committees and executive leadership team monitor potential risks and manage the risk to be within our risk appetite. The primary risks include credit, market, operational, liquidity, and legal and compliance risk.

 

   

Credit risk—The risk of loss arising from a borrower not meeting its financial obligations to our firm.

 

   

Market risk—The risk of loss arising from changes in the fair value of our assets or liabilities (including derivatives) caused by movements in market variables, such as interest rates, foreign-exchange rates, and equity and commodity prices.

 

   

Operational risk—The risk of loss arising from inadequate or failed processes or systems, human factors, or external events.

 

   

Liquidity risk—The risk of loss arising from the failure to recognize or address changes in market conditions affecting both asset and liability flows (see “—Liquidity Management, Funding, and Regulatory Capital”).

 

   

Legal and compliance risk—The risk of legal or regulatory sanctions, financial loss, or damage to reputation resulting from failure to comply with laws, regulations, rules, other regulatory requirements, or codes of conduct and other standards of self-regulatory organizations.

While risk oversight is ultimately the responsibility of the Board, our governance structure starts within each line of business where committees are established to oversee risk in their respective areas. The lines of business are responsible for executing on risk strategies, policies, and controls that are compliant with global risk management policies and with applicable laws and regulations. The line of business risk committees, which report to various global risk committees, monitor the performance within each portfolio and determine whether to amend any credit risk practices based upon portfolio trends.

In addition, the Global Risk Management and Compliance organizations are accountable for independently monitoring, measuring, and reporting on the various risks. They are also responsible for monitoring that risk remains within the tolerances established by the Board, developing and maintaining policies, and implementing risk management methodologies.

All lines of business and global functions are subject to full and unrestricted audits by Corporate Audit. Corporate Audit reports to the Ally Audit Committee and is primarily responsible for assisting the Audit Committee in fulfilling its governance and oversight responsibilities. Corporate Audit is granted free and unrestricted access to any and all of our records, physical properties, technologies, management, and employees.

In addition, our Global Loan Review Group provides an independent assessment of the quality of Ally’s credit risk portfolios and credit risk management practices. This group reports its findings directly to the Ally Risk and Compliance Committee, which includes independent members of the Board. The findings of this group help to strengthen our risk management practices and processes throughout the organization.

 

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Loan and Lease Exposure

The following table summarizes the exposures from our loan and lease activities.

 

     March 31,
2011
     December 31,  
        2010      2009  
    

($ in millions)

 

Finance receivables and loans

        

Global Automotive Services

   $ 93,121       $ 86,888       $ 60,021   

Mortgage operations

     12,452         13,423         14,555   

Corporate and Other

     1,886         2,102         3,125   
                          

Total finance receivables and loans

     107,459         102,413         77,701   

Held-for-sale loans

        

Global Automotive Services

     —                   9,601   

Mortgage operations

     7,490         11,411         10,867   

Corporate and Other

     6                 157   
                          

Total held-for-sale loans

     7,496         11,411         20,625   
                          

Total on-balance sheet loans

   $ 114,955       $ 113,824       $ 98,326   
                          

Off-balance sheet securitized loans

        

Global Automotive Services

   $ —         $       $ 7,475   

Mortgage operations

     329,644         326,830         332,982   

Corporate and Other

     —                     
                          

Total off-balance sheet securitized loans

   $ 329,644       $ 326,830       $ 340,457   
                          

Operating lease assets

        

Global Automotive Services

   $ 8,898       $ 9,128       $ 15,994   

Mortgage operations

     —                     

Corporate and Other

     —                   1   
                          

Total operating lease assets

   $ 8,898       $ 9,128       $ 15,995   
                          

Serviced loans and leases

        

Global Automotive Services

   $ 118,980       $ 115,358       $ 113,661   

Mortgage operations (a)

     359,682         360,767         375,754   

Corporate and Other

     2,204         2,448         3,282   
                          

Total serviced loans and leases

   $ 480,866       $ 478,573       $ 492,697   
                          

 

(a) Includes primary mortgage loan-servicing portfolio only.

The risks inherent in our loan and lease exposures are largely driven by changes in the overall economy and its impact to our borrowers. The potential financial statement impact of these exposures varies depending on the accounting classification and future expected disposition strategy. We retain the majority of the automobile loans that we originate as they complement our core business model. We primarily originate mortgage loans with the intent to sell them and, as such, retain only a small percentage of the loans that we originate or purchase. Loans that we do not intend to retain are sold to investors, primarily securitizations guaranteed by the GSEs. However, we may retain an interest or right to service these loans. We ultimately manage the associated risks based on the underlying economics of the exposure.

 

   

Finance receivables and loans—Loans that we have the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or to maturity or loans associated with an on-balance sheet securitization classified as secured financing. These loans are recorded at the principal amount outstanding, net of unearned income and premiums and discounts. Probable credit-related losses inherent in our finance receivables and loans

 

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carried at historical cost are reflected in our allowance for loan losses and recognized in current period earnings. We manage the economic risks of these exposures, including credit risk, by adjusting underwriting standards and risk limits, augmenting our servicing and collection activities (including loan modifications), and optimizing our product and geographic concentrations. Additionally, we have elected to carry certain mortgage loans at fair value. Changes in the fair value of these loans are recognized in a valuation allowance separate from the allowance for loan losses and are reflected in current period earnings. We use market-based instruments, such as derivatives, to hedge changes in the fair value of these loans. Refer to “—Critical Accounting Estimates” and Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

 

   

Held-for-sale loans—Loans that we have the intent to sell. These loans are recorded on our balance sheet at the lower-of-cost or estimated fair value and are evaluated by portfolio and product type. Changes in the recorded value are recognized in a valuation allowance and reflected in current period earnings. We manage the economic risks of these exposures, including market and credit risks, in various ways including the use of market-based instruments such as derivatives. Additionally, for mortgage, we provide representations and warranties to the purchaser or facility regarding the characteristics of the underlying transferred assets. We estimate the fair value of our liability for representations and warranties when we sell loans and update our estimate quarterly. Refer to “—Critical Accounting Estimates” and Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

 

   

Off-balance sheet securitized loans—Loans that we transferred off-balance sheet to variable interest entities. While these loans are not consolidated on our balance sheet, we typically retain an interest in these loans. The interests retained in the financial asset transfers are recorded at the estimated fair value and are generally classified as trading securities or other assets at fair value. Changes in the fair value of retained interests are recorded as valuation adjustments and reported through earnings. Similar to finance receivables and loans, we manage the economic risks of these exposures, including credit risk, through activities including servicing and collections. Refer to “—Critical Accounting Estimates” and Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

 

   

Operating lease assets—The net book value of the automobile assets we lease are based on the expected residual value upon remarketing the vehicle at the end of the lease. An impairment to the carrying value of the assets may be deemed necessary if there is an unfavorable change in the value of the recorded asset. We are exposed to the fluctuations in the expected residual value upon remarketing the vehicle at the end of the lease, and as such, we manage the risks of these exposures at inception by setting minimum lease standards for projected residual values. We periodically receive support from automotive manufacturers for certain residual deficiencies. Refer to “—Critical Accounting Estimates” and Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

 

   

Serviced loans and leases—Loans that we service on behalf of our customers or another financial institution. As such, these loans can be on or off our balance sheet. For our mortgage servicing rights, we record an asset or liability (at fair value) based on whether the expected servicing benefits will exceed the expected servicing costs. Changes in the fair value of the mortgage servicing rights are recognized in current period earnings. We also service consumer automobile loans. We do not record servicing rights assets or liabilities for these loans because we either receive an upfront fee that adequately compensates us for the servicing costs or because the loan is of a short-term revolving nature. We manage the economic risks of these exposures, including market and credit risks, through market-based instruments such as derivatives and securities. Refer to “—Critical Accounting Estimates” and Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

 

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Credit Risk Management

Credit risk is defined as the potential failure to receive payments when due from a borrower in accordance with contractual obligations. Therefore, credit risk is a major source of potential economic loss to us. To mitigate the risk, we have implemented specific processes across all lines of business utilizing both qualitative and quantitative analyses. Credit risk management is overseen through our risk committee structure and by the Risk organization, which reports to the Ally Risk and Compliance Committee. Together they establish the minimum standards for managing credit risk exposures in a safe-and-sound manner by identifying, measuring, monitoring, and controlling the risks while also permitting acceptable variations for a specific line of business with proper approval. In addition, our Global Loan Review Group provides an independent assessment of the quality of our credit risk portfolios and credit risk management practices.

During the first three months of 2011, the economy continued to expand modestly as the labor market further recovered. Within the automotive markets, encouraging trends included stronger pricing in used vehicle markets and higher industry sales. However, we continue to be cautious, in part due to uncertainty emanating from the crisis in Japan and the effect it could have on automotive sales through the remainder of the year, higher average gasoline prices and their possible effects on automotive sales, and the renewed weakness in the housing market. As a result, this underlying uncertainty may continue to affect our loan portfolio through the upcoming periods.

During 2010, the financial markets experienced some improvement; however, high unemployment and the distress in the housing market persisted, creating uncertainty for the financial services sector. Since the onset of this turbulent economic cycle, we saw both the housing and vehicle markets significantly decline affecting the credit quality for both our consumer and commercial segments. We have seen signs of economic stabilization in some housing, vehicle, and manufacturing markets and have also seen improvement in our loan portfolio as a result of our proactive credit risk initiatives. However, we anticipate the economic uncertainty will continue to affect our loan portfolio through upcoming periods.

We have policies and practices that are committed to maintaining an independent and ongoing assessment of credit risk and quality. Our policies require an objective and timely assessment of the overall quality of the consumer and commercial loan portfolios. This includes the identification of relevant trends that affect the collectability of the portfolios, segments of the portfolios that are potential problem areas, loans and leases with potential credit weaknesses, and assessment of the adequacy of internal credit risk policies and procedures to monitor compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

We manage credit risk based on the risk profile of the borrower, the source of repayment, the underlying collateral, and current market conditions. Our business is focused on consumer automobile loans and leases and mortgage loans in addition to automobile-related commercial lending. We classify these loans as either consumer or commercial and analyze credit risk in each. We monitor the credit risk profile of individual borrowers and the aggregate portfolio of borrowers—either within a designated geographic region or a particular product or industry segment. To mitigate risk concentrations, we take part in loan sales and syndications.

In response to the dynamic credit environment and other market conditions, we continued to follow a more conservative lending policy across our lines of business, generally focusing our lending to more creditworthy borrowers. For example, our Mortgage operations eliminated production of new home equity loans in 2009. During 2010, we also significantly limited production of loans that do not conform to the underwriting guidelines of the GSEs. In addition, effective January 2009, we ceased originating nonprime automotive financing volume through Nuvell, which commenced in 2002 and primarily focused on GM-affiliated dealers.

Additionally, we have implemented numerous initiatives in an effort to mitigate loss and provide ongoing support to customers in financial distress. For automobile loans, we offer several types of assistance to aid our customers. Loss mitigation includes changing the due date, extending payments, and rewriting the loan terms. We have implemented these actions with the intent to provide the borrower with additional options in lieu of repossessing their vehicle.

 

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For mortgage loans, as part of our participation in certain governmental programs, we may offer mortgage loan modifications to our borrowers. Generally these modifications provide the borrower with some form of concession and, therefore, are deemed to be troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”). Refer to Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on TDRs. Furthermore, we have internally designed proprietary programs aimed at homeowners at risk of foreclosure. Each program has unique qualification criteria for the borrower to meet as well as associated modification options that we analyze to determine the best solution for the borrower. We have also implemented periodic foreclosure moratoriums that are designed to provide borrowers with extra time to sort out their financial difficulties while allowing them to stay in their homes.

On-balance Sheet Portfolio

Our on-balance sheet portfolio includes both finance receivables and loans and held-for-sale loans. At March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, this primarily included $93.1 billion and $86.9 billion of automobile finance receivables and loans and $19.9 billion and $24.8 billion of mortgage finance receivables and loans, respectively. Within our on-balance sheet portfolio, we have elected to account for certain mortgage loans at fair value. The valuation allowance recorded on fair value-elected loans is separate from the allowance for loan losses. Changes in the fair value of loans are classified as gain on mortgage and automotive loans, net, in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

During the three months ended March 31, 2011 and the year ended December 31, 2010, we further executed on our strategy of discontinuing and selling or liquidating nonstrategic operations. Refer to Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on specific actions taken. Additionally, in September 2010, we completed the sale of our resort finance portfolio, primarily consisting of loans related to timeshare resorts throughout North America.

In 2009, we executed various changes and strategies throughout our lending operations that had a significant positive impact on our current period credit quality and ultimately our year-over-year comparisons. Some of our strategies included focusing primarily on the prime-lending market, participating in several loan modification programs, implementing tighter underwriting standards, and enhanced collection efforts. Additionally, we discontinued and sold multiple nonstrategic operations. Within our Automotive Finance operations, we exited certain underperforming dealer relationships and added the majority of Chrysler dealers. We see the results of these efforts as our overall credit risk profile has improved; however, our total loan portfolio continues to be affected by sustained levels of high unemployment and continued housing weakness.

On January 1, 2010, we adopted ASU 2009-17, which resulted in $18.3 billion of off-balance sheet loans being consolidated on-balance sheet. This included $7.2 billion of consumer automobile finance receivables and loans recorded at historical cost. We recorded an initial allowance for loan loss reserve of $222 million on those loans. The remaining loans consolidated on-balance sheet were mortgage loans and included $9.9 billion classified as operations held-for-sale (refer to Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information) and $1.2 billion of finance receivables and loans recorded at fair value.

 

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The following table presents our total on-balance sheet consumer and commercial finance receivables and loans reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

    Outstanding     Nonperforming (a)     Accruing past due
90 days or more (b)
 
    March 31,
2011
    December 31,
2010
    March 31,
2011
    December 31,
2010
    March 31,
2011
    December 31,
2010
 
    ($ in millions)  

Consumer

           

Finance receivables and loans

           

Loans at historical cost

  $ 67,436      $ 62,002      $ 599      $ 768      $ 5      $ 6   

Loans at fair value

    971        1,015        246        260                 
                                               

Total finance receivables and loans

    68,407        63,017        845        1,028        5        6   

Loans held-for-sale

    7,490        11,411        3,152        3,273        28        25   
                                               

Total consumer loans

    75,897        74,428        3,997        4,301        33        31   
                                               

Commercial

           

Finance receivables and loans

           

Loans at historical cost

    39,052        39,396        645        740                 

Loans at fair value

                                         
                                               

Total finance receivables and loans

    39,052        39,396        645        740                 

Loans held-for-sale

    6                                      
                                               

Total commercial loans

    39,058        39,396        645        740                 
                                               

Total on-balance sheet loans

  $ 114,955      $ 113,824      $ 4,642      $ 5,041      $ 33      $ 31   
                                               

 

(a) Includes nonaccrual troubled debt restructured loans of $654 million and $684 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

(b) Includes troubled debt restructured loans classified as 90 days past due and still accruing of $17 million and $13 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

Total on-balance sheet loans outstanding at March 31, 2011, increased $1.1 billion to $115.0 billion from December 31, 2010, reflecting an increase of $1.5 billion in the consumer portfolio and a decrease of $338 million in the commercial portfolio. The increase in total on-balance sheet loans outstanding from December 31, 2010, was the result of increased automobile originations, which outpaced portfolio runoff, due to strengthened industry sales and improved automotive manufacturer penetration. The increase was partially offset by a decrease in mortgage originations in our consumer mortgage business and lower line utilization in our commercial mortgage business driven in part by higher interest rates.

The total TDRs outstanding at March 31, 2011, increased $77 million to $1.5 billion from December 31, 2010. This increase was driven primarily by our continued foreclosure prevention and loss mitigation procedures. We have participated in a variety of government modification programs, such as the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP), as well as internally developed modification programs.

Total nonperforming loans at March 31, 2011, decreased $399 million to $4.6 billion from December 31, 2010, reflecting a decrease of $304 million of consumer nonperforming loans and a decrease of $95 million of commercial nonperforming loans. The decrease in total nonperforming loans from December 31, 2010, was largely due to seasonal improvement within our mortgage portfolio and improved dealer performance in the commercial automotive portfolio.

 

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The following table includes consumer and commercial net charge-offs from finance receivables and loans at historical cost and related ratios reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     Net charge-offs      Net charge-off ratios (a)  
      2011      2010      2011     2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer

          

Finance receivables and loans at historical cost

   $ 169       $ 255         1.0     2.1

Commercial

          

Finance receivables and loans at historical cost

     20         61         0.2        0.7   
                      

Total finance receivables and loans at historical cost

   $ 189       $ 316         0.7        1.5   
                      

 

(a) Net charge-off ratios are calculated as annualized net charge-offs divided by average outstanding finance receivables and loans excluding loans measured at fair value and loans held-for-sale during the year for each loan category.

Our net charge-offs were $189 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $316 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010. This decrease in net charge-offs was primarily driven by improvement within our consumer automotive portfolio and the workout of certain commercial real estate assets in prior periods. Loans held-for-sale are accounted for at the lower of cost or fair value, and therefore we do not record charge-offs.

The following table presents our total on-balance sheet consumer and commercial finance receivables and loans reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     Outstanding      Nonperforming (a)(b)      Accruing past due 90 days
or more (c)
 
     December 31,      December 31,      December 31,  
     2010      2009          2010              2009                2010                  2009        
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer

                 

Finance receivables and loans

                 

Loans at historical cost

   $ 62,002       $ 41,458       $ 768       $ 816       $ 6       $ 7   

Loans at fair value

     1,015         1,391         260         499                   
                                                     

Total finance receivables and loans

     63,017         42,849         1,028         1,315         6         7   

Loans held-for-sale

     11,411         20,468         3,273         3,390         25         33   
                                                     

Total consumer loans

     74,428         63,317         4,301         4,705         31         40   
                                                     

Commercial

                 

Finance receivables and loans

                 

Loans at historical cost

     39,396         34,852         740         1,883                 3   

Loans at fair value

                                               
                                                     

Total finance receivables and loans

     39,396         34,852         740         1,883                 3   

Loans held-for-sale

             157                                   
                                                     

Total commercial loans

     39,396         35,009         740         1,883                 3   
                                                     

Total on-balance sheet loans

   $ 113,824       $ 98,326       $ 5,041       $ 6,588       $ 31       $ 43   
                                                     

 

(a) Nonperforming loans are loans placed on nonaccrual status in accordance with internal loan policies. Refer to the Nonaccrual Loans section of Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

 

(b) Includes nonaccrual troubled debt restructured loans of $684 million and $1.0 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

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(c) Includes troubled debt restructured loans classified as 90 days past due and still accruing of $13 million and $0 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Total on-balance sheet loans outstanding at December 31, 2010, increased $15.5 billion to $113.8 billion from December 31, 2009, reflecting an increase of $11.1 billion in the consumer portfolio and $4.4 billion in the commercial portfolio. The increase in total on-balance sheet loans outstanding from December 31, 2009, was the result of increased automobile originations due to strengthened automotive industry sales and improved automotive manufacturer penetration, increased retention of originated automobile loans, and the impact of adopting ASU 2009-17. The increase was partially offset by certain mortgage legacy asset sales, automobile whole-loan sales, and the deconsolidation of certain mortgage legacy assets that no longer qualified under ASU 2009-17.

Total TDRs outstanding at December 31, 2010, increased $411 million to $1.5 billion from December 31, 2009. This increase was driven primarily by our continued foreclosure prevention and loss mitigation procedures. We participated in a variety of government modification programs, such as HARP and HAMP, as well as internally developed modification programs.

Total nonperforming loans at December 31, 2010, decreased $1.5 billion to $5.0 billion from December 31, 2009, reflecting a decrease of $404 million of consumer nonperforming loans and a decrease of $1.1 billion of commercial nonperforming loans. The decrease in commercial nonperforming loans from December 31, 2009, was largely due to sale of the resort finance portfolio and improved dealer performance. Partially offsetting the improvement in nonperforming loans was the impact of adopting ASU 2009-17, continued housing weakness, and seasoning of first mortgage loans remaining within our portfolio.

The following table includes consumer and commercial net charge-offs from finance receivables and loans at historical cost and related ratios adjusted for one-time charge-offs related to transfers to held-for-sale reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

    Net charge offs     Net charge off ratios (a)  
    Year ended December 31,     Year ended December 31,  
        2010             2009             2010             2009      
    ($ in millions)     (%)  

Consumer

       

Finance receivables and loans at historical cost

  $ 796      $ 6,082        1.5     11.2

Commercial

       

Finance receivables and loans at historical cost

    402        1,017        1.1        2.8   
                               

Total finance receivables and loans at historical cost

    1,198        7,099        1.3        7.9   
                               

Transfers to held-for-sale (b)

           (3,438    
                               

Adjusted total finance receivables and loans at historical cost

  $ 1,198      $ 3,661        1.3        4.1   
                               

 

(a) Net charge-off ratios are calculated as net charge-offs divided by average outstanding finance receivables and loans excluding loans measured at fair value, conditional repurchase loans, and loans held-for-sale during the year for each loan category.

 

(b) The year ended December 31, 2009, includes $3.4 billion and $10 million of net charge offs related to transfers to held-for-sale for consumer and commercial, respectively.

Our net charge-offs were $1.2 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $7.1 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009. This decline was driven primarily by portfolio composition changes as a result of strategic actions including the write-down and reclassification of certain legacy mortgage loans during the fourth quarter of 2009 and improvement in our Nuvell portfolio during 2010, partially offset by charge-offs

 

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taken on our resort finance portfolio recorded in 2009 and 2010. Loans held-for-sale are accounted for at the lower-of-cost or fair value, and therefore, we do not record charge-offs.

The Consumer Credit Portfolio and Commercial Credit Portfolio discussions that follow relate to consumer and commercial credit finance receivables and loans recorded at historical cost. Finance receivables and loans recorded at historical cost have an associated allowance for loan losses. Finance receivables and loans measured at fair value were excluded from these discussions since those exposures do not carry an allowance.

Consumer Credit Portfolio

Our consumer portfolio primarily consists of automobile loans, first mortgages, and home equity loans, with a focus on serving the prime secured consumer credit market. Loan losses in our consumer portfolio are influenced by general business and economic conditions including unemployment rates, bankruptcy filings, and home and used vehicle prices. Additionally, our consumer credit exposure is significantly concentrated in automotive lending (primarily through GM and Chrysler dealerships). Due to our GM and Chrysler subvention relationships, we are able to mitigate some interest income exposure to certain consumer defaults by receiving a rate support payment directly from the automotive manufacturers at origination.

Credit risk management for the consumer portfolio begins with the initial underwriting and continues throughout a borrower’s credit cycle. We manage consumer credit risk through our loan origination and underwriting policies, credit approval process, and servicing capabilities. We use credit-scoring models to differentiate the expected default rates of credit applicants enabling us to better evaluate credit applications for approval and to tailor the pricing and financing structure according to this assessment of credit risk. We regularly review the performance of the credit scoring models and update them for historical information and current trends. These and other actions mitigate but do not eliminate credit risk. Improper evaluations of a borrower’s creditworthiness, fraud, and changes in the applicant’s financial condition after approval could negatively affect the quality of our receivables portfolio, resulting in loan losses.

Our servicing activities are another key factor in managing consumer credit risk. Servicing activities consist largely of collecting and processing customer payments, responding to customer inquiries such as requests for payoff quotes, and processing customer requests for account revisions (such as payment extensions and refinancings). Servicing activities are generally consistent across our operations; however, certain practices may be influenced by local laws and regulations.

During the three months ended March 31, 2011, the credit performance of the consumer portfolio continued to improve overall as our finance receivables and loans increased and nonperforming finance receivables and loans and charge-offs declined. For information on our consumer credit risk practices and policies regarding delinquencies, nonperforming status, and charge-offs, refer to Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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The following table includes consumer finance receivables and loans recorded at historical cost reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     Outstanding      Nonperforming (a)      Accruing past due
90 days or more (b)
 
     March 31,
2011
     December 31,
2010
     March 31,
2011
     December 31,
2010
     March 31,
2011
     December 31,
2010
 
     ($ in millions)  

Domestic

                 

Consumer automobile

   $ 39,903       $ 34,604       $ 110       $ 129       $       $   

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

     6,893         6,917         301         388         2         1   

Home equity

     3,347         3,441         45         61                   
                                                     

Total domestic

     50,143         44,962         456         578         2         1   
                                                     

Foreign

                 

Consumer automobile

     16,965         16,650         77         78         3         5   

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

     328         390         66         112                   

Home equity

                                               
                                                     

Total foreign

     17,293         17,040         143         190         3         5   
                                                     

Total consumer finance receivables and loans

   $ 67,436       $ 62,002       $ 599       $ 768       $ 5       $ 6   
                                                     

 

(a) Includes nonaccrual troubled debt restructured loans of $175 million and $204 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

(b) There were no troubled debt restructured loans classified as 90 days past due and still accruing at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010.

Total consumer outstanding finance receivables and loans increased $5.4 billion at March 31, 2011, compared with December 31, 2010. The increase in domestic automobile outstandings was driven by increased originations, which outpaced portfolio run-off, due to strengthened industry sales and improved automotive manufacturer penetration.

Total consumer nonperforming finance receivables and loans at March 31, 2011, decreased $169 million to $599 million from December 31, 2010, reflecting a decrease of $149 million of consumer mortgage nonperforming finance receivables and loans and a decrease of $20 million of consumer automotive nonperforming finance receivables and loans. Nonperforming consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans decreased primarily due to seasonal improvements. Nonperforming consumer automotive finance receivables and loans decreased primarily due to increased quality of newer vintages and normal seasonal trends. Nonperforming consumer finance receivables and loans as a percentage of total outstanding consumer finance receivables and loans were 0.9% and 1.2% at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

Consumer domestic automotive loans accruing and past due 30 days or more decreased $212 million to $590 million at March 31, 2011, compared with December 31, 2010, primarily due to increased quality of newer vintages and normal seasonal trends.

During the year ended December 31, 2010, the credit performance of the consumer portfolio continued to improve overall as nonperforming loans and charge-offs declined. The decline in nonperforming loans was primarily driven by improvement in our Nuvell portfolio due to enhanced collection efforts. The year-over-year decline in net charge-offs was driven by the improved asset mix as the result of strategic actions that included the

 

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write-down and reclassification of certain legacy mortgage loans in the fourth quarter of 2009 as well as improvement in our Nuvell portfolio.

The following table includes consumer finance receivables and loans recorded at historical cost reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     Outstanding      Nonperforming (a)      Accruing past due 90 days
or more (b)
 
     December 31,      December 31,      December 31,  
     2010      2009        2010          2009        2010          2009      
     ($ in millions)  

Domestic

                 

Consumer automobile

   $ 34,604       $ 12,514       $ 129       $ 267       $       $   

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

     6,917         6,921         388         326         1         1   

Home equity

     3,441         3,886         61         71                   
                                                     

Total domestic

     44,962         23,321         578         664         1         1   
                                                     

Foreign

                 

Consumer automobile

     16,650         17,731         78         119         5         5   

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

     390         405         112         33                 1   

Home equity

             1                                   
                                                     

Total foreign

     17,040         18,137         190         152         5         6   
                                                     

Total consumer finance receivables and loans

   $ 62,002       $ 41,458       $ 768       $ 816       $ 6       $ 7   
                                                     

 

(a) Includes nonaccrual troubled debt restructured loans of $204 million and $263 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(b) There were no troubled debt restructured loans classified as 90 days past due and still accruing at December 31, 2010 and 2009.

Total outstanding consumer finance receivables and loans increased $20.5 billion at December 31, 2010, compared with December 31, 2009. The increase in domestic automobile outstandings was driven by the consolidation of previously off-balance sheet loans due to the adoption of ASU 2009-17, increased originations due to strengthened automotive industry sales and improved automotive manufacturer penetration, increased retention of automobile originated loans, and the adoption of ASU 2009-17. The decrease in foreign automobile outstandings was driven by continued exit and liquidations in nonstrategic countries and overall market contraction in Europe.

Total consumer nonperforming loans at December 31, 2010, decreased $48 million to $768 million from December 31, 2009, reflecting a decrease of $179 million of consumer automobile nonperforming loans and an increase of $131 million of consumer mortgage nonperforming loans. Nonperforming consumer automobile loans decreased primarily due to enhanced collection efforts, increased quality of newer vintages and a change to our Nuvell portfolio nonaccrual policy to be consistent with our other automobile nonaccrual policies. Nonperforming consumer mortgage loans increased due to seasoning of the first mortgage loans remaining in our portfolio subsequent to the strategic actions taken in late 2009. Nonperforming consumer finance receivables and loans as a percentage of total outstanding consumer finance receivables and loans were 1.2% and 2.0% at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Consumer domestic automobile loans accruing and past due 30 days or more, included in outstandings in the table above, decreased $32 million to $802 million at December 31, 2010, compared with December 31, 2009.

 

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The decrease was primarily due to an improvement in our Nuvell portfolio as a result of enhanced collection efforts in addition to an increased quality of newer vintages in the overall automobile portfolio.

The following table includes consumer net charge-offs from finance receivables and loans at historical cost and related ratios reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     Net charge-offs      Net charge-off ratios (a)  
     2011      2010      2011     2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Domestic

          

Consumer automobile

   $ 89       $ 184         1.0     3.5

Consumer mortgage

          

1st Mortgage

     36         17         2.1        1.0   

Home equity

     21         11         2.5        1.1   
                      

Total domestic

     146         212         1.2        2.7   
                      

Foreign

          

Consumer automobile

     23         41         0.6        1.0   

Consumer mortgage

          

1st Mortgage

             2         0.1        1.8   

Home equity

                              
                      

Total foreign

     23         43         0.5        1.0   
                      

Total consumer finance receivables and loans

   $ 169       $ 255         1.0        2.1   
                      

 

(a) Net charge-off ratios are calculated as annualized net charge-offs divided by average outstanding finance receivables and loans excluding loans measured at fair value and loans held-for-sale during the year for each loan category.

Our net charge-offs from total consumer automobile finance receivables and loans decreased $113 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. The decrease in net charge-offs was primarily due to lower loss frequency, improvements in loss severity as a result of improved pricing in the used vehicle market, and improved loss performance in our Nuvell portfolio primarily due to enhanced collection efforts.

Our net charge-offs from total consumer mortgage and home equity finance receivables and loans were $57 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $30 million for the same period in 2010. The increase was driven by net charge-offs within our consumer legacy mortgage portfolio as those finance receivables and loans continue to season.

 

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The following table includes consumer net charge-offs from finance receivables and loans at historical cost and related ratios reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     Net charge-offs     Net charge-off ratios  
     Year ended
December 31,
    Year ended
December 31,
 
         2010              2009             2010             2009      
     ($ in millions)     (%)  

Domestic

         

Consumer automobile

   $ 457       $ 823        1.7     5.8

Consumer mortgage

         

1st Mortgage

     128         2,433        1.8        23.0   

Home equity

     85         1,579        2.4        24.6   
                     

Total domestic

     670         4,835        1.8        15.5   
                     

Foreign

         

Consumer automobile

     123         301        0.8        1.5   

Consumer mortgage

         

1st Mortgage

     3         946        0.8        25.1   

Home equity

                             
                     

Total foreign

     126         1,247        0.8        5.4   
                     

Total consumer finance receivables and loans

     796         6,082        1.5        11.2   

Transfers to held-for-sale

             (3,428    
                     

Adjusted total consumer finance receivables and loans

   $ 796       $ 2,654        1.5        4.9   
                     

Our net charge-offs from total consumer automobile loans decreased $544 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The decrease in net charge-offs was primarily due to one-time charge-offs taken in 2009, as we aligned our internal policies to Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (“FFIEC”) guidelines. Also contributing to the decrease in net charge-offs were improvements in loss severity driven by improved pricing in the used vehicle market and in loss frequency and customer recoveries due to enhanced collection efforts, primarily with our Nuvell portfolio.

Our net charge-offs from total consumer mortgage and home equity loans were $216 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $5.0 billion in 2009. The significant decrease was driven by portfolio composition changes as a result of strategic actions that included the write-down and reclassification of certain legacy mortgage loans from finance receivables and loans to held-for-sale during the fourth quarter of 2009.

 

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The following table summarizes the total consumer loan originations at unpaid principal balance for the periods shown. Total consumer loan originations include loans classified as finance receivables and loans held-for-sale during the period.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
         2011              2010      
     ($ in millions)  

Domestic

     

Consumer automobile

   $ 9,384       $ 5,296   

Consumer mortgage

     

1st Mortgage

     11,847         12,968   

Home equity

               
                 

Total domestic

     21,231         18,264   
                 

Foreign

     

Consumer automobile

     2,052         1,702   

Consumer mortgage

     

1st Mortgage

     312         292   

Home equity

               
                 

Total foreign

     2,364         1,994   
                 

Total consumer loan originations

   $ 23,595       $ 20,258   
                 

Total domestic automobile-originated loans increased $4.1 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010, primarily due to strengthened industry sales and improved automotive manufacturer penetration.

Total domestic mortgage-originated loans decreased $1.1 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2011. The decrease for the three months ended March 31, 2011, was due in part to higher interest rates.

Consumer loan originations retained on-balance sheet as held-for-investment were $11.8 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2011, and $5.7 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2010, respectively. The increase was primarily due to strengthened automotive industry sales, improved automotive manufacturer penetration, and increased balance sheet retention.

 

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The following table summarizes the total consumer loan originations at unpaid principal balance for the periods shown. Total consumer loan originations include loans classified as finance receivables and loans held-for-sale during the period.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
           2010                  2009        
     ($ in millions)  

Domestic

     

Consumer automobile

   $ 27,681       $ 18,091   

Consumer mortgage

     

1st Mortgage

     69,542         64,731   

Home equity

               
                 

Total domestic

     97,223         82,822   
                 

Foreign

     

Consumer automobile

     8,818         5,843   

Consumer mortgage

     

1st Mortgage

     1,503         1,405   

Home equity

               
                 

Total foreign

     10,321         7,248   
                 

Total consumer loan originations

   $ 107,544       $ 90,070   
                 

Total domestic automobile loan originations increased $9.6 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009, primarily due to the improved automotive market as well as the addition of Chrysler automotive financing business. Domestic automobile originations continue to reflect tightened underwriting standards, and most of these originations for 2010 were retained on-balance sheet as finance receivables and loans. Total foreign automobile originations increased $3.0 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009 driven by improved Canadian automobile sales.

Total domestic mortgage loan originations increased $4.8 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010. The increase was due primarily to increased refinancing as customers continued to take advantage of historically low interest rates.

Consumer loan originations retained on-balance sheet as finance receivables and loans increased $24.9 billion to $35.1 billion at December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The increase was primarily due to strengthened automotive industry sales, improved automotive manufacturer penetration, and increased retention of automobile-originated loans.

 

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The following table shows consumer finance receivables and loans recorded at historical cost reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses by state and foreign concentration. Total automobile loans were $56.9 billion, $51.3 billion and $30.2 billion at March 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Total mortgage and home equity loans were $10.6 billion, $10.7 billion and $11.2 billion at March 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

     March 31,     December 31,  
     2011 (a)     2010     2009  
     Automobile     1st Mortgage
and  home

equity
    Automobile     1st Mortgage
and home
equity
    Automobile     1st Mortgage
and home
equity
 

Texas

     9.3     4.8     9.2     4.4     7.5     2.9

California

     4.7        24.7        4.6        24.5        2.7        23.3   

Florida

     4.5        4.1        4.4        4.1        2.1        4.4   

Michigan

     3.9        4.9        3.7        5.0        1.4        5.4   

Illinois

     2.9        4.8        2.8        4.7        1.9        4.4   

New York

     3.4        2.4        3.4        2.4        2.4        2.9   

Pennsylvania

     3.2        1.7        3.2        1.7        2.4        1.8   

Ohio

     2.7        1.0        2.5        1.0        1.6        1.2   

Georgia

     2.3        1.8        2.2        1.8        1.4        2.0   

North Carolina

     2.1        2.1        2.0        2.0        1.3        2.2   

Other United States

     31.2        44.6        29.4        44.7        16.7        45.9   

Canada

     13.1        3.0        14.2        3.6        20.1        3.6   

Brazil

     5.0               5.2               6.8          

Germany

     5.0               5.7               13.3          

Other foreign

     6.7        0.1        7.5        0.1        18.4          
                                                

Total consumer loans

     100.0     100.0     100.0     100.0     100.0     100.0
                                                

 

(a) Presentation is in descending order as a percentage of total consumer finance receivables and loans at March 31, 2011.

We monitor our consumer loan portfolio for concentration risk across the geographies in which we lend. The highest concentrations of loans in the United States are in California and Texas, which represent an aggregate of 16.4% of our total outstanding consumer loans at March 31, 2011. Our domestic concentrations in the automobile portfolio increased due to the adoption of ASU 2009-17 and higher retained originations.

Concentrations in our mortgage portfolio are closely monitored given the volatility of the housing markets. Our consumer mortgage loan concentrations in California, Florida, and Michigan receive particular attention as the real estate value depreciation in these states has been the most severe.

Repossessed and Foreclosed Assets

We classify an asset as repossessed or foreclosed (included in other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet) when physical possession of the collateral is taken. For more information on repossessed and foreclosed assets, refer to Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Repossessed assets in our automotive finance operations at March 31, 2011, increased $3 million to $49 million from December 31, 2010. Foreclosed mortgage assets at March 31, 2011, decreased $21 million to $117 million from December 31, 2010.

Repossessed assets in our Automotive Finance operations at December 31, 2010, decreased $4 million to $46 million from December 31, 2009. Foreclosed mortgage assets at December 31, 2010, decreased $12 million to $138 million from December 31, 2009.

 

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Higher-risk Mortgage Loans

During the three months ended March 31, 2011 and the year ended December 31, 2010, we primarily focused our origination efforts on prime conforming and government-insured residential mortgages in the United States and high-quality government-insured residential mortgages in Canada. In June 2010, we ceased offering interest-only jumbo mortgage loans given the continued volatility of the housing market and the delayed principal payment feature of that loan product. We continued to hold mortgage loans that have features that expose us to potentially higher credit risk including high original loan-to-value mortgage loans (prime or nonprime), payment-option adjustable-rate mortgage loans (prime nonconforming), interest-only mortgage loans (classified as prime conforming or nonconforming for domestic production and prime nonconforming or nonprime for international production), and teaser-rate mortgages (prime or nonprime).

In circumstances when a loan has features such that it falls into multiple categories, it is classified to a category only once based on the following hierarchy: (1) high original loan-to-value mortgage loans, (2) payment-option adjustable-rate mortgage loans, (3) interest-only mortgage loans, and (4) below-market rate (teaser) mortgages. Given the continued stress within the housing market, we believe this hierarchy provides the most relevant risk assessment of our nontraditional products.

 

   

High loan-to-value mortgages—Defined as first-lien loans with original loan-to-value ratios equal to or in excess of 100% or second-lien loans that when combined with the underlying first-lien mortgage loan result in an original loan-to-value ratio equal to or in excess of 100%. We ceased originating these loans with the intent to retain during 2009.

 

   

Payment-option adjustable rate mortgages—Permit a variety of repayment options. The repayment options include minimum, interest-only, fully amortizing 30-year, and fully amortizing 15-year payments. The minimum payment option generally sets the monthly payment at the initial interest rate for the first year of the loan. The interest rate resets after the first year, but the borrower can continue to make the minimum payment. The interest-only option sets the monthly payment at the amount of interest due on the loan. If the interest-only option payment would be less than the minimum payment, the interest-only option is not available to the borrower. Under the fully amortizing 30- and 15-year payment options, the borrower’s monthly payment is set based on the interest rate, loan balance, and remaining loan term. We ceased originating these loans during 2008.

 

   

Interest-only mortgages—Allow interest-only payments for a fixed time. At the end of the interest-only period, the loan payment includes principal payments and can increase significantly. The borrower’s new payment, once the loan becomes amortizing (i.e., includes principal payments), will be greater than if the borrower had been making principal payments since the origination of the loan. We ceased originating these loans with the intent to retain during 2010.

 

   

Below-market rate (teaser) mortgages—Contain contractual features that limit the initial interest rate to a below-market interest rate for a specified time period with an increase to a market interest rate in a future period. The increase to the market interest rate could result in a significant increase in the borrower’s monthly payment amount. We ceased originating these loans during 2008.

 

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The following tables summarize the higher-risk mortgage loan originations at unpaid principal balance for the periods shown. These higher-risk mortgage loans are classified as finance receivables and loans and are recorded at historical cost.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
             2011                      2010          
     ($ in millions)  

High original loan-to-value (greater than 100%) mortgage loans

   $       $   

Payment-option adjustable-rate mortgage loans

               

Interest-only mortgage loans (a)

             103   

Below-market rate (teaser) mortgages

               
                 

Total higher-risk mortgage loan production

   $       $ 103   
                 

 

(a) As of June 2010, this product was no longer offered.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
         2010              2009      
     ($ in millions)  

High original loan-to-value (greater than 100%) mortgage loans

   $       $ 11   

Payment-option adjustable-rate mortgage loans

               

Interest-only mortgage loans (a)

     209         316   

Below-market rate (teaser) mortgages

               
                 

Total

   $ 209       $ 327   
                 

 

(a) The originations during the year ended December 31, 2010, for interest-only mortgage loans had an average FICO of 763 and an average loan-to-value of 63% with 100% full documentation.

The following tables summarize mortgage finance receivables and loans by higher-risk loan type. These finance receivables and loans are recorded at historical cost and reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

    Outstanding     Nonperforming     Accruing past due
90 days or more
 
    March 31,
2011
    December 31,
2010
    March 31,
2011
    December 31,
2010
    March 31,
2011
    December 31,
2010
 
    ($ in millions)  

High original loan-to-value (greater than 100%) mortgage loans

  $ 5      $ 5      $ 1      $      $      $   

Payment-option adjustable-rate mortgage loans

    4        5        1        1                 

Interest-only mortgage loans (a)

    3,488        3,681        177        207                 

Below-market rate (teaser) mortgages

    274        284        5        4                 
                                               

Total higher-risk mortgage loans

  $ 3,771      $ 3,975      $ 184      $ 212      $      $   
                                               

 

(a) The majority of the interest-only mortgage loans are expected to start principal amortization in 2015 or beyond.

 

 

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The allowance for loan losses was $244 million or 6.5% of total higher-risk held-for-investment mortgage loans recorded at historical cost based on carrying value outstanding before allowance for loans losses at March 31, 2011.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  
     Outstanding      Nonperforming      Accruing
past due
90 days
or more
     Outstanding      Nonperforming      Accruing
past due
90 days
or more
 

High original loan-to-value (greater than 100%) mortgage loans

   $ 5       $       $       $ 7       $ 4       $   

Payment-option adjustable-rate mortgage loans

     5         1                 7         1           

Interest-only mortgage loans (a)

     3,681         207                 4,346         139           

Below-market rate (teaser) mortgages

     284         4                 331         2           
                                                     

Total

   $ 3,975       $ 212       $       $ 4,691       $ 146       $   
                                                     

 

(a) The majority of the interest-only mortgage loans are expected to start principal amortization in 2015 or beyond.

Allowance for loan losses was $255 million or 6.4% of total higher-risk mortgage finance receivables and loans recorded at historical cost based on carrying value outstanding before allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2010.

 

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The following tables include our five largest state and foreign concentrations within our higher-risk finance receivables and loans recorded at historical cost and reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     High original
loan-to-value
(greater than
100%)
mortgage
loans
     Payment-
option
adjustable-rate
mortgage
loans
     Interest-only
mortgage
loans
     Below-market
rate (teaser)
mortgages
     All
higher-risk
loans
 
     ($ in millions)  

March 31, 2011

              

California

   $       $ 1       $ 937       $ 87       $ 1,025   

Virginia

                     310         11         321   

Maryland

                     246         7         253   

Michigan

                     217         9         226   

Illinois

                     188         8         196   

All other domestic and foreign

     5         3         1,590         152         1,750   
                                            

Total higher-risk mortgage loans

   $ 5       $ 4       $ 3,488       $ 274       $ 3,771   
                                            

December 31, 2010

              

California

   $       $ 1       $ 993       $ 89       $ 1,083   

Virginia

                     330         12         342   

Maryland

                     256         7         263   

Michigan

                     225         10         235   

Illinois

                     197         8         205   

All other domestic and foreign

     5         4         1,680         158         1,847   
                                            

Total

   $ 5       $ 5       $ 3,681       $ 284       $ 3,975   
                                            

December 31, 2009

              

California

   $ 1       $ 2       $ 1,128       $ 102       $ 1,233   

Virginia

                     397         13         410   

Maryland

                     309         8         317   

Michigan

                     259         11         270   

Illinois

                     230         9         239   

All other domestic and foreign

     6         5         2,023         188         2,222   
                                            

Total

   $ 7       $ 7       $ 4,346       $ 331       $ 4,691   
                                            

Commercial Credit Portfolio

Our commercial portfolio consists of automotive loans (wholesale floorplan, dealer term loans, and automotive fleet financing), commercial real estate loans, and other commercial finance loans. In general, the credit risk of our commercial portfolio is impacted by overall economic conditions in the countries in which we operate. Further, our commercial credit exposure is concentrated in automotive dealerships (primarily GM and Chrysler). In 2009, we entered into an agreement with Chrysler to provide automotive financing products and services to Chrysler dealers and customers. Both GM and Chrysler are bound by repurchase obligations that, under certain circumstances, such as dealer default, require them to repurchase new vehicle inventory.

Our credit risk on the commercial portfolio is markedly different from that of our consumer portfolio. Whereas the consumer portfolio represents smaller-balance homogeneous loans that exhibit fairly predictable and stable loss patterns, the commercial portfolio exposures can be less predictable. We utilize an internal credit risk rating system that is fundamental to managing credit risk exposure consistently across various types of commercial borrowers and captures critical risk factors simultaneously for each borrower. The ratings are used for many areas of credit risk management, such as loan origination, portfolio risk monitoring, management reporting, and loan loss reserves analyses. Therefore, the rating system is critical to an effective and consistent credit risk management framework.

 

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During the three months ended March 31, 2011, the credit performance of the commercial portfolio improved as nonperforming finance receivables and loans and net charge-offs declined.

For information on our commercial credit risk practices and policies regarding delinquencies, nonperforming status, and charge-offs, refer to Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements .

The following table includes total commercial finance receivables and loans reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     Outstanding      Nonperforming (a)      Accruing past due
90 days or more (b)
 
     March 31,
2011
     December 31,
2010
     March 31,
2011
     December 31,
2010
     March 31,
2011
     December 31,
2010
 
     ($ in millions)  

Domestic

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Automobile

   $ 24,716       $ 24,944       $ 247       $ 261       $       $   

Mortgage

     820         1,540         3                           

Other (c)

     1,596         1,795         41         37                   

Commercial real estate

                 

Automobile

     2,090         2,071         142         193                   

Mortgage

             1                 1                   
                                                     

Total domestic

     29,222         30,351         433         492                   
                                                     

Foreign

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Automobile

     9,222         8,398         37         35                   

Mortgage

     40         41         40         40                   

Other (c)

     295         312         78         97                   

Commercial real estate

                 

Automobile

     220         216         8         6                   

Mortgage

     53         78         49         70                   
                                                     

Total foreign

     9,830         9,045         212         248                   
                                                     

Total commercial finance receivables and loans

   $ 39,052       $ 39,396       $ 645       $ 740       $       $   
                                                     

 

(a) Includes nonaccrual troubled debt restructured loans of $2 million and $9 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

(b) There were no troubled debt restructured loans classified as 90 days past due and still accruing at March 31, 2011, and December 31 2010.

 

(c) Other commercial primarily includes senior secured commercial lending.

Total commercial finance receivables and loans outstanding decreased $344 million to $39.1 billion at March 31, 2011, from December 31, 2010. Domestic commercial and industrial outstandings decreased driven primarily by mortgage warehouse lending declines in line utilization due in part to higher interest rates. Foreign commercial and industrial outstandings increased primarily due to growth in our Canadian automobile portfolio, partially offset by dealer exits and continued portfolio runoff within exited countries.

Total commercial nonperforming finance receivables and loans were $645 million, a decrease of $95 million compared to December 31, 2010, primarily due to improvement in dealer performance and continued mortgage asset dispositions. Total nonperforming commercial finance receivables and loans as a percentage of outstanding commercial finance receivables and loans were 1.7% and 1.9% at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

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During the year ended December 31, 2010, the credit performance of the commercial portfolio improved as nonperforming loans and net charge-offs declined. The decline in nonperforming loans was primarily driven by the sale of the resort finance portfolio, some improvement in dealer performance, and continued commercial mortgage asset dispositions. The decline in charge-offs in 2010 was primarily attributed to improved portfolio composition compared to 2009 due to the workout of certain commercial real estate assets and the strategic exit of underperforming automotive dealers.

The following table includes total commercial finance receivables and loans reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

     Outstanding      Nonperforming (a)      Accruing past due
90 days or more (b)
 
     December 31,  
     2010      2009          2010              2009          2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Domestic

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Automobile

   $ 24,944       $ 19,604       $ 261       $ 281       $       $   

Mortgage

     1,540         1,572                 37                   

Other (c)

     1,795         2,688         37         856                   

Commercial real estate

                 

Automobile

     2,071         2,008         193         256                   

Mortgage

     1         121         1         56                   
                                                     

Total domestic

     30,351         25,993         492         1,486                   
                                                     

Foreign

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Automobile

     8,398         7,943         35         66                   

Mortgage

     41         96         40         35                   

Other (c)

     312         437         97         131                 3   

Commercial real estate

                 

Automobile

     216         221         6         24                   

Mortgage

     78         162         70         141                   
                                                     

Total foreign

     9,045         8,859         248         397                 3   
                                                     

Total commercial finance receivables and loans

   $ 39,396       $ 34,852       $ 740       $ 1,883       $       $ 3   
                                                     

 

(a) Includes nonaccrual troubled debt restructured loans of $9 million and $59 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(b) There were no troubled debt restructured loans classified as 90 days past due and still accruing at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(c) Other commercial primarily includes senior secured commercial lending. Additionally, amounts at December 31, 2009, include the resort finance portfolio with an outstanding balance of $843 million, a nonperforming balance of $779 million, and an accruing past due 90 days or more balance of $0 million. We sold our resort finance portfolio during the third quarter of 2010.

Total commercial finance receivables and loans outstanding increased $4.5 billion to $39.4 billion at December 31, 2010, from December 31, 2009. Commercial and industrial outstandings increased $4.7 billion due to the addition of the Chrysler automotive financing business and improved automotive industry sales with a corresponding increase in inventories partially offset by the sale of the resort finance portfolio. Commercial real estate outstandings decreased $146 million from December 31, 2009, due to continued asset dispositions.

 

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Total commercial nonperforming loans were $740 million, a decrease of $1.1 billion compared to December 31, 2009, primarily due to the sale of the resort finance portfolio, some improvement in dealer performance, and continued mortgage asset dispositions. Total nonperforming commercial finance receivables and loans as a percentage of outstanding commercial finance receivables and loans were 1.9% and 5.4% at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

The following table includes total commercial net charge-offs from finance receivables and loans at historical cost and related ratios reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     Net charge-offs (recoveries)     Net charge-off ratios (a)  
      2011     2010     2011     2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Domestic

        

Commercial and industrial

        

Automobile

   $ 2      $ 1           

Mortgage

     2        (1     0.8        (0.3

Other

     (2     3        (0.5     0.4   

Commercial real estate

        

Automobile

     (1     12        (0.2     2.3   

Mortgage

     (1     42        n/m        n/m   
                    

Total domestic

            57               0.9   
                    

Foreign

        

Commercial and industrial

        

Automobile

     2        2        0.1        0.1   

Mortgage

     1               9.7          

Other

     3               4.3          

Commercial real estate

        

Automobile

            2               7.6   

Mortgage

     14               78.4          
                    

Total foreign

     20        4        0.9        0.2   
                    

Total commercial finance receivables and loans

   $ 20      $ 61        0.2        0.7   
                    

 

n/m = not meaningful
(a) Net charge-off ratios are calculated as annualized net charge-offs divided by average outstanding finance receivables and loans excluding loans measured at fair value and loans held-for-sale during the year for each loan category.

Our net charge-offs from commercial finance receivables and loans totaled $20 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $61 million for the same period in 2010. The decreases in net charge-offs were largely driven by an improved mix of loans in the existing portfolio driven by the workout of certain commercial real estate assets in prior periods.

 

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The following table includes total commercial net charge-offs from finance receivables and loans at historical cost and related ratios reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     Net charge-offs
(recoveries)
     Net charge-off
ratios
 
     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009      2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)      (%)  

Domestic

         

Commercial and industrial

         

Automobile

   $ 18      $ 69         0.1     0.4

Mortgage

     (3     119         (0.2     6.0   

Other (a)

     158        92         6.7        2.7   

Commercial real estate

         

Automobile

     47        7         2.3          

Mortgage

     44        659         136.3        68.3   
                     

Total domestic

     264        946         0.9        3.7   
                     

Foreign

         

Commercial and industrial

         

Automobile

     16        18         0.2        0.2   

Mortgage

     3                3.9          

Other

     69        41         19.0        5.9   

Commercial real estate

         

Automobile

     2                1.0          

Mortgage

     48        12         38.7        5.9   
                     

Total foreign

     138        71         1.5        0.7   
                     

Total commercial finance receivables and loans

   $ 402      $ 1,017         1.1        2.8   
                     

 

(a) Amounts include the resort finance portfolio with net charge-offs of $148 million and $61 million and net charge-off ratios of 29.0% and 7.1% for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. We sold our resort finance portfolio during the third quarter of 2010.

Our net charge-offs of total commercial finance receivables and loans totaled $402 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $1.0 billion in 2009. The overall decrease in net charge-offs was largely due to the resolution and workout of certain domestic and foreign commercial real estate assets. Increased net charge-offs within our commercial and industrial portfolios were driven by the domestic resort finance and U.K. commercial finance lending portfolios.

Commercial Real Estate

The commercial real estate portfolio consists of loans issued primarily to automotive dealers, homebuilders, and commercial real estate firms. Commercial real estate finance receivables and loans were $2.4 billion, $2.4 billion and $2.5 billion at March 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

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The following table shows the percentage of total commercial real estate finance receivables and loans by geographic region and property type. These finance receivables and loans are reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     March 31,     December 31,  
     2011     2010     2009  

Geographic region

      

Texas

     11.8     10.5     11.2

Michigan

     10.4        10.1        8.5   

Florida

     10.2        10.3        11.8   

California

     9.7        9.6        9.8   

Virginia

     4.4        4.4        3.9   

New York

     3.9        3.8        3.7   

Pennsylvania

     3.6        3.7        3.4   

Oregon

     2.9        3.1        2.1   

Georgia

     2.6        2.7        2.1   

Alabama

     2.5        2.4        2.1   

Other United States

     26.4        26.9        26.2   

Canada

     4.5        4.4        4.3   

United Kingdom

     4.4        5.0        7.3   

Mexico

     2.1        2.4        2.5   

Other foreign

     0.6        0.7        1.1   
                        

Total commercial real estate finance receivables and loans

     100.0     100.0     100.0
                        

Property type

      

Automobile dealers

     92.8     91.8     84.3

Residential

     1.7        2.5        2.7   

Land and land development

     0.5        0.8        5.7   

Apartments

            0.1        2.9   

Other

     5.0        4.8        4.4   
                        

Total commercial real estate finance receivables and loans

     100.0     100.0     100.0
                        

Commercial Criticized Exposure

Exposures deemed criticized are loans classified as special mention, substandard, or doubtful. These classifications are based on regulatory definitions and generally represent finance receivables and loans within our portfolio that have a higher default risk or have already defaulted. These loans require additional monitoring and review including specific actions to mitigate our potential economic loss.

The following table shows the percentage of total commercial criticized finance receivables and loans by industry concentrations. These finance receivables and loans are reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     March 31,     December 31,  
     2011     2010     2009  

Industry

      

Automotive

     72.0     66.5     49.7

Real estate (a)

     10.1        12.1        23.4   

Health/medical

     5.2        7.3        7.9   

Manufacturing

     4.2        3.5        3.1   

Hardgoods

     1.7        1.8        1.1   

Services

     1.5        1.9        2.1   

Retail

     1.1        1.5        2.6   

Electronics

     1.1        1.2        1.6   

All other

     3.1        4.2        8.5   
                        

Total commercial criticized finance receivables and loans

     100.0     100.0     100.0
                        

 

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(a) Includes resort finance, which represented 17.3% of the portfolio at December 31, 2009.

Total criticized exposures were $3.7 billion and $3.6 billion at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively, as automotive criticized exposure increased due to risk rating process enhancements. The increase was partially offset by health/medical and real estate improvements.

Total criticized exposure decreased $1.3 billion to $3.6 billion from December 31, 2009 to December 31, 2010, primarily due to the sale of the resort finance portfolio, improvement in dealer credit quality, and continued mortgage asset dispositions. The increase in our automotive criticized concentration rate was due to the significant decrease in the overall criticized amounts outstanding at December 31, 2010, compared to December 31, 2009.

Selected Loan Maturity and Sensitivity Data

The table below shows the commercial finance receivables and loans portfolio and the distribution between fixed and floating interest rates based on the stated terms of the commercial loan agreements. The table does not include the impact of derivative instruments utilized to hedge certain loans. This portfolio is reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     December 31, 2010  
     Within 1
year
     1-5 years      After 5
years
     Total (a)  
     ($ in millions)  

Commercial and industrial

   $ 26,401       $ 1,764       $ 114       $ 28,279   

Commercial real estate

     227         1,666         179         2,072   
                                   

Total domestic

     26,628         3,430         293         30,351   
                                   

Foreign

     8,522         515         8         9,045   
                                   

Total commercial finance receivables and loans

   $ 35,150       $ 3,945       $ 301       $ 39,396   
                                   

Loans at fixed interest rates

      $ 1,277       $ 220      

Loans at variable interest rates

        2,668         81      
                       

Total commercial finance receivables and loans

      $ 3,945       $ 301      
                       

 

(a) Loan maturities are based on the remaining maturities under contractual terms.

 

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Allowance for Loan Losses

The following tables present an analysis of the activity in the allowance for loan losses on finance receivables and loans.

 

     Consumer
automobile
    Consumer
mortgage
    Total
consumer
    Commercial     Total  
    

($ in millions)

 

Balance at January 1, 2011

   $ 970      $ 580      $ 1,550      $ 323      $ 1,873   

Charge-offs

          

Domestic

     (139     (60     (199     (6     (205

Foreign

     (42            (42     (31     (73
                                        

Total charge-offs

     (181     (60     (241     (37     (278
                                        

Recoveries

          

Domestic

     50        3        53        6        59   

Foreign

     19               19        11        30   
                                        

Total recoveries

     69        3        72        17        89   
                                        

Net charge-offs

     (112     (57     (169     (20     (189

Provision for loan losses

     53        40        93        20        113   

Other

     5               5        4        9   
                                        

Balance at March 31, 2011

   $ 916      $ 563      $ 1,479      $ 327      $ 1,806   
                                        

Allowance for loan losses to finance receivables and loans outstanding at March 31, 2011 (a)

     1.6     5.3     2.2     0.8     1.7

Net charge-offs to average finance receivables and loans outstanding at March 31, 2011 (a)

     0.8     2.1     1.0     0.2     0.7

Allowance for loan losses to total nonperforming finance receivables and loans at March 31, 2011 (a)

     488.9     136.7     246.7     50.7     145.2

Ratio of allowance for loans losses to net charge-offs at March 31, 2011

     2.0        2.5        2.2        4.1        2.4   

 

(a) Coverage percentages are based on the allowance for loan losses related to finance receivables and loans excluding those loans held at fair value as a percentage of the unpaid principal balance, net of premiums and discounts.

 

      Consumer
automobile
    Consumer
mortgage
    Total
consumer
    Commercial     Total  
    

($ in millions)

 

Balance at January 1, 2010

   $ 1,024      $ 640      $ 1,664      $ 781      $ 2,445   

Cumulative effect of change in accounting principles (a)

     222               222               222   

Charge-offs

          

Domestic

     (289     (32     (321     (61     (382

Foreign

     (56     (2     (58     (4     (62
                                        

Total charge-offs

     (345     (34     (379     (65     (444
                                        

Recoveries

          

Domestic

     105        4        109        4        113   

Foreign

     15               15               15   
                                        

Total recoveries

     120        4        124        4        128   
                                        

Net charge-offs

     (225     (30     (255     (61     (316

Provision for loan losses

     108        18        126        18        144   

Discontinued operations

     2        (1     1               1   

Other

     (11     7        (4     (12     (16
                                        

Balance at March 31, 2010

   $ 1,120      $ 634      $ 1,754      $ 726      $ 2,480   
                                        

Allowance for loan losses to finance receivables and loans outstanding at March 31, 2010 (b)

     2.9     5.6     3.6     2.0     2.9

Net charge-offs to average finance receivables and loans outstanding at March 31, 2010 (b)

     2.4     1.1     2.1     0.7     1.5

Allowance for loan losses to total nonperforming finance receivables and loans at March 31, 2010 (b)

     391.6     142.2     239.7     42.4     101.5

Ratio of allowance for loans losses to net charge-offs at March 31, 2010

     1.2        5.3        1.7        3.0        2.0   

 

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(a) Includes adjustment to the allowance due to adoption of ASU 2009-17, Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities.

 

(b) Coverage percentages are based on the allowance for loan losses related to finance receivables and loans excluding those loans held at fair value as a percentage of the unpaid principal balance, net of premiums and discounts.

The allowance for consumer loan losses at March 31, 2011, declined $275 million compared to March 31, 2010, reflecting an improved asset mix with higher quality recent vintages, the continued runoff of Nuvell and other liquidating portfolios, as well as improved loss performance.

The allowance for commercial loan losses declined $399 million at March 31, 2011, compared to March 31, 2010, primarily related to the sale of the resort finance portfolio and improved portfolio credit quality due to improved dealer performance.

The following tables present an analysis of the activity in the allowance for loan losses on finance receivables and loans.

 

     Consumer
automobile
    Consumer
mortgage
    Total
consumer
    Commercial     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Allowance at January 1, 2010

   $ 1,024      $ 640      $ 1,664      $ 781      $ 2,445   

Cumulative effect of change in accounting principles (a)

     222               222               222   

Charge-offs

          

Domestic

     (776     (239     (1,015     (282     (1,297

Foreign

     (194     (4     (198     (151     (349
                                        

Total charge-offs

     (970     (243     (1,213     (433     (1,646
                                        

Recoveries

          

Domestic

     319        26        345        18        363   

Foreign

     71        1        72        13        85   
                                        

Total recoveries

     390        27        417        31        448   
                                        

Net charge-offs

     (580     (216     (796     (402     (1,198

Provision for loan losses (b)

     304        164        468        (26     442   

Discontinued operations

                          (4     (4

Other

            (8     (8     (26     (34
                                        

Allowance at December 31, 2010

   $ 970      $ 580      $ 1,550      $ 323      $ 1,873   
                                        

Allowance for loan losses to finance receivables and loans outstanding at December 31, 2010 (c)

     1.9     5.4     2.5     0.8     1.8

Net charge-offs to average finance receivables and loans outstanding at December 31, 2010 (c)

     1.4     2.0     1.5     1.1     1.3

Allowance for loan losses to total nonperforming finance receivables and loans at December 31, 2010 (c)

     469.2     103.4     202.0     43.7     124.3

Ratio of allowance for loans losses to net charge-offs at December 31, 2010

     1.7        2.7        1.9        0.8        1.6   

 

(a) Includes adjustment to the allowance due to adoption of ASU 2009-17. Refer to Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

 

(b) Includes $69 million benefit from the recognition of a recovery through provision upon the sale of the resort finance portfolio in September 2010.

 

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(c) Coverage percentages are based on the allowance for loan losses related to finance receivables and loans excluding those loans held at fair value as a percentage of the unpaid principal balance, net of premiums and discounts.

 

     Consumer
automobile
    Consumer
mortgage
    Total
consumer
    Commercial     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Allowance at January 1, 2009

   $ 1,394      $ 1,142      $ 2,536      $ 897      $ 3,433   

Charge-offs

          

Domestic

     (1,001     (1,424     (2,425     (955     (3,380

Foreign

     (372     (185     (557     (76     (633

Write-downs related to transfers to held-for-sale

     (11     (3,417     (3,428     (10     (3,438
                                        

Total charge-offs

     (1,384     (5,026     (6,410     (1,041     (7,451
                                        

Recoveries

          

Domestic

     189        68        257        19        276   

Foreign

     71               71        5        76   
                                        

Total recoveries

     260        68        328        24        352   
                                        

Net charge-offs

     (1,124     (4,958     (6,082     (1,017     (7,099

Provision for loan losses

     755        3,951        4,706        898        5,604   

Discontinued operations

     13        556        569        (3     566   

Other

     (14     (51     (65     6        (59
                                        

Allowance at December 31, 2009

   $ 1,024      $ 640      $ 1,664      $ 781      $ 2,445   
                                        

Allowance for loan losses to finance receivables and loans outstanding at December 31, 2009 (a)

     3.4     5.7     4.0     2.2     3.2

Net charge-offs to average finance receivables and loans outstanding at December 31, 2009 (a)

     3.3     23.9     11.2     2.8     7.9

Allowance for loan losses to total nonperforming finance receivables and loans at December 31, 2009 (a)

     265.2     148.7     203.8     41.5     90.6

Ratio of allowance for loans losses to net charge-offs at December 31, 2009

     0.9        0.1        0.3        0.8        0.3   

 

(a) Coverage percentages are based on the allowance for loan losses related to finance receivables and loans excluding those loans held at fair value as a percentage of the unpaid principal balance, net of premiums and discounts.

The allowance for consumer loan losses was $1.6 billion at December 31, 2010, compared to $1.7 billion at December 31, 2009. The decline reflected the improved asset mix resulting from the strategic actions taken in late 2009 related to legacy mortgage loans and the continued runoff of Nuvell and other liquidating portfolios. Partially offsetting this decline was an increase in the allowance due to increased loans outstanding in the nonliquidating automobile portfolio.

The allowance for commercial loan losses was $323 million at December 31, 2010, compared to $781 million at December 31, 2009. The decline was primarily related to the sale of the resort finance portfolio, runoff in our commercial real estate portfolio, and improved portfolio credit quality due to improved dealer performance, strategic dealer exits, and the wind-down of operations in several nonstrategic countries.

 

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Allowance for Loan Losses by Type

The following tables summarize the allocation of the allowance for loan losses by product type.

 

    March 31,  
    2011     2010  
    Allowance for
loan losses
    Allowance
as a % of

loans
outstanding
    Allowance as
a % of
allowance for
loan losses
    Allowance for
loan losses
    Allowance as
a % of

loans
outstanding
    Allowance as
a % of
allowance for
loan losses
 
    ($ in millions)  

Consumer

           

Domestic

           

Consumer automobile

  $ 727        1.8        40.2      $ 896        4.1        36.1   

Consumer mortgage

           

1st Mortgage

    304        4.4        16.8        400        5.7        16.1   

Home equity

    258        7.7        14.3        233        6.2        9.4   
                                      

Total domestic

    1,289        2.6        71.3        1,529        4.6        61.6   
                                   

Foreign

           

Consumer automobile

    189        1.1        10.5        224        1.4        9.0   

Consumer mortgage

           

1st Mortgage

    1        0.3        0.1        1        0.3        0.1   

Home equity

                                         
                                   

Total foreign

    190        1.1        10.6        225        1.4        9.1   
                                   

Total consumer loans

    1,479        2.2        81.9        1,754        3.6        70.7   
                                   

Commercial

           

Domestic

           

Commercial and industrial

           

Automobile

    70        0.3        3.9        86        0.4        3.5   

Mortgage

                         2        0.2        0.1   

Other

    92        5.7        5.1        337        13.0        13.6   

Commercial real estate

           

Automobile

    54        2.6        3.0        67        3.2        2.7   

Mortgage

                         6        10.6        0.2   
                                   

Total domestic

    216        0.7        12.0        498        1.8        20.1   
                                   

Foreign

           

Commercial and industrial

           

Automobile

    63        0.7        3.5        52        0.6        2.1   

Mortgage

    15        37.0        0.8        23        26.6        0.9   

Other

    28        9.3        1.5        101        30.4        4.1   

Commercial real estate

           

Automobile

    2        0.8        0.1        2        0.9        0.1   

Mortgage

    3        6.4        0.2        50        35.1        2.0   
                                   

Total foreign

    111        1.1        6.1        228        2.4        9.2   
                                   

Total commercial loans

    327        0.8        18.1        726        2.0        29.3   
                                   

Total allowance for loan losses

  $ 1,806        1.7        100.0      $ 2,480        2.9        100.0   
                                   

 

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     December 31,  
     2010     2009  
     Allowance
for loan
losses
     Allowance
as a % of
loans
outstanding
    Allowance
as a % of
allowance
for loan
losses
    Allowance
for loan
losses
     Allowance
as a % of
loans
outstanding
    Allowance
as a % of
allowance
for loan
losses
 
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer

              

Domestic

              

Consumer automobile

   $ 769         2.2     41.0   $ 772         6.2     31.6

Consumer mortgage

              

1st Mortgage

     322         4.7        17.2        387         5.6        15.8   

Home equity

     256         7.5        13.7        251         6.5        10.3   
                                                  

Total domestic

     1,347         3.0        71.9        1,410         6.0        57.7   
                                                  

Foreign

              

Consumer automobile

     201         1.2        10.7        252         1.4        10.2   

Consumer mortgage

              

1st Mortgage

     2         0.4        0.1        2         0.5        0.1   

Home equity

                                            
                                                  

Total foreign

     203         1.2        10.8        254         1.4        10.3   
                                                  

Total consumer loans

     1,550         2.5        82.7        1,664         4.0        68.0   
                                                  

Commercial

              

Domestic

              

Commercial and industrial

              

Automobile

     73         0.3        3.9        157         0.8        6.4   

Mortgage

                           10         0.6        0.4   

Other

     97         5.4        5.2        322         12.0        13.2   

Commercial real estate

              

Automobile

     54         2.6        2.9                         

Mortgage

                           54         44.6        2.2   
                                                  

Total domestic

     224         0.7        12.0        543         2.1        22.2   
                                                  

Foreign

              

Commercial and industrial

              

Automobile

     33         0.4        1.7        54         0.7        2.2   

Mortgage

     12         30.5        0.7        20         21.0        0.8   

Other

     39         12.6        2.1        111         25.5        4.6   

Commercial real estate

              

Automobile

     2         0.9        0.1                         

Mortgage

     13         16.9        0.7        53         32.5        2.2   
                                                  

Total foreign

     99         1.1        5.3        238         2.7        9.8   
                                                  

Total commercial loans

     323         0.8        17.3        781         2.2        32.0   
                                                  

Total allowance for loan losses

   $ 1,873         1.8     100.0   $ 2,445         3.2     100.0
                                                  

 

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Provision for Loan Losses

The following tables summarize the provision for loan losses by product type.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
             2011                     2010          
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer

    

Domestic

    

Consumer automobile

   $ 46      $ 84   

Consumer mortgage

    

1st Mortgage

     17        24   

Home equity

     23        (8
                

Total domestic

     86        100   
                

Foreign

    

Consumer automobile

     7        24   

Consumer mortgage

    

1st Mortgage

            2   

Home equity

              
                

Total foreign

     7        26   
                

Total consumer loans

     93        126   
                

Commercial

    

Domestic

    

Commercial and industrial

    

Automobile

            8   

Mortgage

     1        (7

Other

     (8     19   

Commercial real estate

    

Automobile

     (1       

Mortgage

            (6
                

Total domestic

     (8     14   
                

Foreign

    

Commercial and industrial

    

Automobile

     31        5   

Mortgage

     1        2   

Other

     (9     (3

Commercial real estate

    

Automobile

              

Mortgage

     5          
                

Total foreign

     28        4   
                

Total commercial loans

     20        18   
                

Total provision for loans losses

   $ 113      $ 144   
                

 

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     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer

    

Domestic

    

Consumer automobile

   $ 228      $ 493   

Consumer mortgage

    

1st Mortgage

     72        2,360   

Home equity

     90        1,588   
                

Total domestic

     390        4,441   
                

Foreign

    

Consumer automobile

     76        262   

Consumer mortgage

    

1st Mortgage

     2        3   

Home equity

              
                

Total foreign

     78        265   
                

Total consumer loans

     468        4,706   
                

Commercial

    

Domestic

    

Commercial and industrial

    

Automobile

     2        54   

Mortgage

     (13     36   

Other (a)

     (47     348   

Commercial real estate

    

Automobile

     34          

Mortgage

     (10     255   
                

Total domestic

     (34     693   
                

Foreign

    

Commercial and industrial

    

Automobile

     (2     32   

Mortgage

     (5     17   

Other

     5        142   

Commercial real estate

    

Automobile

     2          

Mortgage

     8        14   
                

Total foreign

     8        205   
                

Total commercial loans

     (26     898   
                

Total provision for loan losses

   $ 442      $ 5,604   
                

 

(a) Includes $69 million benefit from the recognition of a recovery through provision upon the sale of the resort finance portfolio in September 2010.

 

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Lease Residual Risk Management

We are exposed to residual risk on vehicles in the consumer lease portfolio. This lease residual risk represents the possibility that the actual proceeds realized upon the sale of returned vehicles will be lower than the projection of these values used in establishing the pricing at lease inception. The following factors most significantly influence lease residual risk.

 

   

Used vehicle market—We are at risk due to changes in used vehicle prices. General economic conditions, used vehicle supply and demand, and new vehicle market prices most heavily influence used vehicle prices.

 

   

Residual value projections—We establish risk adjusted residual values at lease inception by consulting independently published guides and periodically reviewing these residual values during the lease term. These values are projections of expected values in the future (typically between two and four years) based on current assumptions for the respective make and model. Actual realized values often differ.

 

   

Remarketing abilities—Our ability to efficiently process and effectively market off-lease vehicles affects the disposal costs and the proceeds realized from vehicle sales.

 

   

Manufacturer vehicle and marketing programs—Automotive manufacturers influence lease residual results in the following ways:

 

   

The brand image of automotive manufacturers and consumer demand for their products affect residual risk as our lease portfolio consists primarily of these vehicles.

 

   

Automotive manufacturer marketing programs may influence the used vehicle market for those vehicles through programs such as incentives on new vehicles, programs designed to encourage lessees to terminate their leases early in conjunction with the acquisition of a new vehicle (referred to as pull-ahead programs), and special rate used vehicle programs.

 

   

Automotive manufacturers may provide support to us for certain residual deficiencies.

The following table summarizes the volume of serviced lease terminations in the United States over recent periods. It also summarizes the average sales proceeds on 24, 36, and 48 month scheduled lease terminations for those same periods at auction. The mix of terminated vehicles in 2010 was used to normalize results over previous periods to more clearly demonstrate market pricing trends.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008  

Off-lease vehicles remarketed (in units)

     376,203         369,981         425,567   

Sales proceeds on scheduled lease terminations ($ per unit)

        

24-month

   $ 28,008       $ 25,192       $ 21,866   

36-month

     19,226         17,327         13,828   

48-month

     14,722         12,384         10,641   

Proceeds in 2009 and 2010 increased as market conditions for used vehicles improved. The improvement in proceeds was driven partly by lower used vehicle supply and increased consumer demand for used vehicles as the weakened U.S. economy drove consumer preference for used vehicles over higher cost new vehicles.

Country Risk

We have exposures to obligors domiciled in foreign countries; and therefore, our portfolio is subject to country risk. Country risk is the risk that conditions in a foreign country will impair the value of our assets,

 

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restrict our ability to repatriate equity or profits, or adversely impact the ability of the guarantor to uphold their obligations to us. Country risk includes risks arising from the economic, political, and social conditions prevalent in a country, as well as the strengths and weaknesses in the legal and regulatory framework. These conditions may have potentially favorable or unfavorable consequences for our investments in a particular country.

Country risk is measured by determining our cross-border outstandings in accordance with FFIEC guidelines. Cross-border outstandings are reported as assets within the country of which the obligor or guarantor resides. Furthermore, outstandings backed by tangible collateral are reflected under the country in which the collateral is held. For securities received as collateral, cross-border outstandings are assigned to the domicile of the issuer of the securities. Resale agreements are presented based on the domicile of the counterparty.

The following tables list all countries in which cross-border outstandings exceed 1.0% of consolidated assets.

 

     Banks      Public      Other      Net local
country assets
     Derivatives      Total cross-
border
outstandings
 
     ($ in millions)  

2010

                 

Canada

   $ 343       $ 361       $ 349       $ 4,678       $ 19       $ 5,750   

Germany

     587         40         111         3,485         76         4,299   

United Kingdom

     627         9         37         1,133         83         1,889   

2009

                 

Germany

   $ 281       $ 66       $ 1,459       $ 3,057       $ 304       $ 5,167   

United Kingdom

     123         285         307         4,226         74         5,015   

Canada

     581         42         71         2,755         187         3,636   

Market Risk

Our automotive financing, mortgage, and insurance activities give rise to market risk representing the potential loss in the fair value of assets or liabilities and earnings caused by movements in market variables, such as interest rates, foreign-exchange rates, equity prices, market perceptions of credit risk, and other market fluctuations that affect the value of securities and assets held-for-sale. We are primarily exposed to interest rate risk arising from changes in interest rates related to financing, investing, and cash management activities. More specifically, we have entered into contracts to provide financing, to retain mortgage servicing rights, and to retain various assets related to securitization activities all of which are exposed in varying degrees to changes in value due to movements in interest rates. Interest rate risk arises from the mismatch between assets and the related liabilities used for funding. We enter into various financial instruments, including derivatives, to maintain the desired level of exposure to the risk of interest rate fluctuations. Refer to Note 23 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

We are also exposed to foreign-currency risk arising from the possibility that fluctuations in foreign-exchange rates will affect future earnings or asset and liability values related to our global operations. We may enter into hedges to mitigate foreign exchange risk.

We also have exposure to equity price risk, primarily in our Insurance operations, which invests in equity securities that are subject to price risk influenced by capital market movements. We enter into equity options to economically hedge our exposure to the equity markets.

Although the diversity of our activities from our complementary lines of business may partially mitigate market risk, we also actively manage this risk. We maintain risk management control systems to monitor interest rates, foreign-currency exchange rates, equity price risks, and any of their related hedge positions. Positions are monitored using a variety of analytical techniques including market value, sensitivity analysis, and value at risk models.

 

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Fair Value Sensitivity Analysis

The following table and subsequent discussion presents a fair value sensitivity analysis of our assets and liabilities using isolated hypothetical movements in specific market rates. The analysis assumes adverse instantaneous, parallel shifts in market exchange rates, interest rate yield curves, and equity prices. The analysis does not consider the financial offsets available through derivative activities. Additionally, since only adverse fair value impacts are included, the natural offset between asset and liability rate sensitivities that arise within a diversified balance sheet, such as ours, is not considered.

 

     December 31,  
     2010     2009  
     Nontrading     Trading (a)     Nontrading     Trading (a)  
     ($ in millions)  

Financial instruments exposed to changes in:

        

Interest rates

        

Estimated fair value

     (b   $ 240        (b   $ 739   

Effect of 10% adverse change in rates

     (b     (1     (b     (18

Foreign-currency exchange rates

        

Estimated fair value

   $ 7,079      $ 94      $ 6,432      $ 111   

Effect of 10% adverse change in rates

     (708     (9     (643     (11

Equity prices

        

Estimated fair value

   $ 796      $      $ 675      $   

Effect of 10% decrease in prices

     (80            (68       

 

(a) Includes our trading securities. Refer to Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on our trading portfolio.

 

(b) Refer to the section below titled Net Interest Income Sensitivity Analysis for information on the interest rate sensitivity of our nontrading financial instruments.

The fair value of our foreign-currency exchange-rate sensitive financial instruments increased during the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to the same period in 2009, due to declines in our foreign denominated debt. This decline consequently drove the increase in the fair value estimate and associated adverse 10% change in rates impact. The increase in the fair value of our equity price sensitive financial instruments was driven by a change in mix within our investment portfolio. This change in equity exposure drove our increased sensitivity to a 10% decrease in equity prices.

Net Interest Income Sensitivity Analysis

We use net interest income sensitivity analysis to measure and manage the interest rate sensitivities of our nontrading financial instruments rather than the fair value approach. Interest rate risk represents the most significant market risk to the nontrading exposures. We actively monitor the level of exposure so that movements in interest rates do not adversely affect future earnings. Simulations are used to estimate the impact on our net interest income in numerous interest rate scenarios. These simulations measure how the interest rate scenarios will impact net interest income on the financial instruments on the balance sheet including debt securities, loans, deposits, debt, and derivative instruments. The simulations incorporate assumptions about future balance sheet changes including loan and deposit pricing, changes in funding mix, and asset/liability repricing, prepayments, and contractual maturities.

We prepare forward-looking forecasts of net interest income, which take into consideration anticipated future business growth, asset/liability positioning, and interest rates based on the implied forward curve. Simulations are used to assess changes in net interest income in multiple interest rates scenarios relative to the baseline forecast. The changes in net interest income relative to the baseline are defined as the sensitivity. The

 

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net interest income sensitivity tests measure the potential change in our pretax net interest income over the following twelve months. A number of alternative rate scenarios are tested including immediate parallel shocks to the forward yield curve, nonparallel shocks to the forward yield curve, and stresses to certain term points on the yield curve in isolation to capture and monitor a number of risk types.

Our twelve-month pretax net interest income sensitivity based on the forward-curve was as follows.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Parallel rate shifts

    

- 100 basis points

   $ 54      $ 15   

+100 basis points

     (99     (129

+200 basis points

     (28     (137

Our net interest income was liability sensitive to a parallel move in interest rates at both years ended 2010 and 2009. The change in net interest income sensitivity from December 31, 2009, was due to the change in the level of forward short-term interest rates and the resultant impact on certain interest rate floors on commercial finance receivables and loans. Additionally, we reduced our net receive fixed interest rate swaps hedging the debt portfolio as part of our normal ALM activities, which contributed to the change.

Operational Risk

We define operational risk as the risk of loss resulting from inadequate or failed processes or systems, human factors, or external events. Operational risk is an inherent risk element in each of our businesses and related support activities. Such risk can manifest in various ways, including errors, business interruptions, and inappropriate behavior of employees, and can potentially result in financial losses and other damage to us.

To monitor and control such risk, we maintain a system of policies and a control framework designed to provide a sound and well-controlled operational environment. This framework employs practices and tools designed to maintain risk governance, risk and control assessment and testing, risk monitoring, and transparency through risk reporting mechanisms. The goal is to maintain operational risk at appropriate levels in view of our financial strength, the characteristics of the businesses and the markets in which we operate, and the related competitive and regulatory environment.

Notwithstanding these risk and control initiatives, we may incur losses attributable to operational risks from time to time, and there can be no assurance these losses will not be incurred in the future.

Liquidity Management, Funding, and Regulatory Capital

Overview

Liquidity management involves forecasting funding requirements driven by asset growth and liability maturities. The goal of liquidity management is to ensure we maintain adequate funds to meet changes in loan and lease demand, debt maturities, unexpected deposit withdrawals, and other seen and unforeseen corporate needs. Our primary funding objective is to ensure we maintain access to stable and diverse liquidity sources throughout all market cycles including periods of financial distress. Sources of liquidity include both retail and brokered deposits and secured and unsecured market-based funding across maturities, interest rate characteristics, currencies, and investor profiles. Further liquidity is available through committed facilities as well as funding programs supported by the Federal Reserve and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (“FHLB”).

Liquidity risk arises from the failure to recognize or address changes in market conditions affecting both asset and liability flows. Effective liquidity risk management is critical to the viability of financial institutions to

 

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ensure an institution has the ability to meet contractual and contingent financial obligations. The ability to manage liquidity needs and contingent funding exposures has been essential to the solvency of financial institutions.

ALCO, the Asset-Liability Committee, is responsible for monitoring Ally’s liquidity position, funding strategies and plans, contingency funding plans, and counterparty credit exposure arising from financial transactions. ALCO delegates the planning and execution of liquidity management strategies to Corporate Treasury. We manage liquidity risk at the business segment, legal entity, and consolidated levels. Each reporting segment, along with Ally Bank and ResMor Trust, prepares periodic forecasts depicting anticipated funding needs and sources of funds with oversight and monitoring by Corporate Treasury. Corporate Treasury manages liquidity under baseline projected economic scenarios as well as more severe economically stressed environments. Corporate Treasury, in turn, plans and executes our funding strategies.

In addition, we have established internal management committees to assist senior leadership in monitoring and managing our liquidity positions and funding plans. The Liquidity Risk Council is responsible for monitoring liquidity risk tolerance while maintaining adequate liquidity and analyzing liquidity risk measurement standards, liquidity position and investment alternatives, funding plans, forecasted liquidity needs and related risks and opportunities, liquidity buffers, stress testing, and contingency funding. The Structured Funding Risk Council is responsible for assisting senior leadership in the execution of its structured funding strategy and risk management accountabilities.

We maintain available liquidity in the form of cash, highly liquid unencumbered securities and available credit facility capacity that, taken together, are intended to allow us to operate and to meet our contractual obligations in the event of market-wide disruptions and enterprise-specific events. We maintain available liquidity at various entities, including Ally Bank and Ally Financial Inc., the parent company, and consider regulatory and tax restrictions that may limit our ability to transfer funds across entities. At March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we maintained $22.0 billion and $23.8 billion of total available parent company liquidity and $11.4 billion and $7.5 billion of total available liquidity at Ally Bank, respectively. To optimize cash and secured facility capacity between entities, the parent company lends cash to Ally Bank from time to time under an intercompany loan agreement. At March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, $2.3 billion and $3.7 billion, respectively, was outstanding under the intercompany loan agreement. Amounts outstanding are repayable to the parent company at any time, subject to five days notice. As a result, this amount is included in the parent company available liquidity and excluded from the available liquidity at Ally Bank in the above figures. For this purpose, parent company includes our consolidated operations less our Insurance operations, ResCap, and Ally Bank.

Funding Strategy

Our liquidity and ongoing profitability are largely dependent on our timely access to funding and the costs associated with raising funds in different segments of the capital markets. We continue to be extremely focused on maintaining and enhancing our liquidity. Our funding strategy primarily focuses on the development of diversified funding sources across a global investor base to meet all our liquidity needs and to ensure an appropriate maturity profile. These funding sources include unsecured debt capital markets, asset-backed securitizations, whole-loan sales, domestic and international committed and uncommitted bank lines, brokered certificates of deposits, and retail deposits. We also supplement these sources with short-term borrowings, including Demand Notes, unsecured bank loans, and repurchase arrangements. Creating funding from a wide range of sources across geographic locations strengthens our liquidity position and limits dependence on any single source. We evaluate funding markets on an ongoing basis to achieve an appropriate balance of unsecured and secured funding sources and the maturity profiles of both. In addition, we further distinguish our funding strategy between bank funding and holding company or nonbank funding.

 

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In addition, the FDIC has indicated that it expects us to diversify Ally Bank’s overall funding in order to reduce reliance on any one source of funding and to achieve a well-balanced funding portfolio across a spectrum of risk, duration, and cost of funds characteristics. Over the past few years, we have been focused on diversifying Ally Bank’s funding base by expanding its securitization programs, both public and through private committed credit facilities, extending the maturity profile of our brokered deposit portfolio while not exceeding a $10 billion portfolio, establishing repurchase agreements, and continuing to access funds from the Federal Home Loan Banks.

Throughout 2009 and 2010, we have been directing new bank-eligible assets in the United States to Ally Bank in order to reduce and minimize our nonbanking exposures and funding requirements. We expect that this development will further allow us to use bank funding for a wider array of our automotive finance assets and to provide a sustainable long-term funding channel for the business. As a result of the conversion of $5.5 billion of Ally Mandatorily Convertible Preferred (“MCP”) stock held by Treasury into common stock on December 30, 2010, and consequent reduction of the equity interests held by General Motors and the GM Trust, the Federal Reserve has determined that GM will no longer be considered an “affiliate” of Ally Bank for purposes of Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act, which imposes limitations on transactions between banks and their affiliates. Transactions between Ally Bank and GM will continue to be subject to regulation and examination by the bank’s primary federal regulator, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

Ally Bank

Ally Bank raises deposits directly from customers through the direct banking channel via the internet and over the telephone. Ally Bank provides our automotive finance and mortgage loan operations with a stable and low cost funding source. Ally Bank funded 56% and 64% of our U.S. retail automotive loans during the three months ended March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively. At March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we had $35.4 billion and $33.9 billion of deposits including $23.5 billion and $21.8 billion of retail deposits sourced by Ally Bank, respectively. The growth of our retail deposit base from $7.2 billion at the end of 2008 to $23.5 billion at March 31, 2011 enabled us to reduce our cost of funds during that period. We expect to continue to lower our cost of funds as our deposit base grows.

At March 31, 2011, Ally Bank maintained cash liquidity of $3.7 billion and highly liquid U.S. federal government and U.S. agency securities of $5.0 billion, excluding certain securities that were encumbered at March 31, 2011. In addition, at March 31, 2011, Ally Bank had unused capacity in committed secured funding facilities of $4.9 billion, including an equal allocation of shared unused capacity of $3.9 billion from a facility also available to the parent company. At December 31, 2010, Ally Bank maintained cash liquidity of $3.1 billion and highly liquid U.S. federal government and U.S. agency securities of $4.4 billion, excluding certain securities that were encumbered at December 31, 2010. In addition, at December 31, 2010, Ally Bank had unused capacity in committed secured funding facilities of $3.8 billion, including an equal allocation of the unused capacity from a $4.1 billion shared facility also available to the parent company. Our ability to access this unused capacity depends on having eligible assets to collateralize the incremental funding and, in some instances, the execution of interest rate hedges.

Maximizing bank funding is the cornerstone of our long-term liquidity strategy. We have made significant progress in migrating assets to Ally Bank and growing our retail deposit base since becoming a bank holding company. Growth in retail deposits is key to further reducing our cost of funds and decreasing our reliance on the capital markets and other sources of funding. We believe deposits provide a low-cost source of funds that are less sensitive to interest rate changes, market volatility, or changes in our credit ratings than other funding sources. We have continued to expand our deposit gathering efforts through our direct and indirect marketing channels. Current retail product offerings consist of a variety of savings products including certificates of deposits (“CDs”), savings accounts, and money market accounts, as well as an online checking product. In addition, we have brokered deposits, which are obtained through third-party intermediaries. In the first quarter of 2011, the deposit base at Ally Bank grew $1.5 billion, ending the quarter at $35.4 billion from $33.9 billion at December 31, 2010.

 

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In 2010, the deposit base at Ally Bank grew $5.1 billion, ending the year at $33.9 billion from $28.8 billion at December 31, 2009. The growth in deposits was primarily attributable to our retail deposit portfolio. Strong retention rates materially contributed to our growth in retail deposits during 2010. In the first quarter of 2011 and the fourth quarter of 2010, we retained 86% and 85% of CD balances up for renewal during the same period, respectively. In addition to retail and brokered deposits, Ally Bank had access to funding through a variety of other sources including FHLB advances, the Federal Reserve’s Discount Window, public securitizations and private funding arrangements. At March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, debt outstanding from the FHLB totaled $4.8 billion and $5.3 billion, respectively, with no debt outstanding from the Federal Reserve. Also, as part of our liquidity and funding plans, Ally Bank utilizes certain securities as collateral to access funding from repurchase agreements with third parties. Repurchase agreements are generally short-term and often occur overnight. Funding from repurchase agreements was accounted for as debt on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. At March 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and 2009, Ally Bank had no debt outstanding under repurchase agreements.

In addition to building a larger deposit base, we continue to remain active in the securitization markets to finance our Ally Bank automotive loan portfolios. During the first quarter of 2011, Ally Bank completed four transactions and raised $3.4 billion of secured funding backed by retail and dealer floorplan automotive loans, as well as consumer leases. While deposits provide for a more stable funding base, our efficiencies in securitizations and improving capital market conditions have resulted in a reduction in the cost of funds achieved through secured funding transactions, making them a very attractive source of funding. For retail automotive loans and leases, the primary reason why securitizations are an attractive funding source is that the term structure locks in funding for a specified pool of loans and leases for the life of the underlying asset. Once a pool of retail automotive loans are selected and placed into a securitization, the underlying assets will have no bearing on any incremental liquidity risk. We manage the execution risk arising from secured funding by maintaining a diverse investor base and maintaining committed secured facilities. In the first quarter of 2011, we renewed our syndicated revolving credit facility that is secured by automotive retail loans, leases, and dealer floorplan automotive loans. The facility size was increased from $7.0 billion to $7.5 billion and the tenor for half of the facility size was extended to two years, with the other half remaining at a 364-day maturity. At March 31, 2011, the total credit commitments capable of financing Ally Bank’s automobile loan portfolios were $12.9 billion, which included $4.1 billion of commitments available to Ally Bank or the parent company.

Refer to Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a summary of deposit funding by type.

The following table shows Ally Bank’s number of accounts and deposit balances by type as of the end of each quarter since 2009.

 

    1st  Quarter
2011
    4th  Quarter
2010
    3rd  Quarter
2010
    2nd  Quarter
2010
    1st Quarter
2010
    4th  Quarter
2009
    3rd  Quarter
2009
    2nd  Quarter
2009
    1st Quarter
2009
 
    ($ in millions)  

Number of accounts

    798,622        726,104        676,419        616,665        573,388        535,301        506,313        461,229        362,776   

Deposits

                 

Retail

  $ 23,469      $ 21,817      $ 20,504      $ 18,690      $ 17,672      $ 16,926      $ 15,901      $ 14,464      $ 11,026   

Brokered

    9,836        9,992        9,978        9,858        9,757        10,149        9,151        8,141        9,072   

Other (1)

    2,064        2,108        2,538        2,267        1,914        1,767        2,331        2,194        1,950   
                                                                       

Total deposits

  $ 35,369      $ 33,917      $ 33,020      $ 30,815      $ 29,343      $ 28,842      $ 27,383      $ 24,799      $ 22,048   
                                                                       

 

(1) Other deposits include mortgage escrow and other deposits (excluding intercompany deposits).

 

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Nonbank Funding

At March 31, 2011, the parent company maintained cash liquidity of $7.6 billion and unused capacity in committed credit facilities of $10.9 billion, including an equal allocation of shared unused capacity of $3.9 billion from a facility also available to Ally Bank. At December 31, 2010, the parent company maintained cash liquidity in the amount of $6.7 billion and unused capacity in committed credit facilities of $11.1 billion, including an equal allocation of the unused capacity from a $4.1 billion shared facility also available to Ally Bank. Our ability to access unused capacity in secured facilities depends on having eligible assets to collateralize the incremental funding and, in some instances, the execution of interest rate hedges. As we shift our focus to growing bank funding capabilities in line with increasing asset originations at Ally Bank, we are similarly focused on minimizing uses of our parent company liquidity and reducing the amount of assets funded outside the bank. Funding sources at the parent company generally consist of longer-term unsecured debt, private credit facilities, asset-backed securitizations, and a modest amount of short-term borrowings.

We continue to access the unsecured debt markets to further strengthen the parent company liquidity position. During the first quarter of 2011, we completed an offering of $2.3 billion in aggregate principal amount of unsecured term debt with a tenor of three years. In April, we completed a $1.5 billion offering, which included both fixed and floating rate notes with a tenor of approximately three years. In addition to funding in the debt capital markets, we have offered short-term and long-term unsecured debt through a retail debt program known as SmartNotes. SmartNotes are floating-rate instruments with fixed-maturity dates ranging from 9 months to 30 years that we have issued through a network of participating broker-dealers. There were $9.7 billion and $9.8 billion and $10.9 billion of SmartNotes outstanding at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. For the remainder of 2011, we expect to continue to follow this approach of being aggressive, yet opportunistic in the unsecured debt markets to prefund upcoming debt maturities.

During 2010, we completed transactions in the unsecured debt markets to further strengthen the parent company liquidity position. We raised over $8.0 billion in the unsecured bond markets including a $1.0 billion issuance in the fourth quarter. Of the $8.0 billion issued this year, $3.7 billion had a term of 10 years while the remaining amount had a term of 5 or 7 years.

We also obtain short-term unsecured funding from the sale of floating-rate demand notes under our Demand Notes program. The holder has the option to require us to redeem these notes at any time without restriction. Demand Notes outstanding were $2.3 billion at March 31, 2011, $2.0 billion at December 31, 2010, and $1.3 billion at December 31, 2009. Unsecured short-term bank loans also provide short term funding. At March 31, 2011, we had $4.6 billion in short-term unsecured debt outstanding, an increase of $0.4 billion from December 31, 2010. At December 31, 2010, we had $4.2 billion in short-term unsecured debt outstanding, an increase of $1.0 billion from December 31, 2009. Refer to Note 16 and Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information about our outstanding short-term borrowings and long-term unsecured debt, respectively.

Secured funding continues to be a significant source of financing at the parent company. Internationally, we will continue to remain active in both the public and private securitization markets. During the first quarter of 2011, we completed a Canadian public term securitization transaction backed by retail automotive loans that resulted in $748 million of funding. In the United States, new automotive term securitization transactions were issued through Ally Bank only, which is consistent with our broader strategy of directing new bank-eligible assets to Ally Bank in order to reduce and minimize our nonbanking exposures and funding requirements at the parent company. We still maintain significant credit capacity in North America to fund automotive-related assets, including a $7.5 billion syndicated facility that was renewed in March 2011 and funds U.S. and Canadian automotive retail and commercial loans, as well as leases. The tenor for half of the facility is two years with the other half having a 364-day maturity. In addition to this facility, there was $9.5 billion of committed capacity available exclusively for the parent company in various secured facilities around the globe at March 31, 2011.

 

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Recent Funding Developments

In summary, during the first quarter of 2011, we completed funding transactions totaling over $7 billion, and we renewed over $16 billion of key existing funding facilities as we realized ready access to both the public and private markets. Key funding highlights from the first quarter of 2011 were as follows:

 

   

We issued $2.3 billion of unsecured debt that matures in 2014.

 

   

We raised $4.6 billion from the sale of asset-backed securities publicly and privately in the United States and Canada. Ally Bank completed four transactions and raised $3.4 billion of secured funding backed by retail and dealer floorplan automotive loans, as well as leases. We completed a public term securitization transaction in Canada that raised approximately $748 million. Also in March 2011, ResCap completed the sale of $450 million of securities backed by mortgage servicer advances.

 

   

In March 2011, we completed the refinancing of $15 billion in credit facilities at both the parent company and Ally Bank with a syndicate of 21 lenders. The $15 billion funding capacity can be used to fund retail, lease and dealer floorplan automotive assets and is allocated to two separate $7.5 billion facilities, one of which is available to the parent company and a Canadian subsidiary while the other is available to Ally Bank. Each new facility replaces existing facilities that were due to mature in the second quarter of 2011. Half the capacity will mature in two years with the other half remaining as a 364-day maturity.

 

   

We also renewed, extended, and completed multiple private credit facilities that provide $1.8 billion of funding capacity.

 

   

In March, we completed a key first step in our plan to repay the U.S. taxpayer. The U.S. Department of Treasury (Treasury) was repaid $2.7 billion from the sale of all the Trust Preferred Securities that Treasury held with Ally. This represented the full value of Treasury’s investment in these securities. Ally did not receive any proceeds from the offering of the Trust Preferred Securities.

In summary, during 2010, we completed funding transactions totaling almost $36 billion and we renewed key existing funding facilities as we realized ready access to both the public and private markets. Key funding highlights from 2010 are as follows:

 

   

We issued over $8.0 billion of unsecured debt, which included issuances in both the U.S. and European markets. Of the $8.0 billion issued in 2010, $3.7 billion had a term of 10 years while the remaining amount had a term of 5 or 7 years. In the fourth quarter of 2010, we issued $1.0 billion of unsecured long-term debt with a maturity of 7 years. In 2011, we raised an additional $2.25 billion of unsecured debt with a tenor of three years.

 

   

We raised over $15 billion from the sale of asset-backed securities publicly and privately in multiple jurisdictions. In the United States, we completed Ally Bank-sponsored transactions totaling $8.1 billion, of which $2.0 billion was completed in the fourth quarter. We also completed $674 million of issuance supported by mortgage servicer advances and mortgage loans. Outside the United States, we issued $6.2 billion through public and private automotive securitization transactions.

 

   

We created more than $12 billion of new committed credit capacity including $8.3 billion solely dedicated to fund automotive assets at Ally Bank and new mortgage facilities in the United States that provide committed credit capacity of $725 million. In the fourth quarter, we entered into new committed secured auto facilities in Canada and Brazil that provide total capacity of $1.4 billion.

 

   

We renewed over $8 billion of key private funding facilities at our Automotive Finance operations and Mortgage operations.

 

   

As a result of the conversion of $5.5 billion of Ally Mandatorily Convertible Preferred (MCP) stock held by Treasury into common stock on December 30, 2010, the dividend payments payable to our preferred shareholders will be reduced by approximately $500 million annually. This is expected to improve long-term profitability with a lower cost of funds and enhances capital preservation.

 

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Funding Sources

The following table summarizes debt and other sources of funding and the amount outstanding under each category for the periods shown.

As a result of our funding strategy to maximize funding sources at Ally Bank and grow our retail deposit base, the percentage of funding sources from Ally Bank has increased in 2011 from 2010 levels. In addition, deposits represent a larger portion of the overall funding mix.

 

($ in millions)

   Bank      Nonbank      Total      %  

March 31, 2011

           

Secured financings

   $ 21,796       $ 21,466       $ 43,262         32   

Institutional term debt

             27,579         27,579         20   

Retail debt programs (a)

             14,464         14,464         11   

Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (TLGP)

             7,400         7,400         5   

Bank loans and other

     1         2,589         2,590         2   
                                   

Total debt (b)

     21,797         73,498         95,295         70   

Deposits (c)

     35,369         5,327         40,696         30   
                                   

Total on-balance sheet funding

   $ 57,166       $ 78,825       $ 135,991         100   
                                   

Off-balance sheet securitizations

           

Mortgage loans

   $       $ 68,600       $ 68,600      
                             

Total off-balance sheet securitizations

   $       $ 68,600       $ 68,600      
                             

December 31, 2010

           

Secured financings

   $ 20,199       $ 22,193       $ 42,392         32   

Institutional term debt

             27,257         27,257         21   

Retail debt programs (a)

             14,249         14,249         10   

Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (TLGP)

             7,400         7,400         6   

Bank loans and other

     1         2,374         2,375         2   
                                   

Total debt (b)

     20,200         73,473         93,673         71   

Deposits (c)

     33,917         5,131         39,048         29   
                                   

Total on-balance sheet funding

   $ 54,117       $ 78,604       $ 132,721         100   
                                   

Off-balance sheet securitizations

           

Mortgage loans

   $       $ 69,356       $ 69,356      
                             

Total off-balance sheet securitizations

   $       $ 69,356       $ 69,356      
                             

 

(a) Primarily includes $9,687 million and $9,784 million of Ally SmartNotes at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

(b) Excludes fair value adjustment as described in Note 21 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

(c) Bank deposits include retail, brokered and mortgage escrow and other deposits. Nonbank deposits include dealer wholesale deposits and deposits at ResMor Trust. Intercompany deposits are not included.

Refer to Note 15 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a summary of the scheduled maturity of long-term debt at March 31, 2011.

 

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As a result of our funding strategy to maximize funding sources at Ally Bank and grow our retail deposit base, the percentage of funding sources from Ally Bank has increased in 2010 from 2009 levels. In addition, deposits represent a larger portion of the overall funding mix.

 

     Bank      Nonbank      Total      %  
     ($ in millions)  

December 31,

           

2010

           

Secured financings

   $ 20,199       $ 22,193       $ 42,392         32   

Institutional term debt

             27,257         27,257         21   

Retail debt programs (a)

             14,249         14,249         11   

Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (TLGP)

             7,400         7,400         6   

Bank loans and other

     1         2,374         2,375         2   
                                   

Total debt (b)

     20,200         73,473         93,673         72   

Bank deposits (c)

     31,847         5,131         36,978         28   
                                   

Total on-balance sheet funding

   $ 52,047       $ 78,604       $ 130,651         100   
                                   

Off-balance sheet securitizations

           

Mortgage loans

   $       $ 69,356       $ 69,356      
                             

Total off-balance sheet securitizations

   $       $ 69,356       $ 69,356      
                             

2009

           

Secured financings

   $ 11,777       $ 36,982       $ 48,759         38   

Institutional term debt

             24,809         24,809         19   

Retail debt programs (a)

     8         14,614         14,622         12   

Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (TLGP)

             7,400         7,400         6   

Bank loans and other

     59         2,135         2,194         2   
                                   

Total debt (b)

     11,844         85,940         97,784         77   

Bank deposits (c)

     27,078         2,928         30,006         23   
                                   

Total on-balance sheet funding

   $ 38,922       $ 88,868       $ 127,790         100   
                                   

Off-balance sheet securitizations

           

Retail finance receivables

   $       $ 6,654       $ 6,654      

Mortgage loans

             99,123         99,123      
                             

Total off-balance sheet securitizations

   $       $ 105,777       $ 105,777      
                             

 

(a) Primarily includes $9,784 million and $10,878 million of Ally SmartNotes at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(b) Excludes fair value adjustment as described in Note 27 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

(c) Bank deposits include deposits at Ally Bank, excluding mortgage escrow and intercompany deposits. Nonbank deposits include deposits at ResMor Trust and dealer wholesale deposits.

Refer to Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a summary of the scheduled maturity of long-term debt at December 31, 2010.

Funding Facilities

We utilize both committed and uncommitted credit facilities. The financial institutions providing the uncommitted facilities are not legally obligated to advance funds under them. The amounts outstanding under our various funding facilities are included on our Consolidated Balance Sheet.

 

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As of March 31, 2011, Ally Bank had exclusive access to $8.8 billion of funding capacity from committed credit facilities. Ally Bank also has access to a $4.1 billion committed facility that is shared with the parent company. Funding programs supported by the Federal Reserve and the FHLB complement Ally Bank’s private committed facilities.

In 2010, Ally Bank entered into its first committed credit facilities. These facilities are secured by automotive receivables and have given Ally Bank exclusive access to $8.3 billion of funding capacity. Ally Bank also has access to a $4.1 billion committed facility that is shared with the parent company. Funding programs supported by the Federal Reserve and the FHLB complement Ally Bank’s private committed facilities. Growth in total capacity at Ally Bank has been offset by reductions in the parent company’s committed capacity, which is consistent with our asset origination strategy. The reduction in committed capacity for the parent company has been coupled with a reduction in debt outstanding under the facilities, such that the unused capacity and related funding available solely to the parent company increased marginally year-over-year to $9.1 billion.

The total capacity in our committed funding facilities is provided by banks through private transactions. The committed secured funding facilities can be revolving in nature and allow for additional funding during the commitment period, or they can be amortizing and do not allow for any further funding after the closing date. At March 31, 2011, $29.3 billion of our $32.1 billion of committed capacity was revolving. Many of our revolving facilities have a tenor of 364 days and are renewed annually, but recently, we have been able to establish $9.4 billion of committed funding capacity with a tenor greater than 364 days.

Committed Funding Facilities

 

     Outstanding      Unused capacity (a)      Total capacity  
     Mar. 31,
2011
     Dec. 31,
2010
     Mar. 31,
2011
     Dec. 31,
2010
     Mar. 31,
2011
     Dec. 31,
2010
 
     ($ in billions)  

Bank funding

                 

Secured

   $ 5.8       $ 6.4       $ 3.0       $ 1.9       $ 8.8       $ 8.3   

Nonbank funding

                 

Unsecured

                 

Automotive Finance operations

     0.8         0.8                         0.8         0.8   

Secured

                 

Automotive Finance operations and other

     8.1         8.3         8.9         9.1         17.0         17.4   

Mortgage operations

     1.1         1.0         0.3         0.6         1.4         1.6   
                                                     

Total nonbank funding

     10.0         10.1         9.2         9.7         19.2         19.8   
                                                     

Shared capacity (b)

     0.2         0.2         3.9         3.9         4.1         4.1   
                                                     

Total committed facilities

   $ 16.0       $ 16.7       $ 16.1       $ 15.5       $ 32.1       $ 32.2   
                                                     

 

(a) Funding from committed secured facilities is available on request in the event excess collateral resides in certain facilities or is available to the extent incremental collateral is available and contributed to the facilities.
(b) Funding is generally available for assets originated by Ally Bank or the parent company, Ally Financial Inc.

 

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     Outstanding      Unused
capacity (a)
     Total capacity  
     December 31,  
     2010      2009      2010      2009      2010      2009  
     ($ in billions)  

Bank funding

                 

Secured

   $ 6.4       $       $ 1.9       $       $ 8.3       $   

Nonbank funding

                 

Unsecured

                 

Automotive Finance operations

     0.8         0.7                 0.1         0.8         0.8   

Secured

                 

Automotive Finance operations and other

     8.3         23.0         9.1         9.0         17.4         32.0   

Mortgage operations

     1.0         1.7         0.6         0.4         1.6         2.1   
                                                     

Total nonbank funding

     10.1         25.4         9.7         9.5         19.8         34.9   
                                                     

Shared capacity (b)

     0.2         0.8         3.9         3.2         4.1         4.0   
                                                     

Total committed facilities

     16.7         26.2         15.5         12.7         32.2         38.9   
                                                     

Whole-loan forward flow agreements (c)

                             9.4                 9.4   
                                                     

Total

   $ 16.7       $ 26.2       $ 15.5       $ 22.1       $ 32.2       $ 48.3   
                                                     

 

(a) Funding from committed secured facilities is available on request in the event excess collateral resides in certain facilities or is available to the extent incremental collateral is available and contributed to the facilities.

 

(b) Funding is generally available for assets originated by Ally Bank or the parent company, Ally Financial Inc.

 

(c) Represents commitments of financial institutions to purchase U.S. automotive retail assets.

Uncommitted Funding Facilities

 

     Outstanding      Unused capacity      Total capacity  
     Mar. 31,
2011
     Dec. 31,
2010
     Mar. 31,
2011
     Dec. 31,
2010
     Mar. 31,
2011
     Dec. 31,
2010
 
     ($ in billions)  

Bank funding

                 

Secured

                 

Federal Reserve funding programs

   $       $       $ 5.7       $ 4.0       $ 5.7       $ 4.0   

FHLB advances

     4.8         5.3         0.8         0.2         5.6         5.5   
                                                     

Total bank funding

     4.8         5.3         6.5         4.2         11.3         9.5   
                                                     

Nonbank funding

                 

Unsecured

                 

Automotive Finance operations

     1.6         1.4         0.5         0.6         2.1         2.0   

Secured

                 

Automotive Finance operations

             0.1         0.1                 0.1         0.1   

Mortgage operations

                     0.1         0.1         0.1         0.1   
                                                     

Total nonbank funding

     1.6         1.5         0.7         0.7         2.3         2.2   
                                                     

Total uncommitted facilities

   $ 6.4       $ 6.8       $ 7.2       $ 4.9       $ 13.6       $ 11.7   
                                                     

 

 

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     Outstanding      Unused
capacity
     Total capacity  
     December 31,  
     2010      2009      2010      2009      2010      2009  
     ($ in billions)  

Bank funding

                 

Secured

                 

Federal Reserve funding programs

   $       $ 5.0       $ 4.0       $ 2.8       $ 4.0       $ 7.8   

FHLB advances

     5.3         5.1         0.2         0.8         5.5         5.9   
                                                     

Total bank funding

     5.3         10.1         4.2         3.6         9.5         13.7   
                                                     

Nonbank funding

                 

Unsecured

                 

Automotive Finance operations

     1.4         0.8         0.6         0.1         2.0         0.9   

Secured

                 

Automotive Finance operations

     0.1         0.3                 0.1         0.1         0.4   

Mortgage operations

                     0.1         0.2         0.1         0.2   
                                                     

Total nonbank funding

     1.5         1.1         0.7         0.4         2.2         1.5   
                                                     

Total uncommitted facilities

   $ 6.8       $ 11.2       $ 4.9       $ 4.0       $ 11.7       $ 15.2   
                                                     

Bank Funding Facilities

Facilities for Automotive Finance Operations—Secured

Ally Bank’s largest facility is a $7.5 billion revolving syndicated credit facility secured by automotive receivables. At March 31, 2011, the amount outstanding under this facility was $5.1 billion. Ally Bank’s other committed facilities are also available to fund automotive receivables. During the first quarter of 2011, we successfully renewed the $7.5 billion facility as well as a $500 million credit facility. The tenor of half of the $7.5 billion facility was extended to two years, with the other half remaining at a 364-day maturity. In total, Ally Bank maintained committed credit facilities that provide capacity of $12.9 billion at March 31, 2011, including $4.1 billion of commitments available to Ally Bank or the parent company. In the event these facilities are not renewed, the outstanding debt will be repaid over time as the underlying collateral amortizes.

Nonbank Funding Facilities

Facilities for Automotive Finance Operations—Unsecured

Revolving credit facilities—At March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we maintained $486 million of commitments in our U.S. unsecured revolving credit facility maturing June 2012. This facility was fully drawn. We also maintained $281 million and $274 million of committed unsecured bank facilities in Canada and $49 million and $47 million in Europe at March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively. The Canadian facilities expire in June 2012 and the European facility expires in March 2012.

Facilities for Automotive Finance Operations—Secured

The parent company’s largest facility is a $7.5 billion revolving syndicated credit facility secured by U.S. and Canadian automotive receivables. This facility was renewed in March 2011 with the tenor for half of the facility extended to two years and with the other half remaining as a 364-day maturity. In the event this facility is not renewed at maturity, the outstanding debt will be repaid over time as the underlying collateral amortizes. At March 31, 2011, there was no debt outstanding under this facility.

In addition to our syndicated revolving credit facility, we also maintain various bilateral and multilateral secured credit facilities in multiple countries that fund our Automotive Finance operations. These are primarily

 

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private securitization facilities that fund a specific pool of automotive assets. Many of the facilities have revolving commitments and allow for the funding of additional assets during the commitment period. In total, the parent company maintained $17.0 billion of committed secured credit facilities to fund automotive assets at the end of the first quarter of 2011, excluding $4.1 billion of commitments available to Ally Bank or the parent company.

Facilities for Mortgage Operations—Secured

At March 31, 2011, we had capacity of $500 million to fund eligible mortgage servicing rights and capacity of $350 million to fund mortgage servicer advances. At December 31, 2010, we had capacity of $550 million to fund eligible mortgage servicing rights and capacity of $475 million to fund mortgage servicer advances. At March 31, 2011, we also maintained an additional $515 million of committed capacity to fund mortgage loans.

Cash Flows

Net cash provided by operating activities was $3.1 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $7.4 billion for the same period in 2010. During the three months ended March 31, 2011, the net cash inflow from sales and repayment of mortgage and automotive loans held-for-sale exceeded cash outflow from new originations and purchases of such loans by $3.2 billion. During the three months ended March 31, 2010, this activity resulted in a net cash inflow of $5.6 billion.

Net cash provided by operating activities was $11.6 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to net cash used in operating activities of $5.1 billion in 2009. During the year ended December 31, 2010, the net cash inflow from sales and repayments of mortgage and automobile loans held-for-sale exceeded cash outflow from new originations and purchases of such loans by $6.3 billion. During the year ended December 31, 2009, such activity resulted in cash outflow of $9.6 billion. The favorable increase was primarily due higher levels of automobile loans classified as held-for-investment rather than held for sale at origination during 2010.

Net cash used in investing activities was $3.6 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to $69 million for the same period in 2010. Net cash flows from finance receivables and loans decreased $1.9 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010. The cash outflow to purchase operating lease assets exceeded cash inflows from disposals of such assets by $51 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011. These activities resulted in a net cash inflow of $1.4 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2010. The shift in net cash flow attributable to leasing activities compared to the prior year was primarily due to a year over year increase in lease origination activity. Cash received from sales and maturities of available-for-sale investment securities, net of purchases, decreased $753 million during the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010.

Net cash used in investing activities was $7.6 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to net cash provided of $17.1 billion in 2009. Net cash flows from finance receivables and loans, including notes receivable from GM, decreased $29.5 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to 2009. The cash outflow to purchase available-for-sale investment securities, net of proceeds from sales and maturities, totaled $1.7 billion in 2010, compared to a net cash outflow of $6.5 billion in 2009.

Net cash provided by financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2011, totaled $2.2 billion, compared to net cash used of $8.4 billion in the same period in 2010. Cash generated from long-term debt issuances replaced cash used to repay such debt for the three months ended March 31, 2011. For the comparable period in 2010, cash repayments exceeded proceeds from new issuances of long-term debt by $6.6 billion. Additionally, contributing to the increase in cash inflow was an increase in short-term debt obligations of $2.7 billion and an increase in cash inflow from bank deposits of $918 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same period in 2010.

 

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Net cash used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2010, totaled $8.0 billion, compared to $11.0 billion in 2009. New equity issuances decreased $10.0 billion because no such issuances were made during 2010. Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt increased $8.3 billion during the year ended December 31, 2010, while cash used to repay debt decreased $12.0 billion. Cash provided by deposits was $6.6 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $10.7 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009.

Regulatory Capital

Refer to Note 22 to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of our regulatory capital.

Comprehensive Capital Analysis and Review

The Comprehensive Capital Analysis and Review (CCAR) involves the FRB’s forward-looking evaluation of the internal capital planning processes of large, complex bank holding companies and their proposals to undertake capital actions in 2011, such as increasing dividend payments or repurchasing or redeeming stock. In November 2010, the FRB issued guidelines to provide a common, conservative approach to ensure that bank holding companies hold adequate capital to maintain ready access to funding, continue operations, and meet their obligations to creditors and counterparties, and continue to serve as credit intermediaries, even under adverse conditions. As a large bank holding company, we submitted a comprehensive capital plan and additional supervisory information to the FRB during the first quarter of 2011 in conjunction with CCAR. At this time, our capital plan is still under review by the FRB.

Credit Ratings

The cost and availability of unsecured financing are influenced by credit ratings, which are intended to be an indicator of the creditworthiness of a particular company, security, or obligation. Lower ratings result in higher borrowing costs and reduced access to capital markets. This is particularly true for certain institutional investors whose investment guidelines require investment-grade ratings on term debt and the two highest rating categories for short-term debt (particularly money market investors).

Nationally recognized statistical rating organizations have rated substantially all our debt. The following table summarizes our current ratings and outlook by the respective nationally recognized rating agencies.

 

Rating agency

   Commercial paper    Senior debt    Outlook    Date of last action  

Fitch

   B    BB    Stable      February 2, 2011 (a) 

Moody’s

   Not-Prime    B1    Stable      February 7, 2011 (b) 

S&P

   C    B+    Stable      May 4, 2011 (c) 

DBRS

   R-4    BB-Low    Positive      February 4, 2011 (d) 

 

(a) Fitch upgraded our senior debt rating to BB from B, affirmed the commercial paper rating of B, and changed the outlook to Stable on February 2, 2011.

 

(b) Moody’s upgraded our senior debt rating to B1 from B3, affirmed the commercial paper rating of Not Prime, and affirmed the outlook of Stable on February 7, 2011.

 

(c) Standard & Poor’s upgraded our senior debt rating to B+ from B, affirmed the commercial paper rating of C, and affirmed the outlook of Stable on May 4, 2011.

 

(d) DBRS affirmed our senior debt rating of BB-Low, affirmed the commercial paper rating of R-4, and changed the outlook to Positive on February 4, 2011.

 

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Insurance Financial Strength Ratings

Substantially all of our U.S. Insurance operations have a Financial Strength Rating (“FSR”) and an Issuer Credit Rating (ICR) from A.M. Best Company. The FSR is intended to be an indicator of the ability of the insurance company to meet its senior most obligations to policyholders. Lower ratings generally result in fewer opportunities to write business as insureds, particularly large commercial insureds, and insurance companies purchasing reinsurance have guidelines requiring high FSR ratings. Our Insurance operations outside the United States are not rated.

On July 20, 2010, A.M. Best removed our U.S. Insurance companies from under review with developing implications and affirmed the FSR of B++ (good) and the ICR of BBB.

Off-balance Sheet Arrangements

Refer to Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of our off-balance sheet arrangements.

Securitization

As part of our ongoing operations and overall funding and liquidity strategy, we primarily securitize consumer automobile finance retail contracts, wholesale loans, automobile leases, and mortgage loans. Securitization of assets allows us to diversify funding sources by enabling us to convert assets into cash earlier than what would have occurred in the normal course of business and to support the core activities of our Global Automotive Services and Mortgage operations relative to originating and purchasing finance receivables and loans. Termination of our securitization activities would reduce funding sources for both our Global Automotive Services and Mortgage operations, adversely affecting our operating results.

Information regarding our securitization activities is further described in Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. As part of these activities, assets are generally sold to securitization entities. These securitization entities are separate legal entities that assume the risk and reward of ownership of the receivables. Neither we nor those subsidiaries are responsible for the other entities’ debts, and the assets of the subsidiaries are not available to satisfy our claim or those of our creditors. In turn, the securitization entities establish separate trusts to which they transfer the assets in exchange for the proceeds from the sale of asset- or mortgage-backed securities issued by the trust. The trusts’ activities are generally limited to acquiring the assets, issuing asset- or mortgage-backed securities, making payments on the securities, and periodically reporting to the investors. We may account for the transfer of assets as a sale if we either do not hold a significant variable interest or do not provide servicing or asset management functions for the financial assets held by the securitization entity.

Certain of our securitization transactions, while similar in legal structure to the transaction described in the foregoing do not meet the required criteria to be accounted for as off-balance sheet arrangements; therefore, they are accounted for as secured financings. As secured financings, the underlying automobile finance retail contracts, wholesale loans, automobile leases, or mortgage loans remain on our Consolidated Balance Sheet with the corresponding obligation (consisting of the beneficial interests issued by the securitization entity) reflected as debt. We recognize interest income on the finance receivables, automobile leases and loans, and interest expense on the beneficial interests issued by the securitization entity; and we provide for loan losses on the finance receivables and loans as incurred or adjust to fair value for fair value-elected loans. At December 31, 2010 and 2009, $72.6 billion and $81.1 billion of our total assets, respectively, were related to secured financings. Refer to Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.

The decrease in the amount of finance receivables and loans carried in off-balance sheet facilities reflects our decreased use of private-label mortgage securitization transactions, the amortization of the existing transactions, and the implementation of ASU 2009-17, which was effective on January 1, 2010, and required us to bring certain of our off balance sheet securitizations onto the balance sheet at that date. See Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

 

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As part of our securitization activities, we typically agree to service the transferred assets for a fee, and we may earn other related ongoing income. The amount of the fees earned is disclosed in Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. We may also retain a portion of senior and subordinated interests issued by the trusts; these interests are reported as trading securities, investment securities, or other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet and are disclosed in Notes 6, 7, and 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. For secured financings, retained interests are not recognized as a separate asset on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. Subordinate interests typically provide credit support to the more highly rated senior interest in a securitization transaction and may be subject to all or a portion of the first loss position related to the sold assets.

The FDIC, which regulates Ally Bank, promulgated a new safe harbor regulation for securitizations by banks which took effect on January 1, 2011. Compliance with this regulation requires the sponsoring bank to retain either five percent of each class of beneficial interests issued in the securitization or a representative sample of similar financial assets equal to five percent of the securitized financial assets. The retained interests or assets must be held for the life of the securitization and may not be sold, pledged or hedged, except that interest rate and currency hedging is permitted. This risk retention requirement adversely affects the efficiency of securitizations, because it reduces the amount of funds that can be raised against a given pool of financial assets.

We sometimes use derivative financial instruments to facilitate securitization activities, as further described in Note 23 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Our economic exposure related to the securitization trusts is generally limited to cash reserves, our other interests retained in financial asset sales, and our customary representation and warranty provisions described in Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. The trusts have a limited life and generally terminate upon final distribution of amounts owed to investors or upon exercise by us, as servicer of a cleanup call option, when the servicing of the sold contracts becomes burdensome. In addition, the trusts do not invest in our equity or in the equity of any of our affiliates.

Purchase Obligations

Certain of the structures related to whole-loan sales, securitization transactions, and other off-balance sheet activities contain provisions that are standard in the whole-loan sale and securitization markets where we may (or, in certain limited circumstances, are obligated to) purchase specific assets from entities. Our obligations are as follows.

Loan Repurchases and Obligations Related to Loan Sales

Overview—Our Mortgage operations sell loans that take the form of securitizations guaranteed by the GSEs and to whole-loan investors. We have issued private-label mortgage-backed securities infrequently since 2007. In prior years our volume of private-label securitization issuances were considerably larger and they included securitized loans where monolines have insured the related bonds. We have settled with both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, limiting our remaining exposure with the GSEs. In connection with securitizations and loan sales, investors are provided various representations and warranties related to the loans sold. The specific representations and warranties vary among different transactions and investors but typically relate to, among other things, the ownership of the loan, the validity of the lien securing the loan, the loan’s compliance with the criteria for inclusion in the transaction including compliance with underwriting standards or loan criteria established by the buyer, the ability to deliver required documentation and compliance with applicable laws. In general, the representations and warranties described above may be enforced at any time unless a sunset provision is in place. ResCap assumes all of the customary representation and warranty obligations for loans purchased from Ally Bank and subsequently sold into the secondary market, generally through securitizations guaranteed by the GSEs. In the event ResCap fails to meet these obligations, Ally Financial Inc. has provided Ally Bank a guaranteed coverage of liability. Upon a breach of a representation, the breach is corrected in a manner conforming to the provisions of the sale agreement. This may require us either to repurchase the loan or indemnify the investor for incurred losses.

 

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Originations—We believe our exposure to representation and warranty claims is most significant for loans sold between 2004 through 2008, specifically during 2006 and 2007 that were originated and sold prior to enhanced underwriting standards and risk-mitigation actions implemented in 2008 and forward including product offerings, which are more conservative. Since 2009, we have focused primarily on prime conforming and government-insured residential mortgages in the United States and high-quality government-insured residential mortgages in Canada. In addition, we ceased offering interest-only jumbo mortgages in 2010. Our representation and warranty risk-mitigation strategies include, but are not limited to, pursuing settlements with investors where economically beneficial in order to resolve a pipeline of demands in lieu of loan by loan assessments that could result in us repurchasing loans, aggressively contesting claims we do not consider valid (rescinding claims), or actively seeking recourse against correspondent lenders from whom we purchased loans.

The following table summarizes domestic loans sold with contractual representation and warranty obligations by counterparty (original unpaid principal balance).

 

     Three months
ended
March 31,

2011
     Year ended December 31,  
        2010      2009      2008      2007      2006      2005      2004  
    

($ in billions)

 

GSEs

                       

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac

   $ 12.8       $ 51.0       $ 29.9       $ 37.2       $ 47.1       $ 46.1       $ 47.9       $ 44.2   

Ginnie Mae

     2.2         16.2         24.9         12.5         3.2         3.6         4.2         4.8   

Nonagency

                       

Insured (monolines)

                                     6.5         10.7         10.4         15.1   

Uninsured

             0.3                         29.1         63.6         53.5         35.9   

Other

             1.6         0.1         2.2         8.2         23.9         17.4         10.9   
                                                                       

Total sales

   $ 15.0       $ 69.1       $ 54.9       $ 51.9       $ 94.1       $ 147.9       $ 133.4       $ 110.9   
                                                                       

Repurchase Process—As soon as practical, after receiving a claim under representation and warranty obligations, we evaluate the request and take appropriate action. Historically, repurchase demands were related to loans that became delinquent within the first few years following origination and varied by investor. As a result of market developments over the past several years, repurchase demand behavior has changed significantly. GSEs are more likely to submit claims for loans at any point in their life cycle based on their internal audit findings. Direct and whole-loan investors are more likely to submit claims for loans that become delinquent at any time while a loan is outstanding or when a loan incurs a loss. Actual incurred losses more significantly drive monoline investor behavior, which can significantly extend the period over which claims are likely to be presented. This occurs because insurance claims paid by the monolines are not required until over-collateralization is depleted, and the monolines are not incented to request loan repurchases until they have paid the insurance claims. Representation and warranty claims are generally reviewed on a loan by loan basis to validate if there has been a breach requiring a potential repurchase or indemnification payment. We actively contest claims to the extent we do not consider them valid. We are not required to either repurchase the loan or provide an indemnification payment where claims are not valid.

 

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During the three months ended March 31, 2011, we experienced a decrease in new claims compared to 2010, in part due to settlements with key counterparties. In addition, the level of unresolved repurchase demands also decreased throughout 2010 as a result of our focus on reaching economically beneficial settlements versus loan-by-loan assessments. The following table presents new claims by vintage (original unpaid principal balance).

 

     Three months ended
March, 31
 
      2011      2010  
     ($ in millions)  

2004 and prior period

   $ 7       $ 13   

2005

     7         17   

2006

     15         86   

2007

     24         159   

2008

     25         108   

Post 2008

     53         9   

Unspecified

     2           
                 

Total claims

   $ 133       $ 392   
                 

During the year ended December 31, 2010, we experienced a decrease in new claims compared to 2009, in part due to settlements with key counterparties. In addition, the level of unresolved repurchase demands also decreased throughout 2010 as a result of our focus on reaching economically beneficial settlements versus loan by loan assessments. The following table presents new claims by vintage (original unpaid principal balance).

 

     Year ended
December, 31
 
     2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

2004 and prior period

   $ 46       $ 44   

2005

     58         80   

2006

     235         504   

2007

     461         657   

2008

     255         176   

Post 2008

     60         16   

Unspecified

     4         3   
                 

Total claims

   $ 1,119       $ 1,480   
                 

We seek to manage the risk of repurchase and the associated credit exposure through our underwriting and quality assurance practices and by servicing mortgage loans to meet investor standards. We believe that, in general, the longer a loan performs prior to default the less likely it is that an alleged breach of representation and warranty will have a material impact on the loan’s performance. When we do repurchase loans, we bear the subsequent credit loss on the loans. Repurchased loans are classified as held-for-sale and initially recorded at fair value. While investors’ repurchase and demand behavior has changed given the recent market conditions, we continue to maintain constructive relationships with the GSEs and other investors.

Refer to Note 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to representation and warranties.

 

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The following table summarizes the unpaid principal balance and accrued interest on mortgage loans repurchased under representation and warranty obligations.

 

     Three months
ended
March 31,
     Year ended
December 31,
 
     2011      2010      2010      2009  
    

($ in millions)

 

GSEs

   $ 43       $ 147       $ 389       $ 343   

Monolines

             1         13         30   

Other

     5         28         82         83   
                                   

Total loan repurchases

   $ 48       $ 176       $ 484       $ 456   
                                   

 

The following table summarizes indemnification payments associated with representation and warranty obligations.

 

     Three months
ended
March 31,
     Year ended
December 31,
 
     2011      2010      2010      2009  
    

($ in millions)

 

GSEs

   $ 15       $ 73       $ 228       $ 123   

Monolines

     2         1         27         14   

Other

             4         11         23   
                                   

Total indemnification payments

   $ 17       $ 78       $ 266       $ 160   
                                   

The following table presents the unpaid principal balance and number of loans related to unresolved repurchases.

 

     March 31,      December 31,  
     2011      2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  
     No. of
loans
     Dollar
amount of
loans
     No. of
loans
     Dollar
amount of
loans
     No. of
loans
     Dollar
amount of
loans
 

GSEs (a)

     431       $ 98         833       $ 170         1,360       $ 296   

Monolines

     8,246         667         8,206         661         7,197         553   

Other

     517         73         392         88         668         70   
                                                     

Total unpaid principal balance

     9,194       $ 838         9,431       $ 919         9,225       $ 919   
                                                     

 

(a) Includes claims that we have requested to be rescinded but which have not yet been confirmed by the counterparty. This amount is gross of any loans that would be removed due to the Fannie Mac settlement. During the three months ended March 31, 2011, management determined that $48 million of outstanding claims at December 31, 2010, were covered under the settlement agreement.

Representation and Warranty Obligation Reserve Methodology—The reserve for representation and warranty obligations reflects management’s best estimate of probable lifetime loss. We consider historical and recent demand trends in establishing the reserve. The methodology used to estimate the reserve considers a variety of assumptions including borrower performance (both actual and estimated future defaults), repurchase demand behavior, historical loan defect experience, and historical and estimated future loss experience, which includes projections of future home price changes as well as other qualitative factors including investor behavior. In cases where we do not have or have limited current or historical demand experience with an investor, it is

 

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difficult to predict and estimate the level and timing of any potential future demands. As such, losses cannot currently be reasonably estimated and a liability is not recognized. Management monitors the adequacy of the overall reserve and makes adjustments to the level of reserve, as necessary, after consideration of other qualitative factors including ongoing dialogue with counterparties.

At the time a loan is sold, an estimate of the fair value of the liability is recorded and classified in accrued expenses and other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheet and recorded as a component of gain (loss) on mortgage and automotive loans, net, in our Consolidated Statement of Income. We recognize changes in the reserve when additional relevant information becomes available. Changes in the liability are recorded as other operating expenses in our Consolidated Statement of Income. The repurchase reserve at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, primarily represents non-GSE exposure.

Government-sponsored Enterprises—Between 2004 and 2008, we sold $250.8 billion of loans. Each GSE has specific guidelines and criteria for sellers and servicers of loans underlying their securities. In addition, the risk of credit loss of the loan sold was generally transferred to investors upon sale of the securities into the secondary market. Conventional conforming loans were sold to either Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae, and government-insured loans were securitized with Ginnie Mae. For the three months ended March 31, 2011, we have received $102 million in repurchase claims of which $49 million are associated with the 2004 through 2008 vintages of loans sold to the GSEs. Overall, we resolved $174 million claims, including $133 million in settlements, repurchases, or indemnification payments and $41 million related to rescinded claims. For the year ended December 31, 2010, we have received $842 million in repurchase claims of which $784 million are associated with the 2004 through 2008 vintages of loans sold to the GSEs. We resolved $968 million claims, including $756 million in either settlements, repurchases, or indemnification payments and $212 million related to rescinded claims. Our representation and warranty obligation liability with respect to the GSEs takes into account the existing unresolved claims and our best estimate of future claims we might receive. We consider our experiences with each GSE in evaluating our liability. During 2010, we reached agreements with Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae that resolve material repurchase obligations with each counterparty.

In March 2010, certain of our mortgage subsidiaries entered into an agreement with Freddie Mac under which we made a one-time payment to Freddie Mac for the release of repurchase obligations relating to most of the mortgage loans sold to Freddie Mac prior to January 1, 2009. This agreement does not release any of our obligations with respect to exposure for private-label mortgage-backed securities in which Freddie Mac had previously invested, loans where Ally Bank is the owner of the servicing, as well as defects in certain other specified categories of loans. Further, we continue to be responsible for other contractual obligations we have with Freddie Mac, including all indemnification obligations that may arise in connection with the servicing of the mortgages. The total original unpaid principal balance of loans originated prior to January 1, 2009 and where Ally Bank was the owner of the servicing was $10.9 billion. From March 31, 2010 through March 31, 2011, the amount of losses we have taken on loans that we have repurchased relating to defects where Ally Bank was the owner of the servicing was $36.5 million. From March 31, 2010 through March 31, 2011, the amount of losses we have taken on loans that we have repurchased relating to defects in the other specified categories was $8.6 million. Although Freddie Mac has not brought any claims against us with respect to private label securities subsequent to the settlement, they may well do so in the future.

On December 23, 2010, certain of our mortgage subsidiaries entered into an agreement with Fannie Mae under which we made a one-time payment to Fannie Mae for the release of repurchase obligations related to most of the mortgage loans we sold to Fannie Mae prior to June 30, 2010. The agreement also covers potential exposure for private-label mortgage-backed securities in which Fannie Mae had previously invested. This agreement does not release any of our obligations with respect to loans where Ally Bank is the owner of the servicing as well as defects in certain other specified categories of loans. Further, we continue to be responsible for other contractual obligations we have with Fannie Mae, including all indemnification obligations that may arise in connection with the servicing of the mortgages. The total original unpaid principal balance of loans originated prior to January 1, 2009 and where Ally Bank was the owner of the servicing was $24.4 billion.

 

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From January 1, 2011 through March 31, 2011, the amount of losses we have taken on loans that we have repurchased relating to defects where Ally Bank was the owner of the servicing was $10.9 million. From January 1, 2011 through March 31, 2011, the amount of losses we have taken on loans that we have repurchased relating to defects in the other specified categories of loans was $0.7 million.

The FHFA, as conservator of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, announced on July 12, 2010, that it issued 64 subpoenas to various entities seeking documents related to private label mortgage-backed securities in which Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac had invested. Certain of these subpoenas were directed at our mortgage subsidiaries. In connection with the agreement reached with Fannie Mae, the FHFA has agreed to withdraw those subpoenas that relate to Fannie Mae while the subpoenas that relate to Freddie Mac remain open.

The following tables summarize the changes in our unpaid principal balance related to unresolved repurchase demands on our GSE exposure.

 

     Three months
ended
March 31,
 
     2011     2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Balance at January 1,

   $ 170      $ 296   

New claims

     102        324   

Realized losses (a)

     (133     (326

Rescinded claims

     (41     (64
                

Balance at March 31,

   $ 98      $ 230   
                

 

(a) Losses include settlements, repurchases, and indemnification payments.

 

     Year ended
December 31,
 
     2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Balance at January 1,

   $ 296      $ 146   

New claims

     842        699   

Realized losses (a)

     (756     (419

Rescinded claims

     (212     (130
                

Balance December 31,

   $ 170      $ 296   
                

 

(a) Losses include settlements, repurchases, and indemnification payments.

Whole-loan Sales—In addition to the settlements with the GSEs noted earlier, we have settled with several whole-loan investors concerning alleged breaches of underwriting standards. For the three months ended March 31, 2011, we have received $16 million in repurchase claims of which $14 million are associated with the 2004 through 2008 vintages of loans sold to whole-loan investors. We resolved $31 million of claims, including $7 million in either settlements, repurchases, or indemnification payments and $24 million related to rescinded claims. For the year ended December 31, 2010, we have received $126 million in repurchase claims of which $120 million are associated with the 2004 through 2008 vintages of loans sold to whole-loan investors. We resolved $108 million of claims, including $44 million in either settlements, repurchases, or indemnification payments and $64 million related to rescinded claims.

 

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The following tables summarize the changes in our unpaid principal balance related to unresolved repurchase demands on our whole-loan exposure.

 

     Three months
ended
March 31,
 
     2011     2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Balance at January 1,

   $ 88      $ 70   

New claims

     16        13   

Realized losses (a)

     (7     (11

Rescinded claims

     (24     (33
                

Balance at March 31,

   $ 73      $ 39   
                

 

(a) Losses include settlements, repurchases, and indemnification payments.

 

     Year ended
December 31,
 
     2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Balance at January 1,

   $ 70      $ 146   

New claims

     126        103   

Realized losses (a)

     (44     (118

Rescinded claims

     (64     (61
                

Balance December 31,

   $ 88      $ 70   
                

 

(a) Losses include settlements, repurchases, and indemnification payments.

Monoline Insurers—Historically, our Mortgage operations have securitized whole loans where the monolines have insured all or some of the related bonds and have guaranteed the timely repayment of bond principal and interest when an issuer defaults. Overall, the representation and warranty obligations to monoline insurers are not as stringent as those to the GSEs and impose a higher burden of proof on the insurer. Typically, any alleged breach requires the insurer to have both the ability to assert a claim as well as evidence that a defect has had a material adverse effect on the interest of the security holders or the insurer. For the period 2004 through 2008, we sold $42.7 billion of loans into these monoline-wrapped securitizations. For the three months ended March 31, 2011, we have received $14 million in repurchase claims from the monolines associated with the 2004 through 2008 securitizations. We have resolved $8 million of the total unresolved repurchase demands through indemnification payments. For the year ended December 31, 2010, we have received $151 million in repurchase claims from the monolines associated with the 2004 through 2008 securitizations. We have resolved $43 million of the claims, including $36 million of indemnification payments and $7 million related to rescinded claims.

Unlike the repurchase protocols and experience established with the GSEs, experience with monolines has not been as predictable. A significant portion of the outstanding unresolved monoline repurchase claims are with one insurer, with whom we are currently in litigation.

 

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The following tables summarize the changes in our unpaid principal balance related to unresolved repurchase demands on our monoline exposure.

 

     Three months
ended
March 31,
 
     2011     2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Balance at January 1,

   $ 661      $ 553   

New claims

     14        55   

Realized losses (a)

     (8     (11

Rescinded claims

            (2
                

Balance at March 31,

   $ 667      $ 595   
                

 

(a) Losses include settlements, repurchases, and indemnification payments.

 

     Year ended
December 31,
 
     2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Balance at January 1,

   $ 553      $ 263   

New claims

     151        305   

Realized losses (a)

     (36     2   

Rescinded claims

     (7     (17
                

Balance December 31,

   $ 661      $ 553   
                

 

(a) Losses include settlements, repurchases, and indemnification payments.

Private-label Securitization—Historically, our Mortgage operations were very active in the securitization market selling whole loans into special-purpose entities and selling these private-label mortgage-backed securities to investors.

The following table summarizes the unpaid principal balance (the “UPB”) of our domestic private-label securitization activity by product type and current UPB for securitizations completed during 2004 through 2007. We have issued private-label mortgage-backed securities infrequently since 2007.

 

            At March  31,
2011
     At December  31,
2010
 
     Original UPB (a)      Current UPB      UPB  
            ($ in billions)         

Prime Jumbo (RFMSI)

   $ 21.7       $ 9.6       $ 10.0   

Alt-A (RALI)

     66.7         29.5         30.7   

Scratch and dent and other (RAMP)

     51.8         14.5         13.8   

Subprime (RASC)

     36.8         8.9         9.0   

Second-lien (RFMSII)

     0.9         0.3         0.3   

GMACM I

     4.1                 1.2   
                          

Total

   $ 182.0       $ 62.8       $ 65.0   
                          
(a) Excludes $42.7 billion of monoline wrapped transactions of which the majority were from the RAMP or RFMSII platforms.

In general, representations and warranties provided as part of our securitization activities are less rigorous than those provided to the GSEs and generally impose higher burdens on investors seeking repurchase. In order to successfully assert a claim an investor must prove a breach of the representations and warranties that materially and adversely affects the interest of all investors. Securitization documents typically provide the investors with a right to request that the trustee investigate and initiate a repurchase claim. However, a class of investors generally are required to coordinate with other investors in that class comprising not less than 25% of

 

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the voting rights in securities for that class issued by the trust to pursue claims for breach of representations and warranties. In addition, our private-label securitizations generally require that the servicer or trustee give notice to the other parties whenever it becomes aware of facts or circumstances that reveal a breach of representation that materially and adversely affects the interest of the certificate holders. If, for example, we as servicer became aware of such facts and circumstances, we would typically be required to initiate a repurchase at that time. The GSEs were among the purchasers of securities in our private-label securitizations. As such, they are covered by the same representations and warranties as other investors.

Regarding our securitization activities, we have exposure to potential loss primarily through two avenues. First, investors may request that we repurchase loans or make the investor whole for losses incurred if it is determined that we violated representations and warranties made at the time of the sale. Contractual representations and warranties are different based on the specific deal structure and investor. Second, investors in securitizations may attempt to achieve rescission of their investments or damages through litigation by claiming that the applicable offering documents were materially deficient. If an investor properly made and proved its allegations, the investor might attempt to claim that damages could include loss of market value on the investment even if there were little or no credit loss in the underlying loans. We have a limited amount of repurchase experience with these investors, and therefore it is not currently possible to estimate future repurchase obligations and any related loss or range of loss.

Guarantees

Guarantees are defined as contracts or indemnification agreements that contingently require us to make payments to third parties based on changes in an underlying agreement that is related to a guaranteed party. Our guarantees include standby letters of credit and certain contract provisions regarding securitizations and sales. Refer to Note 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information regarding our outstanding guarantees to third parties.

Aggregate Contractual Obligations

The following table provides aggregated information about our outstanding contractual obligations disclosed elsewhere in our Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

     Payments due by period  
     December 31, 2010  
     Total      Less than
1 year
     1-3 years      3-5 years      More than
5 years
 
     ($ in millions)  

Description of obligation

              

Long-term debt

              

Total (a)

   $ 89,334       $ 23,131       $ 32,484       $ 11,459       $ 22,260   

Scheduled interest payments for fixed-rate long-term debt

     29,627         3,582         5,710         4,248         16,087   

Estimated interest payments for variable-rate
long-term debt (b)

     535         248         244         42         1   

Estimated net payments under interest rate swap
agreements (b)

     287                         24         263   

Originate/purchase mortgages or securities

     7,735         7,545                         190   

Commitments to provide capital to investees

     76         40                 2         34   

Home equity lines of credit

     2,749         104         761         637         1,247   

Lending commitments

     3,419         1,871         720         810         18   

Lease commitments

     356         85         121         90         60   

Purchase obligations

     818         291         324         194         9   

Bank certificates of deposit

     26,118         12,842         9,386         3,890           
                                            

Total

   $ 161,054       $ 49,739       $ 49,750       $ 21,396       $ 40,169   
                                            

 

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(a) Total amount reflects the remaining principal obligation and excludes original issue discount of $3.2 billion related to the December 2008 bond exchange and fair value adjustments of $447 million related to fixed-rate debt designated as a hedged item.

 

(b) Estimate utilized a forecasted variable interest model, when available, or the applicable variable interest rate as of the most recent reset date prior to December 31, 2010.

The foregoing table does not include our reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses, which total $862 million at December 31, 2010. While payments due on insurance losses are considered contractual obligations because they related to insurance policies issued by us, the ultimate amount to be paid and the timing of payment for an insurance loss is an estimate subject to significant uncertainty. Furthermore, the timing on payment is also uncertain; however, the majority of the balance is expected to be paid out in less than five years. Similarly, due to uncertainty in the timing of future cash flows related to our unrecognized tax benefits, the contractual obligations detailed above do not include $214 million in unrecognized tax benefits.

The following provides a description of the items summarized in the preceding table of contractual obligations.

Long-term Debt

Amounts represent the scheduled maturity of long-term debt at December 31, 2010, assuming that no early redemptions occur. The maturity of secured debt may vary based on the payment activity of the related secured assets. Debt issuances redeemable at or above par during the callable period are presented by stated maturity date. The amounts presented are before the effect of any unamortized discount or fair value adjustment. Refer to Note 16 and Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on our debt obligations.

Originate/Purchase Mortgages or Securities

As part of our Mortgage operations, we enter into commitments to originate and purchase mortgages and mortgage-backed securities. Refer to Note 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Commitments to Provide Capital to Investees

As part of arrangements with specific private equity funds, we are obligated to provide capital to investees. Refer to Note 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Home Equity Lines of Credit

We are committed to fund the future remaining balance on unused lines of credit on mortgage loans. The funding is subject to customary lending conditions, such as a satisfactory credit rating, delinquency status, and adequate home equity value. Refer to Note 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Lending Commitments

Our Automotive Finance operations, Mortgage operations, and Commercial Finance Group have outstanding revolving lending commitments with customers. The amounts presented represent the unused portion of those commitments at December 31, 2010. Refer to Note 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

 

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Lease Commitments

We have obligations under various operating lease arrangements (primarily for real property) with noncancelable lease terms that expire after December 31, 2010. Refer to Note 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Purchase Obligations

We enter into multiple contractual arrangements for various services. The arrangements represent fixed payment obligations under our most significant contracts and primarily relate to contracts with information technology providers. Refer to Note 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Bank Certificates of Deposit

Refer to Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Critical Accounting Estimates

Accounting policies are integral to understanding our Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires management to make certain judgments and assumptions, on the basis of information available at the time of the financial statements, in determining accounting estimates used in the preparation of these statements. Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements; critical accounting estimates are described in this section. An accounting estimate is considered critical if the estimate requires management to make assumptions about matters that were highly uncertain at the time the accounting estimate was made. If actual results differ our judgments and assumptions it may have an adverse impact on the results of operations and cash flows. Our management has discussed the development, selection, and disclosure of these critical accounting estimates with the Audit Committee of the Board, and the Audit Committee has reviewed our disclosure relating to these estimates.

Fair Value Measurements

We use fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain instruments and to determine fair value disclosures. Refer to Note 27 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for description of valuation methodologies used to measure material assets and liabilities at fair value and details of the valuation models, key inputs to those models, and significant assumptions utilized. We follow the fair value hierarchy set forth in Note 27 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in order to prioritize the inputs utilized to measure fair value. We review and modify, as necessary, our fair value hierarchy classifications on a quarterly basis. As such, there may be reclassifications between hierarchy levels.

The following table summarizes assets and liabilities measured at fair value and the amounts measured using Level 3 inputs. The table includes recurring and nonrecurring measurements.

 

     Three months  ended
March 31,
2011
    Year ended December 31,  
           2010             2009      
    

($ in millions)

 

Assets at fair value

   $ 28,776      $ 33,001      $ 34,730   

As a percentage of total assets

     17     19     20

Liabilities at fair value

   $ 4,297      $ 4,832      $ 3,189   

As a percentage of total liabilities

     3     3     2

Assets at fair value using Level 3 inputs

   $ 6,842      $ 6,969      $ 13,672   

As a percentage of assets at fair value

     24     21     39

Liabilities at fair value using Level 3 inputs

   $ 1,006      $ 1,090      $ 1,626   

As a percentage of liabilities at fair value

     23     23     51

 

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Level 3 assets declined by $6.6 billion primarily due to the $4.6 billion decline in loans held-for-sale measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis at December 31, 2010, compared to December 31, 2009. During 2009, we reclassified mortgage loans with an unpaid principal balance of $8.5 billion from finance receivables and loans, net, to loans held-for-sale, net. Upon reclassification, we recognized a $3.4 billion valuation loss when we adjusted these loans to fair value on a nonrecurring basis, which established their new cost basis for 2010. Also contributing to the decline in Level 3 assets were fewer nonrecurring fair value measurements related to our commercial finance receivables and loans and a decline in trading securities because ASU 2009-17 eliminated certain retained interests we had held. Finally, the decline in Level 3 assets was also attributable to deconsolidation of consumer finance receivables and loans, net, which we elected to measure at fair value under the fair value option election. As the value of these assets declined, the value of the related on-balance sheet securitization debt also declined, which we also elected to measure the fair value under the fair value option election. The decline in fair value of on-balance sheet securitization debt and derivative liabilities caused the Level 3 liabilities to decline at December 31, 2010, compared to December 31, 2009.

We have numerous internal controls in place to ensure the appropriateness of fair value measurements. Significant fair value measures are subject to detailed analytics and management review and approval. We have an established model validation policy and program in place that covers all models used to generate fair value measurements. This model validation program ensures a controlled environment is used for the development, implementation, and use of the models and change procedures. Further, this program uses a risk-based approach to select models to be reviewed and validated by an independent internal risk group to ensure the models are consistent with their intended use, the logic within the models is reliable, and the inputs and outputs from these models are appropriate. Additionally, a wide array of operational controls are in place to ensure the fair value measurements are reasonable, including controls over the inputs into and the outputs from the fair value measurement models. For example, we backtest the internal assumptions used within models against actual performance. We also monitor the market for recent trades, market surveys, or other market information that may be used to benchmark model inputs or outputs. Certain valuations will also be benchmarked to market indices when appropriate and available. We have scheduled model and/or input recalibrations that occur on a periodic basis but will recalibrate earlier if significant variances are observed as part of the backtesting or benchmarking noted above.

Considerable judgment is used in forming conclusions from market observable data used to estimate our Level 2 fair value measurements and in estimating inputs to our internal valuation models used to estimate our Level 3 fair value measurements. Level 3 inputs such as interest rate movements, prepayment speeds, credit losses, and discount rates are inherently difficult to estimate. Changes to these inputs can have a significant effect on fair value measurements. Accordingly, our estimates of fair value are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized or would be paid in a current market exchange.

Allowance for Loan Losses

We maintain an allowance for loan losses (the allowance) to absorb probable loan credit losses inherent in the held-for-investment portfolio, excluding those measured at fair value in accordance with applicable accounting standards. The allowance is maintained at a level that management considers to be adequate based upon ongoing quarterly assessments and evaluations of collectability and historical loss experience in our lending portfolio. The allowance is management’s estimate of incurred losses in our lending portfolio and involves significant judgment. Management performs quarterly analysis of these portfolios to determine if impairment has occurred and to assess the adequacy of the allowance based on historical and current trends and other factors affecting credit losses. Additions to the allowance are charged to current period earnings through the provision for loan losses; amounts determined to be uncollectible are charged directly against the allowance, while amounts recovered on previously charged-off accounts increase the allowance. Determining the appropriateness of the allowance requires management to exercise significant judgment about matters that are inherently uncertain, including the timing, frequency, and severity of credit losses that could materially affect the provision for loan losses and, therefore, net income. The methodology for determining the amount of the allowance differs between

 

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the consumer automobile, consumer mortgage, and commercial portfolio segments. For additional information regarding our portfolio segments and classes, refer to Note 9 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. While we attribute portions of the allowance across our lending portfolios, the entire allowance is available to absorb probable loan losses inherent in our total lending portfolio.

The consumer portfolio segments consist of smaller-balance, homogeneous loans. Excluding certain loans that are identified as individually impaired, the allowance for each consumer portfolio segment (automobile and mortgage) is evaluated collectively. The allowance is based on aggregated portfolio segment evaluations that begin with estimates of incurred losses in each portfolio segment based on various statistical analyses. We leverage proprietary statistical models, including vintage and migration analyses, based on recent loss trends, to develop a systematic incurred loss reserve. These statistical loss forecasting models are utilized to estimate incurred losses and consider several credit quality indicators including, but not limited to, historical loss experience, estimated foreclosures or defaults based on observable trends, delinquencies, and general economic and business trends. Management believes these factors are relevant to estimate incurred losses and are updated on a quarterly basis in order to incorporate information reflective of the current economic environment, as changes in these assumptions could have a significant impact. In order to develop our best estimate of probable incurred losses inherent in the loan portfolio, management reviews and analyzes the output from the models and may adjust the reserves to take into consideration environmental, qualitative and other factors that may not be captured in the models. These adjustments are documented and reviewed through our risk management processes. Management reviews, updates, and validates its systematic process and loss assumptions on a periodic basis. This process involves an analysis of loss information, such as a review of loss and credit trends, a retrospective evaluation of actual loss information to loss forecasts, and other analyses.

The commercial loan portfolio segment is primarily composed of larger-balance, nonhomogeneous exposures within our Automotive Finance operations, Commercial Finance Group, and Mortgage operations. These loans are primarily evaluated individually and are risk-rated based on borrower, collateral, and industry-specific information that management believes is relevant in determining the occurrence of a loss event and measuring impairment. A loan is considered impaired when it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement based on current information and events. Management establishes specific allowances for commercial loans determined to be individually impaired based on the present value of expected future cash flows, discounted at the loans’ effective interest rate, observable market price or the fair value of collateral, whichever is determined to be the most appropriate. Estimated costs to sell or realize the value of the collateral on a discounted basis are included in the impairment measurement, when appropriate. In addition to the specific allowances for impaired loans, nonimpaired loans are grouped into pools based on similar risk characteristics and collectively evaluated. These allowances are based on historical loss experience, concentrations, current economic conditions, and performance trends within specific geographic locations. The commercial historical loss experience is updated quarterly to incorporate the most recent data reflective of the current economic environment.

The determination of the allowance is influenced by numerous assumptions and many factors that may materially affect estimates of loss, including volatility of loss given default, probability of default, and rating migration. The critical assumptions underlying the allowance include: (1) segmentation of each portfolio based on common risk characteristics; (2) identification and estimation of portfolio indicators and other factors that management believes are key to estimating incurred credit losses; and (3) evaluation by management of borrower, collateral, and geographic information. Management monitors the adequacy of the allowance and makes adjustments as the assumptions in the underlying analyses change to reflect an estimate of incurred loan losses at the reporting date, based on the best information available at that time. In addition, the allowance related to the commercial portfolio segment is influenced by estimated recoveries from automotive manufacturers relative to guarantees or agreements with them to repurchase vehicles used as collateral to secure the loans. If an automotive manufacturer is unable to fully honor its obligations, our ultimate loan losses could be higher. To the extent that actual outcomes differ from our estimates, additional provision for credit losses may be required that would reduce earnings.

 

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Valuation of Automobile Lease Assets, Residuals and Allowance for Lease Losses

We have significant investments in vehicles in our operating lease portfolio. In accounting for operating leases, management must make a determination at the beginning of the lease contract of the estimated realizable value (i.e., residual value) of the vehicle at the end of the lease. Residual value represents an estimate of the market value of the vehicle at the end of the lease term, which typically ranges from two to four years. Historically, we established residual values by using independently published residual values. Since re-entry into the lease market in August 2009, we established risk adjusted residual values based on independently published residuals. Risk adjustments are determined at lease inception and are based on current auction results adjusted for key variables that historically have shown an impact on auction values (as further described in “—Lease Residual Risk Management”). The customer is obligated to make payments during the term of the lease for the difference between the purchase price and the contract residual value. However, since the customer is not obligated to purchase the vehicle at the end of the contract, we are exposed to a risk of loss to the extent the value of the vehicle is below the residual value estimated at contract inception. Management periodically performs a detailed review of the estimated realizable value of leased vehicles to assess the appropriateness of the carrying value of lease assets.

To account for residual risk, we depreciate automobile operating lease assets to estimated realizable value on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The estimated realizable value is initially based on the residual value established at contract inception. Over the life of the lease, management evaluates the adequacy of the estimate of the realizable value and may make adjustments to the extent the expected value of the vehicle at lease termination changes. Any adjustments would result in a change in the depreciation rate of the lease asset, thereby affecting the carrying value of the operating lease asset. Overall business conditions (including the used vehicle markets), our remarketing abilities, and automotive manufacturer vehicle and marketing programs may cause management to adjust initial residual projections (as further described in “—Lease Residual Risk Management”).

In addition to estimating the residual value at lease termination, we must also evaluate the current value of the operating lease assets and test for impairment to the extent necessary in accordance with applicable accounting standards. Impairment is determined to exist if the undiscounted expected future cash flows (including the expected residual value) are lower than the carrying value of the asset. Certain triggering events necessitated impairment reviews in the second, third, and fourth quarters of 2008. There were no such impairment charges in 2010 or 2009. Refer to Note 10 for a discussion of the impairment charges recognized in 2008.

Our depreciation methodology on operating lease assets considers management’s expectation of the value of the vehicles upon lease termination, which is based on numerous assumptions and factors influencing used vehicle values. The critical assumptions underlying the estimated carrying value of automobile lease assets include: (1) estimated market value information obtained and used by management in estimating residual values, (2) proper identification and estimation of business conditions, (3) our remarketing abilities, and (4) automotive manufacturer vehicle and marketing programs. Changes in these assumptions could have a significant impact on the value of the lease residuals. Expected residual values include estimates of payments from GM related to residual support and risk-sharing agreements. To the extent GM is not able to fully honor its obligation relative to these agreements, our depreciation expense would be negatively impacted.

Valuation of Mortgage Servicing Rights

Mortgage servicing rights represent the capitalized value of the right to receive future cash flows from the servicing of mortgage loans for others. Mortgage servicing rights are a significant source of value derived from the sale or securitization of mortgage loans. They may also be purchased. Because residential mortgage loans typically contain a prepayment option, borrowers may often elect to prepay their mortgage loans by refinancing at lower rates during declining interest rate environments. When this occurs, the stream of cash flows generated from servicing the original mortgage loan is terminated. As such, the market value of mortgage servicing rights has historically been very sensitive to changes in interest rates and tends to decline as market interest rates decline and increase as interest rates rise.

 

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We capitalize mortgage servicing rights on residential mortgage loans that we have originated and purchased based on the fair market value of the servicing rights associated with the underlying mortgage loans at the time the loans are sold or securitized. GAAP requires that the value of mortgage servicing rights be determined based on market transactions for comparable servicing assets, if available. In the absence of representative market trade information, valuations should be based on other available market evidence and modeled market expectations of the present value of future estimated net cash flows that market participants would expect from servicing. When observable prices are not available, management uses internally developed discounted cash flow models to estimate the fair value. These internal valuation models estimate net cash flows based on internal operating assumptions that we believe would be used by market participants, combined with market-based assumptions for loan prepayment rate, interest rates, default rates and discount rates that management believes approximate yields required by investors for these assets. Servicing cash flows primarily include servicing fees, escrow account income, ancillary income and late fees, less operating costs to service the loans. The estimated cash flows are discounted using an option-adjusted spread-derived discount rate. Management considers the best available information and exercises significant judgment in estimating and assuming values for key variables in the modeling and discounting process. All of our mortgage servicing rights are carried at estimated fair value.

We use the following key assumptions in our valuation approach.

 

   

Prepayment—The most significant drivers of mortgage servicing rights value are actual and forecasted portfolio prepayment behavior. Prepayment speeds represent the rate at which borrowers repay their mortgage loans prior to scheduled maturity. As interest rates rise, prepayment speeds generally slow, and as interest rates decline, prepayment speeds generally accelerate. When mortgage loans are paid or expected to be paid earlier than originally estimated, the expected future cash flows associated with servicing such loans are reduced. We primarily use third-party models to project residential mortgage loan payoffs. In other cases, we estimate prepayment speeds based on historical and expected future prepayment rates. We measure model performance by comparing prepayment predictions against actual results at both the portfolio and product level.

 

   

Discount rate—The cash flows of our mortgage servicing rights are discounted at prevailing market rates, which include an appropriate risk-adjusted spread.

 

   

Base mortgage rate—The base mortgage rate represents the current market interest rate for newly originated mortgage loans. This rate is a key component in estimating prepayment speeds of our portfolio because the difference between the current base mortgage rate and the interest rates on existing loans in our portfolio is an indication of the borrower’s likelihood to refinance.

 

   

Cost to service—In general, servicing cost assumptions are based on internally projected actual expenses directly related to servicing. These servicing cost assumptions are compared to market-servicing costs when market information is available. Our servicing cost assumptions include expenses associated with our activities related to loans in default.

 

   

Volatility—Volatility represents the expected rate of change of interest rates. The volatility assumption used in our valuation methodology is intended to estimate the range of expected outcomes of future interest rates. We use implied volatility assumptions in connection with the valuation of our mortgage servicing rights. Implied volatility is defined as the expected rate of change in interest rates derived from the prices at which options on interest rate swaps, or swaptions, are trading. We update our volatility assumptions for the change in implied swaptions volatility during the period, adjusted by the ratio of historical mortgage to swaption volatility.

 

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We also periodically perform a series of reasonableness tests as we deem appropriate, including the following.

 

   

Review and compare data provided by an independent third-party broker. We evaluate and compare our fair value price, multiples and underlying assumptions to data provided by independent third-party broker.

 

   

Review and compare pricing of publicly traded interest-only securities. We evaluate and compare our fair value to publicly traded interest-only stripped mortgage-backed securities by age and coupon for reasonableness.

 

   

Review and compare fair value price/multiples. We evaluate and compare our fair value price/multiples to market fair value price/multiples quoted in external surveys produced by third parties.

 

   

Compare actual monthly cash flows to projections. We reconcile actual monthly cash flows to those projected in the mortgage servicing rights valuation. Based on the results of this reconciliation, we assess the need to modify the individual assumptions used in the valuation. This process ensures the model is calibrated to actual servicing cash flow results.

 

   

Review and compare recent bulk mortgage servicing right acquisition activity. We evaluate market trades for reliability and relevancy and then consider, as appropriate, our estimate of fair value of each significant transaction to the traded price. Currently, there is a lack of comparable transactions between willing buyers and sellers in the bulk acquisition market, which are the best indicators of fair value. However, we continue to monitor and track market activity on an ongoing basis.

We generally expect our valuation to be within a reasonable range of that implied by these tests. Changes in these assumptions could have a significant impact on the determination of fair market value. In order to develop our best estimate of fair value, management reviews and analyzes the output from the models and may adjust the reserves to take into consideration other factors that may not be captured. If we determine our valuation has exceeded the reasonable range, we may adjust it accordingly.

The assumptions used in modeling expected future cash flows of mortgage servicing rights have a significant impact on the fair value of mortgage servicing rights and potentially a corresponding impact to earnings. Refer to Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for sensitivity analysis. At December 31, 2010, based on the market information obtained, we determined that our mortgage servicing rights valuations and assumptions used to value those servicing rights were reasonable and consistent with what an independent market participant would use to value the asset.

Goodwill

The accounting for goodwill is discussed in Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Goodwill is reviewed for potential impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis, as of August 31, or in interim periods if events or circumstances indicate a potential impairment. Goodwill is allocated to the reporting units at the date the goodwill is initially recorded. Once goodwill has been allocated to the reporting units, it generally no longer retains its identification with a particular acquisition, but instead becomes identified with the reporting unit as a whole. As a result, all of the fair value of each reporting unit is available to support the value of goodwill allocated to the unit. Goodwill impairment testing is performed at the reporting unit level, one level below the business segment. For more information on our segments, refer to Note 28 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Goodwill impairment testing involves managements’ judgment, requiring an assessment of whether the carrying value of the reporting unit can be supported by the fair value of the individual reporting unit using widely accepted valuation techniques, such as the market approach (earnings, transaction, and/or pricing

 

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multiples) and discounted cash flow methods. In applying these methodologies we utilize a number of factors, including actual operating results, future business plans, economic projections, and market data. A combination of methodologies is used and weighted appropriately for each reporting unit. If actual results differ from these estimates, it may have an adverse impact on the valuation of goodwill that could result in a reduction of the excess over carrying value and possible impairment of goodwill. At December 31, 2010, we did not have material goodwill at our reporting units that is at risk of failing Step 1 of the goodwill impairment test.

Determination of Reserves for Insurance Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

Our Insurance operations include an array of insurance underwriting, including automotive service contracts and consumer products that create a liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred (further described in “—Insurance”). The reserve for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses represents an estimate of our liability for the unpaid cost of insured events that have occurred as of a point in time but have not yet been paid. More specifically, it represents the accumulation of estimates for reported losses and an estimate for losses incurred, but not reported, including claims adjustment expenses at the end of any given accounting period.

Our Insurance operations’ claim personnel estimate reported losses based on individual case information or average payments for categories of claims. An estimate for current incurred, but not reported, claims is also recorded based on the actuarially determined expected loss ratio for a particular product, which also considers significant events that might change the expected loss ratio, such as severe weather events and the estimates for reported claims. These estimates of the reserves are reviewed regularly by product line management, by actuarial and accounting staffs, and ultimately, by senior management.

Our Insurance operations’ actuaries assess reserves for each business at the lowest meaningful level of homogeneous data in each type of insurance, such as general or product liability and automobile physical damage. The purpose of these assessments is to confirm the reasonableness of the reserves carried by each of the individual subsidiaries and product lines and, thereby, the Insurance operations’ overall carried reserves. The selection of an actuarial methodology is judgmental and depends on variables such as the type of insurance, its expected payout pattern, and the manner in which claims are processed. Special characteristics such as deductibles, reinsurance recoverable, or special policy provisions are also considered in the reserve estimation process. Estimates for salvage and subrogation recoverable are recognized at the time losses are incurred and netted against the provision for losses. Our reserves include a liability for the related costs that are expected to be incurred in connection with settling and paying the claim. These loss adjustment expenses are generally established as a percentage of loss reserves. Our reserve process considers the actuarially calculated reserves based on prior patterns of claim incurrence and payment and the degree of incremental volatility associated with the underlying risks for the types of insurance; it represents management’s best estimate of the ultimate liability. Since the reserves are based on estimates, the ultimate liability may be more or less than our reserves. Any necessary adjustments, which may be significant, are included in earnings in the period in which they are deemed necessary. These changes may be material to our results of operations and financial condition and could occur in a future period.

Our determination of the appropriate reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses for significant business components is based on numerous assumptions that vary based on the underlying business and related exposure.

 

   

Automotive service contracts—Automotive service contract losses in the United States and abroad are generally reported and settled quickly through dealership service departments resulting in a relatively small balance of outstanding claims at any point in time relative to the volume of claims processed annually. Mechanical service contract claims are primarily composed of parts and labor for repair or replacement of the affected components or systems. Changes in the cost of replacement parts and labor rates will affect the cost of settling claims. Considering the short time frame between a claim being

 

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incurred and paid, changes in key assumptions (e.g., part prices, labor rates) would have a minimal impact on the loss reserve as of a point in time. The loss reserve amount is influenced by the estimate of the lag between vehicles being repaired at dealerships and the claim being reported by the dealership.

 

   

Personal automobile—Automobile insurance losses are principally a function of the number of occurrences (e.g., accidents or thefts) and the severity (e.g., the ultimate cost of settling the claim) for each occurrence. The number of incidents is generally driven by the demographics and other indicators or predictors of loss experience of the insured customer base including geographic location, number of miles driven, age, sex, type and cost of vehicle, and types of coverage selected. The severity of each claim, within the limits of the insurance purchased, is generally random and settles to an average over a book of business, assuming a broad distribution of risks. Changes in the severity of claims have an impact on the reserves established at a point in time. Changes in bodily injury claim severity are driven primarily by inflation in the medical sector of the economy. Changes in automobile physical damage claim severity are caused primarily by inflation in automobile repair costs, automobile parts prices, and used car prices. However, changes in the level of the severity of claims paid may not necessarily match or track changes in the rate of inflation in these various sectors of the economy.

At December 31, 2010, we concluded that our insurance loss reserves were reasonable and appropriate based on the assumptions and data used in determining the estimate. However, because insurance liabilities are based on estimates, the actual claims ultimately paid may vary from the estimates.

Loan Repurchase and Obligations Related to Loan Sales

The liability for representation and warranty obligations reflects management’s best estimate of probable lifetime loss. We consider historic and recent demand trends in establishing the reserve. The methodology used to estimate the reserve considers a variety of assumptions including borrower performance (both actual and estimated future defaults), repurchase demand behavior, historic loan defect experience, historic and estimated future loss experience, which includes projections of future home price changes as well as other qualitative factors including investor behavior. In cases where we do not have or have limited current or historical demand experience with an investor, because of the inherent difficulty in predicting the level and timing of future demands, if any, losses cannot currently be reasonably estimated, and a liability is not recognized. Management monitors the adequacy of the overall reserve and makes adjustments to the level of reserve, as necessary, after consideration of other qualitative factors including ongoing dialogue with counterparties.

Determination of Provision for Income Taxes

As of June 30, 2009, we converted from a LLC to a Delaware corporation, thereby ceasing to be a pass-through entity for income tax purposes. As a result, we adjusted our deferred tax assets and liabilities to reflect the estimated future corporate effective tax rate. Our banking, insurance, and foreign subsidiaries were generally always corporations and continued to be subject to tax and provide for U.S. federal, state, and foreign income taxes.

Our income tax expense, deferred tax assets and liabilities, and reserves for unrecognized tax benefits reflect management’s best assessment of estimated future taxes to be paid. We are subject to income taxes in both the United States and numerous foreign jurisdictions. Significant judgments and estimates are required in determining the consolidated income tax expense.

Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax and financial statement recognition of revenue and expense. In evaluating our ability to recover our deferred tax assets within the jurisdiction from which they arise we consider all available positive and negative evidence including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. In projecting future taxable income, we begin with historical results adjusted for the results of discontinued

 

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operations and changes in accounting policies and incorporate assumptions including the amount of future state, federal and foreign pretax operating income, the reversal of temporary differences, and the implementation of feasible and prudent tax planning strategies. These assumptions require significant judgment about the forecasts of future taxable income and are consistent with the plans and estimates we are using to manage the underlying businesses. In evaluating the objective evidence that historical results provide, we consider three years of cumulative operating income (loss). For the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, we have concluded that the negative evidence is more objective and therefore outweighs the positive evidence, and therefore we have recorded total valuation allowances on net deferred tax assets of $2.0 billion and $2.5 billion, respectively. For additional information regarding our provision for income taxes, refer to Note 24 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Private Debt Exchange and Cash Tender Offers

In 2008, we commenced separate private exchange and cash tender offers to purchase and/or exchange certain of outstanding notes held by eligible holders for cash, newly issued notes of Ally, and in some cases preferred stock of a wholly owned Ally subsidiary. Refer to Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.

In evaluating the accounting for the private debt exchange and cash tender offers (the “Offers”) in December 2008, management was required to make a determination as to whether the Offers should be accounted for as a TDR or an extinguishment of Ally and ResCap debt. In concluding on the accounting, management evaluated applicable accounting guidance. The relevant accounting guidance required us to determine whether the exchanges of debt instruments should be accounted for as a TDR. A TDR results when it is determined, evaluating six factors considered to be indicators of whether a debtor is experiencing financial difficulties, that the debtor is experiencing financial difficulties and the creditors grant a concession; otherwise, such exchanges should be accounted for as an extinguishment or modification of debt. The assessment of this critical accounting estimate required management to apply a significant amount of judgment in evaluating the inputs, estimates, and internally generated forecast information to conclude on the accounting for the Offers.

One of these factors was whether we had the ability with entity-specific cash flows to service the contractual terms of existing debt agreements through maturity based on estimates and projections that only encompassed the current business capabilities. Our assessment considered internal analyses such as our short-term and long-term liquidity projections, net income forecasts, and runoff projections. These analyses were based on our consolidated financial condition and our comprehensive ability to service both Ally and ResCap obligations and were based only on our then current business capabilities and funding sources. In addition to our baseline projections, these analyses incorporated stressed scenarios reflecting continued deterioration of the credit markets, further GM financial distress, and significant curtailments of loans originations. Management assigned probability weights to each scenario to determine an overall risk-weighted projection of our ability to meet our consolidated obligations as they come due. These analyses indicated that we could service all Ally and ResCap obligations as they came due in the normal course of business.

Our assessment also considered capital market perceptions of our financial condition, such as our credit agency ratings, market values for our debt, analysts’ reports, and public statements made by us and our stakeholders. Due to the rigor applied to our internal projections, management placed more weight on our internal projections and less weight on capital market expectations.

Based on this analysis and after the consideration of the applicable accounting guidance, management concluded the Offers were not deemed to be a TDR. As a result of this conclusion, the Offers were accounted for as an extinguishment of debt.

Applying extinguishment accounting, we recognized a gain at the time of the exchange for the difference between the carrying value of the exchanged notes and the fair value of the newly issued securities. In accordance with applicable fair value accounting guidance related to Level 3 fair value measures, we performed

 

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various analyses with regard to the valuation of the newly issued instruments. Level 3 fair value measures are valuations that are derived primarily from unobservable inputs and rely heavily on management assessments, assumptions, and judgments. In determining the fair value of the newly issued instruments, we performed an internal analysis using trading levels on the trade date, December 29, 2008, of existing Ally unsecured debt, adjusted for the features of the new instruments. We also obtained bid-ask spreads from brokers attempting to make a market in the new instruments.

Based on the determined fair values, we recognized a pretax gain upon extinguishment of $11.5 billion and reflected the newly issued preferred shares at their fair value, which was estimated to be $234 million on December 29, 2008. The majority of costs associated with the Offers were deferred in the basis of newly issued bonds. In the aggregate, the Offers resulted in an $11.7 billion increase to our consolidated equity position.

If management had concluded that TDR accounting was applicable, a significant portion of the $11.5 billion pretax gain, estimated to be $8.4 billion, would not have been recognized at the time of the exchange. A gain of $3.1 billion would have been recognized immediately, and an additional contractual discount of $3.0 billion would have been deferred and accreted as an offset to interest expense over the term of the newly issued bonds. Additionally, costs associated with the Offers would have been recognized immediately as an expense rather than deferred in the basis of the newly issued bonds.

The Offers were a significant component of our strategy to satisfy the condition for a minimum amount of regulatory capital in connection with our application to become a bank holding company. If the Offers had been accounted for as a TDR, regulatory capital would have been $8.4 billion lower, which may have affected the Federal Reserve’s consideration of our application.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Refer to Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information related to recently issued accounting standards.

Statistical Tables

The accompanying supplemental information should be read in conjunction with the more detailed information, including our Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto, which appear elsewhere in this prospectus.

 

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Net Interest Margin Table

The following tables present an analysis of net interest margin excluding discontinued operations for the periods shown.

 

    Three months ended March 31,  
    2011     2010      Increase (decrease) due to (a)   
    Average
balance (b)
    Interest
income/
interest
expense
    Yield/
rate
    Average
balance (b)
    Interest
income/
interest
expense
    Yield/
rate
    Volume     Yield/
rate
    Total  
    ($ in millions)  

Assets

                 

Interest-bearing cash and cash equivalents

  $ 13,041      $ 12        0.37   $ 13,462      $ 14        0.42   $      $ (2   $ (2

Trading securities

    318        3        3.83        303        1        1.34               2        2   

Investment securities (c)

    14,591        99        2.75        11,590        96        3.36        22        (19     3   

Loans held-for-sale, net

    8,877        108        4.93        16,861        215        5.17        (98     (9     (107

Finance receivables and loans, net (d)

    104,385        1,623        6.31        85,259        1,618        7.70        327        (322     5   

Investment in operating leases, net (e)

    8,947        395        17.90        14,883        507        13.82        (237     125        (112
                                                           

Total interest-earning assets

    150,159        2,240        6.05        142,358        2,451        6.98        14        (225     (211

Noninterest-bearing cash and cash equivalents

    1,032            1,359             

Other assets

    24,898            36,882             

Allowance for loan losses

    (1,864         (2,560          
                             

Total assets

  $ 174,225          $ 178,039             
                             

Liabilities

                 

Interest-bearing deposit liabilities

  $ 38,156      $ 172        1.83   $ 30,452      $ 158        2.10   $ 37      $ (23   $ 14   

Short-term borrowings

    7,107        126        7.19        7,741        111        5.82        (10     25        15   

Long-term debt (f)(g)(h)

    87,060        1,410        6.57        89,861        1,433        6.47        (45     22        (23
                                                           

Total interest-bearing liabilities (g)(i)

    132,323        1,708        5.23        128,054        1,702        5.39        (18     24        6   

Noninterest-bearing deposit liabilities

    2,017            1,769             
                                         

Total funding sources (g)(j)

    134,340        1,708        5.16        129,823        1,702        5.32         

Other liabilities

    19,473            27,540             
                             

Total liabilities

    153,813            157,363             

Total equity

    20,412            20,676             
                             

Total liabilities and equity

  $ 174,225          $ 178,039             
                             

Net financing revenue

    $ 532          $ 749        $ 32      $ (249   $ (217

Net interest spread (k)

        0.82         1.59      

Net interest spread excluding original issue discount (k)

        1.83         2.67      

Net interest spread excluding original issue discount and including noninterest bearing deposit liabilities (k)

        1.89         2.73      

Net yield on interest-earning assets (l)

        1.44         2.13      

Net yield on interest-earning assets excluding original issue discount (l)

        2.24         2.98      

 

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(a) Changes in interest not solely due to volume or yield/rate are allocated in proportion to the absolute dollar amount of change in volume and yield/rate.

 

(b) Average balances are calculated using a combination of monthly and daily average methodologies.

 

(c) Excludes income on equity investments of $5 million and $3 million at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Yields on available-for-sale debt securities are based on fair value as opposed to historical cost.

 

(d) Nonperforming finance receivables and loans are included in the average balances. For information on our accounting policies regarding nonperforming status refer to Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

(e) Includes gains on sale of $118 million and $184 million during the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Excluding these gains on sale, the annualized yield would be 12.56% and 8.80% at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

 

(f) Includes the effects of derivative financial instruments designated as hedges.

 

(g) Average balance includes $3,000 million and $4,247 million related to original issue discount at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Interest expense includes original issue discount amortization of $299 million and $296 million during the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

 

(h) Excluding original issue discount the rate on long-term debt was 5.00% and 4.90% at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

 

(i) Excluding original issue discount the rate on total interest-bearing liabilities was 4.22% and 4.31% at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

 

(j) Excluding original issue discount the rate on total funding sources was 4.16% and 4.25% at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

 

(k) Net interest spread represents the difference between the rate on total interest-earning assets and the rate on total interest-bearing liabilities.

 

(l) Net yield on interest-earning assets represents net financing revenue as a percentage of total interest-earning assets.

 

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    Year ended December 31,  
    2010     2009       Increase (decrease) due to (a)    
    Average
balance (b)
    Interest
income/
interest
expense
    Yield/
rate
    Average
balance (b)
    Interest
income/
interest
expense
    Yield/
rate
    Volume     Yield/
rate
    Total  
    ($ in millions)  

Assets

                 

Interest-bearing cash and cash equivalents

  $ 13,964      $ 70        0.50   $ 14,065      $ 99        0.70   $ (1   $ (28   $ (29

Trading securities

    252        15        5.95        985        132        13.40        (67     (50     (117

Investment securities (c)

    11,312        345        3.05        9,446        216        2.29        48        81        129   

Loans held-for-sale, net

    13,506        664        4.92        12,542        447        3.56        37        180        217   

Finance receivables and loans,
net (d)(e)

    92,224        6,556        7.11        92,567        6,481        7.00        (24     99        75   

Investment in operating leases,
net (f)

    12,064        1,750        14.51        21,441        1,967        9.17        (1,075     858        (217
                                                                 

Total interest earning assets

    143,322        9,400        6.56        151,046        9,342        6.18        (1,082     1,140        58   

Noninterest-bearing cash and cash equivalents

    686            1,144             

Other assets

    35,040            28,910             

Allowance for loan losses

    (2,363         (3,208          
                             

Total assets

  $ 176,685          $ 177,892             
                             

Liabilities

                 

Interest-bearing deposit liabilities

  $ 33,355      $ 660        1.98   $ 24,159      $ 700        2.90   $ 220      $ (260   $ (40

Short-term borrowings

    7,601        447        5.88        9,356        566        6.05        (104     (15     (119

Long-term debt (g)(h)(i)

    87,270        5,729        6.56        97,939        6,008        6.13        (682     403        (279
                                                           

Total interest-bearing liabilities (g)(h)(j)

    128,226        6,836        5.33        131,454        7,274        5.53        (566     128        (438

Noninterest-bearing deposit liabilities

    2,082            1,955             

Other liabilities

    25,666            20,231             
                             

Total liabilities

    155,974            153,640             

Total equity

    20,711            24,252             
                             

Total liabilities and equity

  $ 176,685          $ 177,892             
                             

Net financing revenue

    $ 2,564          $ 2,068        $ (516   $ 1,012      $ 496   

Net interest spread (k)

        1.23         0.65      

Net interest spread excluding original issue discount (k)

        2.29         1.68      

Net yield on interest earning assets (l)

        1.79         1.37      

Net yield on interest earning assets excluding original issue discount (l)

        2.63         2.13      

 

(a) Changes in interest not solely due to volume or yield/rate are allocated in proportion to the absolute dollar amount of change in volume and yield/rate.

 

(b) Average balances are calculated using a combination of monthly and daily average methodologies.

 

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(c) Excludes income on equity investments of $17 million and $10 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Yields on available-for-sale debt securities are based on fair value as opposed to historical cost.

 

(d) Nonperforming finance receivables and loans are included in the average balances. For information on our accounting policies regarding nonperforming status refer to Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

(e) Includes other interest income of $1 million and $86 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(f) Includes gains on sale of $704 million and $516 million during the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Excluding these gains on sale, the yield would be 8.67% and 6.77% at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(g) Includes the effects of derivative financial instruments designated as hedges.

 

(h) Average balance includes $3,710 million and $4,804 million related to original issue discount at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Interest expense includes original issue discount amortization of $1,204 million and $1,143 million during the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(i) Excluding original issue discount the rate on long-term debt was 4.97% and 4.74% at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(j) Excluding original issue discount the rate on total interest bearing liabilities was 4.27% and 4.50% at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(k) Net interest spread represents the difference between the rate on total interest earning assets and the rate on total interest-bearing liabilities.

 

(l) Net yield on interest earning assets represents net financing revenue as a percentage of total interest earning assets.

 

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Outstanding Finance Receivables and Loans

The following table presents the composition of our on-balance sheet finance receivables and loans.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008      2007      2006  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer

              

Domestic

              

Consumer automobile

   $ 34,604       $ 12,514       $ 16,281       $ 20,030       $ 40,568   

Consumer mortgage

              

1st Mortgage

     7,057         7,960         13,542         24,941         56,483   

Home equity

     3,964         4,238         7,777         9,898         9,445   
                                            

Total domestic

     45,625         24,712         37,600         54,869         106,496   
                                            

Foreign

              

Consumer automobile

     16,650         17,731         21,705         25,576         20,538   

Consumer mortgage

              

1st Mortgage

     742         405         4,604         7,320         3,463   

Home equity

             1         54         4         45   
                                            

Total foreign

     17,392         18,137         26,363         32,900         24,046   
                                            

Total consumer loans

     63,017         42,849         63,963         87,769         130,542   
                                            

Commercial

              

Domestic

              

Commercial and industrial

              

Automobile (a)

     24,944         19,604         16,913         17,463         14,892   

Mortgage

     1,540         1,572         1,627         3,001         11,115   

Other

     1,795         2,688         3,257         3,430         2,953   

Commercial real estate

              

Automobile

     2,071         2,008         1,941                   

Mortgage

     1         121         1,696         2,943         2,969   
                                            

Total domestic

     30,351         25,993         25,434         26,837         31,929   
                                            

Foreign

              

Commercial and industrial

              

Automobile (b)

     8,398         7,943         10,749         11,922         11,501   

Mortgage

     41         96         195         614         600   

Other

     312         437         960         1,704         1,606   

Commercial real estate

              

Automobile

     216         221         167                   

Mortgage

     78         162         260         536         243   
                                            

Total foreign

     9,045         8,859         12,331         14,776         13,950   
                                            

Total commercial loans

     39,396         34,852         37,765         41,613         45,879   
                                            

Total finance receivables and loans (c)

   $ 102,413       $ 77,701       $ 101,728       $ 129,382       $ 176,421   
                                            

Loans held-for-sale

   $ 11,411       $ 20,625       $ 7,919       $ 20,559       $ 27,718   
                                            

 

(a) Amount includes Notes Receivable from General Motors of $3 million at December 31, 2009.

 

(b) Amounts include Notes Receivable from General Motors of $484 million, $908 million, $1.7 billion, $1.9 billion, and $2.0 billion at December 31, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, and 2006, respectively.

 

(c) Includes historical cost, fair value, and repurchased loans.

 

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Nonperforming Assets

The following table summarizes the nonperforming assets in our on-balance sheet portfolio.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer

        

Domestic

        

Consumer automobile

   $ 129       $ 267       $ 294   

Consumer mortgage

        

1st Mortgage

     452         782         2,547   

Home equity

     108         114         540   
                          

Total domestic

     689         1,163         3,381   
                          

Foreign

        

Consumer automobile

     78         119         125   

Consumer mortgage

        

1st Mortgage

     261         33         1,034   

Home equity

                       
                          

Total foreign

     339         152         1,159   
                          

Total consumer (a)

     1,028         1,315         4,540   
                          

Commercial

        

Domestic

        

Commercial and industrial

        

Automobile

     261         281         1,448   

Mortgage

             37         140   

Other

     37         856         64   

Commercial real estate

        

Automobile

     193         256         153   

Mortgage

     1         56         1,070   
                          

Total domestic

     492         1,486         2,875   
                          

Foreign

        

Commercial and industrial

        

Automobile

     35         66         7   

Mortgage

     40         35           

Other

     97         131         19   

Commercial real estate

        

Automobile

     6         24         2   

Mortgage

     70         141         143   
                          

Total foreign

     248         397         171   
                          

Total commercial (b)

     740         1,883         3,046   
                          

Total nonperforming finance receivables and loans

     1,768         3,198         7,586   

Foreclosed properties

     150         255         787   

Repossessed assets (c)

     47         58         95   
                          

Total nonperforming assets

   $ 1,965       $ 3,511       $ 8,468   
                          

Loans held-for-sale

   $ 3,273       $ 3,390       $ 731   
                          

 

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(a) Interest revenue that would have been accrued on total consumer finance receivables and loans at original contractual rates was $109 million during the year ended December 31, 2010. Interest income recorded for these loans was $52 million during the year ended December 31, 2010.

 

(b) Interest revenue that would have been accrued on total commercial finance receivables and loans at original contractual rates was $61 million during the year ended December 31, 2010. Interest income recorded for these loans was $28 million during the year ended December 31, 2010.

 

(c) Repossessed assets exclude $14 million, $23 million, and $34 million of repossessed operating lease assets at December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

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Accruing Finance Receivables and Loans Past Due 90 Days or More

The following table presents our on-balance sheet accruing loans past due 90 days or more as to principal and interest.

 

     December 31,  
         2010              2009              2008      
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer

        

Domestic

        

Consumer automobile

   $       $       $ 19   

Consumer mortgage

        

1st Mortgage

     1         1         33   

Home equity

                       
                          

Total domestic

     1         1         52   
                          

Foreign

        

Consumer automobile

     5         5         40   

Consumer mortgage

        

1st Mortgage

             1           

Home equity

                       
                          

Total foreign

     5         6         40   
                          

Total consumer

     6         7         92   
                          

Commercial

        

Domestic

        

Commercial and industrial

        

Automobile

                       

Mortgage

                       

Other

                       

Commercial real estate

        

Automobile

                       

Mortgage

                       
                          

Total domestic

                       
                          

Foreign

        

Commercial and industrial

        

Automobile

                       

Mortgage

                       

Other

             3           

Commercial real estate

        

Automobile

                       

Mortgage

                       
                          

Total foreign

             3           
                          

Total commercial

             3           
                          

Total accruing finance receivables and loans past due 90 days or more

   $ 6       $ 10       $ 92   
                          

Loans held-for-sale

   $ 25       $ 33       $ 7   
                          

 

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Allowance for Loan Losses

The following table presents an analysis of the activity in the allowance for loan losses on finance receivables and loans.

 

     2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
     ($ in millions)  

Balance at January 1,

   $ 2,445      $ 3,433      $ 2,755      $ 3,576      $ 3,085   

Cumulative effect of change in accounting principles

     222               (616     (1,540       

Charge-offs

          

Domestic

     (1,297     (3,380     (2,192     (2,398     (1,575

Foreign

     (349     (633     (347     (293     (217

Write-downs related to transfers to held-for-sale

            (3,438                     
                                        

Total charge-offs

     (1,646     (7,451     (2,539     (2,691     (1,792
                                        

Recoveries

          

Domestic

     363        276        219        224        212   

Foreign

     85        76        71        74        50   
                                        

Total recoveries

     448        352        290        298        262   
                                        

Net charge-offs

     (1,198     (7,099     (2,249     (2,393     (1,530

Provision for loan losses

     442        5,604        3,102        3,037        1,948   

Discontinued operations

     (4     566        308        30        29   

Other

     (34     (59     133        45        44   
                                        

Balance at December 31,

   $ 1,873      $ 2,445      $ 3,433      $ 2,755      $ 3,576   
                                        

 

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Allowance for Loan Losses by Type

The following table summarizes the allocation of the allowance for loan losses by product type.

 

    December 31,  
    2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
    Amount     % of
total
    Amount     % of
total
    Amount     % of
total
    Amount     % of
total
    Amount     % of
total
 
    ($ in millions)  

Consumer

                   

Domestic

                   

Consumer automobile

  $ 769        41.0      $ 772        31.6      $ 1,115        32.5      $ 1,033        37.5      $ 1,228        34.3   

Consumer mortgage

                   

1st Mortgage

    322        17.2        387        15.8        525        15.3        540        19.6        1,325        37.0   

Home equity

    256        13.7        251        10.3        177        5.2        243        8.8        152        4.3   
                                                                               

Total domestic

    1,347        71.9        1,410        57.7        1,817        53.0        1,816        65.9        2,705        75.6   
                                                                               

Foreign

                   

Consumer automobile

    201        10.7        252        10.2        279        8.1        276        10.0        233        6.5   

Consumer mortgage

                   

1st Mortgage

    2        0.1        2        0.1        409        11.9        49        1.8        31        0.9   

Home equity

                                31        0.9                               
                                                                               

Total foreign

    203        10.8        254        10.3        719        20.9        325        11.8        264        7.4   
                                                                               

Total consumer loans

    1,550        82.7        1,664        68.0        2,536        73.9        2,141        77.7        2,969        83.0   
                                                                               

Commercial

                   

Domestic

                   

Commercial and industrial

                   

Automobile

    73        3.9        157        6.4        178        5.2        36        1.3        37        1.0   

Mortgage

                  10        0.4        93        2.7        483        17.5        396        11.1   

Other

    97        5.2        322        13.2        65        1.9        66        2.4        77        2.2   

Commercial real estate

                   

Automobile

    54        2.9                                                           

Mortgage

                  54        2.2        458        13.3                               
                                                                               

Total domestic

    224        12.0        543        22.2        794        23.1        585        21.2        510        14.3   
                                                                               

Foreign

                   

Commercial and industrial

                   

Automobile

    33        1.7        54        2.2        45        1.3        26        1.0        32        0.9   

Mortgage

    12        0.7        20        0.8        3        0.1                               

Other

    39        2.1        111        4.6        9        0.3        3        0.1        65        1.8   

Commercial real estate

                   

Automobile

    2        0.1                                                           

Mortgage

    13        0.7        53        2.2        46        1.3                               
                                                                               

Total foreign

    99        5.3        238        9.8        103        3.0        29        1.1        97        2.7   
                                                                               

Total commercial loans

    323        17.3        781        32.0        897        26.1        614        22.3        607        17.0   
                                                                               

Total allowance for loan losses

  $ 1,873        100.0      $ 2,445        100.0      $ 3,433        100.0      $ 2,755        100.0      $ 3,576        100.0   
                                                                               

 

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Deposit Liabilities

The following table presents the average balances and interest rates paid for types of domestic and foreign deposits.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009  
     Average
balance (a)
     Average
deposit rate
    Average
balance (a)
     Average
deposit rate
 
     ($ in millions)  

Domestic deposits

          

Noninterest-bearing deposits

   $ 2,071           $ 1,955        

NOW and money market checking accounts

     8,015         1.21        5,941         1.66   

Certificates of deposit

     21,153         2.04        16,401         3.33   

Dealer deposits

     1,288         4.00        671         4.09   
                                  

Total domestic deposit liabilities

     32,527         1.78        24,968         2.70   
                                  

Foreign deposits

          

Noninterest-bearing deposits

     11                          

NOW and money market checking accounts

     550         2.01        117         6.57   

Certificates of deposit

     2,107         2.83        1,029         2.25   

Dealer deposits

     242         4.47                  
                                  

Total foreign deposit liabilities

     2,910         2.80        1,146         2.69   
                                  

Total deposit liabilities

   $ 35,437         1.86   $ 26,114         2.70
                                  

 

(a) Average balances are calculated using a combination of monthly and daily average methodologies.

The following table presents the amount of domestic certificates of deposit in denominations of $100 thousand or more segregated by time remaining until maturity.

 

Year ended December 31, 2010

   Three
months or
less
     Over
three
months
through
six
months
     Over
six
months
through
twelve
months
     Over
twelve
months
     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Domestic certificates of deposit ($100,000 or more)

   $ 897       $ 1,060       $ 1,781       $ 3,273       $ 7,011   
                                            

 

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BUSINESS

General

Ally Financial Inc. (formerly GMAC Inc.) is a leading, independent, globally diversified, financial services firm with $174 billion in assets and operations in 37 countries. Founded in 1919, we are a leading automotive financial services company with over 90 years of experience providing a broad array of financial products and services to automotive dealers and their customers. We are also one of the largest residential mortgage companies in the United States. We became a bank holding company on December 24, 2008, under the BHC Act. Our banking subsidiary, Ally Bank, is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Ally Financial Inc. and a leading franchise in the growing direct (online and telephonic) banking market, with $35.4 billion of deposits at March 31, 2011.

Our Business

Global Automotive Services and Mortgage are our primary lines of business. Our global automotive business is centered around our strong and longstanding relationships with automotive dealers and supports our automotive manufacturing partners and their marketing programs. Our Global Automotive Services business serves approximately 20,000 dealers globally with a wide range of financial services and insurance products. We believe our dealer-focused business model makes us the preferred automotive finance company for thousands of our automotive dealer customers. We have specialized incentive programs that are designed to encourage dealers to direct more of their business to us. In addition, we believe our longstanding relationship with GM has resulted in particularly strong relationships between us and thousands of dealers and extensive operating experience relative to other automotive finance companies.

Our mortgage business is a leading originator and servicer of residential mortgage loans in the United States and Canada.

Ally Bank, our direct banking platform, provides our Automotive Finance and Mortgage operations with a stable, low-cost funding source and facilitates prudent asset growth. Our focus is on building a stable deposit base driven by our compelling brand and strong value proposition. Ally Bank raises deposits directly from customers through a direct banking channel over the internet and by telephone. Ally Bank offers a full spectrum of deposit product offerings including certificates of deposit, savings accounts, and money market accounts, as well as an online checking product. Ally Bank’s assets and operating results are divided between our North American Automotive Finance operations and Mortgage operations based on its underlying business activities.

 

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The following table reflects the primary products and services offered by the continuing operations of each of our lines of business.

LOGO

Global Automotive Services

Global Automotive Services includes our North American Automotive Finance operations, International Automotive Finance operations, and Insurance operations. Our Global Automotive Services business had $113.0 billion of assets at March 31, 2011, and generated $1.7 billion and $7.4 billion of total net revenue in the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010.

Ally’s primary customers are automotive dealers, which are independently owned businesses. As part of the process of selling a vehicle, automotive dealers typically originate loans and leases to their retail customers. Dealers then select Ally or another automotive finance provider to which they sell loans and leases.

Our Global Automotive Services operations offer a wide range of financial services and insurance products to approximately 20,000 automotive dealerships and their retail customers. We have deep dealer relationships that have been built over our 90-year history. Our dealer-focused business model encourages dealers to use our broad range of products through incentive programs like our Ally Dealer Rewards program, which rewards individual dealers based on the depth and breadth of our relationship. During the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, over 62% and 60%, respectively, of our U.S. dealer customers received benefits under the Ally Dealer Rewards program which was initiated in 2009. We expect even higher participation levels going forward as all of our dealer customers are eligible to participate in the program. Our automotive finance services include providing retail installment sales contracts, loans, and leases, offering term loans to dealers, financing dealer floorplans and other lines of credit to dealers, fleet leasing, and vehicle remarketing services. We also offer vehicle service contracts and commercial insurance primarily covering dealers’ wholesale vehicle inventories in the United States and internationally. We are a leading provider of vehicle service contracts with mechanical breakdown and maintenance coverages.

Global Automotive Services is supported by approximately 9,300 employees worldwide. A significant portion of our Global Automotive Services business is conducted with or through GM- and Chrysler-franchised dealers and their customers.

 

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Automotive Finance

Our North American Automotive Finance operations consist of our automotive finance operations in the United States and Canada. At March 31, 2011, our North American Automotive Finance operations had $87.7 billion of assets and generated $927 million and $4.0 billion of total net revenue in the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, respectively. According to Experian Automotive, we were the largest independent provider of new retail automotive loans in the United States during 2010. We funded one out of every ten new car purchases that were financed in the United States during 2010. In the United States and Canada alone, we have approximately 2,200 automotive finance and insurance employees in five regions focused on serving the needs of our dealer customers with finance and insurance products, expanding the number of overall dealer and automotive manufacturer relationships, and supporting our dealer lending and underwriting functions. In addition, we have over 2,400 employees that support our North American servicing operations. We manage commercial account servicing for over 5,000 dealers in the United States that utilize our floorplan inventory lending or other commercial loans. In the United States and Canada, we provide consumer asset servicing for a $72 billion portfolio at March 31, 2011. The extensive infrastructure and experience of our servicing operation are important to our ability to minimize our loan losses and enable us to deliver favorable customer experience to both our dealers and their retail customers.

Our International Automotive Finance operations are in Europe, Latin America, and Asia. At March 31, 2011, our International Automotive Finance operations had $16.3 billion of assets and generated $246 million and $1.0 billion of total net revenue in the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, respectively. Through our longstanding relationship with GM, we have extensive experience operating in international markets and broad global capabilities. We currently originate loans in 15 countries (other than the U.S. and Canada). During 2010 and 2009, we significantly streamlined our international presence to focus on strategic operations in five core markets: Germany, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico, and China through our joint venture, GMAC-SAIC. In China, GMAC-SAIC is a leading automotive finance company with broad geographic coverage and a full suite of products. We own 40% of GMAC-SAIC. The other joint venture partners include Shanghai Automotive Group Finance Company LTD and Shanghai General Motors Corporation Limited. In both Brazil and Mexico, we offer a full product line and have strong positions in the automotive dealer channel. Germany and the United Kingdom remain our core markets in Europe with $5.7 billion of total finance receivables and loans at March 31, 2011. To improve operational efficiency, certain of our servicing and lending activities in Europe have been consolidated in Germany.

Our success as an automotive finance provider is driven by the consistent and broad range of products and services we offer to dealers who originate loans and leases to their retail customers who are acquiring new and used automobiles. In the United States and Canada, Ally and other automotive finance providers purchase these loans and leases from automotive dealers. In other countries, we offer retail installment loans and leases directly to retail customers of the dealers. Automotive dealers are independently owned businesses and are our primary customer.

Automotive dealers require a full range of financial products, including new and used vehicle inventory financing, inventory insurance, working capital and capital improvement loans, and vehicle remarketing services to conduct their respective businesses as well as service contracts and guaranteed asset protection (“GAP”) insurance to offer their customers. We have consistently provided this full suite of products to dealers.

For consumers, we offer retail automotive financing for new and used vehicles and leasing for new vehicles. In the United States, retail financing for the purchase of vehicles takes the form of installment sale financing. References to consumer automobile loans in this prospectus include retail installment sales financing unless the context suggests otherwise. During the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, we originated a total of 616 thousand and 1.9 million automotive loans and leases worldwide totaling approximately $14.3 billion and $43.0 billion, respectively. We provided financing for 51% and 30% of GM’s and Chrysler’s North American retail sales including leases, respectively, and 24% of GM’s international retail sales including leases in countries where both GM and we operate and we had retail financing volume, excluding China. For additional information

 

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about our relationship and business transactions with GM, refer to Note 26 to the Consolidated Financial Statements and the section of this prospectus entitled “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions.”

Our consumer automotive financing operations also generate revenue through finance charges or lease payments and fees paid by customers on the retail contracts and leases. We also recognize a gain or loss on the remarketing of the vehicles financed through lease contracts. When the lease contract is originated, we estimate the residual value of the leased vehicle at lease termination. At lease termination, our actual sales proceeds from remarketing the vehicle may be higher or lower than the original estimate, which may be revised over time.

GM or Chrysler may elect as a marketing incentive to sponsor special financing programs for retail sales of their respective vehicles. The manufacturer can lower the financing rate paid by the customer on either a retail contract or a lease by paying us the present value of the difference between the customer rate and our standard market rates at contract inception. These marketing incentives are referred to as rate support or subvention. GM may also from time to time offer lease pull-ahead programs, which encourage consumers to terminate existing leases early if they acquire a new GM vehicle. As part of these programs, we waive all or a portion of the customer’s remaining payment obligation. In most cases, GM compensates us for a portion of the foregone revenue from those waived payments after consideration of the extent that our remarketing sale proceeds are higher than otherwise would be realized if the vehicle had been remarketed at lease contract maturity. Historically, the manufacturer elected to lower a customer’s lease payments through a residual support incentive program; in these instances, the manufacturer and we agreed to increase the projected value of the vehicle at the time the lease contract was signed, and the manufacturer reimbursed us if the remarketing sales proceeds were less than the adjusted residual value. We have not had any residual support incentive programs of material size on leases originated in 2009 or 2010 with any manufacturers.

Our commercial automotive financing operations primarily fund dealer purchases of new and used vehicles through floorplan financing. During 2010, we financed an average of $30.5 billion of dealer vehicle inventory worldwide through floorplan financings. We financed 84% and 68% of GM’s and Chrysler’s North American dealer inventory, respectively, during the first quarter of 2011, and 75% of GM’s international dealer inventory in countries where GM operates and we provide dealer inventory financing, excluding China. Additional commercial offerings include automotive dealer term loans, revolving lines of credit, and dealer fleet financing. We provide comprehensive automotive remarketing services, including the use of SmartAuction, our online auction platform, which efficiently supports dealer-to-dealer and other commercial wholesale car transactions. In 2010, we and others utilized SmartAuction to sell 412,000 vehicles to dealers and other commercial customers. SmartAuction served as the remarketing channel for over 60% of Ally’s off lease vehicles.

Wholesale automotive financing represents the largest portion of our commercial automotive financing business. We extend lines of credit to individual dealers. In general, each wholesale credit line is secured by all the vehicles financed and, in some instances, by other assets owned by the dealer or by a personal guarantee. The amount we advance to dealers is equal to 100% of the wholesale invoice price of new vehicles. Interest on wholesale automotive financing is generally payable monthly and is usually indexed to a floating rate benchmark. The rate for a particular dealer is based on the dealer’s creditworthiness and eligibility for various incentive programs, among other factors.

Manufacturer Relationships

On November 30, 2006, we entered into an agreement with GM that stated, subject to certain conditions and limitations, whenever GM offers vehicle financing and leasing incentives to customers, it would do so exclusively through Ally. Most recently, this agreement was modified on May 22, 2009. As a result of these modifications: (1) through December 31, 2010, GM could offer retail financing incentive programs through a third-party financing source under certain specified circumstances and, in some cases, subject to the limitation that pricing offered by the third party meets certain restrictions, and after December 31, 2010, GM can offer any

 

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incentive programs on a graduated basis through third parties on a nonexclusive, side-by-side basis with Ally provided that the pricing of the third parties meets certain requirements; (2) Ally will have no obligation to provide operating lease financing products; and (3) Ally will have no targets against which it could be assessed penalties. The modified agreement will expire on December 31, 2013. A primary objective of Ally under the agreement continues to be supporting distribution and marketing of GM products.

On August 6, 2010, we entered into an agreement with Chrysler (which replaced a term sheet that was originally effective on April 30, 2009) to make available automotive financing products and services to Chrysler dealers and customers. We are Chrysler’s preferred provider of new wholesale financing for dealer inventory in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, along with other international markets upon the mutual agreement of the parties. We provide dealer financing and services and retail financing to qualified Chrysler dealers and customers as we deem appropriate according to our credit policies and in our sole discretion. Chrysler is obligated to provide us with certain exclusivity privileges including the use of Ally for designated minimum threshold percentages of certain Chrysler retail financing subvention programs. The agreement extends through April 30, 2013, with automatic one-year renewals unless either we or Chrysler provides sufficient notice of nonrenewal. During 2010, Chrysler also selected Ally to be the preferred financing provider for Fiat vehicles in the United States. Under this agreement, our North American Automotive Finance operations will offer retail financing, leasing, wholesale financing, working capital and facility loans, and remarketing services for Fiat vehicles in the United States.

Subvented loans, originated through our preferred financing relationships, represented 33% and 41% of our first quarter 2011 and fiscal year 2010 North American new retail loan and lease origination volume, respectively, compared to 52% in 2009 and 60% in 2008. For non-subvented retail loan originations, we successfully compete at the dealer-level based on our strong dealer relationships, competitive pricing, full suite of products and comprehensive service.

In 2010, we also further diversified our Global Automotive Services customer base by establishing agreements with other manufacturers. In March 2010, we were selected by Spyker Cars N.V., which purchased Saab Automobile from GM, as the preferred source of wholesale and retail financing for qualified Saab dealers and customers in North America and internationally. Additionally, in November 2010, we were selected as the recommended provider of finance and insurance products and services for Saab dealerships in the United States. In April 2010, we were selected by Thor Industries, Inc. (“Thor”) as the preferred financial provider for its recreational vehicles. Thor is the world’s largest manufacturer of recreation vehicles, including brands such as Damon, Four Winds, Airstream, Dutchmen, Komfort, Breckenridge, CrossRoads, General Coach, and Keystone RV.

Insurance

Our Insurance operations offer both consumer insurance products sold primarily through the automotive dealer channel and commercial insurance products sold to dealers. As part of our focus on offering dealers a broad range of products, we provide vehicle service contracts, mechanical breakdown and maintenance coverages. We also underwrite selected commercial insurance coverages which primarily insure dealers’ wholesale vehicle inventory in the United States and internationally, as well as personal automobile insurance in certain countries outside the United States. We sell vehicle service contracts with mechanical breakdown and maintenance coverages. Our Insurance operations had $9.0 billion of assets at March 31, 2011, and generated $520 million and $2.4 billion of total net revenue in the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010.

Our vehicle service contracts for retail customers offer owners and lessees mechanical repair protection and roadside assistance for new and used vehicles beyond the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty. These vehicle service contracts are marketed to the public through automotive dealerships and on a direct response basis in the United States and Canada. The vehicle service contracts cover virtually all vehicle makes and models. We also offer GAP products, which allow the recovery of a specified economic loss beyond the covered vehicle’s value in the event the vehicle is damaged and declared a total loss. Our U.K.-based Car Care Plan subsidiary provides vehicle service contracts and GAP products in Europe and Latin America.

 

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Wholesale vehicle inventory insurance for dealers provides physical damage protection for dealers’ floorplan vehicles. Dealers are generally required to maintain this insurance by their floorplan finance provider. We offer vehicle inventory insurance in the United States to virtually all new car franchised dealerships. We sell insurance products to over 4,000 dealers in the United States. Among U.S. GM dealers to whom we provide wholesale financing, our wholesale insurance product penetration rate is approximately 80%. Dealers who receive wholesale financing from Ally are eligible for wholesale insurance incentives, such as automatic eligibility in our preferred insurance programs and increased financial benefits. International operations also manage a fee-focused insurance program through which commissions are earned from third-party insurers offering insurance products primarily to Ally customers worldwide.

Our ABA Seguros subsidiary provides personal automobile insurance and certain commercial insurance in Mexico. We also provide personal automobile insurance in Canada.

A significant aspect of our Insurance operations is the investment of proceeds from premiums and other revenue sources. We will use these investments to satisfy our obligations related to future claims at the time these claims are settled. Our Insurance operations have an Investment Committee, which develops guidelines and strategies for these investments. The guidelines established by this committee reflect our risk tolerance, liquidity requirements, regulatory requirements, and rating agency considerations, among other factors.

Mortgage

Our Mortgage operations are now reported as two distinct segments: (1) Origination and Servicing operations and (2) Legacy Portfolio and Other operations. These operations are conducted through the mortgage operations of Ally Bank in the United States, ResMor Trust in Canada, and subsidiaries of ResCap legal entity in the United States. Our Mortgage operations had $31.0 billion of assets at March 31, 2011, and generated $411 million and $2.7 billion of total net revenue in the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, respectively.

Origination and Servicing

Our Origination and Servicing operations is one of the leading originators of conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans in the United States. We also originate and purchase high-quality government-insured residential mortgage loans in Canada. We are one of the largest residential mortgage loan servicers in the United States and we provide collateralized lines of credit to other mortgage originators, which we refer to as warehouse lending. We finance our mortgage loan originations primarily in Ally Bank in the United States and in ResMor Trust in Canada. During 2010, we originated or purchased approximately 300,000 mortgage loans totaling $69.5 billion in the United States: $61.5 billion through our network of correspondents and $8.0 billion through our retail and direct network, which includes our Ditech branded direct-to-consumer channel. We sell the conforming mortgages we originate or purchase in sales that take the form of securitizations guaranteed by the Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, and sell government-insured mortgage loans we originate or purchase in securitizations guaranteed by Ginnie Mae in the United States and sell the insured mortgages we originate in Canada as NHA-MBS issued under the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s NHA-MBS program or through whole-loan sales. Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Ginnie Mae are collectively known as the Government-sponsored Enterprises or GSEs. We also selectively originate prime jumbo mortgage loans in the United States. In 2010, we sold $67.8 billion of mortgage loans guaranteed by the GSEs, or 94.6% of total loans sold by us. At December 31, 2010, we were the primary servicer of 2.4 million mortgage loans with an unpaid principal balance of $361 billion. Our Originating and Servicing operations had $19.2 billion of assets at March 31, 2011, and generated $321 million and $1.8 billion of total net revenue during the quarter ended March 31, 2011 and the year ended December 31, 2010, respectively.

Legacy Portfolio and Other

Our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations primarily consists of loans originated prior to January 1, 2009, and includes noncore business activities including discontinued operations, portfolios in runoff, and cash held in the ResCap legal entity. These activities, all of which we have discontinued, include, among other things: lending

 

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to real estate developers and homebuilders in the United States and the United Kingdom; purchasing, selling and securitizing nonconforming residential mortgage loans (with the exception of U.S. prime jumbo mortgage loans) in both the United States and internationally; certain conforming origination channels closed in 2008 and our mortgage reinsurance business. During 2009 and 2010, we performed a strategic review of our mortgage business. As a result of the review, we exited the European mortgage market through the sale of our United Kingdom and continental Europe operations. The sale of these operations was completed on October 1, 2010. We have substantially reduced the risk in our Mortgage operations since the onset of the housing crisis through a significant reduction in total assets, primarily through the runoff and divestiture of noncore businesses and assets. In 2010, we sold $1.6 billion in domestic legacy mortgage loans to investors through nonagency securitizations. At March 31, 2011, our Legacy Portfolio and Other operations had total assets of $11.8 billion that included $1.4 billion of nonrecourse assets and cash, mortgage loans held-for-investment with a net carrying value of $8.5 billion, and mortgage loans held-for-sale with a net carrying value of $1.9 billion, which have been marked to their fair value at 47% of their unpaid principal balance on average. In addition, we have reached agreements with Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, significantly limiting our repurchase obligations with each counterparty. Our Mortgage operations holds reserves of $830 million at March 31, 2011, for potential repurchase obligations related to potential breaches of representations and warranties.

Corporate and Other

Our Commercial Finance Group is included within Corporate and Other. Our Commercial Finance Group provides senior secured commercial lending products to small and medium sized businesses primarily in the United States. Corporate and Other also includes certain equity investments, the amortization of the discount associated with new debt issuances and bond exchanges, most notably from the December 2008 bond exchange, as well as the residual impacts of our corporate FTP and treasury ALM activities.

Ally Bank

Ally Bank raises deposits directly from customers through the direct banking channel via the internet and over the telephone. We have quickly become a leader in direct banking with our recognizable brand, accessible 24/7 customer service, and competitively priced deposit products. We have distinguished our direct bank with our “Talk Straight, Do Right, Be Obviously Better” branding and products that are “Easy to Use” with “No Fine Print, Hidden Fees, Rules or Penalties”.

Ally Bank provides our automotive finance and mortgage loan operations with a stable and low-cost funding source and facilitates prudent asset growth. At March 31, 2011, we had $35.4 billion of deposits including $23.5 billion of retail deposits sourced by Ally Bank. The focus on retail deposits and growth in our deposit base from $19.2 billion at the end of 2008 to $35.4 billion at March 31, 2011, combined with improving capital markets and a lower interest rate environment have contributed to a reduction in our cost of funds of approximately 100 basis points since the first quarter of 2009. We believe our retail deposits at Ally Bank will continue to provide a diversified, low-cost funding source for our automotive and mortgage assets. Ongoing, our cost of funds will be influenced by changes in the level of deposits as well as the interest rate environment and the state of capital markets.

Consumer preferences for the online banking model have grown consistently over the past several years. We believe internet banking is now the preferred banking channel by consumers. According to a 2010 American Bankers Association survey, the number of bank customers who prefer to do their banking online increased from 21% to 36% between 2007 and 2010, while those who prefer branch banking has declined from 39% to 25% over the same period. We believe that Ally Bank is well-positioned to take advantage of the consumer-driven shift from branch to direct banking.

 

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Competition

The markets for automotive and mortgage financing and providing insurance services are highly competitive. We compete with other financial services providers including captive automotive finance companies, banks, savings and loan associations, credit unions, finance companies, mortgage banking companies, and insurance companies. Our insurance business faces significant competition from insurance carriers, reinsurers, third-party administrators, brokers, and other insurance-related companies. Many of our competitors have substantial positions nationally or in the markets in which they operate. Some of our competitors have lower cost structures, have lower costs of capital, and are less reliant on securitization and sale activities. We believe we can compete effectively by continuing to expand and deepen our relationships with dealers through our dedicated sales force, breadth of product offering and competitive incentive programs.

The market for deposit products is also highly competitive. We compete with other direct banking institutions as well as traditional branch based banks, thrifts and credit unions. We seek to distinguish ourselves from the competition on superior customer service, competitive pricing and innovative products.

Our Strengths

Automotive financial services category leader with full product suite.

We are one of the largest providers of retail and wholesale automotive financing in the world and are an integral part of the automotive industry. We believe that our 90-year history has provided us extensive knowledge of the automotive industry and the financial services needs of its dealers, automotive manufacturers, and retail consumers.

Our full suite of financing and insurance products and extensive on-site service relationships differentiate us from most of our competitors. As of March 31, 2011, over 5,000 of our automotive dealer customers utilized four or more of our products. We use incentive programs, such as our Ally Dealer Rewards program, to increase the volume of business and number of products used by our dealer customers. During the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, over 62% and 60%, respectively, of our U.S. dealer customers received benefits under the Ally Dealer Rewards program which was initiated in 2009.

Implementation of our market-driven strategies since 2008 has enabled us to grow our Global Automotive Services business within our existing dealer relationships and expand into new relationships with dealers of various manufacturers. Since 2008, we have successfully added preferred provider agreements, including Chrysler (U.S., Canada and Mexico), Fiat (U.S. and Mexico), Saab (U.S. and Europe), American Suzuki (U.S.) and Thor (U.S.). Our strong relationships with manufacturers have allowed us to offer more products, expand our dealer base and strengthen our existing network of dealer relationships. We have increased our new non-GM retail originations from $1.0 billion in 2006 to $9.5 billion in 2010 and from $1.7 billion in the first quarter of 2010 to $2.6 billion in the first quarter of 2011.

We believe that the combination of our full suite of products, service standards, global platform, incentive programs, and funding strategy put us in a strong position relative to competing financial institutions and future entrants to the market.

 

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Scalable platform with significant growth opportunities.

We are well-positioned for growth as the U.S. economy recovers and U.S. SAAR of vehicle sales rebounds from its 2008-2009 recessionary levels. Consumer and business spending on automobiles has recovered from recent lows but remains well below historical average levels. The chart below shows historical consumer, business and government spending on automobiles as a percentage of U.S. GDP.

LOGO

Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Department of Commerce

The chart below shows historical and projected U.S. SAAR (in millions):

LOGO

 

Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis as to 2006-2010 data and Blue Chip Economic Indicators, Vol. 35, No. 10/Vol. 36, No. 6, as to projected 2011-2013 data.

In the United States and Canada, we have approximately 2,200 automotive finance and insurance employees dedicated to dealer sales, product support, lending and underwriting. This infrastructure allows us to accommodate our growing volume of business and support our existing customers. We maintain a dedicated sales force, which meets the needs of our existing dealer customers, expands our market penetration in the dealer network and supports our existing and new automotive manufacturing partners. Our sales force consists of direct dealer account relationship professionals, supplemental product support coverage professionals, and primary manufacturer relationship account professionals.

 

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We also have invested significantly in our technology infrastructure and other initiatives to support our automotive financing and banking services platforms to further enhance our dealer and retail customer relationships and increase business volumes. This focus has resulted in increased credit application flow and originations from dealers representing various manufacturers, including GM and Chrysler. We are now able to access applications from almost all U.S. automotive dealerships under any brand. The combination of our extensive infrastructure, our relationships with finance and insurance departments of dealers, and our participation in the major credit application on-line networks, provides us with a strong platform to efficiently grow our consumer business volumes across a broad mix of automotive dealers.

In addition, we expect our incentive programs, such as Ally Dealer Rewards and other market-driven strategies, to increase business volumes and the number of products used by dealers. Other major initiatives underway such as dealer diversification strategies and additional preferred relationships with other manufacturers should increase our consumer retail, lease, and dealer funding volumes. The used vehicle financing market is highly fragmented and we believe this provides us with a growth opportunity within our franchised dealer relationships. We believe our significant presence in attractive markets such as China and Brazil also supports our growth opportunity internationally.

Leading direct banking franchise.

We believe Ally Bank is well-positioned for continued growth within the direct banking market. The Ally Bank brand has attained strong recognition since it was launched in 2009. Ally Bank provides us with a diversified source of stable, low-cost funding. The bank’s assets primarily consist of high quality commercial and consumer automotive finance receivables and conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans originated through our automotive and mortgage businesses, respectively. We believe there are opportunities to deliver other products to our growing banking customer base, in addition to our full suite of deposit, savings and checking products.

Complementary mortgage origination and servicing operations.

Our Origination and Servicing business is one of the largest participants in the U.S. residential mortgage loan market and provides us with an additional source of profitability. It is now focused on the segments of the mortgage loan market that have remained profitable for us during the housing crisis. We believe our Origination and Servicing operations are well-positioned as a result of our strong market position, scalable platform, well-known brands and extensive experience.

Strong balance sheet, liquidity position and risk management.

We believe that the consumer automotive loans on our balance sheet reflect the significantly tighter underwriting standards across the credit spectrum that we adopted since 2008. Our underwriting process utilizes a robust combination of credit metrics, including, among others, FICO scores, loan-to-value ratios, debt-to-income ratios and proprietary scoring models. The average FICO score at origination of the U.S. new retail loans in our outstanding portfolio as of March 31, 2011 was 733. We are prudently expanding automotive originations across the credit spectrum in accordance with our underwriting standards. During the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, the loss rate on our U.S. consumer automotive portfolio was 0.95% and 1.73%, respectively.

Our commercial automotive financing business consists primarily of wholesale financing in which credit is extended to individual dealers and is secured by vehicles in inventory and, in some circumstances, other assets owned by the dealer or by a personal guarantee. We manage risk in our commercial automotive financing business through our rigorous credit underwriting process, which utilizes our proprietary dealer credit evaluation system, our ongoing risk monitoring program, and vehicle inventory audits to verify collateral and dealer compliance with lending agreements. During the first quarter of 2011 and fiscal year 2010, the loss rate on our U.S. commercial automotive portfolio was 0.04% and 0.27%, respectively.

 

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The loans originated in our mortgage operations are currently comprised primarily of high credit quality conforming, government-insured and prime jumbo residential mortgage loans. We have substantially reduced and derisked our legacy mortgage exposure of nonconforming assets through writedowns, run-offs and divestitures over the last three years. We have also settled with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, as well as several other counterparties, which resolved certain material repurchase obligations with each counterparty. At March 31, 2011, we held reserves of $830 million for potential repurchase obligations for loans we sold to counterparties. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Off-balance Sheet Arrangements—Government-sponsored Enterprises” for further details with respect to the scope of our settlement agreements with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

We have demonstrated strong access to funding and liquidity that are critical to our business. In the first quarter of 2011 and full year 2010, we raised over $7 billion and nearly $36 billion of secured and unsecured funding in the capital markets. We also have significant liquidity available beyond capital markets funding with access to $33.4 billion of liquidity in the form of cash, highly liquid unencumbered securities, and available committed credit facility capacity at March 31,2011.

Our access to deposits is an important source of diversified funding. Approximately 30% of our funding at the end of the first quarter of 2011 came from deposits compared to 14% at the end of 2008. We believe Ally Bank gives us the stable, low-cost benefits of deposit funding with a direct-to-consumer delivery model. Ally Bank’s leadership in direct banking, recognizable brand and compelling customer value proposition position us well for consistent growth.

Our balance sheet is well capitalized. At March 31, 2011, we had a Tier 1 capital ratio of 14.68%, and a Tier 1 common ratio of     % pro forma for this offering. We believe this capitalization compares favorably to our peers and positions us well for the future.

Experienced management team.

Our senior management team is comprised of financial professionals with deep operating experience in automotive and consumer finance and extensive experience managing some of the largest and most successful financial institutions in the world. Our senior management team has successfully led our return to profitability and the development of our strong liquidity and capital position following the financial crisis. Our management team has taken significant actions to make our automotive finance business more efficient and better positioned for growth opportunities. Substantial actions have also been taken to materially reduce the legacy risk in our mortgage operations. Our capital structure and prudent liquidity actions by management have positioned us for growth as the automotive industry and overall economy continue to rebound.

Our Business Strategy

Expand our position as a leading global provider of automotive financial services products.

We believe that our dealer-focused business model, global platform, full range of product offerings and sales organization position us to further broaden our relationships with existing and new dealers and automotive manufacturers, and to originate attractive retail automotive loans and leases for our portfolio in addition to other products. Our market-driven strategies, including incentive programs, have been designed and implemented to drive higher business volumes with our dealer relationships. Furthermore, we have dedicated resources to the underwriting and financing of used vehicle sales that should allow us to expand loan origination volume with our existing dealer base. We are also leveraging our existing dealer relationships, product suite, and extensive operating experience to expand our diversified dealer network and facilitate financing relationships with additional automotive manufacturers. We intend to continue to strongly support our financing relationships with GM and Chrysler by providing dependable new car inventory and consumer financing through all economic cycles. We will continue to utilize our international infrastructure to build upon our strong presence in attractive, developing markets such as China, Brazil and Mexico. Our objective is to generate incremental profitability and asset growth without straying from our core competencies in automotive finance.

 

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Continue to generate consistent results through our Mortgage operations.

Our Mortgage Origination and Servicing operations, which primarily originate and service high credit quality mortgage loans, provide a complementary source of consumer assets and a diversified source of profitability. The vast majority of our mortgage loans are originated, financed, and sold without significant balance sheet growth.

We plan to prudently expand our direct lending origination channel to complement our existing origination platform. Our servicing operations are fee-based and do not expose us to significant credit risk. We expect to sell the vast majority of our mortgage loans soon after origination, thereby reducing funding requirements.

Reduce our funding costs and continue funding diversification.

We continue to expand and diversify our funding in order to improve our profitability and enhance our competitiveness. Our success at developing our franchise at Ally Bank has supported the growth of our retail deposit base to $23.5 billion at March 31, 2011 from $7.2 billion at the end of 2008. Our retail deposit growth has enabled us to diversify and reduce our cost of funds since 2008. Our strategy is to continue to increase our retail deposit base through the delivery of our full suite of deposit products and continued investment in the Ally Bank brand name.

Our objective is to attain investment grade credit ratings from the rating agencies. We believe that improved ratings will help us to reduce our cost of funds further and improve our ability to compete even more effectively with other large banks and financial institutions across all products. We believe that the stable performance of our asset base, strong capitalization, demonstrated access to diversified funding markets, and the ability to operate profitably will help us reach this goal over time.

By continuing to diversify our funding sources and lower our overall cost of funding, including the prudent growth of Ally Bank, we believe that we can provide even more efficient and consistent funding for our dealers and their retail customers through various economic cycles.

Maintain a strong balance sheet through disciplined origination, servicing and risk management.

We will continue to focus primarily on originating and managing secured automotive and mortgage loans and related products. The types of secured commercial and consumer automotive loans that we originate performed well through the recent financial crisis. Our Mortgage Origination and Servicing operations originate conforming, government-insured residential and prime jumbo residential mortgage loans, which we believe have an attractive risk return profile. We believe we have significantly reduced our risk profile and improved our profitability by divesting and discontinuing a number of noncore activities.

We believe that we maintain strong levels of capital and liquidity relative to other bank holding companies. Our strategy is to materially increase our volume of automotive finance assets within our existing infrastructure and with prudent underwriting criteria which we believe will allow us to efficiently utilize our capital and enhance our profitability.

Improve our shareholder return profile.

We seek to enhance our returns for shareholders by prudently originating loans and leases across the credit spectrum. We have also recently increased our focus on offering financing for used vehicles through our franchised dealer relationships. We have invested significant capital in risk management and technology to manage this expansion. By prudently expanding automotive originations across broad credit segments and with continued diversification, we believe we can increase asset yields and generate attractive risk-adjusted returns in a variety of interest rate and credit environments. We plan to continue to decrease our overall costs by increasing productivity, adding retail deposits, and efficiently accessing secured and unsecured wholesale markets as certain higher-cost legacy funding matures. The combination of higher asset yields and lower operating and funding costs with an efficient capital structure will provide opportunities for us to improve returns to our shareholders.

 

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Certain Regulatory Matters

We are subject to various regulatory, financial, and other requirements of the jurisdictions in which our businesses operate. In light of recent conditions in the global financial markets, regulators have increased their focus on the regulation of the financial services industry. As a result, proposals for legislation that could increase the scope and nature of regulation of the financial services industry are possible. The following is a description of some of the primary laws and regulations that currently affect our business.

Bank Holding Company Status

On December 24, 2008, and in connection with the conversion of Ally Bank (formerly GMAC Bank) from a Utah-chartered industrial bank into a Utah-chartered commercial state nonmember bank, Ally and IB Finance Holding Company, LLC (IB Finance) were each approved as bank holding companies under the BHC Act. IB Finance is the direct holding company for Ally’s FDIC-insured depository institution, Ally Bank. As a result, we are subject to the supervision and examination of the FRB. As a bank holding company, Ally must comply with various reporting requirements by the FRB and is subject to supervision and examination by the FRB. Ally must also comply with regulatory risk-based and leverage capital requirements, as well as various safety and soundness standards imposed by the FRB, and is subject to certain statutory restrictions concerning the types of assets or securities it may own and the activities in which it may engage. The FRB has the authority to issue orders to bank holding companies to cease and desist from unsafe or unsound banking practices and from violations of laws, rules, regulations, or conditions imposed in writing by the FRB. The FRB is also empowered to assess civil monetary penalties against institutions or individuals who violate any laws, regulations, orders, or written agreements with the FRB; to order termination of certain activities of bank holding companies or their subsidiaries; and to order termination of ownership and control of a nonbanking subsidiary by a bank holding company. In addition, as a bank that is not a member of the Federal Reserve System, Ally Bank is subject to regulation and examination primarily by the FDIC and the UDFI. This regulatory oversight is established to protect depositors, the FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund, and the banking system as a whole, not security holders. Ally’s nonbank subsidiaries generally are subject to regulation by their functional regulators including the applicable state insurance regulatory agencies in the case of our insurance subsidiaries, and the SEC, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, and/or state securities regulators in the case of our securities subsidiaries, as well as by the FRB. Our foreign subsidiaries are subject to regulation by applicable foreign regulatory agencies.

 

   

Permitted Activities—As a bank holding company, subject to certain exceptions, we are not permitted to acquire more than 5% of any class of voting shares of any nonaffiliated FDIC-insured depository institution or more than 25% of any other company without first obtaining FRB approval. Furthermore, the activities of Ally must be generally limited to banking or to managing or controlling banks or other companies engaged in activities deemed closely related to banking or otherwise permissible under the BHC Act. Likewise, Ally generally may not hold more than 5% of any class of voting shares of any company unless that company’s activities conform with the above requirements. Upon our bank holding company approval on December 24, 2008, we were permitted an initial two-year grace period to bring our activities and investments into conformity with these restrictions. This initial grace period expired in December 2010; however, the FRB has granted a one-year extension expiring in December 2011. We will be permitted to apply to the FRB for two additional one year extensions. Absent further extensions, certain of Ally’s existing activities and investments deemed impermissible under the BHC Act must be terminated or disposed of by the expiration of the grace period and any extensions. For further information, refer to the section of this prospectus entitled “Risk Factors.”

 

   

Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act—The enactment of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 (“GLB Act”) eliminated large parts of a regulatory framework that had its origins in the Depression era of the 1930s. Effective with its enactment, new opportunities became available for banks, other depository institutions, insurance companies, and securities firms to enter into combinations that permit a single

 

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financial services organization to offer customers a more comprehensive array of financial products and services. To further this goal, the GLB Act amended the BHC Act by providing a new regulatory framework applicable to “financial holding companies,” which are bank holding companies that meet certain qualifications and elect financial holding company status. The FRB regulates, supervises, and examines financial holding companies, as it does all bank holding companies. However, insurance and securities activities conducted by a financial holding company or its nonbank subsidiaries are regulated primarily by functional regulators. As a bank holding company, we are eligible to elect financial holding company status subject to satisfying certain regulatory requirements applicable to us and to Ally Bank (and any depository institution subsidiary that we may acquire in the future). As a financial holding company, Ally would then be permitted to engage in a broader range of financial and related activities than those that are permissible for bank holding companies, in particular, securities, insurance, and merchant banking activities. However, we have not yet elected to become a financial holding company.

 

   

Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act—On July 21, 2010, the President of the United States signed into law the Dodd-Frank Act. The Dodd-Frank Act will have material implications for Ally and the entire financial services industry. Among other things, it will or potentially could:

 

   

result in Ally being subject to enhanced oversight and scrutiny as a result of being a bank holding company with $50 billion or more in consolidated assets;

 

   

result in the appointment of the FDIC as receiver of Ally in an orderly liquidation proceeding, if the Secretary of Treasury, upon recommendation of two-thirds of the FRB and the FDIC and in consultation with the President of the United States, finds Ally to be in default or danger of default;

 

   

affect the levels of capital and liquidity with which Ally must operate and how it plans capital and liquidity levels;

 

   

subject Ally to new and/or higher fees paid to various regulatory entities, including but not limited to deposit insurance fees to the FDIC;

 

   

impact Ally’s ability to invest in certain types of entities or engage in certain activities;

 

   

impact a number of Ally’s business and risk management strategies;

 

   

restrict the revenue that Ally generates from certain businesses; and

 

   

subject Ally to a new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which will have very broad rule-making and enforcement authorities.

 

   

Capital Adequacy Requirements—Ally and Ally Bank are subject to various guidelines as established under FRB and FDIC regulations. Refer to Note 22 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information. See also “—Basel Capital Accord” below.

 

   

Limitations on Bank Holding Company Dividends and Capital Distributions—Utah law (and, in certain instances, federal law) places restrictions and limitations on the amount of dividends or other distributions payable by our banking subsidiary, Ally Bank, to Ally. With respect to dividends payable by Ally to its shareholders, it is the policy of the FRB that bank holding companies should pay cash dividends on common stock only out of current operating earnings and only if prospective earnings retention is consistent with the organization’s expected future needs and financial conditions. The

 

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federal bank regulatory agencies are also authorized to prohibit a banking subsidiary or bank holding company from engaging in unsafe or unsound banking practices and, depending upon the circumstances, could find that paying a dividend or making a capital distribution would constitute an unsafe or unsound banking practice.

In addition, on March 18, 2011, the FRB announced the completion of its CCAR, a cross-institution study of the capital plans, including proposals for increased dividends, share repurchases and repayments of government capital, of the nineteen largest U.S. bank holding companies, including Ally. Under the CCAR, five main aspects of each bank holding company’s capital plans for a two-year planning period through the end of 2012 were assessed by the FRB: (i) capital adequacy processes; (ii) capital distribution policy; (iii) any plan for repayment of any U.S. government investment; (iv) stress scenario analysis; and (v) plans for meeting the regulatory capital requirements of Basel III and the Dodd-Frank Act. The FRB also consulted with each bank holding company’s primary federal bank regulator and with the FDIC for any bank holding company with outstanding Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program debt.

The FRB has announced that each bank holding company’s capital plans will be subject to the following supervisory expectations:

 

   

the bank holding company must demonstrate its ability to remain a viable financial intermediary, even under stressed conditions;

 

   

the bank holding company is expected to continue to increase its capital base;

 

   

in 2011, any bank holding company paying dividends is expected to limit dividends to 30% or less of anticipated earnings;

 

   

any planned share repurchases will be reviewed if a bank holding company’s capital is not increasing as anticipated; and

 

   

the FRB may require modification of capital plans if there is a sharp deterioration in economic conditions.

The FRB expects each of the nineteen largest bank holding companies to undergo a CCAR on an annual basis.

While we have no current plans to commence payment of a dividend on our common stock, we anticipate that the FRB would require us to meet the same or similar expectations listed above in order to take capital actions in the future, including the payment of dividends.

 

   

Transactions with Affiliates—Certain transactions between Ally Bank and any of its nonbank “affiliates,” including but not limited to Ally and ResCap, are subject to federal statutory and regulatory restrictions. Pursuant to these restrictions, unless otherwise exempted, “covered transactions” including Ally Bank’s extensions of credit to and asset purchases from its nonbank affiliates, generally (1) are limited to 10% of Ally Bank’s capital stock and surplus with an aggregate limit of 20% of Ally Bank’s capital stock and surplus for all such transactions; (2) in the case of certain credit transactions, are subject to stringent collateralization requirements; (3) in the case of asset purchases by Ally Bank, may not involve the purchase of any asset deemed to be a “low quality asset” under federal banking guidelines; and (4) must be conducted in accordance with safe- and sound- banking practices (collectively, the “Affiliate Transaction Restrictions”). Under the Dodd-Frank Act, among other changes to Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act, credit exposures resulting from derivatives transactions and securities lending and borrowing transactions will be treated as

 

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“covered transactions.” These changes are expected to become effective in July 2012. Furthermore, there is an “attribution rule” that provides that a transaction between Ally Bank and a third party will be treated as a transaction between Ally Bank and a nonbank affiliate to the extent that the proceeds of the transaction are used for the benefit of or transferred to a nonbank affiliate of Ally Bank.

Because Ally controls Ally Bank, Ally is an affiliate of Ally Bank for purposes of the Affiliate Transaction Restrictions. Thus, retail financing transactions by Ally Bank involving vehicles for which Ally Financial provided floorplan financing are subject to the Affiliate Transaction Restrictions because the proceeds of the retail financings are deemed to benefit, and are ultimately transferred to, Ally Financial.

The FRB is authorized to exempt, in its discretion, transactions or relationships from the requirements of these rules if it finds such exemptions to be in the public interest and consistent with the purposes of the rules. The FRB has granted several such exemptions to Ally Bank. However, the existing exemptions are subject to various conditions and any requests for future exemptions may not be granted. Moreover, these limited exemptions generally do not encompass consumer leasing or used vehicle financing. Since there is no assurance that Ally Bank will be able to obtain future exemptions or waivers with respect to these restrictions, the ability to grow Ally Bank’s business will be affected by the Affiliate Transaction Restrictions and the conditions set forth in the existing exemption letters.

 

   

Source of Strength—Pursuant to FRB policy and regulations, the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (effective as of July 21, 2011), and under the Parent Company Agreement (the “PA”) and the Capital and Liquidity Maintenance Agreement (the “CLMA”) as described in Note 22 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Ally is expected to act as a source of strength to Ally Bank and is required to commit necessary capital and liquidity to support Ally Bank. This support may be required at inopportune times for Ally.

Basel Capital Accord

The minimum risk-based capital requirements adopted by the federal banking agencies follow the Capital Accord (“Capital Accord”) of the Bank for International Settlements’ Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (the “Basel Committee”). The Capital Accord was published in 1988 and generally applies to depository institutions and their holding companies in the United States. In 2004, the Basel Committee published a revision to the Capital Accord (“Basel II”). The goal of the Basel II capital rules is to provide more risk-sensitive regulatory capital calculations and promote enhanced risk management practices among large, internationally active banking organizations. U.S. banking regulators published final Basel II rules in December 2007. Ally is required to comply with the Basel II rules as implemented by the U.S. banking regulators. Prior to full implementation of the Basel II rules, Ally is required to complete a qualification period that includes four consecutive quarters during which it needs to demonstrate that it meets the requirements of the rules to the satisfaction of its primary U.S. banking regulator. The U.S. implementation timetable consists of this qualification period followed by a minimum transition period of three years. During the transition period, Basel II risk-based capital requirements cannot fall below certain floors based on pre-existing capital regulations (“Basel I”). Ally is currently in the qualification period and expects to be in compliance with all relevant Basel II rules within the established timelines.

In addition to Basel II, the Basel Committee adopted new capital, leverage, and liquidity guidelines under the Base Accord (“Basel III”), which when implemented in the United States may have the effect of raising capital requirements beyond those required by current law and the Dodd-Frank Act. Basel III increases the minimum Tier 1 common equity ratio from 2.0% to 4.5%, net of regulatory deductions, and introduces a capital conservation buffer of an additional 2.5% of common equity to risk-weighted assets raising the target minimum common equity ratio to 7.0%. Basel III increases the minimum Tier 1 capital ratio to 8.5% inclusive of the capital conservation buffer, increases the minimum total capital ratio to 10.5% inclusive of the capital buffer, and introduces a countercyclical capital buffer of up to 2.5% of common equity or other fully loss absorbing capital for periods of excess credit growth. Basel III also introduces a nonrisk adjusted Tier 1 leverage ratio of 3%,

 

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based on a measure of the total exposure rather than total assets, and new liquidity standards. The Basel III capital, leverage, and liquidity standards will be phased in over a multiyear period. The Basel III rules, when implemented, will also impose a 15% cap on the amount of Tier 1 capital that can be met, in the aggregate, through significant investments in the common shares of unconsolidated financial subsidiaries, MSRs, and deferred tax assets through timing differences, as well as a 10% cap on the amount of each of the three individual items that may be included in Tier I Capital. In addition, under Basel III rules, after a ten-year phase out period beginning on January 1, 2013, trust preferred and other “hybrid” securities will no longer qualify as Tier 1 capital. However, under the Dodd-Frank Act, subject to certain exceptions, trust preferred and other “hybrid” securities are phased out from Tier I capital in a three-year period starting January 1, 2013. At March 31, 2011, Ally had $3.4 billion of MSRs and $2.5 billion of trust preferred securities, which were included as Tier 1 capital. Ally currently has no other “hybrid” securities outstanding. The Base III rules, when implemented, will impose limits on Ally’s ability to meet its regulatory capital requirements through the use of MSRs, trust preferred securities, or other “hybrid” securities, if applicable.

Troubled Asset Relief Program

As part of the Automotive Industry Financing Program created under the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) established by Treasury under the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (the “EESA”), Ally entered into agreements pursuant to which Treasury purchased preferred stock and trust preferred securities of Ally. As a result of these investments, subject to certain exceptions, Ally and its subsidiaries are generally prohibited from paying certain dividends or distributions on, or redeeming, repurchasing, or acquiring any common stock without consent of Treasury. Ally has further agreed that until Treasury ceases to hold investments in Ally, Ally will comply with certain restrictions on executive privileges and compensation. Ally must also take all necessary action to ensure that its corporate governance and benefit plans with respect to its senior executive officers comply with Section 111(b) of the EESA as implemented by any guidance or regulation under the EESA, as amended by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which was signed into law on February 17, 2009, as implemented by the Interim Final Rule issued by Treasury on June 15, 2009. For further details regarding these restrictions on compensation as a result of TARP investments, refer to the section of this prospectus entitled “Executive Compensation.”

Depository Institutions

On December 24, 2008, Ally Bank received approval from the UDFI to convert from an industrial bank to a commercial nonmember state-chartered bank. Ally Bank’s deposits are insured by the FDIC, and Ally Bank is required to file periodic reports with the FDIC concerning its financial condition. Total assets of Ally Bank were $70.3 billion and $55.3 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

As a commercial nonmember bank chartered by the State of Utah, Ally Bank is subject to various regulatory capital adequacy requirements administered by state and federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on Ally Bank’s results of operations and financial condition. At December 31, 2010, we were in compliance with our regulatory capital requirements. For an additional discussion of capital adequacy requirements, refer to Note 22 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

International Banks, Finance Companies and Other Non-U.S. Operations

Certain of our foreign subsidiaries operate in local markets as either banks or regulated finance companies and are subject to regulatory restrictions. These regulatory restrictions, among other things, require that our subsidiaries meet certain minimum capital requirements and may restrict dividend distributions and ownership of certain assets. Total assets of our regulated international banks and finance companies were approximately $14.5 billion and $13.6 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. In addition, the BHC Act imposes restrictions on Ally’s ability to invest equity abroad without FRB approval. Many of our other operations are also heavily regulated in many jurisdictions outside the United States.

 

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U.S. Mortgage Business

Our U.S. mortgage business is subject to extensive federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations in addition to judicial and administrative decisions that impose requirements and restrictions on this business. As a Federal Housing Administration lender, certain of our U.S. mortgage subsidiaries are required to submit audited financial statements to the Department of Housing and Urban Development on an annual basis. It is also subject to examination by the Federal Housing Commissioner to assure compliance with Federal Housing Administration regulations, policies, and procedures. The federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations to which our U.S. mortgage business is subject, among other things, impose licensing obligations and financial requirements; limit the interest rates, finance charges, and other fees that can be charged; regulate the use of credit reports and the reporting of credit information; impose underwriting requirements; regulate marketing techniques and practices; require the safeguarding of nonpublic information about customers; and regulate servicing practices, including the assessment, collection, foreclosure, claims handling, and investment and interest payments on escrow accounts. In addition, proposals have been enacted in the U.S. Congress and are under consideration by various regulatory authorities that would affect the manner in which GSEs conduct their business. Recently, the Obama administration released a report that recommended winding down Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Insurance Companies

Our Insurance operations are subject to certain minimum aggregate capital requirements, net asset restrictions, and dividend restrictions under applicable state and foreign insurance law, and the rules and regulations promulgated by various U.S. and foreign regulatory agencies. Under various state and foreign insurance regulations, dividend distributions may be made only from statutory unassigned surplus with approvals required from the regulatory authorities for dividends in excess of certain statutory limitations. In addition, the BHC Act imposes restrictions on our ability to invest equity abroad without FRB approval.

Other Regulations

Some of the other more significant regulations that we are subject to include:

 

   

Privacy—The GLB Act imposes additional obligations on us to safeguard the information we maintain on our customers and permits customers to “opt-out” of information sharing with third parties. Regulations have been issued by several agencies that establish obligations to safeguard information. In addition, several states have enacted even more stringent privacy legislation. If a variety of inconsistent state privacy rules or requirements are enacted, our compliance costs could increase substantially.

 

   

Fair Credit Reporting Act—The Fair Credit Reporting Act provides a national legal standard for lenders to share information with affiliates and certain third parties and to provide firm offers of credit to consumers. In late 2003, the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act was enacted, making this preemption of conflicting state and local law permanent. The Fair Credit Reporting Act was also amended to place further restrictions on the use of information sharing between affiliates, to provide new disclosures to consumers when risk-based pricing is used in the credit decision, and to help protect consumers from identity theft. All of these provisions impose additional regulatory and compliance costs on us and reduce the effectiveness of our marketing programs.

 

   

Truth in Lending Act—The Truth in Lending Act (“TILA”), as amended, and the Federal Reserve’s Regulation Z, which implements TILA, require lenders to provide borrowers with uniform, understandable information concerning terms and conditions in certain credit transactions. These rules apply to Ally and its subsidiaries in transactions in which they extend credit to consumers and require, in the case of certain mortgage and automotive financing transactions, conspicuous disclosure of the finance charge and annual percentage rate, if any. In addition, if an advertisement for credit states specific credit terms, Regulation Z requires that such advertisement state only those terms that actually are or will be arranged or offered by the creditor. Failure to comply with TILA can result in criminal and civil penalties.

 

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Sarbanes-Oxley Act—The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 implements a broad range of corporate governance and accounting measures designed to promote honesty and transparency in corporate America. The principal provisions of the act include, among other things, (1) the creation of an independent accounting oversight board; (2) auditor independence provisions that restrict nonaudit services that accountants may provide to their audit clients; (3) additional corporate governance and responsibility measures including the requirement that the chief executive officer and chief financial officer certify financial statements; (4) the forfeiture of bonuses or other incentive-based compensation and profits from the sale of an issuer’s securities by directors and senior officers in the twelve-month period following initial publication of any financial statements that later require restatement; (5) an increase in the oversight of and enhancement of certain requirements relating to audit committees and how they interact with the independent auditors; (6) requirements that audit committee members must be independent and are barred from accepting consulting, advisory, or other compensatory fees from the issuer; (7) requirements that companies disclose whether at least one member of the audit committee is a “financial expert” (as defined by the SEC) and, if not, why the audit committee does not have a financial expert; (8) a prohibition on personal loans to directors and officers, except certain loans made by insured financial institutions, on nonpreferential terms and in compliance with other bank regulatory requirements; (9) disclosure of a code of ethics; (10) requirements that management assess the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting and that the Independent Registered Public Accounting firm attest to the assessment; and (11) a range of enhanced penalties for fraud and other violations.

 

   

USA PATRIOT Act/Anti-Money-Laundering Requirements—In 2001, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act (“USA PATRIOT Act”) was signed into law. Title III of the USA PATRIOT Act amends the Bank Secrecy Act and contains provisions designed to detect and prevent the use of the U.S. financial system for money laundering and terrorist financing activities by, among other things, imposing additional compliance obligations on bank holding companies, banks, trust companies, and securities broker-dealers. Pursuant to these laws, it is the obligation of covered institutions to identify their clients, monitor for and report on suspicious transactions, respond to requests for information by regulatory authorities and law enforcement agencies, and share information with other financial institutions. To comply with applicable obligations, we have implemented necessary internal practices, procedures, and controls.

 

   

Other—Our Mortgage operations have subsidiaries that are required to maintain regulatory capital requirements under agreements with the GSEs and the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Employees

We had approximately 14,400 employees worldwide at December 31, 2010.

Segment and Geographic Information

Operating segment and principal geographic area data for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008 are summarized in Note 28 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Properties

Our principal corporate offices are located in Detroit, Michigan; New York, New York; and Charlotte, North Carolina. In Detroit, we lease approximately 247,000 square feet from GM pursuant to a lease agreement expiring in November 2016. In New York, we lease approximately 24,000 square feet of office space under a lease that expires in July 2015 and approximately 18,000 square feet of office space under a lease that expires in July 2011. In Charlotte, we lease approximately 133,000 square feet of office space under a lease expiring in December 2015.

 

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The primary offices for our Global Automotive Services operations are located in Detroit, Michigan, and Southfield, Michigan. The primary office for our North American Automotive Finance operations is located in Detroit, Michigan, and is included in the totals referenced above. Our International Automotive Finance operations leased space in 27 countries totaling approximately 490,000 square feet. The largest location is in United Kingdom with office space under lease of approximately 143,000 square feet. The primary office for our U.S. Insurance operations is located in Southfield, Michigan, where we lease approximately 91,000 square feet of office space under leases expiring in April 2011. Our Insurance operations also has leased offices in Mexico.

The primary offices for our Mortgage operations are located in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania, and Minneapolis, Minnesota. In Fort Washington, we lease approximately 450,000 square feet of office space pursuant to a lease that expires in November 2019. In Minneapolis, we lease approximately 84,000 square feet of office space expiring in March 2014. Our Mortgage operations also has significant leased offices in Texas and California.

In addition to the properties described above, we lease additional space throughout the United States and in the 37 countries in which we have operations, including Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom. We believe our facilities are adequate for us to conduct our present business activities.

Legal Proceedings

We are subject to potential liability under various governmental proceedings, claims, and legal actions that are pending or otherwise asserted against us. We are named as defendants in a number of legal actions, and we are occasionally involved in governmental proceedings arising in connection with our respective businesses. Some of the pending actions purport to be class actions. We establish reserves for legal claims when payments associated with the claims become probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated. The actual costs of resolving legal claims may be higher or lower than any amounts reserved for the claims. On the basis of information currently available, advice of counsel, available insurance coverage, and established reserves, it is the opinion of management that the eventual outcome of the actions against us will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. However, in the event of unexpected future developments, it is possible that the ultimate resolution of legal matters, if unfavorable, may be material to our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. Certain of these existing actions include claims related to various mortgage-backed securities offerings, which are described in more detail below.

Mortgage-backed Securities Litigation

There are twelve cases relating to various private-label mortgage-backed securities (MBS) offerings that are currently pending. Plaintiffs in these cases include Cambridge Place Investment Management Inc. (two cases pending in Suffolk County Superior Court, Massachusetts, filed on July 9, 2010, and February 11, 2011, respectively); The Charles Schwab Corporation (case pending in San Francisco County Superior Court, California, filed on August 2, 2010); Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston (case pending in Suffolk County Superior Court, Massachusetts, filed on April 20, 2011); Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (case pending in Cook County Circuit Court, Illinois, filed on October 15, 2010); Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis (case filed in Marion County Superior Court, Indiana, on October 15, 2010, and removed to the Southern District of Indiana); Massachusetts Mutual Life Ins. Co. (case pending in federal court in the District of Massachusetts, filed on February 9, 2011); Allstate Insurance Co., et al. (case pending in Hennepin County District Court, Minnesota, filed on February 18, 2011); New Jersey Carpenters Health Fund, et al. (a putative class action, filed on September 22, 2008, in which certification has been denied, pending in federal court in the Southern District of New York); West Virginia Investment Management Board (case pending in Kanawha County Circuit Court, West Virginia, filed on March 4, 2010); Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, et al. (case pending in Hennepin County District Court, Minnesota, filed on March 28, 2011); and Union Central Life Insurance, et al. (case pending in federal court in the Southern District of New York, filed on April 28, 2011). Each of the above cases

 

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include as defendants certain of our mortgage subsidiaries, and the New Jersey Carpenters, Massachusetts Mutual, and Union Central cases also include as defendants certain current and former employees. The plaintiffs in all cases have alleged that the various defendant subsidiaries made misstatements and omissions in registration statements, prospectuses, prospectus supplements, and other documents related to MBS offerings. The alleged misstatements and omissions typically concern underwriting standards. Plaintiffs claim that such misstatements and omissions constitute violations of state and/or federal securities law and common law including negligent misrepresentation and fraud. Plaintiffs seek monetary damages and rescission.

There are two additional cases (filed on December 4, 2008, and April 1, 2010) pending in the New York County Supreme Court where MBIA Insurance Corp. (“MBIA”) has alleged that two of our mortgage subsidiaries breached their contractual representations and warranties relating to the characteristics of the mortgage loans contained in certain insured MBS offerings. MBIA further alleges that the defendant subsidiaries failed to follow certain remedy procedures set forth in the contracts and improperly serviced the mortgage loans. Along with claims for breach of contract, MBIA also alleges fraud.

All of the matters described above are at various procedural stages of litigation.

 

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MANAGEMENT

The following table presents information regarding directors, executive officers, and other significant employees of Ally.

 

Name

   Age     

Position

Franklin W. Hobbs

     63       Director (Chairman of the Board)

Robert T. Blakely

     69       Director (Chairman of Audit Committee)

Mayree C. Clark

     53       Director (Member of Audit Committee)

John D. Durrett

     62       Director

Stephen A. Feinberg

     50       Director

Kim S. Fennebresque

     60       Director

Marjorie Magner

     61       Director (Member of Audit Committee)

John J. Stack

     64       Director (Member of Audit Committee)

Michael A. Carpenter

     63       Director and Chief Executive Officer

Jeffrey J. Brown

     38       Senior Executive Vice President of Finance and Corporate Planning

Barbara Yastine

     51       Chief Administrative Officer

James G. Mackey

     43       Chief Financial Officer

William F. Muir

     56       President

David J. DeBrunner

     44       Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer, and Corporate Controller

Sanjay Gupta

     42       Chief Marketing Officer

Thomas Marano

     49       Chief Executive Officer, ResCap, and Chief Capital Markets Officer

Directors, Executive Officers, and Other Significant Employees

Franklin W. Hobbs—Director of Ally since May 2009. He currently serves as Chairman of the board. Since 2004, he has been an advisor to One Equity Partners LLC, which manages investments and commitments for JPMorgan Chase & Co. in direct private equity transactions. He was previously the CEO of Houlihan Lokey Howard & Zukin. In that role, he oversaw all operations, which included advisory services for mid-market companies involved in mergers and acquisitions and corporate restructurings. He previously was Chairman of UBS AG’s Warburg Dillon, Read & Co. Inc. unit. Prior to that, he was President and CEO of Dillon, Read & Co. Inc. Hobbs earned his bachelor’s degree from Harvard College and master’s degree in business administration from Harvard Business School. He serves as a director on the Boards of the Lord Abbett & Company and Molson Coors Brewing Company.

Robert T. Blakely—Director of Ally since May 2009. With his years of managerial experience, Blakely brings to the board demonstrated management ability at senior levels. He is a trustee of the Financial Accounting Foundation, the oversight board for the Financial Accounting Standards Board. Blakely is the former executive vice president and chief financial officer of Fannie Mae. In this role, he led the financial restatement and implementation of SOX controls. He was previously the chief financial officer of WorldCom/MCI, Lyondell Chemical, Tenneco, and US Synthetic Fuels Corporation where he gained valuable experience dealing with accounting principles and financial reporting rules and regulations, evaluating financial results, and generally overseeing the financial reporting processes of large corporations. Blakely received his PhD from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and his master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Cornell University.

Mayree C. Clark—Director of Ally since May 2009. Clark also serves as a member of the investment committee for Aetos Capital Asia, which manages the firm’s investments in Japanese and Chinese real estate, and is a director of the Stanford Management Company, which manages the University’s endowment. Clark is a former partner and member of the executive committee at AEA Holdings. Clark held a variety of executive positions at Morgan Stanley over a span of nearly 25 years, serving as Global Research Director, Director of Global Private Wealth Management, and nonexecutive chairman of MSCI-Barra. Inc. Clark earned a

 

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bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern California and a master’s degree in business administration from Stanford University Graduate School of Business.

John D. Durrett—Director of Ally since February 2011. Durrett currently serves as a strategic advisor to Serent Capital, a San Francisco-based private equity firm, and sits on the boards of two of Serent’s portfolio companies. Durrett is a director emeritus of McKinsey & Co., Inc., and completed his 27-year career with the firm in 2007. He served in numerous senior leadership positions during his tenure at McKinsey and also served as a member of the firm’s Shareholder’s Council and chaired its Finance and Infrastructure Committee. Durrett was also a long-time member of McKinsey’s Compensation Committee and the Director’s and Principal’s Review Committees. Durrett received a bachelor’s degree from Millsaps College, a juris doctorate from Emory University and a master’s degree in business administration from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Stephen A. Feinberg—Director of Ally since March 2009. Feinberg founded Cerberus Capital Management in November 1992. He also founded or cofounded the other Cerberus general partners/management companies and investment funds and is the Chief Executive Officer of an affiliated loan origination company. Feinberg began his career at Drexel Burnham Lambert where he was actively involved in trading large pools of firm capital. From 1985 to 1992, after leaving Drexel Burnham Lambert, he managed money in separate accounts, most of which was firm capital of Gruntal & Co., Inc. Feinberg has over 25 years of experience in distressed investing, including investments in the financial services industry, and he has served as a control party in connection with investments in numerous financial institutions, including various lending institutions. Feinberg is a 1982 graduate of Princeton University.

Kim S. Fennebresque—Director of Ally since May 2009. Fennebresque was appointed chairman of Dahlman Rose & Co., LLC, a research-driven investment bank focused on natural resources and refined products around the world, in May 2010. Fennebresque has extensive business experience and has served as an investment banker for over three decades. He has demonstrated leadership capability and has extensive knowledge of the management of a publicly traded company. The depth and breadth of his exposure to areas of compensation, legal, accounting, and regulatory issues make him a skilled advisor. Fennebresque was previously a senior advisor at Cowen Group, Inc., where he also served as its chairman, president, and chief executive officer during his tenure at the firm. Prior to joining Cowen Group, Fennebresque served as head of the Corporate Finance and Mergers & Acquisitions departments at UBS. He also was a general partner and cohead of Investment Banking at Lazard Frères & Co. and held various positions at The First Boston Corporation. Fennebresque is a graduate of Trinity College and Vanderbilt Law School. He is currently on the boards of TEAK Fellowship, Fountain House, and Common Good.

Marjorie Magner—Director of Ally since May 2010. She also serves on the Audit Committee and Risk and Compliance Committee. Magner is a founding member and partner of Brysam Global Partners. Previously, she served as chairman and chief executive officer of the Global Consumer Group at Citigroup. In this position, she was responsible for the company’s operations serving consumers through retail banking, credit cards, and consumer finance. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Brooklyn College and a master’s degree from Krannert School of Management, Purdue University. Magner also serves on the boards of Accenture Ltd., Gannett Company, Inc., and the Brooklyn College Foundation. She is a member of the dean’s advisory council for the Krannert School of Management.

John J. Stack—Director of Ally since April 2010. He also serves on the Audit Committee and Risk and Compliance Committee. Stack served as chairman and chief executive officer of Ceska Sporitelna, a.s., the largest bank in the Czech Republic, from 2000 to 2007, leading its purchase from the government and transformation to the best performing bank in the country. Prior to that, he spent 22 years in retail banking in various roles at Chemical Bank and then later at Chase Bank. Stack began his career in government working in staff roles in the New York City Mayor’s Office and then the New York City Courts System. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Iona College and a master’s degree from Harvard Graduate School of Business Administration. He also serves on the boards of Erste Bank Group, Mutual of America, and ShoreBank International.

 

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Michael A. Carpenter—Chief Executive Officer of Ally since November 2009 and a member of the Ally Board of Directors since May 2009. He oversees all Ally strategy and operations to focus on strengthening the core businesses, while positioning the company for long-term growth. Carpenter has broad and deep experience in banking, capital markets, turnarounds, and corporate strategy. Most recently, he founded Southgate Alternative Investments in 2007. From 2002 to 2006, he was chairman and chief executive officer of Citigroup Alternative Investments overseeing $60 billion of proprietary capital and customer funds globally in various alternative investment vehicles. From 1998 to 2002, Carpenter was chairman and chief executive officer of Citigroup’s Global Corporate & Investment Bank with responsibility for Salomon Smith Barney Inc. and Citibank’s corporate banking activities globally. Carpenter was named chairman and CEO of Salomon Smith Barney in 1998, shortly after the merger that created Citigroup, and led the first ever successful integration of a commercial and investment bank. Prior to Citigroup, he was chairman and CEO of Travelers Life & Annuity and vice chairman of Travelers Group Inc. responsible for strategy and business development. From 1989 to 1994, he was chairman of the board, president, and CEO of Kidder Peabody Group Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of General Electric Company. From 1986 to 1989, Carpenter was executive vice president of GE Capital Corporation. He first joined GE in 1983 as vice president of Corporate Business Development and Planning and was responsible for strategic planning and development as well as mergers and acquisitions. Earlier in his career, Carpenter spent nine years as vice president and director of the Boston Consulting Group consulting to major companies on corporate strategy and three years with Imperial Chemical Industries of the United Kingdom. Carpenter received a bachelor of science degree from the University of Nottingham, England, and an MBA from the Harvard Business School where he was a Baker Scholar. He also holds an honorary degree of Doctor of Laws from the University of Nottingham. He serves on the boards of US Retirement Partners and the New York City Investment Fund and has been a board member of the New York Stock Exchange, General Signal, Loews Cineplex, and various other private and public companies.

Jeffrey J. Brown—Senior Executive Vice President of Finance and Corporate Planning since June 2011. In this role, Brown oversees the finance, treasury and corporate strategy activities of Ally. Brown joined Ally in March 2009 as corporate treasurer with responsibility for all global treasury activities, including funding and balance sheet management. Prior to joining Ally, Brown was the corporate treasurer for Bank of America where he had responsibility for the core treasury functions for funding the company and managing interest rate risk. Brown was at Bank of America for 10 years, beginning his career in finance and later joining the balance sheet management division. Brown previously served as the bank’s deputy treasurer and oversaw balance sheet management and the company’s corporate funding division. He was also a member of the company’s Asset/Liability Management Committee. He received a bachelor’s degree in economics from Clemson University and an executive master’s degree in business from Queens University in Charlotte. He serves on the advisory board of the College of Business and Behavioral Sciences at Clemson University and on the advisory board of McColl School of Business at Queen’s University in Charlotte.

Barbara Yastine—Chief Administrative Officer of Ally since May 2010. In this role, she has oversight for the risk, compliance, legal and technology functions as well as serving as Chairperson of Ally Bank. Yastine is a seasoned executive with diverse experience at financial services companies. Prior to joining Ally, she served as a principal of Southgate Investment Partners, LLC. Before that, she was chief financial officer for Credit Suisse First Boston from 2002 to 2004 and had responsibility for controllership, treasury, risk management, strategy, mergers and acquisitions, and tax. She was with Citigroup and its predecessors for 15 years with her last position being as chief financial officer of Citigroup’s global corporate and investment bank. During her time at Citigroup, she also served as chief auditor, chief administrative officer of the global consumer group, and as executive vice president of what is now CitiFinancial. Yastine began her career at Travelers as the head of investor relations. Yastine chairs the Audit Committee of the board of directors of Symphony Services, a portfolio company of private equity firm Symphony Technology Group. She is also a member of the board of trustees of Phoenix House where she chairs the Finance and Audit Committee and serves on the Compensation and Succession Planning Committees. She also serves on the board of Primerica Inc. (NYSE: PRI). Barbara is a former trustee of the Financial Accounting Foundation. She holds a bachelor’s of arts degree in journalism and a master’s degree in finance, both from New York University.

 

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James G. Mackey—Chief Financial Officer of Ally since June 2011. Prior to this, Mackey served as Interim Chief Financial Officer since April 2010. In this role, he is responsible for the oversight of the company’s financial analysis, controls and reporting, accounting, business planning, and investor relations. Mackey joined the company in 2009 as group vice president and senior finance executive responsible for financial planning and analysis, investor relations, corporate treasury finance, and banking subsidiary financial departments. He maintains oversight of these responsibilities. Previously, Mackey served as chief financial officer for the corporate investments, corporate treasury, and private equity divisions at Bank of America. Earlier in his tenure at Bank of America, he served as managing director within the global structured products group. Prior to Bank of America, Mackey served in the financial institutions practice group at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, specializing in capital markets accounting and consulting. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in accounting from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is also a registered certified public accountant in North Carolina.

William F. Muir—President of Ally since 2004, Chairman of Ally Insurance Group since June 1999, and a Member of the Ally Commercial Finance and Ally Bank Boards of Directors since February 2002 and March 2004, respectively. Prior to that time, Muir served as executive vice president and chief financial officer from February 1998 to 2004. From 1996 to 1998, Muir served as executive-in-charge of operations and then executive director of planning at Delphi Automotive Systems, a former subsidiary of GM. Prior to serving at Delphi Automotive Systems, Muir served in various executive capacities with Ally since first joining Ally in 1992. He also served in a number of capacities with GM since joining that company in 1983.

David J. DeBrunner—Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer, and Controller of Ally since September 2007. DeBrunner joined Ally from Fifth Third Bancorp (Fifth Third) where he was senior vice president, corporate controller, and chief accounting officer from January 2002 to August 2007. Prior to that position, he served as the chief financial officer for the commercial division of Fifth Third beginning in December 1999. DeBrunner joined Fifth Third in 1992 and held various financial leadership positions throughout the company. Prior to his time at Fifth Third, he held positions at Deloitte and Touche LLP in the Chicago and Cincinnati offices. DeBrunner holds a bachelor’s of science in accounting from Indiana University.

Sanjay Gupta—Chief Marketing Officer of Ally Financial Inc. since March 2008. Gupta has responsibility for all marketing, e-commerce, and product Innovation at Ally. Before joining Ally, Gupta held the position of global consumer & small business marketing executive at Bank of America. Prior to joining Bank of America in 2001, Gupta served as chief marketing officer of SciQuest.com and before that assignment as managing director of interactive marketing and e-commerce at Federal Express. Gupta has a bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering from the University of Bombay and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Texas at Austin with a concentration in finance and management information systems.

Thomas Marano—Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ally’s Mortgage operations and, as of May 1, 2009, Ally’s Chief Capital Markets Officer. As CEO of Mortgage operations, Marano oversees mortgage lending and servicing at Residential Capital, LLC (ResCap) and ResMor Trust (the Canadian depository) and the correspondent and warehouse lending at Ally Bank. Marano has served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ResCap since July 2008 and is a chairman on its board of directors and member of its executive committee. In the role of Chief Capital Markets Officer, Marano oversees the coordination of Ally’s capital commitments across the firm’s bank, broker-dealer, mortgage, automotive, and proprietary trading divisions. Before joining ResCap, Marano was managing director for Cerberus Capital Management, L.P., responsible for residential and commercial capital markets. Marano spent more than 25 years at Bear Stearns & Co. Inc., most recently as senior managing director and global head of mortgage and asset-backed securities responsible for mortgage sales, trading, and origination. Marano earned a bachelor’s degree from Columbia College in New York City. He serves on the board of the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund and is on Columbia University’s Board of Visitors and a Trustee of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation.

 

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Ally Code of Ethics

Ally has published on its website the Ally Code of Conduct and Ethics that is applicable to all employees and members of the Ally Board of Directors. The Ally Code of Conduct and Ethics further includes certain provisions that apply specifically to Ally “financial professionals” (as that term is defined in the Ally Code of Conduct and Ethics). The Ally Code of Conduct and Ethics has been posted on Ally’s internet website at www.ally.com, under “About Ally,” and “Policies & Charters.” Any amendment to, or waiver from, a provision of the Ally Code of Conduct and Ethics that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller or persons performing similar functions will be posted at this same internet website location as required by applicable law.

Board and Committee Composition

Our current directors were elected pursuant to the terms of the Amended and Restated Governance Agreement dated May 21, 2009 (the “Governance Agreement”), which we previously entered into with our shareholders. Based on the current ownership of our common stock, the Governance Agreement provides that the Board is to be comprised of the following: (1) one director designated by affiliates of Cerberus Capital Management, L.P., (2) six directors designated by Treasury, (3) the chief executive officer of Ally and (4) three independent directors chosen by the members described in (1) through (3) above. Currently, the Board consists of the Cerberus designated director, the chief executive officer of Ally, four directors designated by Treasury, and three independent directors. See “Certain Stockholder Agreements.”

The Board has independently and affirmatively determined that all Board members, except for Mr. Carpenter, meet all the requirements for independence under the rules and regulations promulgated by the NYSE.

We have established a separately designated standing Audit Committee. Members currently include Chairman Robert T. Blakely, Mayree C. Clark, Marjorie Magner, and John J. Stack. Each member is “independent” as required by Rule 10A-3 of the Exchange Act and under rules of the NYSE, and the Board has determined that all members are also qualified as “audit committee financial experts,” as defined by the SEC. The Audit Committee operates pursuant to a charter approved by the Board of Directors. The Audit Committee reviews and, as it deems appropriate, recommends to our Board of Directors our internal accounting and financial controls and the accounting principles and auditing practices and procedures to be employed in preparation and review of our financial statements. The Audit Committee also makes recommendations to the Board concerning the engagement of independent public auditors and the scope of the audit to be undertaken by such auditors.

We have also established a Compensation, Nominating, and Governance Committee (the “CNG Committee”). Members of the CNG Committee currently include Kim S. Fennebresque (Committee Chairman), Robert T. Blakely, and Franklin W. Hobbs. The Board has independently and affirmatively determined that all CNG Committee members meet all the requirements for independence under the rules and regulations promulgated by the NYSE. The CNG Committee operates pursuant to a charter approved by the Board of Directors. For a description of CNG’s responsibilities, see “Executive Compensation.”

We have also established a Risk and Compliance Committee (the “Risk Committee”). Members of the Risk Committee currently include Mayree C. Clark (Committee Chairwoman), Stephen A. Feinberg, Franklin W. Hobbs, Marjorie Magner and John J. Stack. The Risk Committee operates pursuant to a charter approved by the Board of Directors. The Risk Committee assists the Board of Directors in setting risk appetite and tolerances, and overseeing our management’s responsibility to manage our risk profile and implement our risk program, with emphasis on credit, market, liquidity, operational, and reputational risks from both an enterprise and a line of business perspective. Additionally, the Risk Committee oversees our management’s responsibility to implement our compliance program, with emphasis on our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

 

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Corporate Governance and Related Disclosures

The Compensation, Nominating and Governance Committee

The Ally Compensation, Nominating and Governance Committee (the “Committee”, in this section) is a committee of the Board consisting of three nonemployee, independent directors: Kim S. Fennebresque (Committee Chairman), Robert T. Blakely, and Franklin W. Hobbs.

The Committee, pursuant to its Charter, is responsible for the following:

 

   

Discharging the Board’s responsibilities with respect to the establishment, maintenance and administration of Ally’s compensation plans, including determining the total compensation of the Chief Executive Officer and executive officers plus other senior executives designated by the Committee as under its purview;

 

   

Overseeing Ally’s leadership development and succession planning programs;

 

   

Identifying qualified individuals for membership on the Board (consistent with criteria approved by the Board) and to recommend to the Board the director nominees;

 

   

Reviewing and recommending to the Board the director compensation for service on the Board;

 

   

Leading the Board and its committees in their annual self-evaluation and the annual review of the Board’s performance;

 

   

Developing and recommending to the Board a corporate governance policy for the Board, and overseeing Ally’s corporate governance procedures and practices related to the Board; and

 

   

Performing any and all duties required of it under the EESA and any regulations or other legal authority promulgated at any time thereunder.

Compensation, Nominating and Governance Committee Process

Ally’s executive compensation programs are administered by the Committee. As noted above, the Committee consists of three independent directors: Kim S. Fennebresque (Committee Chairman), Robert T. Blakely, and Franklin W. Hobbs. During 2010, the Committee met 15 times.

The Committee determines the compensation of senior executives under its purview, including the compensation of our named executive officers (“NEOs”, who are also our SEOs for purposes of the TARP requirements). In making its determination for senior executives, other than the CEO, and in making changes to our executive compensation program, the Committee considers the recommendations of the CEO. The Committee determines the compensation of the CEO without recommendations from the CEO or from management. The Committee has delegated to the CEO the authority to determine cash compensation for and to grant long-term incentive awards to executives below the approximately 25 highest-compensated employees and other select senior executives whose compensation is under the purview of the Committee. The Committee also meets periodically in executive session without the presence of any members of management. As discussed above in reviewing Ally’s compensation policies and practices, the Committee seeks the input of Ally’s Risk Management functions, including the chief risk officer, and in its deliberations on compensation related issues, it also consults with the chairmen of the Board’s Risk and Compliance Committee and Audit Committee.

Frederic W. Cook & Co. (Cook) has been appointed by the Committee to serve as its independent advisor. Cook reports directly to the Committee and provides ongoing advice with respect to the plans and programs covering the executives, including our NEOs, for which the Committee is responsible. Cook reviews all materials developed by management in advance of Committee meetings, provides comments on such materials to the

 

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Chair, provides advice and recommendations concerning changes to our plans and programs, as well as information on market practices and trends, and attends meetings of the Committee. During 2010, Cook also provided competitive information, advice, and recommendations for changes to the compensation program for 2011 to Ally’s Board. Cook undertakes no separate work for the management of Ally.

In addition to the Committee’s relationship with Cook, Ally’s Human Resources Group separately engaged Hewitt Associates, LLC. (Hewitt) during 2010 to provide assistance on executive compensation matters. Hewitt conducted a competitive assessment of compensation for the 25 highest-compensated executives that was used in determining pay recommendations for submission to the Special Master in early 2010. In July 2010, Ally’s Human Resources Group separately engaged Pearl Meyer & Partners (Pearl Meyer) to provide consulting assistance on matters pertaining to executive compensation. More specifically, Pearl Meyer provided assistance regarding the following matters: a competitive assessment of the compensation paid to Ally’s CEO and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), a review of the key terms and provisions included in omnibus long-term incentive plans used in the financial services industry and an updated competitive assessment of the compensation for Ally’s 25 highest-compensated executives requested by the Special Master. Pearl Meyer provided no consulting services to Ally prior to its engagement in July 2010.

Executive Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Introduction

During 2010, we successfully achieved our primary strategic objectives, which included being the premier auto finance provider, de-risking the mortgage business, successfully accessing the capital markets, growing our deposit base, and improving our cost structure. As a result, Ally earned core pretax income of $2.5 billion in 2010 and was profitable in all four quarters in 2010.

Our automotive finance business remained the leading provider of auto loans with global consumer originations for new and used vehicles increasing significantly. Ally was ranked as the number one provider of new vehicle retail financing in the United States during 2010 by Experian Automotive. We also significantly increased consumer penetration with GM and Chrysler during 2010 and were named as the recommended provider of finance and insurance products and services for Saab and Fiat dealerships in the United States. We continued to reduce risk in the mortgage business and reached important settlements for representation and warranty exposure with various counterparties. We have also completed a strategic review of our mortgage business and have determined to focus on our conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans (mortgages eligible for securitizations guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac) origination and servicing platform. We converted $5.5 billion of the $11.4 billion of Treasury’s mandatory convertible preferred stock into common equity on December 31, 2010, thereby improving our capital position, and we successfully accessed the capital markets with nearly $36 billion of new funding transactions completed in 2010. Ally Bank demonstrated the strength of its customer value proposition with strong deposit growth and high retention rates. We were also successful in reducing costs and divesting noncore businesses during 2010.

TARP Executive Compensation Limitations

In connection with our participation in TARP and certain determinations of the Special Master, Ally is subject to certain limitations on executive compensation, the most significant of which are:

 

   

Cash salaries generally limited to $500,000, except in special cases;

 

   

The majority of an SEO’s compensation paid in equity that must be held long-term;

 

   

Incentive compensation granted in the form of long-term restricted equity that is contingent on performance and paid out after incremental TARP repayments;

 

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Perquisites and “other” compensation capped at $25,000, with limited exceptions;

 

   

Suspension of the accrual of benefits to supplemental executive retirement plans;

 

   

Prohibition on incentives for SEOs that could cause them to take unnecessary or excessive risks;

 

   

Clawback of any bonus or incentive compensation paid to an SEO based on statements of earnings, gains, or other criteria that are later proven to be materially inaccurate; and

 

   

Prohibition on any severance payable to the SEOs and the next five most highly compensated employees.

These limitations apply until Ally is no longer subject to TARP.

Ally Compensation Program Overview and Philosophy

Despite the limitations imposed on our executive compensation by TARP, Ally’s compensation philosophy has been, and continues to be, that there should be a strong linkage between compensation and performance. We believe compensation should:

 

   

Align with long-term value creation for our shareowners;

 

   

Provide appropriate incentives based on individual, business, and Company performance;

 

   

Encourage prudent, but not excessive risk taking;

 

   

Provide a total compensation opportunity competitive with market practice; and

 

   

Be internally equitable for the relative value of the employee’s position at Ally.

In addition, our compensation plans have been designed to achieve performance enabling us to repay the U.S. taxpayers as quickly as practicable.

Ally supports the compensation principles underlying the TARP compensation rules, and we believe our compensation philosophy is consistent with the TARP compensation principles. The Special Master has required that the majority of compensation for NEOs and the next 20 highest-compensated employees be in the form of long-term stock or stock units, that such stock or stock units should be held for specified minimum periods of time, and that incentive payments should be subject to recoupment if paid based on information that is subsequently found to be materially inaccurate. The Company and the Committee fully support and have implemented these principles for our NEOs and the next 20 highest-compensated employees.

The Pay Process for 2010

For 2010, the total compensation opportunity for the NEOs was determined by the Special Master, following review and approval of recommended total direct compensation levels for each of the NEOs by the Committee. As part of the process for developing pay recommendations for submission to the Special Master, the Committee approved individual performance goals and objectives for awarding long-term incentive restricted stock units (“IRSUs”) at year-end.

During 2010, Ally converted the awards associated with our long-term compensation plans from basis points to phantom shares, which resulted in each award denominated in basis points being converted into approximately 80 phantom shares per basis point. This change did not affect the vesting, value, or any other features of the awards.

 

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Assessing Ally Compensation Competitiveness

We compare our total direct compensation against a peer group of other comparably sized financial services companies with whom we compete for business and senior executive talent in the auto finance, mortgage finance, commercial finance, and insurance markets. We use publicly available SEC reported pay data from a peer group of companies approved by the Committee to conduct the competitive assessment for the CEO and CFO positions. For the other NEO and senior executive positions, we use market survey data from several survey sources to conduct the competitive assessments. Wherever practical, the market surveys include companies that are part of the peer group approved by the Committee.

For 2010, the Committee approved the use of the following peer group of 12 financial services companies listed below to conduct the competitive assessment for the CEO and CFO compensation:

 

•    AFLAC Inc.

 

•    Genworth Financial, Inc.

 

•    SunTrust Banks, Inc.

•    American Express Company

 

•    Hartford Financial Services

 

•    U.S. Bancorp

•    Capital One Financial Corporation

 

•    MetLife Inc.

 

•    Unum Group

•    CIT Group Inc.

 

•    Prudential Financial Inc.

 

•    Wells Fargo & Company

This peer group is the same used for 2009 and has been approved for use in 2011. Ford Motor Credit and GE Capital Services are included in the peer group for the CEO competitive pay analyses if CEO compensation is reported in their parent company SEC statements.

For 2010, survey data used for the remaining NEOs and other senior executive positions came from one or more survey sources including Hewitt’s Total Compensation Measurement™ (TCM™) database, Towers Watson Executive Financial Services survey, McLagan Investment Management survey, and McLagan Fixed Income Sales and Trading survey. Because multiple survey sources are used and not all survey participants provide data for each of the remaining NEOs, it is not possible to list the survey participants included in our competitive data analyzed for positions other than the CEO and the CFO.

For executives whose pay is not determined by the Special Master, our compensation philosophy is to set base salaries and employee benefits at median competitive levels and to set annual incentives to deliver total annual cash compensation up to or exceeding the 75th percentile when warranted by achievement of aggressive performance goals and top quartile competitive performance. If annual performance goals are not achieved, annual incentives are reduced or eliminated, and total annual cash compensation falls to below the market median. The size of long-term incentive awards relative to total compensation is set annually to ensure senior management maintains an appropriate level of long-term balance in their total compensation and to achieve individual differentiation of total compensation based on performance considerations and retention needs.

Due to the pay restrictions applicable to the NEOs under TARP, including limitations on incentive compensation, total direct compensation rather than individual elements of pay (i.e., base salary, annual incentives, and long-term incentives) is set to provide competitive compensation when attainment of individual performance goals supports the awarding of long-term IRSUs at year-end. If IRSUs are partially awarded or not awarded at all because of insufficient performance, total direct compensation will fall below competitive levels.

At the beginning of the year, the Committee sets proposed direct and incentive compensation levels for each of the NEOs based on his or her job responsibilities. Once the Committee determines and approves the proposed compensation packages for the NEOs, they are submitted to the Special Master for approval. The Special Master then reviews the proposed packages to determine if they are aligned with TARP requirements and set at appropriate market levels. The Special Master subsequently issues a determination letter, specifying the final

 

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design and allocation of total pay approved for the NEOs. At the end of the year, the Committee reviews the performance of the NEOs relative to their individual goals and objectives and determines the total incentive compensation (i.e., the IRSUs) to be awarded to each NEO, which can be up to 100% of the amount previously approved in the determination letter.

Role of Management in Compensation Decisions

Compensation recommendations for the NEOs other than the CEO are presented to and discussed with the Committee by the CEO. The Committee then determines and approves the proposed compensation for the NEOs, which is submitted to the Special Master for final approval.

The Committee determines and approves the compensation of the CEO without the recommendation of management.

Components of Ally Compensation Program

Due to the TARP restrictions on cash compensation and limitations on incentive compensation, base salary is delivered in a combination of cash and equity. Additionally, all NEOs are ineligible to receive annual cash incentives, but are eligible to receive incentives of up to one-third of total compensation in the form of long-term IRSUs. We also offer a limited selection of perquisites and other benefits in order to enhance the effectiveness of our NEOs in focusing their time and energy on performing their duties and responsibilities and to enable us to offer a competitive compensation package to attract and retain senior executive talent.

Base Salary

Under our compensation philosophy, base salary is intended to provide a predictable level of compensation that is competitive in the marketplace for the position responsibilities and individual skills, knowledge, and experience of each executive. However, the pay restrictions under TARP significantly changed the form and amount of base salary paid in 2009, which continued for 2010. The Special Master has determined that NEO cash salaries should not exceed $500,000 except in special cases. As a result, a significant portion of total direct compensation is delivered in the form of equity-based salary for alignment with shareholders’ interests.

The following table shows base salaries paid to the NEOs (excluding Mr. Hull) in 2010.

 

     2010 Base salary  

NEO

   Cash ($)      Equity (Deferred
stock units) ($)
     Total ($)  

Michael A. Carpenter

   $ 186,346       $ 7,813,654       $ 8,000,000   

James G. Mackey

     475,068         1,119,964         1,595,032   

Jeffrey J. Brown

     500,000         2,350,000         2,850,000   

Thomas Marano

     500,000         4,437,500         4,937,500   

Sanjay Gupta

     509,000         2,208,333         2,717,333   

Equity salary is delivered in the form of deferred stock units (“DSUs”), which vest immediately, but are subject to restrictions on the timing of payout. DSUs are paid out in installments beginning one year after grant and continuing over the next four years.

Determining Mr. Carpenter’s 2010 Pay Package

Effective on March 23, 2010, the Special Master approved a new compensation structure for Mr. Carpenter, our CEO, as requested by the Committee. The revised compensation structure for 2010 provides that all of

 

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Mr. Carpenter’s compensation be based on the long-term equity value of the company. Accordingly, effective March 23, 2010, payment of cash base salary to Mr. Carpenter was discontinued and the rate of his equity salary was increased by a corresponding amount.

The Special Master set the compensation for Mr. Carpenter in a determination letter dated March 23, 2010 as follows.

 

Base salary

     Incentive restricted
stock units
     Target total
compensation
 

               Cash

   Deferred stock units        

$ —

   $ 8,000,000       $ 1,500,000       $ 9,500,000   

Annual Cash Incentives

All NEOs were ineligible to receive annual cash incentives in 2010 due to restrictions under TARP and will continue to be ineligible for as long as the TARP restrictions are in place.

Long-term Equity-based Incentives

We provide long-term equity-based incentives in the form of IRSUs to have an incentive compensation component in the total direct compensation opportunity of our NEOs and to provide retention and alignment with shareholder interests. Due to the restrictions under TARP, grants of long-term IRSUs are the only incentive compensation permitted for the NEOs and the next 20 highest-compensated employees. In addition, the Company grants restricted stock units (RSUs) to approximately 500 executives below the top 25 highest-compensated employees.

These long-term IRSU awards for our NEOs and the next 20 highest compensated employees vest in full three years after they are granted. After the vesting requirement is met, the NEOs will receive payouts only when the Company starts to repay its TARP obligations. Payouts will be made on an incremental basis. For example, after the vesting requirement is met and Ally repays 25% of the TARP obligations, 25% of the value of the vested IRSU award will be paid to the NEOs (the payout schedule is the same for all NEOs and the next 20 highest-compensated employees receiving these awards). The NEOs will receive additional installments equal to 25% of the vested IRSU value after 50%, 75%, and 100% of the TARP obligations have been repaid.

Incentive Compensation Determination for the NEOs

At the beginning of 2010, the Committee established proposed incentive compensation levels for each of the NEOs up to the maximum level permitted by TARP of one-third of their total compensation. As noted above, IRSU awards are the only permitted incentive compensation for the NEOs. Individual goals and objectives related both to Ally performance and individual performance including the performance of the individual’s business unit or function were set for the awarding of incentive compensation at year-end.

Based on its reviews of Ally and individual performance, the Committee granted the IRSU awards to the NEOs as indicated in the Summary Compensation Table. The value of each IRSU award granted was determined at the end of the year primarily based on the 2010 performance of Ally relative to company objectives and accomplishments and, to a lesser degree, the Committee’s judgment of how each NEO performed relative to his individual goals and objectives, including adherence to standards set by Ally’s risk, control and compliance functions, and the limitation established under TARP that incentive compensation cannot exceed one-third of total compensation and cannot be earned above 100% to reflect overachievement of any goals and objectives. In its determination process, the Committee did not employ any formula or quantitative adjustment methodology, but relied instead on its overall assessment of the individual’s performance against stated goals and objectives and its subjective judgment regarding the individual’s contribution to the Company’s annual performance. Forms of compensation other than IRSUs were not impacted by these reviews since they were set at the permitted levels in accordance with the applicable TARP restrictions on executive compensation.

 

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For 2010, the Special Master imposed an additional performance restriction on Ally’s grants of long-term IRSUs. Unless Ally had positive core pretax income for 2010, the potential grant of IRSUs would be reduced by 50%. Since Ally’s actual core pretax income for 2010 was $2.5 billion, this restriction did not apply.

The significant 2010 performance objectives and accomplishments for Ally are discussed in the CEO Compensation section below. Each NEO was responsible for various contributions to achieve these enterprise-wide objectives. Below is a listing of the overall responsibilities of each NEO, along with the NEO’s significant individual 2010 performance objectives and applicable 2010 accomplishments.

CEO Compensation

Michael A. Carpenter—Chief Executive Officer of Ally since November 2009 and a member of the Ally Board of Directors since May 2009. Mr. Carpenter oversees all Ally strategy and operations to focus on strengthening the core businesses, while positioning the company for long-term growth. The 2010 performance objectives and accomplishments for Mr. Carpenter are included in the table below. In making the incentive compensation award determination for Mr. Carpenter, the Committee considered the performance objectives and accomplishments of Ally.

 

2010 Performance Objectives

  

2010 Accomplishments

Return Ally to profitability    Achieved profitability for all four quarters
Reduce overall expenses    Successfully reduced costs and divested noncore businesses
Capitalize on opportunities in the auto finance business   

Ranked as the number one provider of new vehicle retail financing in the United States by Experian Automotive

 

Increased global consumer auto financing originations for new and used vehicles

 

Significantly increased United States consumer penetration with General Motors and Chrysler

 

Named the recommended provider of finance and insurance products and services for Saab and Fiat dealerships in the United States

Demonstrate improved access to capital markets    Successfully accessed the capital markets with nearly $36 billion of new funding transactions
Continue to build Ally Bank    Achieved strong deposit growth and high retention rates at Ally Bank

Explore strategic alternatives for the mortgage business and further manage mortgage risk

   Significantly reduced risk in the legacy mortgage business and reduced representation and warranty exposure through several important settlements with various counterparties

Position Ally to repay the United States Department of Treasury as soon as practical

   Converted $5.5 billion of the $11.4 billion of the United States Department of Treasury’s mandatory convertible preferred stock into common equity

Other NEO Compensation

Mr. Carpenter, in consultation with the Compensation Committee and the Board, established the priorities for Ally and each NEO at the beginning of the year. Each NEO reports directly to Mr. Carpenter and is a member of the Management Council, a group which is responsible for the strategic direction and overall performance of

 

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the company. As such, each NEO plays a key role in the stewardship and overall success of Ally and achievement of Ally’s established performance objectives. Therefore, the 2010 Ally accomplishments outlined in the CEO Compensation section above were the main deciding factors used for determination of the incentive compensation awards provided to each NEO for 2010. In addition to the accomplishments of Ally, the Compensation Committee also considered each NEO’s individual accomplishments discussed below in a non-formulaic manner. When awarding incentive compensation grants to individual NEOs, the Compensation Committee is limited in the awards that can be granted as governed by the TARP compensation rules discussed above.

James G. Mackey—Interim Chief Financial Officer of Ally since April 2010 and Chief Financial Officer since June 2011. Mr. Mackey is responsible for the oversight of the company’s financial analysis, controls and reporting, accounting, business planning, and corporate strategy. In making the incentive compensation award determination for Mr. Mackey, the Committee considered the performance objectives and accomplishments of Ally. The significant additional 2010 performance objectives and accomplishments for Mr. Mackey are included in the table below.

 

2010 Performance Objectives

  

2010 Accomplishments

Focus on delivering business partner needs    Engaged business unit and functional partners to assess business needs and establish strategic priorities
Drive corporate strategy initiatives   

Divested noncore businesses

 

Converted $5.5 billion of the $11.4 billion of the United States Department of Treasury’s mandatory convertible preferred stock into common equity

Improve the accuracy and efficiency of the monthly close and forecasting processes

  

Reduced Ally’s legal and managerial close timeframe

 

Created a new business review process, drove integrated financial, stress, liquidity and capital forecasts, and increased the accuracy in consolidated forecasts

Jeffrey J. Brown—Corporate Treasurer of Ally since March 2009 and Senior Executive Vice President of Finance and Corporate Planning since June 2011. Mr. Brown is responsible for all global treasury activities, including funding and balance sheet management. In making the incentive compensation award determination for Mr. Brown, the Committee considered the performance objectives and accomplishments of Ally. The significant additional 2010 performance objectives and accomplishments for Mr. Brown are included in the table below.

 

2010 Performance Objectives

  

2010 Accomplishments

Build an improved forecast for the company’s consolidated balance sheet and future business model

   Developed the company’s current asset-liability management model that serves as the basis for liquidity and capital planning and is leveraged across treasury and finance, to provide improved transparency for near and long-term forecasts

Manage cash forecasts for all key business entities and identify opportunities to enhance the company’s liquidity position

   Established a balance sheet management unit capable of modeling various forecasts and assessing various risks

Identify opportunities to enhance the company’s capital position

   Raised $26 billion in secured funding with a variety of asset classes and $7 billion in unsecured funding

Sanjay Gupta—Chief Marketing Officer of Ally since March 2008. Mr. Gupta has responsibility for all marketing, e-commerce, and product innovation at Ally. In making the incentive compensation award

 

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determination for Mr. Gupta, the Committee considered the performance objectives and accomplishments of Ally. The significant additional 2010 performance objectives and accomplishments for Mr. Gupta are included in the table below.

 

2010 Performance Objectives

  

2010 Accomplishments

Drive brand awareness for the company    Significantly increased Ally brand awareness, and improved the satisfaction of Ally Bank customers
Manage the consumer marketing activities for Ally    Successfully completed the rebranding of various strategic operations of the business to Ally

Drive deposit growth in the US and Canada and create innovative products to enhance value propositions

   Launched several significant new products at Ally Bank

Thomas Marano—Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ally’s Mortgage operations and, as of May 1, 2009, Ally’s Chief Capital Markets Officer. As CEO of Mortgage operations, Mr. Marano oversees mortgage lending and servicing at Residential Capital, LLC (ResCap) and ResMor Trust (the Canadian depository) and the correspondent and warehouse lending at Ally Bank. In making the incentive compensation award determination for Mr. Marano, the Committee considered the performance objectives and accomplishments of Ally. The significant additional 2010 performance objectives and accomplishments for Mr. Marano are included in the table below.

 

2010 Performance Objectives

  

2010 Accomplishments

Maximize capital markets execution    Improved financial performance for the capital markets and broker dealer businesses

Execute strategic solutions for ResCap by implementing cost reductions and divesting noncore businesses

   Completed significant distressed loan sales and noncore business divestitures to reduce risk in mortgage business

Ensure compliance defects are reduced to mitigate credit operations risk through new technology implementations and ensure excellent customer service through loan originations and modifications

  

Significantly decreased material loan defects

 

Increased loan modifications enabling ResCap to continue to be the servicer with the highest conversion rates among the five largest servicers in the United States Treasury’s Home Affordable Modification Program

Benefits and Perquisites

We provide our NEOs with health and welfare benefits under the broad-based program generally available to all of our employees. This allows them to receive certain benefits that are not readily available to individuals except through an employer and to receive certain benefits on a pretax basis. Our benefit program includes the Ally Retirement Savings Plan. We provide the savings plan in lieu of higher current cash compensation to ensure that employees have a source of retirement income and because these plans enjoy more favorable tax treatment than current compensation. Under this plan, employee contributions of up to 6% of salary were matched 100% by Ally. Ally also provided a 2% nonmatching contribution on both salary and annual incentives which fully vests after being employed for three years. In addition, Ally provided a 2% nonmatching discretionary contribution on salary in light of the Company’s significantly improved 2010 performance.

Ally suspended nonqualified contributions to its Retirement Savings Plan in 2009 and did not make any additional nonqualified contributions in 2010. Therefore, employer contributions for 2010 were made only under the qualified portion of the plan only which limits contributions to pay up to $245,000.

In addition to broad-based benefits, the NEOs are provided with limited supplemental benefits and perquisites to remain competitive in attracting and retaining executive talent. For 2010, in accordance with the TARP restrictions, the total value of these perquisites and supplemental benefits was capped at $25,000.

 

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Long-term Compensation Structure

Based on the compensation structure for 2010, long-term equity-based compensation, represented by DSUs and IRSUs, comprises a significant portion of each NEOs total compensation. The long-term equity-based portion of total compensation for each NEO and its associated percentage of total compensation for 2010 are as follows.

 

     Long-term equity-based compensation  

NEO

   Total
compensation (a)
($)
     Dollar  amount
awarded

($)
     Percent of total
compensation
(%)
 

Michael A. Carpenter

   $ 9,529,958       $ 9,313,654         97.7

James G. Mackey

     2,419,623         1,922,951         79.5

Jeffrey J. Brown

     4,288,908         3,750,000         87.4

Thomas Marano

     7,433,035         6,906,250         92.9

Sanjay Gupta

     3,938,878         3,408,333         86.5

 

(a) The compensation amounts shown above for Mr. Carpenter do not include $395,096 of IRSU awards, which were granted in 2010 for 2009 performance. This IRSU grant is included in the 2010 compensation for the Summary Compensation Table as per SEC rules.

Employment Agreements and Severance

Ally currently has no employment agreement with any of the NEOs.

As a condition to participating in TARP, Ally’s NEOs and the next five most highly compensated employees are not eligible for any severance in the event of termination of employment. These restrictions apply until Ally repays its TARP obligations.

Clawback Provisions

In connection with the risk assessment Ally conducted in 2010, the Company has reviewed all of its incentive compensation programs to ensure they include language allowing the Company to recoup incentive payments made to recipients in the event those payments were based on financial statements that are later found to be materially inaccurate. Incentive plans that did not include such language were revised to allow for incentive payments to be recovered. A recipient who fails to promptly repay Ally under such circumstances is subject to termination of employment.

 

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Summary Compensation Table

 

Name and principal position

  Year     Salary
($) (a)(b)
    Bonus
($) (c)
    Stock awards
($) (d)(e)(f)
    Option
awards ($)
(g)
    All other
compensation
($) (h)
    Total ($)  

Michael A. Carpenter

    2010      $ 186,346      $      $ 9,708,750      $      $ 29,958      $ 9,925,054   

Chief Executive Officer

    2009        119,726               682,438               35        802,199   

James G. Mackey

    2010        475,068               1,922,951               21,604        2,419,623   

Executive Vice President,

Chief Financial Officer

             

Jeffrey J. Brown

    2010        500,000               3,750,000               38,908        4,288,908   

Senior Executive Vice President of Finance and Corporate Planning

             

Thomas Marano

    2010        500,000               6,906,250               26,785        7,433,035   

Chief Executive Officer, ResCap, and Chief Capital Markets Officer

    2009        2,419,231               3,223,108               51,994        5,694,333   

Sanjay Gupta

    2010        509,000               3,408,333               21,545        3,938,878   

Chief Marketing Officer

    2009        430,769               3,508,333               40,425        3,979,527   
    2008        333,333        1,262,500        3,665,352        141,568        574,776        5,977,529   

Robert S. Hull

    2010        128,222               772,500               98,378        999,100   

former Chief Financial Officer

    2009        517,307               4,345,000               54,210        4,916,517   
    2008        500,000        250,000        5,970,340        353,920        1,855,344        8,929,604   

 

(a) Amounts represent the cash portion of the base salary earned from each executive’s employment commencement with Ally. These dates are: November 15, 2009, for Mr. Carpenter; May 1, 2009, for Mr. Marano; and March 3, 2008, for Mr. Gupta. Mr. Hull resigned effective April 2, 2010. Mr. Mackey was named interim CFO on April 2, 2010. The amounts shown as salary do not include the DSU award values that are part of the executive’s base salary and are shown as stock awards in this table.

 

(b) For 2010, represents the amount of Mr. Carpenter’s compensation that was paid in cash prior to March 23, 2010, when his compensation structure changed to be fully based on the long-term equity value of the Company, as previously discussed in the section titled “—Determining Mr. Carpenter’s 2010 Pay Package”.

 

(c) No NEO received a discretionary bonus under our Annual Incentive Plan for 2010 or 2009. Mr. Gupta’s 2008 total represents a $700,000 sign-on bonus following his hiring to compensate for value he forfeited with his former employer when he joined Ally and $662,500 for a discretionary bonus under our Annual Incentive Plan. Mr. Hull’s 2008 total represents a discretionary midyear spot award that was provided in recognition of his substantial contributions to securing Ally’s first financial restructuring of 2008.

 

(d) The 2010 total represents the grant date fair value of the Ally DSU and IRSU awards granted in 2010 in accordance with ASC 718 and was not necessarily the cash payment received. The amount for Mr. Carpenter includes $395,096 of IRSU awards that were granted in January 2010 for performance in 2009, as per the SEC rules. The amounts for each NEO for 2010 are displayed in the following table.

 

Name

   DSU($)      IRSU($)      Total($)  

Michael A. Carpenter

   $ 7,813,654       $ 1,895,096       $ 9,708,750   

James G. Mackey

     1,119,964         802,987         1,922,951   

Jeffrey J. Brown

     2,350,000         1,400,000         3,750,000   

Thomas Marano

     4,437,500         2,468,750         6,906,250   

Sanjay Gupta

     2,208,333         1,200,000         3,408,333   

Robert S. Hull

     772,500                 772,500   

 

(e)

The 2009 total represents the grant date fair value of the Ally RSU, DSU, and IRSU awards granted in 2009 in accordance with ASC 718 and was not necessarily the cash payment received. The amount for

 

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Mr. Carpenter does not include $395,096 of IRSU awards that were granted in January 2010 for performance in 2009 and were included in the 2010 total, as per the SEC rules. The RSU value shown for Mr. Marano represents the grant date fair value of his RSU awards granted in 2009. Subsequent to the grant, RSU awards with a fair value of $671,135 were vested and settled, and RSU awards with a fair value of $2,013,407 were converted to IRSU awards with the original RSU grant date. Based on TARP restrictions, a portion of Mr. Marano’s IRSU awards were converted to DSU awards in December 2010. The balances below have been restated to include this conversion. The amounts for each NEO for 2009 are displayed in the following table.

 

Name

   RSU($)      DSU($)      IRSU($)      Total($)  

Michael A. Carpenter

   $       $ 682,438       $       $ 682,438   

Thomas Marano

     2,569,246         653,862                 3,223,108   

Sanjay Gupta

             2,208,333         1,300,000         3,508,333   

Robert S. Hull

             2,730,000         1,615,000         4,345,000   

 

(f) The 2008 total represents the grant date fair value of the Ally RSU and Management Profits Interest Plan (MPI) awards granted in 2008 in accordance with ASC 718 and was not necessarily the cash payment received. The amounts for each NEO for 2008 are displayed in the following table.

 

Name

   RSU($)      MPI($)      Total($)  

Sanjay Gupta

   $ 2,970,000       $ 695,352       $ 3,665,352   

Robert S. Hull

     3,652,500         2,317,840         5,970,340   

 

(g) Represents the grant date fair value of the Ally Long Term Phantom Interest Plan awards in accordance with ASC 718 and not necessarily the cash payments received with respect to the year ended December 31, 2008. There was no cash compensation paid to our NEOs with respect to these awards and none of the awards is currently outstanding. See Note 25 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of the valuation assumptions for the awards.

 

(h) See the All Other Compensation in 2010 section below for further details.

All Other Compensation in 2010

 

    Michael A. Carpenter     James G. Mackey     Jeffrey J. Brown     Thomas Marano     Sanjay Gupta     Robert S. Hull  

Financial counseling (a)

  $ 7,500      $ 3,191      $      $ 7,500      $      $ 890   

Legal services (b)

                  20,000                        

Liability insurance (c)

    425        425        425        425        425          
                                               

Total perquisites

    7,925        3,616        20,425        7,925        425        890   

Life insurance (d)

    14,652        992        1,068        1,710        1,161        468   

401(k) matching
contribution (e)

    7,381        16,996        17,415        17,150        19,959        16,755   

Unused paid-time-off payment (f)

                                       80,265   
                                               

Total all other compensation

  $ 29,958      $ 21,604      $ 38,908      $ 26,785      $ 21,545      $ 98,378   
                                               

 

(a) We provide a taxable allowance to certain senior executives for financial counseling and estate planning services with one of several approved providers. The NEOs are provided an enhanced financial and estate planning service. This program does not provide for tax preparation services. Costs associated with this benefit are reflected in the table above, based on the actual charge for the services received. Any taxes assessed on the imputed income for the value of this service are the responsibility of the executive.

 

(b) Represents reimbursement for certain legal services.

 

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(c) Represents the total cost of liability insurance for 2010.

 

(d) Represents the total cost of life insurance for 2010.

 

(e) Represents the employer contribution, company match contribution, and discretionary contribution made to the employees’ 401(k) fund.

 

(f) Represents the payment to Mr. Hull pursuant to his resignation associated with the paid-time-off balance he earned but had not used. This type of payment is made to all employees with an unused paid-time-off balance upon termination. At December 31, 2009, all accrued paid-time-off balances for executives were frozen.

Grants of Plan-based Awards in 2010—Estimated Future Payments under Equity Incentive Plan Awards

The following table represents Ally DSU and IRSU awards, which are stated in phantom shares.

 

Name

   Award      Grant
date (a)
     All other stock awards:
number of shares of
stock or units (b)
     Grant date fair value
of stock and option
awards ($) (c)
 

Michael A. Carpenter (d)

     DSU                 1,000.1       $ 7,813,654   
     IRSU         01/28/2010         50.6         395,096   
     IRSU         12/16/2010         192.0         1,500,000   

James G. Mackey

     DSU                 143.4         1,119,964   
     IRSU         12/16/2010         102.8         802,987   

Jeffrey J. Brown

     DSU                 300.8         2,350,000   
     IRSU         12/16/2010         179.2         1,400,000   

Thomas Marano

     DSU                 568.0         4,437,500   
     IRSU         12/16/2010         316.0         2,468,750   

Sanjay Gupta

     DSU                 282.7         2,208,333   
     IRSU         12/16/2010         153.6         1,200,000   

Robert S. Hull

     DSU                 98.9         772,500   

 

(a) The DSU awards are granted ratably in each pay period.

 

(b) The award grants are expressed as phantom shares of Ally Financial.

 

(c) The grant date fair value amounts shown do not reflect realized cash compensation by the NEOs, which is described in the Stock Awards Vested Table for the awards. The value shown represents the computed fair value at the date of grant of each award in accordance with ASC 718, which was $7,812.5 per share for each award. For a further discussion of the valuation, see Note 25 to our Consolidated Financial Statements in this prospectus.

 

(d) The awards for Mr. Carpenter include 50.6 shares of IRSU awards with a grant date fair value of $395,096 that were granted in January 2010 for 2009 performance, per SEC rules.

 

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Outstanding Equity Awards at 2010 Fiscal Year End—Stock Awards

The following table provides information for the named executive officers regarding the Ally RSU and IRSU awards outstanding at 2010 year-end.

 

Name

   Grant date      Number of shares or
units of stock that
have not vested (#) (a)
     Market value of shares
or units of stock that
have not vested ($) (a)
 

Michael A. Carpenter

     01/28/2010         50.6       $ 523,014   
     12/16/2010         192.0         1,985,648   

James G. Mackey

     12/31/2009         70.1         724,790   
     12/16/2010         102.8         1,062,967   

Jeffrey J. Brown

     12/31/2009         157.6         1,629,579   
     12/16/2010         179.2         1,853,272   

Thomas Marano (b)

     10/28/2009         206.2         2,132,222   
     12/31/2009         36.8         380,432   
     12/16/2010         316.0         3,268,046   

Sanjay Gupta

     9/15/2008         25.3         261,817   
     12/31/2009         166.4         1,720,895   
     12/16/2010         153.6         1,588,519   

 

(a) Amounts shown represent Ally RSU and IRSU awards granted to named executives that have not vested. The RSU awards vest ratably over five years and the IRSU awards cliff vest over three years, in each case subject to continued service with Ally. Each award represents one phantom share of Ally. The market value for each award is determined by the Board, as required by the plan, based on the fair value of Ally at December 31, 2010. The value for each share at December 31, 2010, was $10,342 as determined by Ally’s Board of Directors. During 2010, 20% of Mr. Gupta’s 2008 RSU grants vested. No portion of the 2009 or 2010 IRSU grants vested during 2010.

 

(b) Based on TARP restrictions a portion of Mr. Brown’s and Mr. Marano’s IRSU awards were converted to DSU awards. The balances shown here have been restated to include this conversion.

Options Exercised and Shares Vested in 2010

During 2010, no stock options were exercised by the named executive officers.

The following table reflects the Ally RSU awards that vested in 2010.

 

Name

   Number of shares
acquired on vesting
(#) (a)(b)
     Value realized
on vesting

($) (b)(c)
 

Sanjay Gupta

     12.7       $ 130,909   

 

(a) Amount shown represents the 2010 vesting of the continued service portion of Mr. Gupta’s 2008 RSU grant. Each unit represents one phantom share of Ally.

 

(b) In 2009, we included DSU awards, which vested at grant date, within the Options Exercised and Shares Vested in 2009 table. For 2010, we have included the DSU award information in the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation in 2010 table below to more accurately reflect the form of the awards.

 

(c) The value realized for the vested shares is determined by the Board, as required by the plan, based on the fair value of Ally.

 

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Nonqualified Deferred Compensation in 2010

The table below reflects year-end balances, company distributions, and all earnings associated primarily with the Ally nonqualified equalization plan. This plan allows company contributions to this plan to continue after the IRS maximum limits under our 401(k) plan have been reached.

 

Name

  

Plan name

  Executive
contributions
in last FY ($)
    Registrant
contributions
in last FY ($)
    Aggregate
earnings in
last FY ($)
    Aggregate
withdrawals/
distributions
($)
    Aggregate
balance at last
FYE ($)
 

Michael A. Carpenter

   DSUs (a) (b)   $      $ 7,813,654      $ 2,646,654      $ 321,491      $ 10,821,255   

James G. Mackey

   DSUs (a) (b)            1,119,964        355,386        22,299        1,453,051   

Jeffrey J. Brown

   Nonqualified Benefit          
   Equalization Plan (c)                   2,137               24,772   
   DSUs (a) (b)            2,350,000        745,149        53,611        3,046,658   

Thomas Marano

   Nonqualified Benefit          
   Equalization Plan (c)                   4,327               43,535   
   DSUs (a) (b)            4,437,500        1,571,141        238,648        6,423,855   

Sanjay Gupta

   Nonqualified Benefit          
   Equalization Plan (c)                   808               8,126   
   DSUs (a) (b)            2,208,333        1,269,445        495,789        5,190,322   

Roberts S. Hull (b)

   Nonqualified Benefit          
   Equalization Plan (c)                   2,596               26,124   
   DSUs (a) (b)            772,500        948,309        573,500        3,877,309   

 

(a) In 2009, we included DSU awards, which vested at grant date, within the Options Exercised and Shares Vested in 2009 table. For 2010, we have included the DSU award information in the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation in 2010 table to more accurately reflect the form of the awards.

 

(b) The NEOs had outstanding DSU award values at December 31, 2009, of $682,438 for Mr. Carpenter, $5,120 for Mr. Brown, $653,862 for Mr. Marano, $2,208,333 for Mr. Gupta, and $2,730,000 for Mr. Hull.

 

(c) Ally maintains a nonqualified benefit equalization plan for highly-compensated employees, including the NEOs. This plan is a nonqualified savings plan designed to allow for the equalization of benefits for highly compensated employees under the Ally 401K Program when such employees’ contribution and benefit levels exceed the maximum limitations on contributions and benefits imposed by Section 2004 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and Section 401(a)(17) and 415 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. This plan is maintained as an unfunded plan and all expenses for administration of the plan and payment of amounts to participants are borne by Ally. Each participant is credited with earnings based on a set of investment options selected by the participant similar to 401(k) investment option to all employees. Pursuant to the Special Master’s determination letter dated October 22, 2009, contributions to this plan were suspended. Therefore, the amounts shown reflect contributions made by the Company prior to receipt of the determination letter.

Executive Compensation—Post-employment and Termination Benefits

As a condition to participating in TARP, Ally’s NEOs and next five highest paid employees waived any right to severance in the event of their termination of employment. These waivers apply until Ally repays its TARP obligations to Treasury. At December 31, 2010, none of our NEOs were eligible to retire under any qualified or nonqualified Ally retirement plan.

 

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Ally Financial Inc. 2011 Incentive Compensation Plan

We have adopted the Ally Financial Inc. 2011 Incentive Compensation Plan (the “2011 Incentive Plan”), which allows us to grant an array of equity-based and cash incentive awards to our NEOs and other employees and service providers (other than our non-employee directors). The purpose of the 2011 Incentive Plan is to motivate and reward those employees and other individuals who are expected to contribute significantly to our success.

Plan Term. The 2011 Incentive Plan expires after ten years, unless prior to that date the maximum number of our common shares available for issuance under the 2011 Incentive Plan has been issued or our Board of Directors terminates the 2011 Incentive Plan.

Authorized Shares. Subject to adjustment as described below,              shares of our common stock are available for awards to be granted under the 2011 Incentive Plan and awards granted under the Ally Financial Inc. Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan that will settle in shares of our common stock following the closing of this offering. No participant may receive under the 2011 Incentive Plan in any three consecutive calendar years stock options and stock appreciation rights that relate to more than              shares and restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance awards and other stock-based awards (to the extent that such awards are denominated in shares and intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”)) that relate to more than              shares. Generally, if an award expires or is canceled, forfeited or settled in cash, then the shares covered by such award again will be available for issuance under the 2011 Incentive Plan. Shares tendered or withheld in payment of an exercise price or for withholding taxes also again will be available for issuance under the 2011 Incentive Plan.

Administration. The CNG Committee or such other committee as designated by the Board of Directors administers the 2011 Incentive Plan and has authority to select individuals to whom awards are granted and determine the types of awards and number of shares covered and the terms and conditions of awards, including the applicable vesting schedule, performance conditions and whether the award will settle in cash or shares.

Types of Awards. The 2011 Incentive Plan provides for grants of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance awards (cash-based and share-based) and other stock-based awards.

 

   

Stock Options. A stock option is a contractual right to purchase shares at a future date at a specified exercise price. Generally, the per share exercise price of a stock option will be determined by the CNG Committee or such other committee as designated by the Board of Directors but may not be less than the closing price of a share of our common stock on the grant date. The CNG Committee or such other committee as designated by the Board of Directors will determine the date after which each stock option may be exercised and the expiration date of each option; however, no stock option will be exercisable more than ten years from the grant date. Stock options that are intended to qualify as incentive stock options must meet the requirements of Section 422 of the Code.

 

   

Stock Appreciation Rights. A stock appreciation right is a contractual right to receive, in cash or shares, an amount equal to the appreciation of one share of our common stock from the grant date. Any stock appreciation right will be granted subject to the same terms and conditions as apply to stock options, as described above.

 

   

Restricted Stock. Restricted stock is an award of shares of our common stock that are subject to restrictions on transfer and a substantial risk of forfeiture.

 

   

Restricted Stock Units. Restricted stock units represent a contractual right to receive the value of a share of our common stock at a future date, subject to specified vesting and other restrictions.

 

   

Performance Awards. Performance awards, which may be denominated in cash or shares, will be earned upon the satisfaction of performance conditions specified by the CNG Committee or such other

 

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committee as designated by the Board of Directors, which has authority to specify that any other award granted under the 2011 Incentive Plan will constitute a performance award by conditioning the exercisability or settlement of the award upon the satisfaction of performance conditions. The performance conditions with respect to awards that are intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Code will be limited to overhead costs, general and administration expense, market price of our common stock, cash flow, reserve value, net asset value, earnings, net income, operating income, cash from operations, revenue growth, margin, EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization), net capital employed, return on assets, stockholder return, reserve replacement, return on equity, return on capital employed, production, assets, unit volume, sales, market share, or strategic business criteria consisting of one or more objectives based on meeting specified goals relating to acquisitions or divestitures, each as determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, where applicable, as consistently applied by us. These performance criteria may be measured on an absolute (e.g., plan or budget) or relative basis. Relative performance may be measured against a group of peer companies, a financial market index or other acceptable objective and quantifiable indices. The amount of any performance awards denominated in cash that is intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Code that may be earned in any calendar year may not exceed $10,000,000.

 

   

Other Stock-Based Awards. The CNG Committee or such other committee as designated by the Board of Directors is authorized to grant other stock-based awards, which may be denominated in our common shares or factors that may influence the value of our common shares, including convertible or exchangeable debt securities, other rights convertible or exchangeable into shares, purchase rights for shares, awards with value and payment contingent upon our performance or business units or any other factors that the committee specifies.

Eligibility. Our employees, consultants, advisors and other service providers (other than our non-employee directors) are eligible to receive awards under the 2011 Incentive Plan.

Adjustments. If necessary to prevent dilution or enlargement of benefits or potential benefits under the 2011 Incentive Plan, the CNG Committee or such other committee as designated by the Board of Directors will adjust equitably the terms of any outstanding awards and the number of our common shares issuable under the 2011 Incentive Plan to reflect any change in our common shares resulting from a dividend or other distribution, recapitalization, stock split, reverse stock split, reorganization, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, repurchase or exchange of our common shares or other securities or any other similar corporate transaction or event affecting our common shares.

Termination of Service and Change in Control. Except as otherwise provided in an award agreement, all unvested awards will be forfeited upon a participant’s termination of service other than death, disability, retirement, termination as a result of a sale of a business unit, termination by us without cause and a qualifying termination by the participant (as such terms are defined in the 2011 Incentive Plan), in which events all or portions of the participant’s unvested awards will become nonforfeitable and options and stock appreciation rights will be immediately exercisable and will remain outstanding for one year from the date of termination of service. In the event of a change in control (as defined in the 2011 Incentive Plan), all outstanding stock options, stock appreciation rights and restricted stock units not continued in effect or converted into similar awards of the survivor or successor corporation will vest upon the change in control, and all outstanding stock options, stock appreciation rights and restricted stock units so continued or converted will vest upon the occurrence of the participant’s termination of service without cause or a qualifying termination by him or her within twelve months following the change in control.

Amendment and Termination. Our Board of Directors may amend, alter, suspend, discontinue or terminate the 2011 Incentive Plan, subject to approval of our shareholders if required by the rules of the stock exchange on which our common shares are principally traded or by applicable law. The CNG Committee or such other

 

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committee as designated by the Board of Directors may amend, alter, suspend, discontinue or terminate any outstanding award. However, no such board or committee action that would materially adversely affect the rights of a holder of an outstanding award may be taken without the holder’s consent. The CNG Committee or such other committee as designated by the Board of Directors also may not lower the per share exercise price of a stock option or stock appreciation right or cancel a stock option or a stock appreciation right in exchange for cash or another award when the per share exercise price exceeds the fair market value (other than in connection with a change in control or other corporation transaction necessitating an anti-dilution type adjustment in the outstanding stock options or stock appreciation rights).

Initial Awards in Connection with This Offering. In connection with this offering, we plan to make grants of restricted stock units to substantially all of our employees. The grant date fair value of each grant will range from a minimum of $100 to a maximum of $1,500. These restricted stock units will “cliff” vest three years from the date of grant and in the case of our U.S.-based employees, settle in shares and in the case of our employees based outside of the United States, settle in cash.

Ally Financial Inc. 2011 Executive Performance Plan

We have adopted the Ally Financial Inc. 2011 Executive Performance Plan (the “2011 Executive Performance Plan”), which allows us to grant incentive compensation awards that are intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Code to certain executive officers. The purpose of the 2011 Executive Performance Plan is to attract and retain executive officers who can make significant contributions to our success by providing incentives and financial rewards to such executive officers.

Administration. The CNG Committee administers the 2011 Executive Performance Plan and has authority to select plan participants, determine the terms and conditions of each incentive award granted under the 2011 Executive Performance Plan, certify the calculation of performance metrics based on which the awards are paid and the amount payable to each participant, determine the time when incentive awards will be paid and the form of such payment, determine whether and to what extent any incentive award will be reduced based on such factors as the CNG Committee deems appropriate in its discretion, determine whether payment of awards may be in shares of our common stock or may be deferred, interpret and administer the 2011 Executive Performance Plan and any instrument or agreement entered into in connection with the 2011 Executive Performance Plan, correct any defect, supply any omission or reconcile any inconsistency in the 2011 Executive Performance Plan or any incentive award in the manner and to the extent that the CNG Committee deems desirable to carry it into effect, establish such rules and regulations and appoint such agents as it deems appropriate for the proper administration of the 2011 Executive Performance Plan, and make any other determination and take any other action that the CNG Committee deems necessary or desirable for administration of the 2011 Executive Performance Plan.

Eligibility. Participants of the 2011 Executive Performance Plan are our Chief Executive Officer and other executive officers of the Company or a subsidiary selected by the CNG Committee.

Performance Period. The performance period underlying each incentive award will be our fiscal year or another period not exceeding five years in length established by the CNG Committee. No later than 90 days after the commencement of each fiscal year, the CNG Committee will designate one or more performance periods for such fiscal year as well as the participants for such performance period(s).

Incentive Awards. The incentive award will be an amount equal to 2.0%, in the case of our Chief Executive Officer and 1.0%, in the case of each other participant, of our core pre-tax income for each calendar year in the performance period (proportionately adjusted for any portion of the performance period that is less than a full calendar year). The amount of incentive award actually paid to a participant will be determined by the CNG Committee based on factors it deems appropriate and may not exceed the original amount of the incentive award established using the formula above.

Termination of Service. All unpaid incentive awards will be forfeited upon a participant’s termination of service, except that in the event of the participant’s death, disability, retirement, termination by us without cause

 

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and a qualifying termination (as such terms are defined in the 2011 Incentive Plan) during a performance period, the CNG Committee may proportionately reduce the incentive award payable to such participant based on the period of his or her actual employment during the applicable performance period.

Amendment and Termination. Our Board of Directors may alter, amend, suspend or terminate the 2011 Executive Performance Plan, subject to approval of our shareholders if required by the rules of the stock exchange on which our common shares are principally traded or by applicable law, including Section 162(m) of the Code. No amendment to, or termination of, the 2011 Executive Performance Plan may impair the rights of a participant under any incentive award previously granted without such participant’s consent.

Ally Financial Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan

We have adopted the Ally Financial Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “ESPP”), the purpose of which is to provide our employees with an opportunity to purchase our stock at a discount and thus encourage broad-based employee ownership of our stock. The ESPP has two components: The Section 423 component is intended to qualify as an “employee stock purchase plan” for purposes of Section 423 of the Code and will be construed so as to extend and limit participation in a uniform and nondiscriminatory basis consistent with the requirements of Section 423 of the Code; the non-Section 423 component is not intended to qualify as an “employee stock purchase plan” for purposes of Section 423 of the Code and purchase rights under that component will be granted pursuant to rules, procedures, or sub-plans set forth by us to achieve such tax, legal, or other objectives for eligible employees and us as we deem appropriate.

Authorized Shares. The aggregate number of shares authorized for sale under the ESPP (for both Section 423 and Non-Section 423 components) is             .

Administration. The CNG Committee administers the ESPP and has authority to interpret, construe, apply and make final determinations regarding the ESPP, including authority to determine eligibility under both components of the ESPP and the terms and conditions of any purchase right under the ESPP.

Offering Period. The initial offering period under the ESPP will commence as soon as practicable following the closing of this offering. This initial offering period will expire not sooner than six months after the consummation of this offering. Subsequently, the ESPP will have consecutive offering periods with a new offering period commencing approximately every six months, as determined by the CNG Committee.

Eligibility. Any of our active employees (including active employees of our designated subsidiaries and affiliates) on a given offering date (i.e., the first trading day of an offering period) is eligible to participate in the ESPP; however, employees who are citizens or residents of a non-U.S. jurisdiction may be excluded from participation in the ESPP or an offering if participation is prohibited under applicable local law or if complying with applicable local laws would cause the ESPP or an offering to violate Section 423 of the Code. Additionally, no employee may be granted a purchase right under the Section 423 component of the ESPP if immediately after the grant such employee would own our capital stock and/or hold outstanding purchase rights to purchase capital stock possessing 5% or more of the total combined voting power or value of all classes of our capital stock, or if his or her rights to purchase capital stock under all of our employee stock purchase plans accrues at a rate that exceeds $25,000 worth of such stock (determined at the fair market value of the shares of such stock at the time such purchase right is granted) for each calendar year in which such purchase right is both outstanding and exercisable.

Enrollment and Contribution. An eligible employee may become a participant in the ESPP by completing, within the prescribed enrollment period prior to the applicable offering date, a participation election, at which time he or she may elect to have payroll deductions made on each pay day during the applicable offering period in an amount not exceeding 10% of the compensation he or she receives on each pay day during the offering period.

Purchase Right. On the offering date of each offering period, each eligible employee participating in the offering period will be granted a right to purchase on the purchase date (i.e., the last trading day of the offering period) a number of shares determined by dividing such employee’s payroll deductions accumulated prior to the

 

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purchase date by the applicable purchase price, which will be no less than the lower of 85% of the closing price of a share of our common stock on the offering date or 85% of the closing price of a share of our common stock on the purchase date. In no event will an eligible employee be permitted to purchase during any offering period more than 100,000 shares; however, the CNG Committee may, for future offering period, increase or decrease the maximum number of shares that an eligible employee may purchase during each offering period.

Purchase of Shares. On the purchase date, the maximum number of shares that may be purchased with the accumulated payroll deductions in the participant’s account will be purchased for the participant at the applicable purchase price (as described above). Fractional shares may not be purchased, and any payroll deductions accumulated in a participant’s account that are not sufficient to purchase a full share will, at our discretion, be returned to the participant or be retained in the participant’s account for the subsequent offering period.

Delivery of Shares. As soon as reasonably practicable after each purchase date on which a purchase occurs, we will arrange for the delivery to each participant of the shares purchased to the participant’s brokerage or plan account in a form determined by us.

Withdrawal. A participant may withdraw all, but not less than all, the payroll deductions credited to his or her account and not yet used to purchase shares under the ESPP by giving notice in a form or manner and time prescribed by us prior each purchase date.

Termination of Employment. Unless otherwise determined by us, upon a participant’s employment termination for any reason, he or she will be deemed to have elected to withdraw from the ESPP and the payroll deductions credited to his or her account during the offering period but not yet used to purchase shares under the ESPP will be returned to him or her.

Change in Control. In the event of a change in control (as defined in the ESPP), the offering period then in progress will be shortened and end on a new purchase date, which will be before the date of the proposed merger or change in control. We will notify each participant in writing, at least ten business days prior to the new purchase date, that the purchase date for the applicable period has been changed to the new purchase date and that shares will be purchased automatically for the participant on the new purchase date. The CNG Committee may provide for an alternative process that provides participants with the economic equivalent of the benefits described above.

Adjustments. The CNG Committee may proportionately adjust the maximum number of shares available under the ESPP, the maximum number of shares each participant may purchase during the offering period or over a calendar year under the $25,000 limitation and the per share price used to determine the purchase price for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares resulting from any nonreciprocal transaction between us and our stockholders (e.g., a stock dividend, stock split, spin-off, rights offering or recapitalization through a large, nonrecurring cash dividend) that affects our common stock or the price of our common stock and cause a change in the per share value of the shares underlying outstanding purchase rights.

Amendment and Termination. Subject to any applicable law or government regulation and to the rules of the stock exchange on which our common shares are principally traded, our Board of Directors may amend, modify, suspend or terminate the ESPP without the approval of our shareholders; however, no amendment may make any change in any purchase right previously granted that adversely affects the rights of any participant without the consent of the affected participant. To comply with Section 423 of the Code, we will obtain shareholder approval of any amendment in such a manner and to such a degree as required. Without shareholder approval and without regard to whether any participant rights may be considered to have been “adversely affected,” the CNG Committee may change the offering periods, limit the frequency or number of changes in the amount withheld during an offering period, establish the exchange rate applicable to amounts withheld in a currency other than U.S. dollars, permit payroll withholding in excess of the amount designated by a participant to adjust for delays or mistakes in our processing of any properly completed participation election, establish reasonable waiting and adjustment periods, accounting, or crediting procedures to ensure that amounts applied toward the purchase of

 

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shares for each participant properly correspond with amounts withheld from the participant’s compensation and establish such other limitations or procedures as the CNG Committee determines.

Director Compensation

Employee directors do not receive any separate compensation for their Board activities. Nonemployee directors receive the compensation described below.

For 2010, each nonemployee director received an annual retainer of $180,000. In addition to the annual retainer, nonemployee directors who serve as a chair of a standing committee receives a retainer for such service in the amount of $45,000 for the chair of the Audit Committee and $25,000 for the chair of the other Board committees. Additional members of each committee receive a retainer for such service in the amount of $20,000 for the Audit Committee and $10,000 for the other Board committees. In addition, the Chair of the Board receives an additional retainer of $120,000 per year. Each nonemployee director also receives meeting fees when Board and committee meetings exceed four per year. Meeting fees are $1,500 for each in-person meeting and telephonic meeting lasting more than one hour and $750 for each telephonic meeting lasting less than one hour.

Changes to the director compensation program have been approved for 2011. The annual retainer for service on the Board will remain at $180,000, but $110,000 will be paid in the form of deferred stock units rather than cash. Deferred stock units are immediately vested, but not payable until after leaving the Board and, at the discretion of the Board, may be paid in common shares. The additional retainer paid to nonemployee directors who serve as a chair of a standing committee will be increased to $50,000 each. Other nonemployee directors who serve as members of committees will have their additional retainers increased to $20,000 each. The additional retainer paid to the Chair of the Board will be increased to $250,000 and will be paid half in cash and half in deferred stock units. Meeting fees will remain at the same level but will be paid when Board and committee meetings exceed eight per year instead of four per year.

Nonemployee directors are reimbursed for travel expenses incurred in conjunction with their duties as directors. Furthermore, Ally will provide the broadest form of indemnification under Delaware law under which liabilities may arise as a result of their role on the Board and payments for reimbursements for expenses incurred by a director in defending against claims in connection with their role, and the director satisfies the statutory standard of care.

The following table provides compensation for nonemployee directors who served during fiscal 2010.

 

Director name

   Annual
retainer
($) (a)
     Committee chair
or member/chair
of Board fees
($) (a)
     Additional
meeting fees
($)
     Total fees earned
or paid in cash
($) (a)
 

Robert T. Blakely

   $ 180,000       $ 59,062       $ 42,750       $ 281,812   

Mayree C. Clark

     180,000         57,980         49,500         287,480   

Kim S. Fennebresque

     180,000         33,124         30,000         243,124   

Franklin W. Hobbs

     180,000         145,192         39,000         364,192   

Steven Feinberg

                               

Marjorie Magner

     110,713         23,069         24,750         158,532   

John J. Stack

     129,452         26,768         33,000         189,220   

 

(a) The retainer and fees for our nonemployee directors were prorated based on when each director served on the Board and their respective committees.

Ally Financial Inc. 2011 Non-Employee Directors Equity Compensation Plan

We have adopted the Ally Financial Inc. 2011 Non-Employee Directors Equity Compensation Plan (the “2011 Directors Plan”), which allows us to grant restricted stock units to our non-employee directors. The purpose of the 2011 Directors Plan is to attract and retain the services of our experienced non-employee directors.

 

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Plan Term. The 2011 Directors Plan expires after ten years, unless prior to that date the maximum number of our common shares available for issuance under the 2011 Directors Plan has been issued or our Board of Directors terminates the 2011 Directors Plan.

Authorized Shares. Subject to adjustment as described below,              shares of our common stock are available for awards to be granted under the 2011 Directors Plan.

Administration. Our CNG Committee (or other committee of our Board of Directors, as designated, or if no committee is designated, the Board of Directors) administers the 2011 Directors Plan and has authority to select individuals to whom awards are granted and interpret and administer the 2011 Directors Plan and any instrument or agreement relating to, or award made under, the 2011 Directors Plan.

Types of Awards. The 2011 Directors Plan provides for grants of stock options, DSUs and shares of our common stock.

Eligibility. Each member of our Board of Directors who is not our employee is eligible to receive awards under the 2011 Directors Plan.

Adjustments. If necessary to prevent diminution or enlargement of benefits or potential benefits under the 2011 Directors Plan, our CNG Committee (or other committee of our Board of Directors, as designated, or if no committee is designated, the Board of Directors) will adjust equitably the terms of any outstanding awards and the number of our common shares issuable under the 2011 Directors Plan to reflect any change in our common shares resulting from a dividend or other distribution, recapitalization, stock split, reverse stock split, reorganization, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, repurchase or exchange of our common shares or other securities or any other similar corporate transaction or event affecting our common shares.

Initial Award. Each director who is in office as of, and will continue in office following,                     , 2011 will receive a one-time award of DSUs (with each DSU representing a right to receive the value of one share of our common stock on the terms and conditions set forth in the 2011 Directors Plan and the applicable award agreement) equal to the quotient of (i) $110,000 divided by (ii) the fair market value of one share of our common stock on the date of such grant, with each fractional DSU rounded up to the nearest whole DSU. Each new director who joins our Board of Directors for the first time following                    , 2011 will also receive a one-time award of DSUs equal to the quotient of (i) $110,000 divided by (ii) the fair market value of one share of our common stock on the date of such grant, with each fractional DSU rounded up to the nearest whole DSU.

Annual Award. Beginning at our Annual Meeting of Shareholders in 2012 and at each Annual Meeting of Shareholders thereafter, each director who is to continue in service following such meeting will receive an award of DSUs equal to the quotient of (i) $110,000 divided by (ii) the fair market value of one share of our common stock on the date of such grant, with each fractional DSU rounded up to the nearest whole DSU. Each director who joins our Board of Director following the grant date of an annual award but prior to the date of our next Annual Meeting of Shareholders will receive a prorated annual award.

Vesting and Settlement. Each initial award, annual award and prorated award will vest and settle pursuant to the terms of the applicable award agreement.

Termination of Service and Change in Control. Except as otherwise provided in an award agreement, all unvested awards will be forfeited upon a participant’s termination of service other than death and disability, in which events all of the participant’s unvested awards will become nonforfeitable. In the event of a change in control (as defined in the 2011 Incentive Plan), all outstanding awards will vest and be immediately due and payable.

Amendment and Termination. Our Board of Directors may amend, alter, suspend, discontinue or terminate the 2011 Directors Plan, subject to approval of our shareholders if required by the rules of the stock exchange on which our common shares are principally traded or by applicable law. Our CNG Committee (or other committee of our Board of Directors, as designated, or if no committee is designated, the Board of Directors) may also amend, alter, suspend, discontinue or terminate any outstanding award. However, no such board or committee action that would materially adversely affect the rights of a holder of an outstanding award may be taken without the holder’s consent.

 

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CERTAIN STOCKHOLDER AGREEMENTS

Amended and Restated Governance Agreement

On May 21, 2009, Ally, FIM Holdings LLC (“FIM”), GM Finance Co. Holdings LLC (“GM HoldCo”) and Treasury entered into an amended and restated Governance Agreement in order to amend and restate certain understandings between the parties regarding the composition of Ally’s Board of Directors previously set forth in the Governance Agreement, dated as of January 16, 2009, as amended by Amendment No. 1 thereto, dated as of March 24, 2009, and by Amendment No. 2 thereto, dated as of May 21, 2009.

On December 30, 2010, 110,000,000 shares of Ally’s Series F-2 preferred stock held by Treasury was converted into common stock of Ally (the “MCP Conversion”).

Following the MCP Conversion, the Governance Agreement established the number of directors and the composition of the Board of Directors based upon the percentage of common stock held by Treasury. To the extent certain minimum common stock ownership percentages were met, the Governance Agreement provided Treasury and FIM with the right to designate a specified number of directors to the Board of Directors and for FIM and GM HoldCo to appoint non-voting observers to the Board of Directors.

The Governance Agreement terminates upon the earlier to occur of (i) when Treasury and the UST Trust collectively cease to hold at least 9.9% of Ally’s common stock and (ii) when any party to the Governance Agreement ceases to own any common stock of Ally (other than Treasury).

Registration Rights Agreement

Pursuant to a Registration Rights Agreement, which is included as Exhibit A to Ally’s Bylaws, Ally granted eligible holders registration rights with respect to certain securities of the Company.

For purposes of the Registration Rights Agreement, “registrable securities” consist of Ally’s common stock and all equity securities issued or otherwise distributed in respect of Ally’s common stock in a stock or other equity split or combination, or a stock or other equity dividend, or in connection with certain specified events, including a merger, conversion, recapitalization, reclassification or reorganization, in each case held by “eligible holders.” Eligible holders include holders of Common Membership Interests of GMAC LLC as of May 22, 2009 and holders that acquired registrable securities from such persons in transactions not consummated on a national securities exchange and not registered under the Securities Act.

Any particular registrable securities shall cease to be “registrable securities” for purposes of the Registration Rights Agreement when they have been distributed to the public through a registered offering, when they have otherwise been sold on a national securities exchange and when they have been repurchased by Ally or a subsidiary of Ally.

Shelf Registrations

The Registration Rights Agreement provides that, subject to certain limitations, at any time that Ally is eligible to use Form S-3, Ally will file a shelf registration statement covering all registrable securities and, if such shelf registration statement is not automatically effective, use commercially reasonable best efforts to cause the shelf registration statement to be declared effective. Once it is effective, Ally is required to use commercially reasonable best efforts to keep the shelf registration statement continuously effective and usable for resale of registrable securities until there are no registrable securities held by eligible holders or all registrable securities may be sold without restriction under Rule 144.

 

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The Registration Rights Agreement provides that, subject to limitations described below, any holder with registrable securities registered pursuant to a shelf registration may effect an underwritten offering of its registrable securities after delivery of advance notice to the Company, provided that the Company is not required to facilitate an underwritten offering unless either registrable securities representing at least 2% of the then outstanding class of such registrable securities are proposed by the eligible holders to be included in such offering or the expected aggregate gross proceeds from such offering exceed $200 million. The other holders shall have the right to elect to include in such underwritten offering such portion of their registrable securities as they may request, subject to underwriter cutback provisions. The Registration Rights Agreement also provides that, after the effective date of a shelf registration date but before December 24, 2011, non-underwritten sales or distributions of registrable securities by a holder must not be in excess of the volume limitations of Rule 144.

Demand Registration Rights

So long as Ally does not have an effective shelf registration statement with respect to the registrable securities, any eligible holder may request registration of all or a portion of its registrable securities (a “Demand Registration”). Demand Registrations are limited to registration of an aggregate number of registrable securities representing at least 2% of the outstanding class of such registrable securities or registrable securities having a value of at least $200 million. Ally shall not be obligated to effectuate more than 3 Demand Registrations in any 12-month period or any non-underwritten offering for registrable securities that could otherwise be sold without restriction under Rule 144. Additionally, Ally may postpone for up to 90 days the filing or effectiveness of, or, if already effective, suspend a Demand Registration upon a good faith determination by the Board of Directors that the failure to do so would have a material adverse effect on certain proposed transactions. However, the Company may not delay a Demand Registration more than once in any 12-month period and only if holders of similar securities with registration rights have been subject to a similar limitation.

Piggyback Registration Rights

Provided that a shelf registration statement is not in effect at the time, any time Ally proposes to register equity securities under the Securities Act or proposes to undertake an underwritten offering of equity securities (each a “Piggyback Registration”), Ally must, subject to certain limitations, promptly notify all eligible holders of registrable securities of its intention to do so and must include, on the same terms and conditions, any registrable securities that are requested to be included by such eligible holders in writing.

Holdback Agreements

Ally may not effect any public sale or distribution of equity securities (1) during the 10-day period preceding and the 75-day period following the effective date of any underwritten Demand Registration or Piggyback Registration or (2) the period commencing on the date Ally is notified that an eligible holder intends to undertake an underwritten shelf offering and ending 75 days after commencement of such underwritten shelf offering, unless the managing underwriters agree to a shorter period.

If Ally has previously filed a registration statement with respect to registrable securities pursuant to a Demand Registration or a Piggyback Registration or if an underwritten shelf offering has commenced, Ally may not file or cause or permit to be effective any other registration of any of its equity securities until at least 60 days have elapsed from the relevant effective date or commencement date, as applicable.

The Registration Rights Agreement provides that until December 24, 2011, in connection with any underwritten shelf offering and underwritten demand registration, no eligible holder (excluding Treasury and the GM Trust) may effect any sale or distribution of any registrable securities of the Company, other securities of the Company, or of securities convertible into or exchangeable for other securities of the Company during the 10 days prior to, and during the period (established by the managing underwriters) beginning on, the closing date of the sale of such securities pursuant to an effective registration statement. Subject to the qualifications below, this

 

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holdback period shall not exceed 190 days in the case of this offering or 100 days in the case of other offerings. If Treasury’s participation in an offering (other than this offering) accounted for 90% or more of all registrable securities sold in the offering and any eligible holder’s participation was restricted as a result of the underwriter’s cutback described above, the holdback period for such eligible holder may not exceed 30 days.

Indemnification and Contribution

Under the Registration Rights Agreement, Ally agrees, subject to certain limitations, to indemnify each holder of registrable securities, its officers, directors, managers and partners, and each person controlling such holder against all losses, claims, actions, damages, liabilities and expenses in certain circumstances and to pay any expenses reasonably incurred in connection investigating, preparing or defending these; except insofar as the same are caused by or contained in any information furnished in writing to the Company by such holder expressly for use therein or by such holder’s failure to deliver a copy of the registration statement or prospectus or any amendments or supplements thereto after the Company has furnished such holder with a sufficient number of copies of the same.

Letter Agreement with Treasury

On February 17, 2011, Ally and Treasury entered into a letter agreement in connection with this offering which provides, among other things, that Ally will pay all underwriting discounts and commissions, transfer taxes and transaction fees, if any, applicable to the sale of the common stock and the fees and disbursement of counsel for the selling security holder incurred in connection with the sale.

Registration Rights Agreements with Treasury and Preferred Stockholders

Units

Pursuant to a Letter Agreement (including the Securities Purchase Agreement and the other documents incorporated by reference therein) with Treasury dated May 21, 2009, Ally agreed that, subject to certain limitations, it would prepare and file with the SEC a shelf registration statement covering all of the Units (since the Units are being issued in exchange for Series F-2 preferred stock held by Treasury) and to the extent the shelf registration statement was not declared effective or not automatically effective upon such filing, Ally would use its reasonable best efforts to cause such shelf registration statement to be declared effective and to keep such shelf registration statement continuously effective until such time as the Units (i) are sold pursuant to an effective registration statement, (ii) may be sold pursuant to Rule 144 without limitation thereunder on volume or manner of sale, (iii) have ceased to be outstanding or (iv) have been sold in a private transaction in which the transferor’s right under the agreement are not assigned to the transferee. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if Ally is not eligible to file a registration statement on Form S-3, then Ally is not obligated to file a shelf registration statement unless and until requested to do so in writing by Treasury.

The agreement provides that the holders of the Units may effect an underwritten offering of their Units; provided that Ally is not required to facilitate an underwritten offering unless the expected gross proceeds from such offering exceed $200 million.

Ally shall not be required to effect a registration or an underwritten offering of the Units if Ally has notified the holders of the Units that in the good faith judgment of the Board of Directors, it would be materially detrimental to Ally or its securityholders for such registration or underwritten offering to be effected at such time, Ally shall have the right to defer such registration for not more than 45 days. However, Ally may not delay a registration or underwritten offering more than three times in any 12-month period and more than 90 days in the aggregate in any 12-month period, and only if holders of similar securities with registration rights have been subject to a similar limitation.

 

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If during any period when an effective shelf registration statement is not available, Ally proposes to register any of its equity securities, and the registration form to be filed may be used for the registration of the Units, Ally will promptly notify (but in no event less than 10 days prior to the anticipated filing date) the holders of Units of its intention to do so and, subject to certain limitations, will include any Units that are requested to be included by such holders in writing.

Series G Preferred Stock

On December 31, 2008, Ally and certain holders of the shares of Series G preferred stock entered into a registration rights agreement. Pursuant to the registration rights agreement, Ally has filed an effective shelf registration statement covering the Series G preferred stock and is required to use its commercially reasonable efforts to keep such shelf registration statement continuously effective for a year from the date such shelf registration statement is declared effective or such shorter period when all shares of the Series G preferred stock have been sold under the registration statement or when all shares of Series G preferred stock may be sold without restrictions under Rule 144. However, Ally may for a period of up to 60 days in any three-month period, not to exceed 90 days in any calendar year determine that the shelf registration statement is not usable under certain circumstances relating to corporate developments, public filings with the SEC and similar events, and suspend the use of the prospectus that is part of such shelf registration statement.

If Ally fails to keep the registration statement effective as required by the agreement, Ally will pay additional cumulative dividends of 0.25% per annum over the applicable dividend rate of the Series G preferred stock, until such failure is cured.

 

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CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Certain relationships and related transactions are described below.

Relationship with General Motors

Products and Services Provided to GM

We provide various products and services to GM on terms comparable to those we provide to third parties. Except as described below, we currently expect to continue to provide these services to GM on an ongoing basis. These products and services include the following:

 

   

We provide wholesale and term-loan financing to dealerships that are either wholly owned by GM or in which GM has a controlling interest. The majority of these dealerships are located in the United States. At December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, finance receivables and loans to dealerships owned or majority-owned by GM totaled $301 million, $351 million, and $700 million, respectively.

 

   

Under wholesale financing arrangements, we lend money to GM-franchised dealers to finance their vehicle inventory purchases from GM. We advance the loan proceeds directly to GM. Under an agreement with GM, the advances were made before the date the vehicles were expected to be delivered to the dealers. We earned $178 million, $149 million, and $103 million of interest under the terms of this arrangement during the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively. At the end of 2010 GM terminated this advance payment arrangement. We expect any remaining interest payments in 2011 in connection with the terminated arrangement to be minimal.

 

   

We provide operating leases to GM-affiliated entities for buildings with a net book value of $65 million at December 31, 2010. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, the net book value of operating leases we provided to GM-affiliated entities including vehicles, buildings, and other equipment was $69 million and $291 million, respectively. Lease revenues of $2 million, $9 million, and $13 million were received during the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

   

We provide servicing for certain GM-owned U.S. operating lease assets distributed to GM on November 22, 2006. Servicing fees of $2 million, $25 million and $85 million were received for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively, related to this arrangement.

 

   

We received interest on notes receivable from GM of $9 million, $63 million, and $122 million during the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

   

We have other lease arrangements whereby we lease facilities to GM whereby we have advanced $21 million, $29 million, and $29 million at December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively. We receive leasing revenues under these arrangements for which we recognized lease property revenues of $3 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008.

 

   

In certain states, we provide insurance to GM for mechanical service contracts and for which we have recognized insurance premiums of $155 million, $159 million and $242 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

   

During the fourth quarter of 2008, we sold our global relocation business, which GM had used for certain relocations of their employees. GM paid $7 million for such services during the year ended December 31, 2008. In addition, GM paid mortgage-related fees for their employees of $2 million during the year ended December 31, 2008. At December 31, 2008, we recorded a receivable for these services from GM in the amount of $22 million.

 

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GM may elect to sponsor financing incentive programs for wholesale dealer financing, primarily in our International Automotive Finance operations. This is known as wholesale subvention. We received wholesale subvention and service fees of $189 million, $215 million, and $304 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

Support Services Provided by GM

GM historically has provided a variety of support services for our business, and we reimburse GM for the costs of providing these services to us. In addition, GM supports us by reimbursing us for certain programs it has with its customers or for expenses we may experience due to their business operations. The services GM provides us, including reimbursement arrangements, include:

 

   

GM may elect to sponsor incentive programs (on both retail contracts and leases) by supporting financing rates below standard rates at which we purchase retail contracts. In addition, under residual support programs, GM may upwardly adjust residual values above the standard lease rates. Out of our total new retail and lease contracts in North America and International, 51% and 43%, respectively, had rate or residual incentives for the year ended December 31, 2010; 69% and 53%, respectively, had rate or residual incentives for the year ended December 31, 2009; and 79% and 42%, respectively, had rate or residual incentives for the year ended December 31, 2008.

 

   

GM provides lease residual value support as a marketing incentive to encourage consumers to lease vehicles. GM reimburses us for its portion of the increased residual values to the extent the remarketing sales proceeds are less than the contract residual at termination. To the extent remarketing sales proceeds are more than the contract residual at termination, we reimburse GM for its portion of the lower residual value. We reimbursed GM $82 million in residual support for the year ended December 31, 2010. For the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, GM reimbursed us $195 million and $779 million in residual support.

 

   

GM provides financing rates below standard rates at which we purchase contracts (rate support). GM reimbursed us $674 million, $770 million and $985 million in rate support for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

   

We paid interest on loans from GM of $4 million, $46 million and $52 million during the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

   

GM sponsors lease pull-ahead programs whereby consumers are encouraged to terminate lease contracts early in conjunction with the acquisition of a new GM vehicle. Under these programs, GM waives all or a portion of the customer’s remaining payment obligations and compensates us for the waived payments, adjusted based on the remarketing results associated with the underlying vehicle. We reported net financing revenue from this compensation program of $15 million, $78 million and $66 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

   

GM reimburses us for certain selling expenses we may incur on certain vehicles sold by us at auction. We received reimbursements of $14 million, $26 million and $47 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

   

GM occasionally provides payment guarantees on certain commercial and dealer loans and receivables Ally has outstanding. The amount of commercial and dealer loans and receivables covered by a GM guarantee was $122 million, $68 million and $88 million at December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

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Certain arrangements existed whereby GM accounts for the sale of a vehicle at the time the vehicle is sold to us and delivered to a dealer on consignment from us. GM provided us with a guaranteed right of return for this inventory. At December 31, 2010, we had no vehicles with this right of return. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, we had $12 million and $141 million of vehicles, respectively, with this right of return. Similar arrangements existed whereby GM provided us with the option to take back the vehicles.

 

   

During 2010, 2009, and 2008, Promark Global Advisors (formerly known as GMIMCo), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of GM, provided asset management services to Ally with respect to the investment of assets at our Insurance operations. The fees paid to Promark Global Advisors for these services were based on the costs associated with managing those assets. With respect to the management of these insurance assets, we incurred expenses of $2 million, $4 million and $5 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively. This relationship was terminated in August 2010.

 

   

GM provides us certain other services and facilities services for which we reimburse them. We made reimbursement payments to GM of $125 million, $111 million and $173 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

   

GM provides us certain marketing services for which we reimburse them. We made reimbursement payments to GM of $5 million, $11 million, and $29 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

   

During the year ended December 31, 2008, GM provided us certain legal, real estate, and tax services for which we paid GM $0.2 million.

 

   

We have accounts payable to GM that include wholesale settlements payments to GM, subvention receivables due from GM, and notes payable. The net balance outstanding for accounts payable was $227 million, $333 million, and $1,248 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

Credit Arrangements and Other Amounts Due from or Owed to GM

 

   

We have certain financing arrangements with GM with outstanding receivables totaling $483 million, $911 million, and $1,655 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively. These receivables include certain of our borrowing arrangements with vehicles consigned at dealerships, rental car vehicles awaiting sale at auction, and amounts related to other arrangements.

 

   

We provide wholesale financing to GM for vehicles in which GM retains title while the vehicles are consigned to Ally or dealers in the United Kingdom and Italy. The financing to GM remains outstanding until title is transferred to the dealers. The amount of financing provided to GM by Ally under this arrangement varies based on inventory levels. At December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, the amount of this financing outstanding was $446 million, $769 million, and $1,400 million, respectively.

 

   

In various countries in Europe, we were party to a Rental Fleet Agreement in which we agreed to buy from GM, on agreed terms reflecting fair value, all vehicles sold by GM to rental car companies that GM had become obligated to repurchase. The Rental Fleet Agreement provided for a true-up mechanism whereby GM was required to reimburse us to the extent the revenues we earned from the resale of the vehicles were less than the amount we paid GM to purchase such vehicles. At December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008 we had a receivable in the amount of $38 million, $138 million, and $253 million, respectively, for providing this service.

 

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During 2009 and 2008, we provided loans to minority-owned dealerships whereby GM reimbursed us for the full amount, and we recorded a payable until the dealer paid the loan balance. We recorded a payable to GM in the amount of $2 million and $4 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

   

In previous years, we paid 70% of the total wholesale volume to GM in Finland. The remaining 30% was financed through loans from GM. At December 31, 2008, these loans had a balance of $19 million.

Capital Contributions Received from GM

During 2010, we did not receive any capital contributions from GM. During 2009 and 2008, GM made $1,280 million and $758 million in capital contributions, respectively.

 

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PRINCIPAL AND SELLING STOCKHOLDERS

The following table sets forth information regarding beneficial ownership of our common stock as of May 15, 2011, by:

 

   

each person whom we know to own beneficially more than 5% of our common stock;

 

   

each of the directors and named executive officers individually;

 

   

all directors and executive officers as a group; and

 

   

the selling stockholder.

In accordance with the rules of the SEC, beneficial ownership includes voting or investment power with respect to securities and includes the shares issuable pursuant to stock options that are exercisable within 60 days of May 15, 2011. Shares issuable pursuant to stock options are deemed outstanding for computing the percentage of the person holding such options but are not outstanding for computing the percentage of any other person.

The percentage of beneficial ownership for the following table is based on 1,330,970 shares of common stock outstanding as of May 15, 2011.

We provide various products and services to GM, receive support services from GM, and have certain financing arrangements with GM. For additional information on our relationship with GM, see the section of this prospectus entitled “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions.”

 

Name and Address of Beneficial owner

  Shares
Beneficially
Owned Before
the Offering
    Number
of
Shares
Being
Offered
    Number
of Shares
Subject
to Over-
allotment
Option
    Shares Beneficially
Owned After
Offering (1)
    Percentage
Beneficially Owned
After Offering (1)
 
  Number     Percent         Without
Over-
allotment
Option
    With
Over-
allotment
Option
    Without
Over-
allotment
Option
    With
Over-
allotment
Option
 

U.S. Department of
Treasury (2)
1500 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20220

    981,971        73.78            

Persons affiliated with Cerberus
Capital Management, L.P.
c/o Cerberus Capital Management, L.P.
299 Park Avenue, 22
nd Floor
New York, New York 10171

    115,434        8.67            

GMAC Common Equity
Trust I (3)
c/o Hillel Bennett
Stroock & Stroock & Lavan
180 Maiden Lane
New York, New York 10038-4982

    132,280        9.94            

All directors and executive officers of Ally Financial Inc.
200 Renaissance Center,
P.O. Box 200,
Detroit, MI 48265-2000

    0        0            

 

(1) Beneficial ownership includes the shares of our common stock that will be issued pursuant to the conversion described under “Concurrent Transactions” assuming the common stock offering price is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus but not the shares of our common stock issuable upon settlement of the purchase contracts that are components of the Units being offered in the concurrent offering.

 

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(2) The following description of the selling stockholder was provided by Treasury: Treasury is the executive agency of the U.S. government responsible for promoting economic prosperity and ensuring the financial security of the United States. Treasury is responsible for a wide range of activities, such as advising the President of the United States on economic and financial issues, encouraging sustainable economic growth and fostering improved governance in financial institutions. Treasury operates and maintains systems that are critical to the nation’s financial infrastructure, such as the production of coin and currency, the disbursement of payments to the American public, revenue collection and the borrowing of funds necessary to run the federal government. Treasury works with other federal agencies, foreign governments and international financial institutions to encourage global economic growth, raise standards of living and, to the extent possible, predict and prevent economic and financial crises. Treasury also performs a critical and far-reaching role in enhancing national security by implementing economic sanctions against foreign threats to the United States, identifying and targeting the financial support networks of national security threats and improving the safeguards of our financial systems. In addition, under EESA, Treasury was given certain authority and facilities to restore the liquidity and stability of the financial system. See also the section of this prospectus entitled “Risk Factors—Risks Relating to this Offering and Ownership of Our Common Stock—Treasury, the selling stockholder, is a federal agency, and your ability to bring a claim against it under the federal securities laws may be limited.”

 

(3) On May 6, 2011, GM Finance Co. Holdings LLC (“GM”) transferred its holding of 4% of our outstanding common stock to GMAC Common Equity Trust I (“GM Trust”). As a result, GM Trust now holds 9.94% of our outstanding common stock. However, pursuant to the trust agreement of GM Trust, GM may cause the trustee to return all or any part of our common stock to GM, so long as GM’s directly held voting and total common equity interests remain below 10% of our outstanding common stock.

 

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CONCURRENT TRANSACTIONS

Conversion and Exchange of Series F-2 Preferred Stock

Treasury currently holds 118,750,000 shares of our Series F-2 preferred stock having an aggregate liquidation amount of $5,937,500,000. In connection with this offering and the concurrent Units offering, Treasury intends (i) to convert 58,750,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock into shares of our common stock based on a conversion price equal to the common stock public offering price, and (ii) to exchange the remaining 60,000,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock having an aggregate liquidation amount of $3 billion, for a number of our Units having an aggregate stated amount of $3 billion.

The number of shares of common stock we will issue to Treasury in connection with the conversion will depend upon the common stock public offering price. The higher the common stock public offering price is, the fewer the number of shares of common stock Treasury will receive and the lower the common stock public offering price is, the greater the number of shares of common stock Treasury will receive. The following table sets forth the number of shares we will issue to Treasury in connection with the conversion for each common stock public offering price set forth below:

 

Public Offering Price

   Number of Shares Issued
to Treasury
 

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

In addition, we and Treasury intend to modify certain terms of the Series F-2 preferred stock so that Treasury will receive              additional shares of our common stock in connection with the offering.

The closing of each of the Units offering described below, this offering, the conversion and the exchange is conditioned upon the closing of each such other transaction.

Concurrent Units Offering

Treasury is offering in the concurrent Units offering a number of Units having an aggregate stated amount of $                    . Treasury has granted the underwriters of that offering the right to purchase up to              additional Units to cover over-allotments, if any, at the public offering price of the Units, less the underwriters’ discount for the Units, within 30 days from the date of the prospectus for the concurrent Units offering. Upon completion of the Units offering, Treasury will hold Units having an aggregate stated amount of $                     (or $                     if the underwriters for the Units offering exercise their over-allotment option in full). The Units that are retained by Treasury will be fungible with the Units being offered in the Units offering.

Each Unit has a stated amount of $                     and is composed of a prepaid stock purchase contract and a junior subordinated amortizing note due                     , 2014. Each amortizing note has an initial principal amount of $                     and a scheduled final installment payment date of                     , 2014.

On                     , 2014 (subject to postponement in certain limited circumstances), each purchase contract will automatically settle, unless settled earlier as described herein, and we will deliver a number of shares of our common stock based on the applicable market value of our common stock. The applicable market value is the average of the daily volume weighted average prices, or daily VWAPs, of our common stock on each of the 20 consecutive trading days beginning on, and including, the 23rd scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014.

 

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On the mandatory settlement date, each purchase contract will settle, unless settled earlier, as follows (subject to adjustment):

 

   

if the applicable market value equals or exceeds the threshold appreciation price, which is $                     , the holder of such purchase contract will receive                      shares of our common stock;

 

   

if the applicable market value is greater than $                      but less than the threshold appreciation price, the holder of such purchase contract will receive a number of shares of our common stock having a value, based on the applicable market value, equal to $                     ; and

 

   

if the applicable market value is less than or equal to $                     , the holder of such purchase contract will receive                      shares of our common stock.

At any time prior to the close of business on the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014, a holder may settle a purchase contract early, and we will deliver                      shares of our common stock per purchase contract (subject to adjustment). In addition, if a “fundamental change” (as defined in the purchase contract agreement for the Units) occurs and a holder elects to settle its purchase contracts early in connection with such fundamental change, such holder will receive a number of shares of our common stock based on the fundamental change early settlement rate in accordance with the purchase contract agreement for the Units. We may elect to settle all, but not less than all, outstanding purchase contracts prior to                     , 2014 at the “early mandatory settlement rate” (as defined in the purchase contract agreement for the Units), upon a date fixed by us upon not less than 10 business days’ notice. Except for cash in lieu of fractional shares, the purchase contract holders will not receive any cash distributions under the purchase contracts.

The amortizing notes will pay holders equal quarterly cash installments of $                     per amortizing note, which in the aggregate will be equivalent to                     % per year with respect to each $                      stated amount of Units. Ally will have the right to defer installment payments at any time and from time to time under the circumstances, and subject to the conditions, set forth in the indenture for the amortizing notes, so long as such deferral period does not extend beyond                  , 2017. The amortizing notes will be our junior subordinated obligations, and will rank (i) junior both in liquidation and right of payment, to the extent set forth in our junior subordinated debt indenture, to all of our “Senior Indebtedness” (as defined in such indenture) and (ii) equally with all of our unsecured, junior subordinated indebtedness, whether currently existing or hereinafter created, other than junior subordinated indebtedness that is designated as junior to the amortizing notes. If we elect to settle the purchase contracts early, holders of Units will have the right to require us to repurchase their amortizing notes, except in certain limited circumstances.

Each Unit may be separated into its constituent purchase contract and amortizing note after the initial issuance date of the Units, and the separate components may be combined to create a Unit.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK

The following descriptions are summaries of the material terms of our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws that will be in effect upon the consummation of this offering. Reference is made to the more detailed provisions of, and the descriptions are qualified in their entirety by reference to, the Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws, copies of which are filed with the SEC as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part, and applicable law.

General

Upon the consummation of this offering, our Certificate of Incorporation will authorize us to issue              shares of capital stock, consisting of:

 

   

             shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share; and

 

   

394,792,092 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share of which:

 

   

160,870,560 are designated as Preferred Stock, Series A;

 

   

8,330 are designated as Preferred Stock, Series C;

 

   

2,576,601 are designated as Preferred Stock, Series E;

 

   

228,750,000 are designated as Preferred Stock, Series F-2;

 

   

2,576,601 are designated as Preferred Stock, Series G; and

 

   

             are designated as Preferred Stock, Series H.

As of March 31, 2011, the following shares of capital stock were issued and outstanding:

 

   

1,330,970 shares of common stock;

 

   

40,870,560 shares of Series A preferred stock;

 

   

118,750,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock; and

 

   

2,576,601 shares of Series G preferred stock.

Upon consummation of this offering, no shares of our Series F-2 preferred stock will remain outstanding.

Common Stock

Common stock outstanding. As of March 31, 2011 there were 1,330,970 shares of common stock outstanding which were held of record by 189 stockholders. Further, we have reserved 690,272 of the remaining authorized but unissued shares of common stock for issuance in connection with any future conversion of Ally’s Series F-2 preferred stock. All outstanding shares of common stock are fully paid and non-assessable.

Voting rights. The holders of common stock are entitled to one vote per share, except as provided by law or as may otherwise be provided in a certificate of designations designating the rights, powers and preferences of any series of preferred stock.

 

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Unless otherwise required by law, our Certificate of Incorporation or our Bylaws, all matters subject to a stockholder vote will be decided by the vote of the holders of at least a majority of the outstanding shares of stock entitled to vote on the matter and present at the meeting in which the vote occurs. The election of directors will be decided by a plurality of the votes cast by the holders of common stock outstanding.

Dividend rights. Subject to the preferences that may be applicable to any outstanding preferred stock, dividends on common stock will be paid if, as, and when declared by the Board. See “Dividend Policy.”

Rights upon liquidation. In the event of liquidation, dissolution or winding up, the holders of common stock are entitled to share ratably in all assets remaining after payment of liabilities, subject to the distribution rights of preferred stock, if any, then outstanding.

Other rights. There are no redemption or sinking fund provisions applicable to the common stock.

Preferred Stock

Description of Series A Preferred Stock

General

A total of 40,870,560 shares of the Series A preferred stock, liquidation amount $25 per share, are outstanding as of March 31, 2011. The Series A certificate of designations authorizes the issuance of up to a total of 160,870,560 shares of the Series A preferred stock. The Series A preferred stock have no maturity date. The holders of the Series A preferred stock are not entitled to preemptive rights, or to any similar rights.

Dividends

Holders of the Series A preferred stock are entitled to receive, when, as and if declared by the board of directors or a duly authorized committee of the board of directors, on each share of Series A preferred stock with respect to each dividend period, non-cumulative cash dividends at the fixed rate of 8.500% per annum on the liquidation amount from March 25, 2011 to but excluding May 15, 2016, quarterly in arrears, without accumulation of any undeclared dividends, commencing on May 15, 2011, and thereafter at a rate equal to Three-Month LIBOR plus 6.243%, quarterly in arrears, without accumulation of any undeclared dividends, commencing on May 15, 2016, in each case on the 15th day of February, May, August and November. Dividends payable on the Series A preferred stock on any dividend payment date will be payable to holders of record of such Series A preferred stock as they appear on Ally’s stock register at the close of business on the preceding February 1, May 1, August 1 or November 1, as the case may be, or on such other date, not more than seventy calendar days prior to the dividend payment date, as will be fixed by the board of directors or any duly authorized committee of the board of directors.

In the event that dividends payable on shares of Series A preferred stock with respect to a dividend period have not been paid in full on the dividend payment date, Ally will be prohibited, subject to certain exceptions, from (i) redeeming, purchasing or otherwise acquiring, directly or indirectly any Junior Stock (as defined below) or Parity Stock (as defined below), (ii) paying any dividends or making any distributions to any Junior Stock until such time as Ally has paid the dividends payable on shares of the Series A preferred stock with respect to a subsequent dividend period, and (iii) declaring or paying any dividend on any Parity Stock, except with respect to certain dividends payable solely in shares of Junior Stock or with respect to dividends declared on the Series A preferred stock such that the respective amounts of such dividends declared on the Series A preferred stock and each such other class or series of Parity Stock shall bear the same ratio to each other as all accrued and unpaid dividends per share on the shares of the Series A preferred stock and such class or series of Parity Stock bear to each other.

 

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“Junior Stock” means (i) our common stock, (ii) our Series C preferred stock, and (iii) each class or series of our stock established on or after June 30, 2009, the terms of which do not expressly provide that such class or series ranks senior to or on a parity with the Series A preferred stock and the Parity Stock as to dividend rights or rights upon liquidation, winding-up or dissolution. We have no outstanding or authorized series of Junior Stock other than our common stock and Series C preferred stock.

“Parity Stock” means (i) each class or series of our preferred stock established after June 30, 2009, the terms of which expressly provide that such class or series will rank on a parity with the our Series E preferred stock, our Series F-2 preferred stock, our Series G preferred stock and the Series A preferred stock as to dividend rights and/or as to rights on our liquidation, dissolution or winding up (in each case without regard to whether dividends accrue cumulatively or non-cumulatively); (ii) the Series E preferred stock; (iii) the Series F-2 preferred stock; and (iv) the Series G preferred stock.

Liquidation Rights

In the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our affairs, whether voluntary or involuntary, holders of the Series A preferred stock will be entitled to receive for each share of Series A preferred stock held by such holder, out of assets or proceeds thereof (whether capital or surplus) available for distribution and subject to the rights of Ally’s creditors, before any distribution of such assets or proceeds is made or set aside for holders of Junior Stock or any other of our stock ranking junior to the Series A preferred stock as to such distribution, payment in full in an amount equal to the sum of the liquidation amount per share of Series A preferred stock and an amount equal to all declared, but unpaid dividends declared prior to the date of payment of such distribution.

Redemptions

We may not redeem the Series A preferred stock before May 15, 2016. Subject to (i) obtaining any required regulatory approvals, (ii) compliance with Ally’s replacement capital covenant agreement entered into for the benefit of certain of its debtholders on November 30, 2006 and (iii) any restrictions imposed by our other series of outstanding preferred stock, our outstanding debt or agreements with the United States Department of the Treasury, we may redeem all or any portion of the outstanding shares of Series A preferred stock on any dividend payment date on or after May 15, 2016. A redemption date must fall on a date that is also a dividend payment date.

The redemption price for each share of Series A preferred stock will be equal to the sum of (i) the liquidation amount and (ii) any accrued and unpaid dividends for the period from and including the dividend payment date immediately preceding the redemption date to but excluding the redemption date. Payments of the redemption price will be made in cash in immediately available funds.

No Conversion Rights

Holders of the Series A preferred stock have no rights to exchange or convert their shares for or into any of our other capital stock or any other securities.

Voting Rights

If and when dividends on any shares of Series A preferred stock or any Parity Stock having similar voting rights shall have not been declared and paid for the equivalent of six or more dividend periods, whether or not consecutive (“nonpayment”), the holders, voting together as a class with holders of any and all other series of such Parity Stock then outstanding, will be entitled to vote for the election of a total of two additional members of the board of directors, subject to certain limitations. Such voting rights will continue until the dividends on the shares of the Series A preferred stock and any such series of Parity Stock shall have been fully paid for at least four regular dividend periods following the nonpayment. The foregoing voting rights will be divested if and

 

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when dividends for at least four regular dividend periods following a nonpayment have been fully paid on the Series A preferred stock and any other class or series of Parity Stock. In such event, the term of office of each director so elected shall terminate and the number of directors on the board of directors shall automatically be decreased by two.

In addition, the vote or consent of the holders of at least two-thirds of the shares of the Series A preferred stock is required for Ally to do the following (i) to authorize or issue certain equity securities of Ally that rank senior to the Series A preferred stock with respect to dividends or upon a sale or liquidation of Ally, (ii) to amend, alter or repeal any provision of the terms of the Series A preferred stock contained in Ally’s Bylaws or Certificate of Incorporation, including the certificate of designations for the Series A preferred stock included therein, if such action would affect the Series A preferred stock in any manner materially adverse to the holders of the Series A preferred stock, or (iii) to the extent Ally has failed to pay dividends payable on shares of Series A preferred stock with respect to the immediately preceding dividend period, redeem, purchase or otherwise acquire, directly or indirectly, any Junior Stock or Parity Stock other than as permitted by the terms of the certificate of designations for the Series A preferred stock.

No Sinking Fund

The shares of Series A preferred stock do not have the benefit of any mandatory redemption, sinking fund or other similar provisions. Holders of the Series A preferred stock have no right to require redemption or repurchase of any shares of Series A preferred stock.

Description of Series G Preferred Stock

General

A total of 2,576,601 shares of the Series G preferred stock, liquidation amount $1,000 per share, are outstanding as of March 31, 2011, which constitutes all of the currently authorized shares pursuant to the Series G certificate of designations. The shares of Series G preferred stock have no maturity date. The holders of the Series G preferred stock are not entitled to preemptive rights, or to any similar rights.

Dividends

Holders of the Series G preferred stock are entitled to receive, if declared by the board of directors out of funds legally available for payment, cash dividends at a rate per annum of 7%, payable quarterly on February 15, May 15, August 15 and November 15 of each year.

Unless all accrued and unpaid dividends on the Series G preferred stock for all past dividend periods have been paid in full, we are not permitted to (i) make any Restricted Payments (as defined below); (ii) declare or pay any dividend or make any distribution of assets on any Parity Stock (as defined below), other than dividends or distributions in the form of shares of Parity Stock or Junior Stock (as defined below); or (iii) redeem, purchase or otherwise acquire any shares of Parity Stock, except upon conversion into or exchange for other Parity Stock or Junior Stock.

A “Restricted Payment” means (i) any dividend payment or distribution of assets on any share of Junior Stock, other than (1) distributions in the form of shares of Junior Stock and (2) certain tax distributions; (ii) any redemption, purchase or other acquisition of any shares of Junior Stock, other than upon conversion or exchange for other shares of Junior Stock, or (iii) any payment of monies, or making monies available, for a sinking fund for such Junior Stock.

“Junior Stock” means our common stock, our Series C preferred stock, and each class or series of our stock established on or after June 30, 2009, the terms of which stock do not expressly provide that such class or series ranks senior to or on a parity with the Series G preferred stock and the Parity Stock as to dividend rights or rights upon liquidation, winding-up or dissolution.

 

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“Parity Stock” means (i) each class or series of our preferred stock established after June 30, 2009, the terms of which expressly provide that such class or series will rank on a parity with our Series A preferred stock, our Series F-2 preferred stock and our Series G preferred stock as to dividend rights and/or as to rights on our liquidation, dissolution or winding-up (in each case without regard to whether dividends accrue cumulatively or non-cumulatively); (ii) our Series A preferred stock; and (iii) our Series F-2 preferred stock.

In addition, whether or not all accrued and unpaid dividends on the Series G preferred stock for all past dividend periods have been paid in full, we may not make dividend payments on our common stock before January 1, 2014 and dividend payments may be made thereafter only if (1) our senior guaranteed notes issued on December 31, 2008 are rated investment grade and (2) the payment together with other dividend payments we made since December 31, 2008 is less than 25% of the excess of our cumulative consolidated net income from January 1, 2014 to the most recently ended fiscal quarter for which financial statements are available at the time of such dividend payment.

Liquidation Rights

In the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of our affairs, whether voluntary or involuntary, the holder of the Series G preferred stock shall be entitled to receive for each share of Series G preferred stock held by them, out of our assets or proceeds thereof (whether capital or surplus) available for distribution to our stockholders, subject to the rights of any of our creditors, before any distribution of such assets or proceeds is made to or set aside for the holders of our common stock and any of our other stock ranking junior to the Series G preferred stock as to such distribution, payment in full in an amount equal to the sum of (i) the liquidation amount and (ii) the amount of any accrued and unpaid dividends to the date of payment.

Redemptions

The Series G preferred stock may not be redeemed prior to December 31, 2011. On or after December 31, 2011, at our option and subject to any required regulatory approvals, we may redeem the Series G preferred stock, in whole or in part, at any time or from time to time, at a redemption price equal to the liquidation amount, plus the amount of any accrued and unpaid dividends thereon through the date of redemption.

Further, so long as any Series G preferred stock remains outstanding, if any shares of Parity Stock are redeemed, then shares of the Series G preferred stock shall also be redeemed on a pro rata basis based on the aggregate liquidation preference of the Series G preferred stock and such Parity Stock.

No Conversion Rights

Holders of the Series G preferred stock have no rights to exchange or convert their shares for or into any of our other capital stock or any other securities.

Voting Rights

The vote or consent of the holders of at least a majority of the outstanding shares of Series G preferred stock is necessary for any alteration, repeal or amendment, whether by merger, consolidation, combination, reclassification or otherwise, of any provisions of our certificate of incorporation or the certificate of designations if such action would amend, alter or affect the powers, preferences or rights of, or limitations relating to, the Series G preferred stock in any manner materially adverse to the holders of the Series G preferred stock, including, the creation of, increase in the authorized number of, or issuance of, any capital stock that ranks senior to the Series G preferred stock as to distribution rights or rights upon a sale of us or our liquidation, winding-up or dissolution.

 

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No Sinking Fund

The Series G preferred stock do not have the benefit of any mandatory redemption, sinking fund or other similar provisions. Holders of Series G preferred stock have no right to require redemption or repurchase of any shares of Series G preferred stock.

Purchase Contracts

General

None of the purchase contracts that are components of the Units being offered concurrently with this offering were outstanding as of March 31, 2011. However, if this offering and the transactions described under “Concurrent Transactions” are successfully completed, a total of              purchase contracts (or              if the underwriters in the concurrent Units offering exercise their over-allotment option in full) will be outstanding, all of which will initially be components of Units.

Mandatory Settlement

On            , 2014 (subject to postponement in certain limited circumstances), each purchase contract will automatically settle, unless settled earlier as described below, and we will deliver a number of shares of our common stock based on the applicable market value of our common stock, as follows:

 

   

If the applicable market value is equal to or greater than the threshold appreciation price (as defined below), holders will receive              shares of common stock per purchase contract (the “minimum settlement rate”).

 

   

If the applicable market value is greater than $             (the “reference price”) but less than the threshold appreciation price, holders will receive a number of shares per purchase contract equal to $            , divided by the applicable market value.

 

   

If the applicable market value is less than or equal to the reference price, holders will receive              shares of common stock per purchase contract (the “maximum settlement rate”).

Each of the maximum settlement rate and the minimum settlement rate is subject to customary adjustments.

The “applicable market value” means the average of the “daily VWAPs” (as defined below) of our common stock on each of the 20 consecutive trading days beginning on, and including, the 23rd scheduled trading day immediately preceding             , 2014.

The reference price will be the public offering price of our common stock in this offering.

The “threshold appreciation price” will be equal to $            , divided by the minimum settlement rate (rounded to the nearest $0.01). The threshold appreciation price, which is initially $            , represents an appreciation of approximately     % over the reference price.

No fractional shares of our common stock will be issued to holders upon settlement of purchase contracts. In lieu of fractional shares, holders will be entitled to receive a cash payment of equivalent value. Other than cash payments in lieu of fractional shares, the purchase contract holders will not receive any cash distributions under the purchase contracts.

Early Settlement at the Holder’s Election

At any time prior to the close of business on the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding             , 2014, a holder may settle any or all of its purchase contracts early, and we will deliver to such holder a number of shares of our common stock per purchase contract equal to the minimum settlement rate, which is subject to customary adjustments. That is, the market value of our common stock on the early settlement date will not affect the early settlement rate.

 

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However, if a holder settles its purchase contracts early in connection with a “fundamental change” (as defined in the purchase contract agreement for the Units), such holder will receive a number of shares of our common stock based on the “fundamental change early settlement rate,” which will be based on the stock price in the fundamental change and the effective date of the fundamental change.

Each holder’s right to settle its purchase contracts prior to the close of business on the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding             , 2014 is subject to delivery of the purchase contracts.

Upon early settlement at a holder’s election of a purchase contract that is a component of a Unit (whether or not in connection with a fundamental change), the corresponding amortizing note will remain outstanding and registered in the name of the holder who elected to settle the related purchase contract early.

Early Mandatory Settlement at Our Option

We may elect to settle all, but not less than all, outstanding purchase contracts early at the “early mandatory settlement rate” (as defined below) upon a date fixed by us upon not less than 10 business days’ notice (the “early mandatory settlement date”).

The “early mandatory settlement rate” will be the maximum settlement rate, unless the daily VWAP of our common stock for 20 or more trading days in a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on the trading day immediately preceding the “notice date” (as defined in the purchase contract agreement for the Units) exceeds 130% of the threshold appreciation price in effect on each such trading day, in which case the “early mandatory settlement rate” will be the fundamental change early settlement rate with the “effective date” for this purpose being deemed to be the early mandatory settlement date and the “stock price” for this purpose being deemed to be the average of the daily VWAPs of our common stock over the 10 consecutive trading day period ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the early mandatory settlement date.

Anti-Takeover Effects of Delaware Law

Following consummation of this offering, we will be subject to the “business combination” provisions of Section 203 of the DGCL. In general, such provisions prohibit a publicly held Delaware corporation from engaging in various “business combination” transactions with any interested stockholder for a period of three years after the date of the transaction in which the person became an interested stockholder, unless

 

   

the transaction is approved by the board of directors prior to the date the interested stockholder obtained such status;

 

   

upon consummation of the transaction which resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder, the stockholder owned at least 85% of the voting stock of the corporation outstanding at the time the transaction commenced; or

 

   

on or subsequent to such date the business combination is approved by the board of directors and authorized at an annual or special meeting of stockholders (and not by written consent) by the affirmative vote of at least 66 2/3% of the outstanding voting stock which is not owned by the interested stockholder.

A “business combination” is defined to include mergers, asset sales and other transactions resulting in direct or indirect financial benefit to a stockholder. In general, an “interested stockholder” is a person who, together with affiliates and associates, owns (or within three years, did own) 15% or more of a corporation’s voting stock (subject to certain exclusions).

 

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The statute could prohibit or delay mergers or other takeover or change in control attempts with respect to us and, accordingly, may discourage attempts to acquire us even though such a transaction may offer our stockholders the opportunity to sell their stock at a price above the prevailing market price.

Certain Provisions of our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws

Amendments to Our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws

The Board of Directors may change or repeal any provision contained in our Certificate of Incorporation and may insert additional provisions to the Certificate of Incorporation, subject to and in the manner prescribed by applicable law. Under Delaware law, the amendment of a corporation’s certificate of incorporation requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote thereon and a majority of the outstanding stock of each class entitled to vote thereon. Under Delaware law, the holders of the outstanding shares of a class of our capital stock shall be entitled to vote as a class upon a proposed amendment, whether or not entitled to vote thereon by the certificate of incorporation, if the amendment would:

 

   

Increase or decrease the aggregate number of authorized shares of such class;

 

   

Increase or decrease the par value of the shares of such class; or

 

   

Alter or change the powers, preferences, or special rights of the shares of such class so as to affect them adversely.

If any proposed amendment would alter or change the powers, preferences, or special rights of one or more series of any class of our capital stock so as to affect them adversely, but shall not so affect the entire class, then only the shares of the series so affected by the amendment shall be considered a separate class for the purposes of this provision.

The Board of Directors may change or repeal our Bylaws, or adopt additional bylaws. Common stockholders may change or repeal our Bylaws or adopt additional bylaws at any annual or special meeting of the common stockholders, in accordance with Delaware law.

Vacancies in the Board of Directors

Our Bylaws provide that any vacancy occurring in our Board of Directors created by reason of the death, removal, or resignation of a director, or by increase in the number of directors, may be filled by a majority of the remaining members of our Board of Directors then in office, even if such majority is less than a quorum. Each director shall hold office until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified or until his or her earlier death, resignation, or removal.

Special Meetings of Stockholders

Under our Bylaws, special meetings of stockholders may be called by the Board of Directors, the chief executive officer, or, subject to requirements and limitations set forth in our Bylaws, holders holding of record more than                      percent of our outstanding common stock.

Requirements for Notice of Stockholder Director Nominations and Stockholder Business

If a stockholder wishes to bring any business before an annual or special meeting or nominate a person for election to our Board of Directors, our Bylaws contain certain procedures that must be followed for the advance timing required for delivery of stockholder notice of such business and the information that such notice must contain.

 

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The information that may be required in a stockholder notice includes general information regarding the stockholder, a description of the proposed business, and, with respect to nominations for the Board of Directors, certain specified information regarding the nominee(s). In addition to the information required in a stockholder notice described above, our Bylaws require a representation that the stockholder is a holder of our voting stock and intends to appear in person or by proxy at the meeting to make the nomination or bring up the matter specified in the notice.

Stockholder Action by Written Consent without a Meeting

Our Certificate of Incorporation provides that no action that is required or permitted to be taken by our stockholders at any annual or special meeting of stockholders may be taken by written consent of stockholders without a meeting.

Listing

The company has applied to list the common stock on the NYSE under the symbol “ALLY”.

Transfer Agent and Registrar

The Transfer Agent and Registrar for the common stock is Computershare Limited.

 

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U.S. FEDERAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS FOR NON-U.S. HOLDERS

The following is a general discussion of the material U.S. federal income and estate tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of common stock by a “non-U.S. holder.” A “non-U.S. holder” is a beneficial owner of a share of our common stock that is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes:

 

   

a non-resident alien individual, other than a former citizen or resident of the United States subject to U.S. tax as an expatriate,

 

   

a foreign corporation, or

 

   

a foreign estate or trust.

If a partnership or other pass-through entity (including an entity or arrangement treated as a partnership or other type of pass-through entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes) owns our common stock, the tax treatment of a partner or beneficial owner of the entity may depend upon the status of the owner, the activities of the entity and certain determinations made at the partner or beneficial owner level. Partners and beneficial owners in partnerships or other pass-through entities that own our common stock should consult their own tax advisors as to the particular U.S. federal income and estate tax consequences applicable to them.

This discussion is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), and administrative pronouncements, judicial decisions and final, temporary and proposed Treasury Regulations, changes to any of which subsequent to the date of this prospectus may affect the tax consequences described herein (possibly with retroactive effect). This discussion does not address all aspects of U.S. federal income and estate taxation that may be relevant to non-U.S. holders in light of their particular circumstances and does not address any tax consequences arising under the laws of any state, local or foreign jurisdiction. Prospective holders are urged to consult their tax advisors with respect to the particular tax consequences to them of owning and disposing of our common stock, including the consequences under the laws of any state, local or foreign jurisdiction.

Dividends

As discussed under “Dividend Policy” above, we do not currently expect to pay dividends. In the event that we do pay dividends out of our current and accumulated earnings and profits (as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles), such dividends paid to a non-U.S. holder generally will be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax at a 30% rate, or a reduced rate specified by an applicable income tax treaty. In order to obtain a reduced rate of withholding under an applicable income tax treaty, a non-U.S. holder generally will be required to provide an Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) Form W-8BEN certifying its entitlement to benefits under the treaty.

No amounts in respect of U.S. federal withholding tax will be withheld from dividends paid to a non-U.S. holder if the holder provides an IRS Form W-8ECI certifying that the dividends are effectively connected with the non-U.S. holder’s conduct of a trade or business within the United States. Instead, the effectively connected dividends will be subject to regular U.S. income tax as if the non-U.S. holder were a U.S. resident, subject to an applicable income tax treaty providing otherwise. A non-U.S. holder that is a corporation receiving effectively connected dividends may also be subject to an additional “branch profits tax” imposed at a rate of 30% (or a lower treaty rate) on its effectively connected earnings and profits (subject to certain adjustments).

 

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Gain on Disposition of Common Stock

A non-U.S. holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on gain realized on a sale or other disposition of common stock unless:

 

   

the gain is effectively connected with a trade or business of the non-U.S. holder in the United States, subject to an applicable income tax treaty providing otherwise, in which case the gain will be subject to U.S. federal income tax generally in the same manner as effectively connected dividend income as described above;

 

   

the non-U.S. holder is an individual present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of disposition and certain other conditions are met, in which case the gain (net of certain U.S.-source losses) generally will be subject to U.S. federal income tax at a rate of 30% (or a lower treaty rate); or

 

   

we are or have been a United States real property holding corporation (as described below), at any time within the five-year period preceding the disposition or the non-U.S. holder’s holding period, whichever period is shorter, and either (i) our common stock is not regularly traded on an established securities market prior to the beginning of the calendar year in which the sale or disposition occurs or (ii) the non-U.S. holder has owned or is deemed to have owned, at any time within the five-year period preceding the disposition or the non-U.S. holder’s holding period, whichever period is shorter, more than 5% of our common stock.

We will be a United States real property holding corporation at any time that the fair market value of our “United States real property interests,” as defined in the Code and applicable Treasury regulations, equals or exceeds 50% of the aggregate fair market value of our worldwide real property interests and our other assets used or held for use in a trade or business. We believe that we are not, and do not anticipate becoming in the foreseeable future, a United States real property holding corporation.

Information Reporting Requirements and Backup Withholding

Information returns will be filed with the IRS in connection with payments of dividends and the proceeds from a sale or other disposition of common stock. A non-U.S. holder may have to comply with certification procedures to establish that it is not a United States person in order to avoid information reporting and backup withholding requirements. The certification procedures required to claim a reduced rate of withholding under a treaty will satisfy the certification requirements necessary to avoid backup withholding as well. The amount of any backup withholding from a payment to a non-U.S. holder will be allowed as a credit against the non-U.S. holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability and may entitle the non-U.S. holder to a refund, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS in a timely manner.

Recent Legislation

Recent legislation generally imposes withholding at a rate of 30% on payments to certain foreign entities, after December 31, 2012, of dividends on and the gross proceeds of dispositions of U.S. common stock, unless various U.S. information reporting and due diligence requirements (generally relating to ownership by U.S. persons of interests in or accounts with those entities) have been satisfied. Non-U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the possible implications of this legislation on their investment in our common stock.

Federal Estate Tax

Individual non-U.S. holders (as specifically defined for U.S. federal estate tax purposes) and entities the property of which is potentially includible in such an individual’s gross estate for U.S. federal estate tax purposes (for example, a trust funded by such an individual and with respect to which the individual has retained certain interests or powers) should note that the common stock will be treated as U.S. situs property subject to U.S. federal estate tax, unless an applicable estate tax treaty provides otherwise.

 

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SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

Prior to this offering, there has been no market for our common stock. Future sales of substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market could adversely affect market prices prevailing from time to time. Furthermore, because only a limited number of shares will be available for sale shortly after this offering due to existing contractual and legal restrictions on resale as described below, there may be sales of substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market after the restrictions lapse. This may adversely affect the prevailing market price and our ability to raise equity capital in the future.

Upon completion of this offering, we will have             shares of common stock outstanding assuming (i) the exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option, (ii) that the public offering price of our common stock in this offering will be $             per share (the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of the prospectus) for purposes of calculating the number of shares we issue to Treasury in the conversion described under “Concurrent Transactions” and (iii) no exercise of any options and warrants outstanding as of March 31, 2011. Of these shares, the             shares, or             shares if the underwriters exercise their over-allotment option in full, sold in this offering will be freely transferable without restriction or registration under the Securities Act, except for any shares purchased by one of our existing “affiliates,” as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act. The remaining             shares of common stock existing are “restricted shares” as defined in Rule 144. Restricted shares may be sold in the public market only if registered or if they qualify for an exemption from registration under Rules 144 or 701 of the Securities Act.

In addition, at our request, the underwriters have reserved up to approximately 5% of the shares of common stock offered for sale pursuant to this prospectus for sale to some of our dealers in a directed shares program. Any reserved shares not purchased by these individuals will be offered by the underwriters to the general public on the same basis as the other shares of common stock offered by this prospectus. We have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against certain liabilities and expenses, including liabilities under the Securities Act, in connection with the sales of directed shares.

Rule 144

In general, under Rule 144, an affiliate who has beneficially owned restricted shares of our common stock for at least six months would be entitled to sell within any three-month period a number of shares that does not exceed the greater of 1% of the number of shares of common stock then outstanding, which will equal              shares immediately after this offering; assuming no exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option; or the average weekly reported volume of trading of our common stock during the four calendar weeks preceding the filing of a notice on Form 144 with respect to the sale. Sales by affiliates under Rule 144 are also limited by manner of sale provisions and notice requirements and the availability of current public information about us.

Following this offering, a person that is not an affiliate of ours at the time of, or at any time during the three months preceding, a sale and who has beneficially owned restricted shares of our common stock for at least six months, may sell shares without complying with the volume limitation, manner of sale or notice provisions described above, and any such person who has beneficially owned restricted shares of our common stock for at least one year may sell shares without complying with the abovementioned restrictions and the current public information requirement.

We are unable to estimate the number of shares that will be sold under Rule 144 since this will depend on the market price for our common stock, the personal circumstances of the stockholder and other factors.

Rule 701

In general, under Rule 701, any of our employees, directors, officers, consultants or advisors who purchases shares from us in connection with a compensatory stock or option plan or other written agreement before the

 

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effective date of this offering is entitled to resell such shares after the effective date of this offering in reliance on Rule 144, without having to comply with the holding period requirements or other restrictions contained in Rule 701.

The Securities and Exchange Commission has indicated that Rule 701 will apply to typical stock options granted by an issuer before it becomes subject to the reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, along with the shares acquired upon exercise of such options, including exercises after the date of this prospectus. Securities issued in reliance on Rule 701 are restricted securities and, subject to the contractual restrictions described above, beginning the date after this prospectus, may be sold by persons other than “affiliates,” as defined in Rule 144, subject only to the manner of sale provisions of Rule 144 and by “affiliates” under Rule 144 without compliance with its one-year minimum holding period requirement.

Registration Rights

Upon completion of this offering, the holders of             shares of common stock and             shares of common stock issuable upon the conversion of preferred stock and Treasury, as the holder of the Units that are not being offered in the concurrent Units offering and as the holder of the shares of common stock issued upon settlement of such Units, will be entitled to various rights with respect to the registration of these securities under the Securities Act. Registration of these securities under the Securities Act would result in these securities becoming freely tradable without restriction under the Securities Act immediately upon the effectiveness of the registration, except for securities purchased by affiliates. See “Certain Stockholder Agreements—Registration Rights Agreement—Holdback Agreements” for the lockup provisions and exceptions to the lockup provisions under the Registration Rights Agreement.

Stock Options

As of March 31, 2011, options to purchase a total of             shares of common stock were outstanding.              of the shares subject to options are subject to lock-up agreements. An additional             shares of common stock were available for future option grants under our stock plans.

Upon completion of this offering, we intend to file a registration statement under the Securities Act covering all shares of common stock subject to outstanding options or issuable pursuant to our stock plans. Shares registered under this registration statement will be available for sale in the open market, subject to Rule 144 volume limitations applicable to affiliates, vesting restrictions with us or the contractual restrictions described below.

Lock-up Agreements

All of our directors, executive officers and the holders of approximately             shares of our common stock have agreed, subject to limited exceptions, not to (i) offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase, or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, or file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a registration statement under the Exchange Act relating to, any shares of common stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for common stock, or (ii) enter into any swap or other agreement that transfers, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of common stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for common stock, whether any such transaction described in clause (i) or (ii) above is to be settled by delivery of common stock or such other securities, in cash or otherwise for a period of              days after the date of this prospectus, without the prior written consent of Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC. See “Underwriting.” In addition, certain of our shareholders are subject to lock-up provisions under our Registration Rights Agreement. See “Certain Stockholder Agreements—Registration Rights Agreement—Holdback Agreements.”

 

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UNDERWRITING

Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC are acting as joint global coordinators and as representatives of the underwriters named below. Subject to the terms and conditions stated in the underwriting agreement dated the date of this prospectus, each underwriter named below has severally agreed to purchase, and the selling stockholder has agreed to sell to that underwriter, the number of common shares (the “shares”) set forth opposite the underwriter’s name.

 

Underwriter

   Number of
Shares
 

Citigroup Global Markets Inc.

  

Goldman, Sachs & Co.

  

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

  

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC

  

Barclays Capital Inc.

  

Deutsche Bank Securities Inc.

  

Total

  
        

We may add additional underwriters to the table above. Any such underwriters would be selected by us taking into account various criteria, including among other things their marketing and distribution capability, ownership and management diversity, and automotive finance industry expertise.

The underwriting agreement provides that the obligations of the underwriters to purchase the shares included in this offering are subject to approval of legal matters by counsel and to other conditions. The underwriters are obligated to purchase all the shares (other than those covered by the over-allotment option described below) if they purchase any of the shares.

Shares sold by the underwriters to the public will initially be offered at the initial public offering price set forth on the cover of this prospectus. Any common shares sold by the underwriters to securities dealers may be sold at a discount from the initial public offering price not to exceed $            per share. If all the shares are not sold at the initial offering price, the underwriters may change the offering price and the other selling terms. The offering of the shares by the underwriters is subject to the underwriters’ right to reject any order in whole or in part.

If the underwriters sell more shares than the total number set forth in the table above, the selling stockholder has granted to the underwriters an option, exercisable for 30 days from the date of this prospectus, to purchase up to         additional common shares at the public offering price less the underwriting discount. The underwriters may exercise the option solely for the purpose of covering over-allotments, if any, in connection with this offering. To the extent the option is exercised, each underwriter must purchase a number of additional common shares approximately proportionate to that underwriter’s initial purchase commitment in such shares. Any shares issued or sold under the option will be issued and sold on the same terms and conditions as the other shares that are the subject of this offering.

We, our officers and directors, certain of our employees and the selling stockholder and our other stockholders have agreed that, subject to limited exceptions, for a period of              days from the date of this prospectus, we and they will not, without the prior written consent of Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, (i) offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase, or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, or file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a registration statement under the Exchange Act relating to, any shares of common stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for common stock, or (ii) enter into any swap or other agreement that transfers, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of common stock

 

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or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for common stock, whether any such transaction described in clause (i) or (ii) above is to be settled by delivery of common stock or such other securities, in cash or otherwise. Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC in their sole discretion may release any of the securities subject to these lock-up agreements at any time without notice. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if (1) during the last                      days of the                     -day restricted period, we issue an earnings release or material news or a material event relating to us occurs; or (2) prior to the expiration of the                     -day restricted period, we announce that we will release earnings results during the                     -day period beginning on the last day of the                     -day restricted period, the restrictions described above shall continue to apply until the expiration of the                     -day period beginning on the issuance of the earnings release or the occurrence of the material news or material event. In addition, certain of our shareholders are subject to lock-up provisions under our Registration Rights Agreement. See “Certain Stockholder Agreements—Registration Rights Agreement—Holdback Agreements.”

In addition, at our request, the underwriters have reserved up to approximately 5% of the shares of common stock offered for sale pursuant to this prospectus for sale to some of our dealers in a directed shares program. Any reserved shares not purchased by these individuals will be offered by the underwriters to the general public on the same basis as the other shares of common stock offered by this prospectus. We have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against certain liabilities and expenses, including liabilities under the Securities Act, in connection with the sales of directed shares.

Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for our shares. Consequently, the initial public offering price for the shares was determined by negotiations among us, the selling stockholder and the representatives. Among the factors considered in determining the initial public offering price were our results of operations, our current financial condition, our future prospects, our markets, the economic conditions in and future prospects for the industry in which we compete, our management, and currently prevailing general conditions in the equity securities markets, including current market valuations of publicly traded companies considered comparable to our company. We cannot assure you, however, that the price at which the shares will sell in the public market after this offering will not be lower than the initial public offering price or that an active trading market in our shares will develop and continue after this offering.

We have applied to list our common shares on the NYSE under the symbol “ALLY.”

The following table shows the per share and total public offering price and proceeds to the selling stockholder and the underwriting discounts and commissions payable to the underwriters in connection with this offering. Ally has agreed to pay all underwriting discounts and commissions, transfer taxes and transaction fees, if any, applicable to the sale of the common stock and the fees and disbursement of counsel for the selling security holder incurred in connection with the sale. These amounts are shown assuming both no exercise and full exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option.

 

            Total  
     Per Share      No Exercise      Full Exercise  

Public offering price and proceeds to selling stockholder

   $                    $                    $                

Underwriting discounts and commissions

   $         $         $     

We estimate that our total expenses for this offering will be approximately $         million.

The underwriters have informed us that they do not intend to confirm sales to discretionary accounts that exceed 5% of the total number of shares offered by them.

 

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In connection with the offering, the underwriters may purchase and sell shares in the open market. Purchases and sales in the open market may include short sales, purchases to cover short positions, which may include purchases pursuant to the over-allotment option, and stabilizing purchases.

 

   

Short sales involve secondary market sales by the underwriters of a greater number of shares than they are required to purchase in the offering.

 

   

“Covered” short sales are sales of shares in an amount up to the number of shares represented by the underwriters’ over-allotment option.

 

   

“Naked” short sales are sales of shares in an amount in excess of the number of shares represented by the underwriters’ over-allotment option.

 

   

Covering transactions involve purchases of shares either pursuant to the over-allotment option or in the open market after the distribution has been completed in order to cover short positions.

 

   

To close a naked short position, the underwriters must purchase shares in the open market after the distribution has been completed. A naked short position is more likely to be created if the underwriters are concerned that there may be downward pressure on the price of the shares in the open market after pricing that could adversely affect investors who purchase in the offering.

 

   

To close a covered short position, the underwriters must purchase shares in the open market after the distribution has been completed or must exercise the over-allotment option. In determining the source of shares to close the covered short position, the underwriters will consider, among other things, the price of shares available for purchase in the open market as compared to the price at which they may purchase shares through the over-allotment option.

 

   

Stabilizing transactions involve bids to purchase shares so long as the stabilizing bids do not exceed a specified maximum.

Purchases to cover short positions and stabilizing purchases, as well as other purchases by the underwriters for their own accounts, may have the effect of preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of the shares. They may also cause the price of the shares to be higher than the price that would otherwise exist in the open market in the absence of these transactions. The underwriters may conduct these transactions on the NYSE , in the over-the-counter market or otherwise. If the underwriters commence any of these transactions, they may discontinue them at any time.

The underwriters and their respective affiliates are full service financial institutions engaged in various activities, which may include securities trading, commercial and investment banking, financial advisory, lending, investment management, investment research, principal investment, hedging, financing and brokerage activities. Certain of the underwriters and their respective affiliates have, from time to time, performed, currently perform, and may in the future perform, various financial advisory and investment banking services for us, for which they have received customary compensation and may provide such services and receive customary compensation in the future. Certain of the relationships involve transactions that are material to us or our affiliates and for which the underwriters and/or their respective affiliates have received significant fees. In addition, the underwriters and/or their affiliates serve as agents and lenders under certain of our existing credit facilities.

In the ordinary course of their various business activities, the underwriters and their respective affiliates may make or hold a broad array of investments and actively trade debt and equity securities (or related derivative securities) and financial instruments (including bank loans) for their own account and for the accounts of their

 

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customers and such investment and securities activities may involve securities and/or instruments of the issuer. The underwriters and their respective affiliates may also make investment recommendations and/or publish or express independent research views in respect of such securities or instruments and may at any time hold, or recommend to clients that they acquire, long and/or short positions in such securities and instruments.

We have agreed to indemnify the several underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute to payments the underwriters may be required to make because of any of those liabilities.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the European Economic Area

In relation to each Member State of the European Economic Area which has implemented the Prospectus Directive (each, a “Relevant Member State”), each underwriter has represented and agreed that with effect from and including the date on which the Prospectus Directive is implemented in that Relevant Member State (the “Relevant Implementation Date”) it has not made and will not make an offer of the securities which are the subject of the offering contemplated by this prospectus to the public in that Relevant Member State other than:

 

(a) to any legal entity which is a qualified investor as defined in the Prospectus Directive;

 

(b) to fewer than 100 or, if the Relevant Member State has implemented the relevant provision of the 2010 PD Amending Directive, 150, natural or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined in the Prospectus Directive), as permitted under the Prospectus Directive; or

 

(c) in any other circumstances falling within Article 3(2) of the Prospectus Directive,

provided that no such offer of the securities shall require the issuer or any underwriter to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Directive.

For the purposes of this provision, the expression an “offer of securities to the public” in relation to any securities in any Relevant Member State means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and the securities to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe the securities, as the same may be varied in that Member State by any measure implementing the Prospectus Directive in that Member State, the expression “Prospectus Directive” means Directive 2003/71/EC (and amendments thereto, including the 2010 PD Amending Directive, to the extent implemented in the Relevant Member State), and includes any relevant implementing measure in the Relevant Member State and the expression “2010 PD Amending Directive” means Directive 2010/73/EU.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the United Kingdom

Each underwriter has also represented and agreed that:

 

(a) (i) it is a person whose ordinary activities involve it in acquiring, holding, managing or disposing of investments (as principal or agent) for the purposes of its business and (ii) it has not offered or sold and will not offer or sell the securities other than to persons whose ordinary activities involve them in acquiring, holding, managing or disposing of investments (as principal or as agent) for the purposes of their businesses or who it is reasonable to expect will acquire, hold, manage or dispose of investments (as principal or agent) for the purposes of their businesses where the issue of the securities would otherwise constitute a contravention of Section 19 of the FSMA by the issuer;

 

(b) it has only communicated or caused to be communicated and will only communicate or cause to be communicated an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of Section 21 of the FSMA) received by it in connection with the issue or sale of the securities in circumstances in which Section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply to the issuer; and

 

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(c) it has complied and will comply with all applicable provisions of the FSMA with respect to anything done by it in relation to the notes in, from or otherwise involving the United Kingdom.

Notice to Prospective Investors in France

Neither this prospectus nor any other offering material relating to the shares described in this prospectus has been submitted to the clearance procedures of the Autorité des Marchés Financiers or of the competent authority of another member state of the European Economic Area and notified to the Autorité des Marchés Financiers. The shares have not been offered or sold and will not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, to the public in France. Neither this prospectus nor any other offering material relating to the shares has been or will be:

 

   

released, issued, distributed or caused to be released, issued or distributed to the public in France; or

 

   

used in connection with any offer for subscription or sale of the shares to the public in France.

Such offers, sales and distributions will be made in France only:

 

   

to qualified investors (investisseurs qualifiés) and/or to a restricted circle of investors (cercle restreint d’investisseurs), in each case investing for their own account, all as defined in, and in accordance with articles L.411-2, D.411-1, D.411-2, D.734-1, D.744-1, D.754-1 and D.764-1 of the French Code monétaire et financier;

 

   

to investment services providers authorized to engage in portfolio management on behalf of third parties; or

 

   

in a transaction that, in accordance with article L.411-2-II-1°-or-2°-or 3° of the French Code monétaire et financier and article 211-2 of the General Regulations (Règlement Général) of the Autorité des Marchés Financiers, does not constitute a public offer (appel public à l’épargne).

The shares may be resold directly or indirectly, only in compliance with articles L.411-1, L.411-2, L.412-1 and L.621-8 through L.621-8-3 of the French Code monétaire et financier.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Hong Kong

The shares may not be offered or sold in Hong Kong by means of any document other than (i) in circumstances which do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 32, Laws of Hong Kong), or (ii) to “professional investors” within the meaning of the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571, Laws of Hong Kong) and any rules made thereunder, or (iii) in other circumstances which do not result in the document being a “prospectus” within the meaning of the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 32, Laws of Hong Kong) and no advertisement, invitation or document relating to the shares may be issued or may be in the possession of any person for the purpose of issue (in each case whether in Hong Kong or elsewhere), which is directed at, or the contents of which are likely to be accessed or read by, the public in Hong Kong (except if permitted to do so under the laws of Hong Kong) other than with respect to shares which are or are intended to be disposed of only to persons outside Hong Kong or only to “professional investors” within the meaning of the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571, Laws of Hong Kong) and any rules made thereunder.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Japan

The shares offered in this prospectus have not been registered under the Securities and Exchange Law of Japan. The shares have not been offered or sold and will not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to or for the account of any resident of Japan, except (i) pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities and Exchange Law and (ii) in compliance with any other applicable requirements of Japanese law.

 

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Notice to Prospective Investors in Singapore

This prospectus has not been registered as a prospectus with the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Accordingly, this prospectus and any other document or material in connection with the offer or sale, or invitation for subscription or purchase, of the shares may not be circulated or distributed, nor may the shares be offered or sold, or be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase, whether directly or indirectly, to persons in Singapore other than (i) to an institutional investor under Section 274 of the Securities and Futures Act, Chapter 289 of Singapore (the “SFA”), (ii) to a relevant person pursuant to Section 275(1), or any person pursuant to Section 275(1A), and in accordance with the conditions specified in Section 275 of the SFA or (iii) otherwise pursuant to, and in accordance with the conditions of, any other applicable provision of the SFA, in each case subject to compliance with conditions set forth in the SFA.

Where the shares are subscribed or purchased under Section 275 of the SFA by a relevant person which is:

 

   

a corporation (which is not an accredited investor (as defined in Section 4A of the SFA)) the sole business of which is to hold investments and the entire share capital of which is owned by one or more individuals, each of whom is an accredited investor; or

 

   

a trust (where the trustee is not an accredited investor) whose sole purpose is to hold investments and each beneficiary of the trust is an individual who is an accredited investor,

shares, debentures and units of shares and debentures of that corporation or the beneficiaries’ rights and interest (howsoever described) in that trust shall not be transferred within six months after that corporation or that trust has acquired the shares pursuant to an offer made under Section 275 of the SFA except:

 

   

to an institutional investor (for corporations, under Section 274 of the SFA) or to a relevant person defined in Section 275(2) of the SFA, or to any person pursuant to an offer that is made on terms that such shares, debentures and units of shares and debentures of that corporation or such rights and interest in that trust are acquired at a consideration of not less than S$200,000 (or its equivalent in a foreign currency) for each transaction, whether such amount is to be paid for in cash or by exchange of securities or other assets, and further for corporations, in accordance with the conditions specified in Section 275 of the SFA;

 

   

where no consideration is or will be given for the transfer; or

 

   

where the transfer is by operation of law.

 

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VALIDITY OF COMMON STOCK

The validity of the issuance of the shares of common stock offered hereby will be passed upon for us by Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP, New York, New York and by Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP, New York, New York, for the underwriters.

EXPERTS

The consolidated financial statements of Ally, as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010, included in this preliminary prospectus, and the effectiveness of Ally’s internal control over financial reporting, have been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their reports, which are included herein. Such consolidated financial statements have been so included in reliance upon the reports of such firm given upon their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

We have filed with the SEC, Washington, D.C. 20549, a registration statement on Form S-1 under the Securities Act with respect to the common stock offered hereby. This prospectus does not contain all of the information set forth in the registration statement and the exhibits and schedules thereto. For further information with respect to the company and its common stock, reference is made to the registration statement and the exhibits and any schedules filed therewith. Statements contained in this prospectus as to the contents of any contract or other document referred to are not necessarily complete and in each instance, if such contract or document is filed as an exhibit, reference is made to the copy of such contract or other document filed as an exhibit to the registration statement, each statement being qualified in all respects by such reference.

We file annual, quarterly, current reports, and other information with the SEC. The information we file with the SEC is not part of this prospectus or the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part. Our filings with the SEC, including a copy of the registration statement and the exhibits and schedules thereto, may be read and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. In addition, the SEC maintains an Internet website that contains reports, proxy statements and other information about issuers, like us, that file electronically with the SEC. The address of that site is www.sec.gov.

 

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INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

  

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income (unaudited) for the Three Months Ended March 31,  2011 and 2010

     F-2   

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (unaudited) at March 31, 2011, and December 31,  2010

     F-4   

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity (unaudited) for the Three Months Ended March  31, 2011 and 2010

     F-6   

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (unaudited) for the Three Months Ended March 31,  2011 and 2010

     F-7   

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

     F-9   

Audited Consolidated Financial Statements

  

Statement of Responsibility for Preparation of Financial Statements

     F-91   

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

     F-92   

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Financial Statements

     F-93   

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

     F-94   

Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

     F-95   

Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2010 and 2009

     F-97   

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

     F-99   

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

     F-101   

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

     F-103   

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income (unaudited)

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
         2011             2010      
    

($ in millions except

per share data)

 

Financing revenue and other interest income

    

Interest and fees on finance receivables and loans

   $ 1,623      $ 1,618   

Interest on loans held-for-sale

     108        215   

Interest on trading securities

     3        1   

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities

     104        99   

Interest-bearing cash

     12        14   

Operating leases

     680        1,163   
                

Total financing revenue and other interest income

     2,530        3,110   

Interest expense

    

Interest on deposits

     172        158   

Interest on short-term borrowings

     126        111   

Interest on long-term debt

     1,410        1,433   
                

Total interest expense

     1,708        1,702   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

     285        656   
                

Net financing revenue

     537        752   

Other revenue

    

Servicing fees

     371        385   

Servicing asset valuation and hedge activities, net

     (87     (133
                

Total servicing income, net

     284        252   

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned

     433        468   

Gain on mortgage and automotive loans, net

     92        271   

Loss on extinguishment of debt

     (39     (118

Other gain on investments, net

     84        143   

Other income, net of losses

     216        82   
                

Total other revenue

     1,070        1,098   

Total net revenue

     1,607        1,850   

Provision for loan losses

     113        144   

Noninterest expense

    

Compensation and benefits expense

     434        426   

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

     186        211   

Other operating expenses

     772        882   
                

Total noninterest expense

     1,392        1,519   

Income from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense

     102        187   

Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations

     (68     36   
                

Net income from continuing operations

     170        151   
                

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

     (24     11   
                

Net income

   $ 146      $ 162   
                

Statement continues on next page.

 

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     Three months ended March 31,  
         2011             2010      
    

($ in millions except

per share data)

 

Net loss attributable to common shareholders

   $ (25   $ (340

Basic and diluted earnings per common share (a)

    

Net loss from continuing operations

   $ (1   $ (439

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

     (18     13   
                

Net loss

   $ (19   $ (426
                

Weighted-average common shares outstanding

     1,330,970        799,120   
                

 

(a) Due to the antidilutive effect of converting the Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock into common shares and the net loss attributable to common shareholders for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, income attributable to common shareholders and basic weighted-average common shares outstanding were used to calculate basic and diluted earnings per share.

The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) are an integral part of these statements.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (unaudited)

 

     March 31, 2011     December 31, 2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

    

Cash and cash equivalents

    

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 1,652      $ 1,714   

Interest-bearing

     11,294        9,956   
                

Total cash and cash equivalents

     12,946        11,670   

Trading securities

     75        240   

Investment securities

     15,401        14,846   

Loans held-for-sale, net ($2,946 and $6,424 fair value-elected)

     7,496        11,411   

Finance receivables and loans, net

    

Finance receivables and loans, net ($971 and $1,015 fair value-elected)

     107,459        102,413   

Allowance for loan losses

     (1,806     (1,873
                

Total finance receivables and loans, net

     105,653        100,540   

Investment in operating leases, net

     8,898        9,128   

Mortgage servicing rights

     3,774        3,738   

Premiums receivable and other insurance assets

     2,175        2,181   

Other assets

     16,763        17,564   

Assets of operations held-for-sale

     523        690   
                

Total assets

   $ 173,704      $ 172,008   
                

Liabilities

    

Deposit liabilities

    

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 2,064      $ 2,131   

Interest-bearing

     38,632        36,917   
                

Total deposit liabilities

     40,696        39,048   

Short-term borrowings

     7,395        7,508   

Long-term debt ($922 and $972 fair value-elected)

     88,139        86,612   

Interest payable

     1,850        1,829   

Unearned insurance premiums and service revenue

     2,842        2,854   

Reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

     828        862   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities ($14 and $ — fair value-elected)

     11,001        12,126   

Liabilities of operations held-for-sale

     546        680   
                

Total liabilities

     153,297        151,519   

Equity

    

Common stock and paid-in capital

     19,668        19,668   

Mandatorily convertible preferred stock held by U.S. Department of Treasury

     5,685        5,685   

Preferred stock

     1,255        1,287   

Accumulated deficit

     (6,435     (6,410

Accumulated other comprehensive income

     234        259   
                

Total equity

     20,407        20,489   
                

Total liabilities and equity

   $ 173,704      $ 172,008   
                

The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) are an integral part of these statements.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (unaudited)

The assets of consolidated variable interest entities that can be used only to settle obligations of the consolidated variable interest entities and the liabilities of these entities for which creditors (or beneficial interest holders) do not have recourse to our general credit were as follows.

 

     March 31, 2011     December 31, 2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

    

Loans held-for-sale, net

   $ 14      $ 21   

Finance receivables and loans, net

    

Finance receivables and loans, net ($971 and $1,015 fair value-elected)

     36,801        33,483   

Allowance for loan losses

     (221     (238
                

Total finance receivables and loans, net

     36,580        33,245   

Investment in operating leases, net

     1,481        1,065   

Other assets

     3,352        3,194   

Assets of operations held-for-sale

            85   
                

Total assets

   $ 41,427      $ 37,610   
                

Liabilities

    

Short-term borrowings

   $ 784      $ 964   

Long-term debt ($922 and $972 fair value-elected)

     26,362        24,466   

Interest payable

     18        15   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     408        352   

Liabilities of operations held-for-sale

            45   
                

Total liabilities

   $ 27,572      $ 25,842   
                

The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) are an integral part of these statements.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity (unaudited)

Three Months Ended March 31, 2011 and 2010

 

    Common
stock
and
paid-in
capital
    Mandatorily
convertible
preferred
stock
held by

U.S.
Department
of Treasury
    Preferred
stock
    Accumulated
deficit
    Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income
    Total
equity
    Comprehensive
income
 
    ($ in millions)  

Balance at January 1, 2010, before cumulative effect of adjustments

  $ 13,829      $ 10,893      $ 1,287      $ (5,630   $ 460      $ 20,839     

Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of tax (a)

          (57     4        (53  
                                                       

Balance at January 1, 2010, after cumulative effect of adjustments

  $ 13,829      $ 10,893      $ 1,287      $ (5,687   $ 464      $ 20,786     

Net income

          162          162      $ 162   

Preferred stock dividends paid to the U.S. Department of Treasury

          (386       (386  

Preferred stock dividends

          (116       (116  

Dividends to shareholders

          (5       (5  

Other comprehensive income

            33        33        33   

Other (b)

          74          74     
                                                       

Balance at March 31, 2010

  $ 13,829      $ 10,893      $ 1,287      $ (5,958   $ 497      $ 20,548      $ 195   
                                                       

Balance at January 1, 2011

  $ 19,668      $ 5,685      $ 1,287      $ (6,410   $ 259      $ 20,489     

Net income

          146          146      $ 146   

Preferred stock dividends paid to the U.S. Department of Treasury

          (134       (134  

Preferred stock dividends

          (69       (69  

Series A preferred stock amendment (c)

        (32     32         

Other comprehensive loss

            (25     (25     (25
                                                       

Balance at March 31, 2011

  $ 19,668      $ 5,685      $ 1,255      $ (6,435   $ 234      $ 20,407      $ 121   
                                                       

 

(a) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of tax, due to adoption of ASU 2009-17, Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities.

 

(b) Represents a reduction of the estimated payment accrued for tax distributions as a result of the completion of the GMAC LLC U.S. Return of Partnership Income for the tax period January 1, 2009, through June 30, 2009.

 

(c) Refer to Note 16 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.

The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) are an integral part of these statements.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (unaudited)

 

     Three months ended
March 31,
 
     2011     2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Operating activities

    

Net income

   $ 146      $ 162   

Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities

    

Depreciation and amortization

     717        1,255   

Other impairment

     16        (20

Amortization and valuation adjustments of mortgage servicing rights

     (117     196   

Provision for loan losses

     113        152   

Gain on sale of loans, net

     (94     (298

Net gain on investment securities

     (85     (151

Loss on extinguishment of debt

     39        118   

Originations and purchases of loans held-for-sale

     (12,635     (13,715

Proceeds from sales and repayments of loans held-for-sale

     15,835        19,314   

Net change in:

    

Trading securities

     77        53   

Deferred income taxes

     69        (47

Interest payable

     16        165   

Other assets

     (120     1,550   

Other liabilities

     (321     (477

Other, net

     (614     (884
                

Net cash provided by operating activities

     3,042        7,373   
                

Investing activities

    

Purchases of available-for-sale securities

     (5,529     (4,735

Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities

     4,475        2,664   

Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities

     1,103        2,873   

Net (increase) in finance receivables and loans

     (4,249     (3,571

Proceeds from sales of finance receivables and loans

            1,187   

Purchases of operating lease assets

     (1,933     (845

Disposals of operating lease assets

     1,882        2,278   

Proceeds from sale of business units, net (a)

     46        (526

Other, net

     591        606   
                

Net cash used in investing activities

     (3,614     (69
                

Statement continues on the next page.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (unaudited)

 

     Three months ended
March 31,
 
     2011     2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Financing activities

    

Net change in short-term debt

     87        (2,629

Net increase in bank deposits

     1,670        752   

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

     13,804        12,187   

Repayments of long-term debt

     (13,211     (18,761

Dividends paid

     (228     (199

Other, net

     83        294   
                

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     2,205        (8,356

Effect of exchange-rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

     (266     378   
                

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     1,367        (674

Adjustment for change in cash and cash equivalents of operations held-for-sale (a) (b)

     (91     556   

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     11,670        14,788   
                

Cash and cash equivalents at March 31,

   $ 12,946      $ 14,670   
                

Supplemental disclosures

    

Cash paid for

    

Interest

   $ 1,465      $ 1,217   

Income taxes

     305        167   

Noncash items

    

Increase in finance receivables and loans due to a change in accounting principle (c)

            17,990   

Increase in long-term debt due to a change in accounting principle (c)

            17,054   

Transfer of mortgage servicing rights into trading securities through certification

     266          

Other disclosures

    

Proceeds from sales and repayments of mortgage loans held-for-investment originally designated as held-for-sale

     58        150   
                

 

(a) The amounts are net of cash and cash equivalents of $7 million at March 31, 2011, and $745 million at March 31, 2010, of business units at the time of dispositon.

 

(b) Cash flows of discontinued operations are reflected within operating, investing, and financing activities in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. The cash balance of these operations are reported as assets of operations held-for-sale on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.

 

(c) Relates to the adoption of ASU 2009-17, Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities.

The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) are an integral part of these statements.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

1. Description of Business, Basis of Presentation, and Changes in Significant Accounting Policies

Ally Financial Inc. (formerly GMAC Inc. and referred to herein as Ally, we, our, or us) is a leading, independent, globally diversified, financial services firm. Founded in 1919, we are a leading automotive financial services company with over 90 years experience providing a broad array of financial products and services to automotive dealers and their customers. We are also one of the largest residential mortgage companies in the United States. We became a bank holding company on December 24, 2008, under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended. Our banking subsidiary, Ally Bank, is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Ally Financial Inc. and a leading franchise in the growing direct (online and telephonic) banking market.

Our accounting and reporting policies conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP). Additionally, where applicable, the policies conform to the accounting and reporting guidelines prescribed by bank regulatory authorities. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and that affect income and expenses during the reporting period. In developing the estimates and assumptions, management uses all available evidence; however, actual results could differ because of uncertainties associated with estimating the amounts, timing, and likelihood of possible outcomes.

The Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements at March 31, 2011, and for the three months ended March 31, 2011, and 2010, are unaudited but reflect all adjustments that are, in management’s opinion, necessary for the fair presentation of the results for the interim periods presented. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. These unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with our audited Consolidated Financial Statements (and the related notes).

Residential Capital, LLC

Residential Capital, LLC (ResCap), one of our mortgage subsidiaries, was negatively impacted by the events and conditions in the mortgage banking industry and the broader economy beginning in 2007. The market deterioration led to fewer sources of, and significantly reduced levels of, liquidity available to finance ResCap’s operations. ResCap is highly leveraged relative to its cash flow and previously recognized credit and valuation losses resulting in a significant deterioration in capital. ResCap’s consolidated tangible net worth, as defined, was $884 million at March 31, 2011, and ResCap remained in compliance with all of its consolidated tangible net worth covenants. For this purpose, consolidated tangible net worth is defined as ResCap’s consolidated equity excluding intangible assets. There continues to be a risk that ResCap may not be able to meet its debt service obligations, may default on its financial debt covenants due to insufficient capital, and/or may be in a negative liquidity position in future periods.

ResCap actively manages its liquidity and capital positions and is continually working on initiatives to address its debt covenant compliance and liquidity needs including debt maturing in the next twelve months and other risks and uncertainties. ResCap’s initiatives could include, but are not limited to, the following: continuing to work with key credit providers to optimize all available liquidity options; possible further reductions in assets and other restructuring activities; focusing production on conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans; and continued exploration of opportunities for funding and capital support from Ally and its affiliates. The outcomes of most of these initiatives are to a great extent outside of ResCap’s control resulting in increased uncertainty as to their successful execution.

During 2009 and 2010, we performed a strategic review of our mortgage business. As a result of this, we effectively exited the European mortgage market through the sale of our U.K. and continental Europe operations.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

We also completed the sale of certain higher-risk legacy mortgage assets and settled representation and warranty claims with certain counterparties. The ongoing focus of our Mortgage Origination and Servicing operations will be predominately the origination and sale of conforming and government-insured residential mortgages and mortgage servicing. While the opportunities for further risk mitigation remain, the risk in our Mortgage Legacy Portfolio and Other operations has been materially reduced as compared to recent levels.

In the future, Ally and ResCap may take additional actions with respect to ResCap as each party deems appropriate. These actions may include Ally providing or declining to provide additional liquidity and capital support for ResCap; refinancing or restructuring some or all of ResCap’s existing debt; the purchase or sale of ResCap debt securities in the public or private markets for cash or other consideration; entering into derivative or other hedging or similar transactions with respect to ResCap or its debt securities; Ally purchasing assets from ResCap; or undertaking corporate transactions such as a tender offer or exchange offer for some or all of ResCap’s outstanding debt securities, asset sales, or other business reorganization or similar action with respect to all or part of ResCap and/or its affiliates. In this context, Ally and ResCap typically consider a number of factors to the extent applicable and appropriate including, without limitation, the financial condition, results of operations, and prospects of Ally and ResCap; ResCap’s ability to obtain third-party financing; tax considerations; the current and anticipated future trading price levels of ResCap’s debt instruments; conditions in the mortgage banking industry and general economic conditions; other investment and business opportunities available to Ally and/or ResCap; and any nonpublic information that ResCap may possess or that Ally receives from ResCap.

ResCap remains heavily dependent on Ally and its affiliates for funding and capital support, and there can be no assurance that Ally or its affiliates will continue such actions or that Ally will choose to execute any further strategic transactions with respect to ResCap or that any transactions undertaken will be successful.

Although our continued actions through various funding and capital initiatives demonstrate support for ResCap, there are currently no commitments or assurances for future capital support. Consequently, there remains substantial doubt about ResCap’s ability to continue as a going concern. Should we no longer continue to support the capital or liquidity needs of ResCap or should ResCap be unable to successfully execute other initiatives, it would have a material adverse effect on ResCap’s business, results of operations, and financial position.

Ally has extensive financing and hedging arrangements with ResCap that could be at risk of nonpayment if ResCap were to file for bankruptcy. At March 31, 2011, we had $1.9 billion in secured financing arrangements with ResCap of which $1.3 billion in loans was utilized. At March 31, 2011, these was no net exposure under the hedging arrangements because the arrangements were fully collateralized. Amounts outstanding under the secured financing and hedging arrangements fluctuate. If ResCap were to file for bankruptcy, ResCap’s repayments of its financing facilities, including those with us, could be slower. In addition, we could be an unsecured creditor of ResCap to the extent that the proceeds from the sale of our collateral are insufficient to repay ResCap’s obligations to us. It is possible that other ResCap creditors would seek to recharacterize our loans to ResCap as equity contributions or to seek equitable subordination of our claims so that the claims of other creditors would have priority over our claims. In addition, should ResCap file for bankruptcy, our $884 million investment related to ResCap’s equity position would likely be reduced to zero. If a ResCap bankruptcy were to occur and a substantial amount of our credit exposure is not repaid to us, it would have an adverse impact on our near-term net income and capital position, but we do not believe it would have a materially adverse impact on Ally’s consolidated financial position over the longer term.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Relationship and Transactions with General Motors Company (GM)

GM, GM dealers, and GM-related employees compose a significant portion of our customer base, and our Global Automotive Services operations are highly dependent on GM production and sales volume. As a result, a significant adverse change in GM’s business, including significant adverse changes in GM’s liquidity position and access to the capital markets, the production or sale of GM vehicles, the quality or resale value of GM vehicles, the use of GM marketing incentives, GM’s relationships with its key suppliers, GM’s relationship with the United Auto Workers and other labor unions, and other factors impacting GM or its employees could have a significant adverse effect on our profitability and financial condition.

As a result of the conversion of $5.5 billion of Ally Mandatorily Convertible Preferred (MCP) stock held by the U.S. Department of Treasury (Treasury) into common stock on December 30, 2010, and consequent dilution of the equity interests held by GM and the GM Trust, GM and the GM Trust are no longer considered related parties for purposes of applicable disclosure within the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, as they collectively have less than 10% of the voting interests in Ally and do not control or have the ability to significantly influence the management and policies of Ally. In addition, as a result of the conversion, the Federal Reserve has determined that GM will no longer be considered an “affiliate” of Ally Bank for purposes of Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act, which impose limitations on transactions between banks and their affiliates.

Refer to Note 26 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for a summary of related party transactions with GM during 2010.

Significant Accounting Policies

Earnings per Common Share

We compute earnings (loss) per common share by dividing net income (loss) (after deducting dividends on preferred stock) by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. We compute diluted earnings (loss) per common share by dividing net income (loss) (after deducting dividends on preferred stock) by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period plus the dilution resulting from the conversion of convertible preferred stock, if applicable.

Refer to Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements regarding additional significant accounting policies.

Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

Receivables — Disclosures about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses (ASU 2010-20)

During the three months ended March 31, 2011, Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2010-20 required us to disclose a rollforward of the allowance for loan losses, additional activity-based disclosures for both financing receivables, and the allowance for each reporting period. We early adopted the rollforward requirement during the December 31, 2010, reporting period. As of January 19, 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued ASU 2011-01, Deferral of the Effective Date of Disclosures about Troubled Debt Restructurings in Update No. 2010-20, which effectively defers the disclosure requirements in ASU 2010-20 related to troubled debt restructurings while they deliberate on other potential changes to the accounting for troubled debt restructurings. This deferral ended with the issuance of ASU 2011-02 in April 2011 as discussed in the section in this note titled Recently Issued Accounting Standards. Since the guidance relates only to disclosures, adoption did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Revenue Recognition — Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables (ASU 2009-13)

As of January 1, 2011, we adopted ASU 2009-13, which amends Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 605, Revenue Recognition. The guidance significantly changed the accounting for revenue recognition in arrangements with multiple deliverables and eliminated the residual method, which allocated the discount of a multiple deliverable arrangement among the delivered items. The guidance requires entities to allocate the total consideration to all deliverables at inception using the relative selling price and to allocate any discount in the arrangement proportionally to each deliverable based on each deliverable’s selling price. The adoption did not have a material impact to our consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (ASU 2010-28)

As of January 1, 2011, we adopted ASU 2010-28, which amends ASC Topic 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other, to modify Step 1 of the goodwill impairment test for reporting units with zero or negative carrying amounts. For those reporting units, an entity is required to perform Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. Additionally, when determining whether it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists, an entity should consider whether there are any adverse qualitative factors indicating that an impairment may exist. The adoption did not have a material impact to our consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Financial Services — Insurance — Accounting for Costs Associated with Acquiring or Renewing Insurance Contracts (ASU 2010-26)

In December 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-26, which amends ASC 944, Financial Services — Insurance. The amendments in this ASU specify which costs incurred in the acquisition of new and renewal insurance contracts should be capitalized. All other acquisition-related costs should be expensed as incurred. If the initial application of the amendments in this ASU results in the capitalization of acquisition costs that had not been previously capitalized, an entity may elect not to capitalize those types of costs. The ASU will be effective for us on January 1, 2012. We do not expect the adoption to have a material impact to our consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

Receivables — A Creditor’s Determination of Whether a Restructuring Is a Troubled Debt Restructuring (ASU 2011-02)

In April 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-02, which amends ASC 310, Receivables. The amendments in this ASU clarify which loan modifications constitute a troubled debt restructuring. It is intended to assist creditors in determining whether a modification of the terms of a receivable meets the criteria to be considered a troubled debt restructuring, both for purposes of recording an impairment loss and for disclosure of troubled debt restructurings. The ASU will be effective for us on July 1, 2011, and must be applied retrospectively to modifications made subsequent to the beginning of the annual period of adoption, which is January 1, 2011, for us.

If, as a result of applying these amendments, we identify receivables that are newly considered impaired, we are required to apply the measurement portion of the amendments to the newly identified impairments at the end of the reporting period of adoption. We will also be required to disclose the total amount of receivables and the allowance for credit losses as of the end of the period of adoption related to those receivables that are newly considered impaired for which impairment was previously measured under ASC 450-20, Contingencies — Loss Contingencies.

Early adoption is permitted. We have not yet determined the impact upon adoption.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

2. Discontinued and Held-for-sale Operations

Discontinued Operations

We classified certain operations as discontinued using generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America, as the associated operations and cash flows will be eliminated from our ongoing operations and we will not have any significant continuing involvement in their operations after the respective sale transactions. For all periods presented, all of the operating results for these operations were removed from continuing operations and are presented separately as discontinued operations, net of tax. The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements were adjusted to exclude discontinued operations unless otherwise noted.

Select Insurance Operations

During 2009, we committed to sell the U.K. consumer property and casualty insurance business, which provides vehicle and home insurance through a number of distribution channels including independent agents, affinity groups, and the internet. In April 2011, we entered into a definitive sales agreement and expect to complete the sale during the second or third quarter of 2011.

Select International Automotive Finance Operations

We completed the sale of our Ecuador operations during the first quarter of 2011. We expect to complete the sale of our Venezuela operations during 2011.

Select Financial Information

The pretax income or loss recognized for the discontinued operations, including the direct costs to transact a sale, could differ from the ultimate sales price due to the fluidity of ongoing negotiations, price volatility, changing interest rates, changing foreign-currency rates, and future economic conditions.

Selected financial information of discontinued operations is summarized below.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
         2011             2010      
     ($ in millions)  

Select Insurance operations

    

Total net revenue

   $ 56      $ 239   

Pretax income including direct costs to transact a sale (a)

     7          

Tax expense

            4   

Select International operations

    

Total net revenue

   $ 5      $ 41   

Pretax (loss) income including direct costs to transact a sale (a)

     (31     4   

Tax expense

            8   

Select Mortgage — Legacy and Other operations

    

Total net revenue

   $      $ 28   

Pretax income including direct costs to transact a sale

            13   

Tax expense

              

Select Commercial Finance operations

    

Total net revenue

   $      $ 8   

Pretax income including direct costs to transact a sale

            10   

Tax expense

            4   

 

(a) Includes certain income tax activity recognized by Corporate and Other.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Held-for-sale Operations

The assets and liabilities of operations held-for-sale are summarized below.

 

     March 31, 2011  
     Select
Insurance
operations (a)
    Select
International
operations (b)
    Total
held-for-sale
operations
 
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

    

Cash and cash equivalents

      

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 4      $ 58      $ 62   

Interest-bearing

     61        19        80   
                        

Total cash and cash equivalents

     65        77        142   

Investment securities

     384               384   

Finance receivables and loans, net

      

Finance receivables and loans, net

            19        19   

Allowance for loan losses

            (1     (1
                        

Total finance receivables and loans, net

            18        18   

Premiums receivable and other insurance assets

     190               190   

Other assets

     142        2        144   

Impairment on assets of held-for-sale operations

     (221     (134 )(c)      (355
                        

Total assets

   $ 560      $ (37   $ 523   
                        

Liabilities

      

Interest-bearing deposit liabilities

   $      $ 5      $ 5   

Unearned insurance premiums and service revenue

     125               125   

Reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

     382               382   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     33        1        34   
                        

Total liabilities

   $ 540      $ 6      $ 546   
                        

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

     March 31, 2011  
     Select
Insurance
operations (a)
    Select
International
operations (b)
    Total
held-for-sale
operations
 
     ($ in millions)  

December 31, 2010

      

Assets

      

Cash and cash equivalents

      

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 5      $ 14      $ 19   

Interest-bearing

            33        33   
                        

Total cash and cash equivalents

     5        47        52   

Investment securities

     435               435   

Finance receivables and loans, net

      

Finance receivables and loans, net

            242        242   

Allowance for loan losses

            (3     (3
                        

Total finance receivables and loans, net

            239        239   

Premiums receivable and other insurance assets

     169               169   

Other assets

     138        16        154   

Impairment on assets of held-for-sale operations

     (224     (135 ) (c)      (359
                        

Total assets

   $ 523      $ 167      $ 690   
                        

Liabilities

      

Interest-bearing deposit liabilities

   $      $ 6      $ 6   

Short-term borrowings

            47        47   

Long-term debt

            115        115   

Interest payable

            2        2   

Unearned insurance premiums and service revenue

     115               115   

Reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

     362               362   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     33               33   
                        

Total liabilities

   $ 510      $ 170      $ 680   
                        

 

(a) Includes the U.K. consumer property and casualty insurance business.
(b) The balances at March 31, 2011, include the International Automotive Finance operation of Venezuela. The balances at December 31, 2010, include the International Automotive Finance operations of Ecuador and Venezuela.
(c) Includes $94 million of unfavorable accumulated translation adjustments at both March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

3. Other Income, Net of Losses

Details of other income, net of losses, were as follows.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
         2011             2010      
     ($ in millions)  

Mortgage processing fees and other mortgage income

   $ 44      $ 54   

Remarketing fees

     37        31   

Late charges and other administrative fees

     33        37   

Income from equity-method investments

     22        12   

Full-service leasing fees

     15        28   

Real estate services, net

            6   

Fair value adjustment on derivatives (a)

     (14     (55

Change due to fair value option elections (b)

     (17     (73

Other, net

     96        42   
                

Total other income, net of losses

   $ 216      $ 82   
                

 

(a) Refer to Note 19 for a description of derivative instruments and hedging activities.
(b) Refer to Note 21 for a description of fair value option elections.

4. Other Operating Expenses

Details of other operating expenses were as follows.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
         2011             2010      
     ($ in millions)  

Insurance commissions

   $ 125      $ 146   

Technology and communications

     120        139   

Professional services

     68        57   

Advertising and marketing

     54        24   

Lease and loan administration

     44        31   

Regulatory and licensing fees

     37        31   

Vehicle remarketing and repossession

     36        55   

State and local non-income taxes

     31        24   

Mortgage representation and warranty, net

     26        49   

Premises and equipment depreciation

     26        18   

Occupancy

     23        26   

Full-service leasing vehicle maintenance costs

     11        29   

Restructuring

     (3     43   

Other

     174        210   
                

Total other operating expenses

   $ 772      $ 882   
                

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

5. Trading Securities

The fair value for our portfolio of trading securities was as follows.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     ($ in millions)  

U.S. Treasury

   $       $ 77   

Mortgage-backed residential

     75         69   

Asset-backed

             94   
                 

Total trading securities

   $ 75       $ 240   
                 

6. Investment Securities

Our portfolio of securities includes bonds, equity securities, asset- and mortgage-backed securities, notes, interests in securitization trusts, and other investments. The cost, fair value, and gross unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities were as follows.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     Cost      Gross unrealized     Fair
value
     Cost      Gross unrealized     Fair
value
 
        gains      losses           gains      losses    
     ($ in millions)  

Available-for-sale securities

                     

Debt securities

                     

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

   $ 2,902       $ 8       $ (20   $ 2,890       $ 3,307       $ 22       $ (11   $ 3,318   

States and political subdivisions

     3                        3         3                 (1     2   

Foreign government

     1,309         14         (6     1,317         1,231         19         (2     1,248   

Mortgage-backed residential (a)

     5,920         49         (108     5,861         5,844         60         (79     5,825   

Asset-backed

     2,262         38         (3     2,297         1,934         15         (1     1,948   

Corporate debt

     1,376         13         (10     1,379         1,537         34         (13     1,558   

Other

     489                        489         152                 (1     151   
                                                                     

Total debt securities (b)

     14,261         122         (147     14,236         14,008         150         (108     14,050   

Equity securities

     1,134         69         (38     1,165         766         60         (30     796   
                                                                     

Total available-for-sale securities (c)

   $ 15,395       $ 191       $ (185   $ 15,401       $ 14,774       $ 210       $ (138   $ 14,846   
                                                                     

 

(a) Residential mortgage-backed securities include agency-backed bonds totaling $4,208 million and $4,503 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

(b) In connection with certain borrowings and letters of credit relating to certain assumed reinsurance contracts, $57 million and $153 million of primarily U.K. Treasury securities were pledged as collateral at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

(c) Certain entities related to our Insurance operations are required to deposit securities with state regulatory authorities. These deposited securities totaled $15 million and $12 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The maturity distribution of available-for-sale debt securities outstanding is summarized in the following tables. Prepayments may cause actual maturities to differ from scheduled maturities.

 

    March 31, 2011  
    Total     Due in
one year
or less
    Due after
one year
through

five years
    Due after
five years
through
ten years
    Due after
ten years (a)
 
    Amount     Yield     Amount     Yield     Amount     Yield     Amount     Yield     Amount     Yield  
    ($ in millions)  

Fair value of available-for-sale debt securities (b)

                   

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

  $ 2,890        1.3   $ 97        0.6   $ 2,693        1.2   $ 100        3.7   $       

States and political subdivisions

    3        8.7                                                  3        8.7   

Foreign government

    1,317        3.4        20        3.2        1,103        3.3        193        3.7        1        4.1   

Mortgage-backed residential

    5,861        3.3                      3        6.3        55        4.5        5,803        3.3   

Asset-backed

    2,297        2.7        87        2.6        1,149        2.2        443        2.5        618        3.8   

Corporate debt

    1,379        4.3        22        5.4        557        3.6        653        5.0        147        4.0   

Other

    489        1.4        489        1.4                                             
                                                 

Total available-for-sale debt securities

  $ 14,236        2.9      $ 715        1.6      $ 5,505        2.1      $ 1,444        3.9      $ 6,572        3.4   
                                                 

Amortized cost of available-for-sale debt securities

  $ 14,261        $ 714        $ 5,498        $ 1,438        $ 6,611     
                                                 

 

(a) Investments with no stated maturities are included as contractual maturities of greater than 10 years. Actual maturities may differ due to call or prepayment options.

 

(b) Yields on tax-exempt obligations are computed on a tax-equivalent basis.

 

    December 31, 2010  
    Total     Due in
one year
or less
    Due after
one year
through
five years
    Due after
five years
through
ten years
    Due after
ten years (a)
 
    Amount     Yield     Amount     Yield     Amount     Yield     Amount     Yield     Amount     Yield  
    ($ in millions)  

Fair value of available-for-sale debt securities (b)

                   

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

  $ 3,318        1.4   $ 124        1.2   $ 3,094        1.3   $ 100        3.7   $       

States and political subdivisions

    2        8.7                                                  2        8.7   

Foreign government

    1,248        3.1        7        2.2        1,092        3.1        149        3.5                 

Mortgage-backed residential

    5,825        3.8                      57        3.2        64        4.4        5,704        3.8   

Asset-backed

    1,948        2.5                      1,146        2.2        500        2.4        302        4.0   

Corporate debt

    1,558        3.9        22        5.7        811        3.5        593        4.3        132        4.0   

Other

    151        1.5        151        1.5                                             
                                                 

Total available-for-sale debt securities

  $ 14,050        3.0      $ 304        1.7      $ 6,200        2.1      $ 1,406        3.5      $ 6,140        3.8   
                                                 

Amortized cost of available-for-sale debt securities

  $ 14,008        $ 305        $ 6,152        $ 1,388        $ 6,163     
                                                 

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

 

(a) Investments with no stated maturities are included as contractual maturities of greater than 10 years. Actual maturities may differ due to call or prepayment options.

 

(b) Yields on tax-exempt obligations are computed on a tax-equivalent basis.

The balances of cash equivalents were $5.4 billion and $5.3 billion at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively, and were composed primarily of money market accounts and short-term securities, including U.S. Treasury bills.

The following table presents gross gains and losses realized upon the sales of available-for-sale securities. During the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, we did not recognize other-than-temporary impairment on available-for-sale securities.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
         2011             2010      
     ($ in millions)  

Gross realized gains

   $ 94      $ 151   

Gross realized losses

     (10     (8
                

Net realized gains

   $ 84      $ 143   
                

The following table presents interest and dividends on available-for-sale securities.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
         2011              2010      
     ($ in millions)  

Taxable interest

   $ 99       $ 90   

Taxable dividends

     5         3   

Interest and dividends exempt from U.S. federal income tax

             6   
                 

Total interest and dividends on available-for-sale securities

   $ 104       $ 99   
                 

 

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The table below summarizes available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position in accumulated other comprehensive income. Based on the methodology described below that was applied to these securities, we believe that the unrealized losses relate to factors other than credit losses in the current market environment. As of March 31, 2011, we did not have the intent to sell the debt securities with an unrealized loss position in accumulated other comprehensive income, and it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell these securities before recovery of their amortized cost basis. As of March 31, 2011, we had the ability and intent to hold equity securities with an unrealized loss position in accumulated other comprehensive income. As a result, we believe that the securities with an unrealized loss position in accumulated other comprehensive income are not considered to be other-than-temporarily impaired at March 31, 2011. Refer to Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to investment securities and our methodology for evaluating potential other-than-temporary impairments.

 

     March 31, 2011     December 31, 2010  
     Less than
12 months
    12 months
or longer
    Less than
12 months
    12 months
or longer
 
     Fair
value
     Unrealized
loss
    Fair
value
     Unrealized
loss
    Fair
value
     Unrealized
loss
    Fair
value
     Unrealized
loss
 
     ($ in millions)  

Available-for-sale securities

                    

Debt securities

                    

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

   $ 1,647       $ (20   $       $      $ 702       $ (11   $       $   

States and political subdivisions

     2                               2         (1               

Foreign government

     729         (6                    323         (2               

Mortgage-backed residential

     3,623         (107     11         (1     3,159         (77     11         (2

Asset-backed

     336         (3     1                238         (1     2           

Corporate debt

     646         (10     6                653         (13     5           

Other

     83                               80         (1               
                                                                    

Total temporarily impaired debt securities

     7,066         (146     18         (1     5,157         (106     18         (2

Temporarily impaired equity securities

     411         (34     44         (4     250         (27     26         (3
                                                                    

Total temporarily impaired available-for-sale securities

   $ 7,477       $ (180   $ 62       $ (5   $ 5,407       $ (133   $ 44       $ (5
                                                                    

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

7. Loans Held-for-sale, Net

The composition of loans held-for-sale, net, was as follows.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     Domestic      Foreign      Total      Domestic      Foreign      Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

   $ 6,605       $ 74       $ 6,679       $ 10,191       $ 364       $ 10,555   

Home equity

     811                 811         856                 856   
                                                     

Total consumer mortgage (a)

     7,416         74         7,490         11,047         364         11,411   

Commercial

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Other

     6                 6                           
                                                     

Total commercial

     6                 6                           
                                                     

Total loans held-for-sale (b)

   $ 7,422       $ 74       $ 7,496       $ 11,047       $ 364       $ 11,411   
                                                     

 

(a) Fair value option-elected domestic consumer mortgages were $2.9 billion and $6.4 billion at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively. Refer to Note 21 for additional information.

 

(b) Totals are net of unamortized premiums and discounts and deferred fees and costs of $243 million and $161 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

The following table summarizes held-for-sale mortgage loans reported at carrying value by higher-risk loan type.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     ($ in millions)  

High original loan-to-value (greater than 100%) mortgage loans

   $ 323       $ 331   

Payment-option adjustable-rate mortgage loans

     16         16   

Interest-only mortgage loans

     430         481   

Below-market rate (teaser) mortgages

     134         151   
                 

Total (a)

   $ 903       $ 979   
                 

 

(a) The majority of these loans are held by our Mortgage Legacy Portfolio and Other operations at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

8. Finance Receivables and Loans, Net

The composition of finance receivables and loans, net, reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses was as follows.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     Domestic      Foreign      Total      Domestic      Foreign      Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer automobile

   $ 39,903       $ 16,965       $ 56,868       $ 34,604       $ 16,650       $ 51,254   

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

     6,893         328         7,221         6,917         390         7,307   

Home equity

     3,347                 3,347         3,441                 3,441   
                                                     

Total consumer mortgage

     10,240         328         10,568         10,358         390         10,748   

Commercial

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Automobile

     24,716         9,222         33,938         24,944         8,398         33,342   

Mortgage

     820         40         860         1,540         41         1,581   

Other

     1,596         295         1,891         1,795         312         2,107   

Commercial real estate

                 

Automobile

     2,090         220         2,310         2,071         216         2,287   

Mortgage

             53         53         1         78         79   

Total commercial

     29,222         9,830         39,052         30,351         9,045         39,396   

Loans at fair value (a)

     645         326         971         663         352         1,015   
                                                     

Total finance receivables and loans (b)

   $ 80,010       $ 27,449       $ 107,459       $ 75,976       $ 26,437       $ 102,413   
                                                     

 

(a) Includes domestic consumer mortgages at fair value as a result of fair value option election. Refer to Note 21 for additional information.
(b) Totals are net of unearned income, unamortized premiums and discounts, and deferred fees and costs of $2.9 billion at both March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The following tables present an analysis of the activity in the allowance for loan losses on finance receivables and loans.

 

     Consumer
automobile
    Consumer
mortgage
    Commercial     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Allowance at January 1, 2011

   $ 970      $ 580      $ 323      $ 1,873   

Charge-offs

        

Domestic

     (139     (60     (6     (205

Foreign

     (42            (31     (73
                                

Total charge-offs

     (181     (60     (37     (278
                                

Recoveries

        

Domestic

     50        3        6        59   

Foreign

     19               11        30   
                                

Total recoveries

     69        3        17        89   
                                

Net charge-offs

     (112     (57     (20     (189

Provision for loan losses

     53        40        20        113   

Other

     5               4        9   
                                

Allowance at March 31, 2011

   $ 916      $ 563      $ 327      $ 1,806   
                                

Allowance for loan losses

        

Individually evaluated for impairment

   $      $ 98      $ 103      $ 201   

Collectively evaluated for impairment

     900        465        224        1,589   

Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality

     16                      16   

Finance receivables and loans at historical cost

        

Ending balance

     56,868        10,568        39,052        106,488   

Individually evaluated for impairment

            529        1,164        1,693   

Collectively evaluated for impairment

     56,724        10,039        37,888        104,651   

Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality

     144                      144   

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

     Consumer
automobile
    Consumer
mortgage
    Commercial     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Allowance at January 1, 2010

   $ 1,024      $ 640      $ 781      $ 2,445   

Cumulative effect of change in accounting principles (a)

     222                      222   

Charge-offs

        

Domestic

     (289     (32     (61     (382

Foreign

     (56     (2     (4     (62
                                

Total charge-offs

     (345     (34     (65     (444
                                

Recoveries

        

Domestic

     105        4        4        113   

Foreign

     15                      15   
                                

Total recoveries

     120        4        4        128   
                                

Net charge-offs

     (225     (30     (61     (316

Provision for loan losses

     108        18        18        144   

Discontinued operations

     2        (1            1   

Other

     (11     7        (12     (16
                                

Allowance at March 31, 2010

   $ 1,120      $ 634      $ 726      $ 2,480   
                                

Allowance for loan losses

        

Individually evaluated for impairment

   $      $ 94      $ 434      $ 528   

Collectively evaluated for impairment

     1,090        540        292        1,922   

Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality

     30                      30   

Finance receivables and loans at historical cost

        

Ending balance

     38,114        11,242        37,112        86,468   

Individually evaluated for impairment

            336        1,852        2,188   

Collectively evaluated for impairment

     37,865        10,906        35,260        84,031   

Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality

     249                      249   

 

(a) Effect of change in accounting principle due to adoption of ASU 2009-17.

Loans are considered impaired when we determine it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the terms of the loan agreement.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The following table presents information about our impaired finance receivables and loans.

 

      Unpaid
principal
balance
     Carrying
value before
allowance
     Impaired
with no
allowance
     Impaired
with an
allowance
     Allowance
for

impaired
loans
 
     ($ in millions)  

March 31, 2011

              

Consumer mortgage

              

1st Mortgage

   $ 446       $ 440       $       $ 440       $ 55   

Home equity

     88         89                 89         42   
                                            

Total consumer mortgage

     534         529                 529         97   

Commercial

              

Commercial and industrial

              

Automobile

     333         333         35         298         16   

Mortgage

     43         43         3         40         15   

Other

     122         119         21         98         39   

Commercial real estate

              

Automobile

     150         150         78         72         31   

Mortgage

     49         49         13         36         2   
                                            

Total commercial

     697         694         150         544         103   
                                            

Total consumer and commercial

   $ 1,231       $ 1,223       $ 150       $ 1,073       $ 200   
                                            

December 31, 2010

              

Consumer mortgage

              

1st Mortgage

   $ 410       $ 404       $       $ 404       $ 59   

Home equity

     82         83                 83         40   
                                            

Total consumer mortgage

     492         487                 487         99   

Commercial

              

Commercial and industrial

              

Automobile

     340         356         33         323         23   

Mortgage

     44         40                 40         14   

Other

     135         133         20         113         51   

Commercial real estate

              

Automobile

     206         197         108         89         29   

Mortgage

     71         71         28         43         10   
                                            

Total commercial

     796         797         189         608         127   
                                            

Total consumer and commercial

   $ 1,288       $ 1,284       $ 189       $ 1,095       $ 226   
                                            

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The following table presents average balance and interest income for our impaired finance receivables and loans.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2011      2010  
     Average
balance
     Interest
income
     Average
balance
     Interest
income
 
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer mortgage

           

1st Mortgage

   $ 423       $ 4       $ 247       $ 2   

Home equity

     85         1         43         1   
                                   

Total consumer mortgage

     508         5         290         3   

Commercial

           

Commercial and industrial

           

Automobile

     336                 414           

Mortgage

     42         5                   

Other

     128                 961           

Commercial real estate

           

Automobile

     178                 284           

Mortgage

     63         1         256         1   
                                   

Total commercial

     747         7         1,915         1   
                                   

Total consumer and commercial

   $ 1,255       $ 12       $ 2,205       $ 4   
                                   

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

At March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, commercial commitments to lend additional funds to debtors owing receivables whose terms had been modified in a troubled debt restructuring were $11 million and $15 million, respectively.

The following table presents an analysis of our past due finance receivables and loans.

 

     30-59 days
past due
     60-89 days
past due
     90 days
or more
past due
     Total
past due
     Current      Total
finance  receivables
and loans
 
     ($ in millions)  

March 31, 2011

                 

Consumer automobile

   $ 688       $ 129       $ 176       $ 993       $ 55,875       $ 56,868   

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

     110         57         185         352         6,869         7,221   

Home equity

     20         9         11         40         3,307         3,347   
                                                     

Total consumer mortgage

     130         66         196         392         10,176         10,568   

Commercial

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Automobile

             3         57         60         33,878         33,938   

Mortgage

     3                 40         43         817         860   

Other

                     6         6         1,885         1,891   

Commercial real estate

                 

Automobile

     2                 64         66         2,244         2,310   

Mortgage

                     49         49         4         53   
                                                     

Total commercial

     5         3         216         224         38,828         39,052   
                                                     

Total consumer and commercial

   $ 823       $ 198       $ 588       $ 1,609       $ 104,879       $ 106,488   
                                                     

December 31, 2010

                 

Consumer automobile

   $ 828       $ 175       $ 197       $ 1,200       $ 50,054       $ 51,254   

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

     115         67         205         387         6,920         7,307   

Home equity

     20         12         13         45         3,396         3,441   
                                                     

Total consumer mortgage

     135         79         218         432         10,316         10,748   

Commercial

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Automobile

     21         19         85         125         33,217         33,342   

Mortgage

             36         4         40         1,541         1,581   

Other

                     20         20         2,087         2,107   

Commercial real estate

                 

Automobile

             4         78         82         2,205         2,287   

Mortgage

                     71         71         8         79   
                                                     

Total commercial

     21         59         258         338         39,058         39,396   
                                                     

Total consumer and commercial

   $ 984       $ 313       $ 673       $ 1,970       $ 99,428       $ 101,398   
                                                     

 

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Table of Contents

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The following table presents the carrying amount of our finance receivables and loans on nonaccrual status.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer automobile

   $ 187       $ 207   

Consumer mortgage

     

1st Mortgage

     367         500   

Home equity

     45         61   
                 

Total consumer mortgage

     412         561   

Commercial

     

Commercial and industrial

     

Automobile

     284         296   

Mortgage

     43         40   

Other

     119         134   

Commercial real estate

     

Automobile

     150         199   

Mortgage

     49         71   
                 

Total commercial

     645         740   
                 

Total consumer and commercial

   $ 1,244       $ 1,508   
                 

Management performs a quarterly analysis of the consumer automobile, consumer mortgage, and commercial portfolios using a range of credit quality indicators to assess the adequacy of the allowance based on historical and current trends. The tables below present select credit quality indicators that are used in the determination of allowance for our consumer automobile, consumer mortgage, and commercial portfolios.

The following table presents performing and nonperforming credit quality indicators in accordance with our internal accounting policies for our consumer finance receivables and loans.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     Performing      Nonperforming      Total      Performing      Nonperforming      Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer automobile

   $ 56,681       $ 187       $ 56,868       $ 51,047       $ 207       $ 51,254   

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

     6,854         367         7,221         6,807         500         7,307   

Home equity

     3,302         45         3,347         3,380         61         3,441   
                                                     

Total consumer mortgage

   $ 10,156       $ 412       $ 10,568       $ 10,187       $ 561       $ 10,748   
                                                     

 

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Table of Contents

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The following table presents pass and criticized credit quality indicators based on regulatory definitions for our commercial finance receivables and loans.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     Pass      Criticized (a)      Total      Pass      Criticized (a)      Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Commercial

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Automobile

   $ 31,602       $ 2,336       $ 33,938       $ 31,254       $ 2,088       $ 33,342   

Mortgage

     804         56         860         1,504         77         1,581   

Other

     959         932         1,891         1,041         1,066         2,107   

Commercial real estate

                 

Automobile

     2,021         289         2,310         2,013         274         2,287   

Mortgage

     1         52         53                 79         79   
                                                     

Total commercial

   $ 35,387       $ 3,665       $ 39,052       $ 35,812       $ 3,584       $ 39,396   
                                                     

 

(a) Includes loans classified as special mention, substandard, or doubtful. These classifications are based on regulatory definitions and generally represent loans within our portfolio that are of higher default risk.

9. Investment in Operating Leases, Net

Investments in operating leases were as follows.

 

     March 31, 2011     December 31, 2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Vehicles and other equipment

   $ 12,355      $ 13,571   

Accumulated depreciation

     (3,457     (4,443
                

Investment in operating leases, net

   $ 8,898      $ 9,128   
                

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets includes remarketing gains and losses recognized on the sale of operating lease assets. The following summarizes the components of depreciation expense on operating lease assets.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
             2011                     2010          
     ($ in millions)  

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets (excluding remarketing gains)

   $ 403      $ 840   

Gross remarketing gains

     (118     (184
                

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

   $ 285      $ 656   
                

10. Securitizations and Variable Interest Entities

Overview

We are involved in several types of securitization and financing transactions that utilize special-purpose entities (SPEs). An SPE is an entity that is designed to fulfill a specified limited need of the sponsor. Our principal use of SPEs is to obtain liquidity and favorable capital treatment by securitizing certain of our financial assets.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The SPEs involved in securitization and other financing transactions are generally considered VIEs. VIEs are entities that have either a total equity investment that is insufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support or whose equity investors lack the ability to control the entity’s activities.

Securitizations

We provide a wide range of consumer and commercial automobile loans, operating leases, and mortgage loan products to a diverse customer base. We often securitize these loans and leases (which we collectively describe as loans or financial assets) through the use of securitization entities, which may or may not be consolidated on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. We securitize consumer and commercial automobile loans through private-label securitizations. We securitize consumer mortgage loans through either the GSEs or nonagency mortgages securitization. During the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, our consumer mortgage loans were primarily securitized through the GSEs.

In executing a securitization transaction, we typically sell pools of financial assets to a wholly owned, bankruptcy-remote SPE, which then transfers the financial assets to a separate, transaction-specific securitization entity for cash, servicing rights, and in some transactions, other retained interests. The securitization entity is funded through the issuance of beneficial interests in the securitized financial assets. The beneficial interests take the form of either notes or trust certificates, which are sold to investors and/or retained by us. These beneficial interests are collateralized by the transferred loans and entitle the investors to specified cash flows generated from the securitized loans. In the aggregate, these beneficial interests have the same average life as the transferred financial assets. In addition to providing a source of liquidity and cost-efficient funding, securitizing these financial assets also reduces our credit exposure to the borrowers beyond any economic interest we may retain. We securitize conforming residential mortgage loans through GSE securitizations and nonconforming mortgage loans through nonagency securitizations.

Each securitization is governed by various legal documents that limit and specify the activities of the securitization entity. The securitization entity is generally allowed to acquire the loans, to issue beneficial interests to investors to fund the acquisition of the loans, and to enter into derivatives or other yield maintenance contracts (e.g., bond insurance) to hedge or mitigate certain risks related to the financial assets or beneficial interests of the entity. Additionally, the securitization entity is required to service the assets it holds and the beneficial interests it issues. A servicer, who is generally us, is appointed pursuant to the underlying legal documents to perform these functions. Servicing functions include, but are not limited to, making certain payments of property taxes and insurance premiums, default and property maintenance payments, as well as advancing principal and interest payments before collecting them from individual borrowers. Our servicing responsibilities, which constitute continued involvement in the transferred financial assets, consist of primary servicing (i.e., servicing the underlying transferred financial assets) and/or master servicing (i.e., servicing the beneficial interests that result from the securitization transactions). Certain securitization entities also require the servicer to advance scheduled principal and interest payments due on the beneficial interests issued by the entity regardless of whether cash payments are received on the underlying transferred financial assets. Accordingly, we are required to provide these servicing advances when applicable. Refer to Note 11 for additional information regarding our servicing rights.

The GSEs provide a guarantee of the payment of principal and interest on the beneficial interests issued in securitizations. In private-label securitizations, cash flows from the assets initially transferred into the securitization entity represent the sole source for payment of distributions on the beneficial interests issued by the securitization entity and for payments to the parties that perform services for the securitization entity, such as the servicer or the trustee. In certain nonagency securitization transactions, a liquidity facility may exist to provide

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

temporary liquidity to the entity. The liquidity provider generally is reimbursed prior to other parties in subsequent distribution periods. Monoline insurance may also exist to cover certain shortfalls to certain investors in the beneficial interests issued by the securitization entity. As noted above, in certain nonagency securitizations, the servicer is required to advance scheduled principal and interest payments due on the beneficial interests regardless of whether cash payments are received on the underlying transferred financial assets. The servicer is allowed to reimburse itself for these servicing advances. Additionally, certain nonagency securitization transactions may allow for the acquisition of additional loans subsequent to the initial loan transfer. Principal collections on other loans and/or the issuance of new beneficial interests, such as variable funding notes, generally fund these loans; we are often contractually required to invest in these new interests.

We may retain beneficial interests in our nonagency securitizations, which may represent a form of significant continuing economic interest. These retained interests include, but are not limited to, senior or subordinate mortgage- or asset-backed securities, interest-only strips, principal-only strips, and residuals. Certain of these retained interests provide credit enhancement to the trust as they may absorb credit losses or other cash shortfalls. Additionally, the securitization agreements may require cash flows to be directed away from certain of our retained interests due to specific over-collateralization requirements, which may or may not be performance-driven.

We generally hold certain conditional repurchase options that allow us to repurchase assets from the securitization entity. The majority of the securitizations provide us, as servicer, with a call option that allows us to repurchase the remaining transferred financial assets or outstanding beneficial interests at our discretion once the asset pool reaches a predefined level, which represents the point where servicing becomes burdensome (a clean-up call option). The repurchase price is typically the par amount of the loans plus accrued interest. Additionally, we may hold other conditional repurchase options that allow us to repurchase a transferred financial asset if certain events outside our control are met. The typical conditional repurchase option is a delinquent loan repurchase option that gives us the option to purchase the loan or contract if it exceeds a certain prespecified delinquency level. We have complete discretion regarding when or if we will exercise these options, but generally, we would do so only when it is in our best interest.

Other than our customary representation and warranty provisions, these securitizations are nonrecourse to us, thereby transferring the risk of future credit losses to the extent the beneficial interests in the securitization entities are held by third parties. Our obligation to provide support is limited to the customary representation and warranty provisions. Representation and warranty provisions generally require us to repurchase loans or indemnify the investor for incurred losses to the extent it is determined that the loans were ineligible or were otherwise defective at the time of sale. Refer to Note 24 for detail on representation and warranty provisions. We did not provide any noncontractual financial support to any of these entities during the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010.

Other Variable Interest Entities

Servicer Advance Funding Entity

To assist in the financing of our servicer advance receivables, we formed an SPE that issues term notes to third-party investors that are collateralized by servicer advance receivables. These servicer advance receivables are transferred to the SPE and consist of delinquent principal and interest advances we made as servicer to various investors; property taxes and insurance premiums advanced to taxing authorities and insurance companies on behalf of borrowers; and amounts advanced for mortgages in foreclosure. The SPE funds the purchase of the receivables through financing obtained from the third-party investors and subordinated loans or

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

an equity contribution from our mortgage activities. This SPE is consolidated on our balance sheet at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010. The beneficial interest holder of this SPE does not have legal recourse to our general credit. We do not have a contractual obligation to provide any type of financial support in the future, nor have we provided noncontractual financial support to the entity during the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010.

Other

In 2010, we sold a portfolio of resort finance-backed receivables to a third party that financed the acquisition through an SPE. We provided seller financing for the purchase of these assets and also hold a contingent value right in the SPE, which were both recorded at fair value. We do not consolidate the SPE because we have no control over the activities of the SPE.

We have involvements with various other on-balance sheet, immaterial SPEs. Most of these SPEs are used for additional liquidity whereby we sell certain financial assets into the VIE and issue beneficial interests to third parties for cash.

We also provide long-term guarantee contracts to certain nonconsolidated affordable housing entities. Since we do not have control over the entities or the power to make decisions, we do not consolidate the entities and our involvement is limited to the guarantee.

Involvement with Variable Interest Entities

The determination of whether financial assets transferred by us to these VIEs (and related liabilities) are consolidated on our balance sheet (also referred to as on-balance sheet) or not consolidated on our balance sheet (also referred to as off-balance sheet) depends on the terms of the related transaction and our continuing involvement (if any) with the SPE. Subsequent to the adoption of ASU 2009-17 on January 1, 2010, we are deemed the primary beneficiary and therefore consolidate VIEs for which we have both (a) the power, through voting rights or similar rights, to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance, and (b) a variable interest (or variable interests) that (i) obligates us to absorb losses that could potentially be significant to the VIE and/or (ii) provides us the right to receive residual returns of the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. We determine whether we hold a significant variable interest in a VIE based on a consideration of both qualitative and quantitative factors regarding the nature, size, and form of our involvement with the VIE. We assess whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE on an ongoing basis.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Our involvement with consolidated and nonconsolidated VIEs in which we hold variable interests is presented below.

 

     Consolidated
involvement
with VIEs
    Assets of
nonconsolidated
VIEs (a)
    Maximum exposure to
loss  in nonconsolidated
VIEs
 
     ($ in millions)  

March 31, 2011

      

On-balance sheet variable interest entities

      

Consumer automobile

   $ 21,257       $      $   

Consumer mortgage — nonagency

     1,308                  

Commercial automobile

     17,886                  

Other

     976                  

Off-balance sheet variable interest entities

      

Consumer mortgage — Ginnie Mae

     2,889  (b)      42,007        42,007  (c) 

Consumer mortgage — CMHC

     103  (b)      4,751        103  (d) 

Consumer mortgage — nonagency

     186  (b)      5,232        5,232  (c) 

Consumer mortgage — other

            —  (e)      —  (e) 

Commercial other

     440  (f)      —  (g)      649    
                        

Total

   $ 45,045       $ 51,990      $ 47,991    
                        

December 31, 2010

      

On-balance sheet variable interest entities

      

Consumer automobile

   $ 20,064       $      $   

Consumer mortgage — nonagency

     1,397                  

Commercial automobile

     15,114                  

Other

     1,035                  

Off-balance sheet variable interest entities

      

Consumer mortgage — Ginnie Mae

     2,909  (b)      43,595        43,595  (c) 

Consumer mortgage — CMHC

     124  (b)      4,222        124  (d) 

Consumer mortgage — nonagency

     183  (b)      5,371        5,371  (c) 

Commercial other

     483  (f)      —  (g)      698    
                        

Total

   $ 41,309       $ 53,188      $ 49,788    
                        

 

(a) Asset values represent the current unpaid principal balance of outstanding consumer finance receivables and loans within the VIEs.

 

(b) Includes $2.4 billion and $2.5 billion classified as mortgage loans held-for-sale, $138 million and $162 million classified as trading securities or other assets, and $621 million and $569 million classified as MSRs at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively. CMHC is the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

 

(c) Maximum exposure to loss represents the current unpaid principal balance of outstanding loans based on our customary representation and warranty provisions. This measure is based on the unlikely event that all of the loans have underwriting defects or other defects that trigger a representation and warranty provision and the collateral supporting the loans are worthless. This required disclosure is not an indication of our expected loss.

 

(d)

Due to combination of the credit loss insurance on the mortgages and the guarantee by CMHC on the issued securities, the maximum exposure to loss would be limited to the amount of the retained interests.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

 

Additionally, the maximum loss would occur only in the event that CMHC dismisses ResMor as servicer of the loans due to servicer performance or insolvency.

 

(e) Includes a VIE for which we have no management oversight and therefore we are not able to provide the total assets of the VIE. However, in March 2011 we sold excess servicing rights valued at $266 million to the VIE. Our maximum exposure to loss in this VIE is a component of servicer advances made that are allocated to the trust. No servicer advances have been made to the trust at March 31, 2011, and the amount of maximum exposure does not consider advances that may be made in future periods, as they cannot be reliably predicted.

 

(f) Includes $472 million and $515 million classified as finance receivables and loans, net, and $20 million and $20 million classified as other assets, offset by $52 million and $52 million classified as accrued expenses and other liabilities at March 31, 2010, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

(g) Includes VIEs for which we have no management oversight and therefore we are not able to provide the total assets of the VIEs. However, in 2010 we sold loans with an unpaid principal balance of $1.5 billion into these VIEs.

On-balance Sheet Variable Interest Entities

We engage in securitization and other financing transactions that do not qualify for off-balance sheet treatment. In these situations, we hold beneficial interests or other interests in the VIE, which represent a form of significant continuing economic interest. The interests held include, but are not limited to, senior or subordinate mortgage- or asset-backed securities, interest-only strips, principal-only strips, residuals, and servicing rights. Certain of these retained interests provide credit enhancement to the securitization entity as they may absorb credit losses or other cash shortfalls. Additionally, the securitization documents may require cash flows to be directed away from certain of our retained interests due to specific over-collateralization requirements, which may or may not be performance-driven. Because these securitization entities are consolidated, these retained interests and servicing rights are not recognized as separate assets on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Subsequent to adoption of ASU 2009-17 as of January 1, 2010, we consolidated certain of these entities because we had a controlling financial interest in the VIE, primarily due to our servicing activities, and because we hold a significant variable interest in the VIE. Under ASC 810, as amended by ASU 2009-17, we are generally the primary beneficiary of automobile securitization entities, as well as certain mortgage nonagency securitization entities for which we perform servicing activities and have retained a significant variable interest in the form of a beneficial interest. In cases where we did not meet sale accounting under previous guidance, unless we have made modifications to the overall transaction, we do not meet sale accounting under current guidance as we are not permitted to revisit sale accounting guidelines under the current guidance. In cases where substantive modifications are made, we then reassess the transaction under the amended guidance, based on the new circumstances.

The consolidated VIEs included in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet represent separate entities with which we are involved. The third-party investors in the obligations of consolidated VIEs have legal recourse only to the assets of the VIEs and do not have such recourse to us, except for the customary representation and warranty provisions or when we are the counterparty to certain derivative transactions involving the VIE. In addition, the cash flows from the assets are restricted only to pay such liabilities. Thus, our economic exposure to loss from outstanding third-party financing related to consolidated VIEs is significantly less than the carrying

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

value of the consolidated VIE assets. All assets are restricted for the benefit of the beneficial interest holders. Refer to Note 21 for discussion of the assets and liabilities for which the fair value option has been elected.

Off-balance Sheet Variable Interest Entities

The nature, purpose, and activities of nonconsolidated securitization entities are similar to those of our consolidated securitization entities with the primary difference being the nature and extent of our continuing involvement. The cash flows from the assets of nonconsolidated securitization entities generally are the sole source of payment on the securitization entities’ liabilities. The creditors of these securitization entities have no recourse to us with the exception of market customary representation and warranty provisions as described in Note 24.

Subsequent to the adoption of ASU 2009-17 as of January 1, 2010, nonconsolidated VIEs include entities for which we either do not hold significant variable interests or do not provide servicing or asset management functions for the financial assets held by the securitization entity. Additionally, to qualify for off-balance sheet treatment, transfers of financial assets must meet the sale accounting conditions in ASC 860. Our residential mortgage loan securitizations consist of GSEs and nonagency securitizations. Under ASU 2009-17, we are not the primary beneficiary of any GSE loan securitization transaction because we do not have the power to direct the significant activities of such entities. Additionally, under ASU 2009-17, we do not consolidate certain nonagency mortgage securitizations because we do not have a variable interest that could potentially be significant or we do not have power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the performance of the VIE.

For nonconsolidated securitization entities, the transferred financial assets are removed from our balance sheet provided the conditions for sale accounting are met. The financial assets obtained from the securitization are primarily reported as cash, servicing rights, or retained interests (if applicable). Typically, we conclude that the fee we are paid for servicing consumer automobile finance receivables represents adequate compensation, and consequently, we do not recognize a servicing asset or liability. As an accounting policy election, we elected fair value treatment for our existing MSR portfolio. Liabilities incurred as part of these securitization transactions, such as representation and warranty provisions, are recorded at fair value at the time of sale and are reported as accrued expenses and other liabilities on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. Upon the sale of the loans, we recognize a gain or loss on sale for the difference between the assets recognized, the assets derecognized, and the liabilities recognized as part of the transaction.

The following summarizes all pretax gains and losses recognized on financial assets sold into nonconsolidated securitization and similar asset-backed financing entities.

 

     Three months
ended March 31,
 
       2011         2010    
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer mortgage — GSEs

   $ (3   $ 182   

Consumer mortgage — nonagency

     (1     3   
                

Total pretax (loss) gain

   $ (4   $ 185   
                

The following table summarizes cash flows received from and paid related to securitization entities, asset-backed financings, or other similar transfers of financial assets where the transfer is accounted for as a sale and we have a continuing involvement with the transferred assets (e.g., servicing) that were outstanding during the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010. Additionally, this table contains information regarding cash flows received from and paid to nonconsolidated securitization entities that existed during each period.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Three months ended March 31,

   Consumer  mortgage
GSEs
    Consumer  mortgage
nonagency
 
     ($ in millions)  

2011

    

Cash proceeds from transfers completed during the period

   $ 15,153      $ 595   

Cash flows received on retained interests in securitization entities

            20   

Servicing fees

     220        43   

Purchases of previously transferred financial assets

     (554     (7

Representations and warranties obligations

     (44       

Other cash flows

     70        62   

2010

    

Cash proceeds from transfers completed during the period

   $ 14,497      $ 200   

Cash flows received on retained interests in securitization entities

            17   

Servicing fees

     192        51   

Purchases of previously transferred financial assets

     (407     (8

Representations and warranties obligations

     (148     (1

Other cash flows

     11        (2

For consumer mortgage nonagency transactions, the following table summarizes the key economic assumptions and the sensitivity of the fair value of retained interests to immediate 10% and 20% adverse changes in those assumptions.

 

    March 31, 2011 (a)   December 31, 2010 (a)
    ($ in millions)

Carrying value / fair value of retained interests (b)

  $138   $162

Weighted average life (in years)

  1.9–7.8   0.1–11.6

Annual prepayment rate

  2.2–64.8%WAM   2.4–48.1%WAM

Impact of 10% adverse change

  $—   $(2)

Impact of 20% adverse change

    —   (3)

Loss assumption (c)

  0.0–46.2%   0.0–46.4%

Impact of 10% adverse change

  $—   $—

Impact of 20% adverse change

    —   —  

Discount rate

  4.0–80.0%   0.3–80.0%

Impact of 10% adverse change

  $(3)   $(2)

Impact of 20% adverse change

  (5)   (4)

Market interest rate

  0.3–3.2%   0.3–4.1%

Impact of 10% adverse change

  $—   $—

Impact of 20% adverse change

    —   (1)

 

(a) There were no retained interests in consumer or commercial automobile off-balance sheet securitizations at March 31, 2011, or December 31, 2010.

 

(b) These amounts are recorded in trading securities or other assets at fair value. Refer to Note 21 for fair value valuation methods.

 

(c) The range of loss assumptions includes the constant prepayment rate related to balloon resets.

These sensitivities are hypothetical and should be viewed with caution. Changes in fair value based on a 10% and 20% variation in assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

assumption to the change in fair value may not be linear. Also, in this table, the effect of a variation in a particular assumption on the fair value of the retained interest is calculated without changing any other assumption. In reality, changes in one factor may result in changes in another (e.g., increased market interest rates may result in lower prepayments and increased credit losses), which may magnify or counteract the sensitivities. Further, these sensitivities show only the change in the asset balances and do not show any expected change in the fair value of the instruments used to manage the interest rate and prepayment risks associated with these assets. Refer to Note 11 for further detail on sensitivities related to our mortgage servicing rights.The following table represents on-balance sheet loans held-for-sale and finance receivable and loans, off-balance sheet securitizations, and whole-loan sales where we have continuing involvement. The table presents quantitative information about delinquencies and net credit losses. Refer to Note 11 for further detail on total serviced assets.

 

     Total finance
receivables and loans
     Amount 60 days
or more past due
     Net credit losses  
           Three months ended  
     March 31,
2011
     December 31,
2010
     March 31,
2011
     December 31,
2010
     March 31,
2011
     March 31,
2010
 
     ($ in millions)  

On-balance sheet loans

                 

Consumer automobile

   $ 56,868       $ 51,254       $ 305       $ 373       $ 112       $ 239   

Consumer mortgage (a)

     19,029         23,174         3,305         3,437         94         68   

Commercial automobile

     36,248         35,629         124         186         3         17   

Commercial mortgage

     913         1,660         89         110         16         41   

Commercial other

     1,897         2,107         6         20         1         3   
                                                     

Total on-balance sheet loans

     114,955         113,824         3,829         4,126         226         368   
                                                     

Off-balance sheet securitization entities

                 

Consumer mortgage — GSEs (b)

     256,210         253,192         11,524         13,990         n/m         n/m   

Consumer mortgage — nonagency

     73,434         73,638         11,976         12,220         1,289         1,380   
                                                     

Total off-balance sheet securitization entities

     329,644         326,830         23,500         26,210         1,289         1,380   
                                                     

Whole-loan transactions (c)

     36,337         38,212         2,538         2,950         215         349   
                                                     

Total

   $ 480,936       $ 478,866       $ 29,867       $ 33,286       $ 1,730       $ 2,097   
                                                     

 

n/m = not meaningful

(a) Includes loans subject to conditional repurchase options of $2.3 billion and $2.3 billion guaranteed by the GSEs, and $136 million and $146 million sold to certain nonagency mortgage securitization entities at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

(b) Anticipated credit losses are not meaningful due to the GSE guarantees.

 

(c) Whole-loan transactions are not part of a securitization transaction, but represent consumer automobile and consumer mortgage pools of loans sold to nonagency investors.

Changes in Accounting for Variable Interest Entities

For the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, there were no material changes in the accounting for variable interest entities except the initial adoption of ASU 2009-17 on January 1, 2010. Refer to Note 11 to our Consolidated Financial Statements regarding this initial adoption.

 

 

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Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

11. Servicing Activities

Mortgage Servicing Rights

The following table summarizes activity related to MSRs, which are carried at fair value.

 

     Three months
ended

March 31,
 
     2011     2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Estimated fair value at January 1,

   $ 3,738      $ 3,554   

Additions recognized on sale of mortgage loans

     184        202   

Additions from purchases of servicing rights

     2        1   

Subtractions from disposition of servicing assets

     (266       

Changes in fair value

    

Due to changes in valuation inputs or assumptions used in the valuation model

     297        49   

Other changes in fair value

     (181     (244

Decrease due to change in accounting principle

            (19
                

Estimated fair value at March 31,

   $ 3,774      $ 3,543   
                

Changes in fair value due to changes in valuation inputs or assumptions used in the valuation model include all changes due to a revaluation by a model or by a benchmarking exercise. Other changes in fair value primarily include the accretion of the present value of the discount related to forecasted cash flows and the economic runoff of the portfolio. The decrease due to change in accounting principle reflects the effect of the initial adoption of ASU 2009-17.

The key economic assumptions and sensitivity of the fair value of MSRs to immediate 10% and 20% adverse changes in those assumptions were as follows.

 

     March 31, 2011     December 31, 2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Weighted average life (in years)

     7.2        7.0   

Weighted average prepayment speed

     9.4     9.8

Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change

   $ (149   $ (155

Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change

     (287     (295

Weighted average discount rate

     10.7     12.3

Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change

   $ (57   $ (80

Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change

     (112     (156

These sensitivities are hypothetical and should be considered with caution. Changes in fair value based on a 10% and 20% variation in assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in assumptions to the change in fair value may not be linear. Also, the effect of a variation in a particular assumption on the fair value is calculated without changing any other assumption. In reality, changes in one factor may result in changes in another (e.g., increased market interest rates may result in lower prepayments and increased credit losses) that could magnify or counteract the sensitivities. Further, these sensitivities show only the change in the asset balances and do not show any expected change in the fair value of the instruments used to manage the interest rates and prepayment risks associated with these assets.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Risk Mitigation Activities

The primary risk of our servicing rights is interest rate risk and the resulting impact on prepayments. A significant decline in interest rates could lead to higher-than-expected prepayments that could reduce the value of the MSRs. We economically hedge the impact of these risks with both derivative and nonderivative financial instruments. Refer to Note 19 for additional information regarding the derivative financial instruments used to economically hedge MSRs.

The components of servicing valuation and hedge activities, net, were as follows.

 

     Three months
ended
March 31,
 
     2011     2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Change in estimated fair value of mortgage servicing rights

   $ 117      $ (196

Change in fair value of derivative financial instruments

     (204     63   
                

Servicing valuation and hedge activities, net

   $ (87   $ (133
                

Mortgage Servicing Fees

The components of mortgage servicing fees were as follows.

 

     Three months
ended
March 31,
 
     2011      2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Contractual servicing fees, net of guarantee fees and including subservicing

   $ 270       $ 257   

Late fees

     21         20   

Ancillary fees

     34         47   
                 

Total mortgage servicing fees

   $ 325       $ 324   
                 

Mortgage Servicing Advances

In connection with our primary servicing activities (i.e., servicing of mortgage loans), we make certain payments of property taxes and insurance premiums, default and property maintenance payments, as well as advances of principal and interest payments before collecting them from individual borrowers. Servicing advances including contractual interest are priority cash flows in the event of a loan principal reduction or foreclosure and ultimate liquidation of the real estate-owned property, thus making their collection reasonably assured. These servicing advances are included in other assets on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet and totaled $1.8 billion and $1.9 billion at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively. We maintain an allowance for uncollected primary servicing advances of $20 million and $25 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively. Our potential obligation is influenced by the loan’s performance and credit quality.

When we act as a subservicer of mortgage loans we perform the responsibilities of a primary servicer but do not own the corresponding primary servicing rights. We receive a fee from the primary servicer for such services.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

As the subservicer, we would have the same responsibilities of a primary servicer in that we would make certain payments of property taxes and insurance premiums, default and property maintenance, as well as advances of principal and interest payments before collecting them from individual borrowers. At March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, outstanding servicer advances related to subserviced loans were $135 million and $140 million, respectively, and we had a reserve for uncollected subservicer advances of $2 million and $1 million, respectively.

In many cases, where we act as master servicer, we also act as primary servicer. In connection with our master-servicing activities, we service the mortgage-backed and mortgage-related asset-backed securities and whole-loan packages sold to investors. As the master servicer, we collect mortgage loan payments from primary servicers and distribute those funds to investors in the mortgage-backed and mortgage-related asset-backed securities and whole-loan packages. As the master servicer, we are required to advance scheduled payments to the securitization trust or whole-loan investors. To the extent the primary servicer does not advance the payments, we are responsible for advancing the payment to the trust or whole-loan investors. Master-servicing advances, including contractual interest, are priority cash flows in the event of a default, thus making their collection reasonably assured. In most cases, we are required to advance these payments to the point of liquidation of the loan or reimbursement of the trust or whole-loan investors. We had outstanding master-servicing advances of $78 million and $90 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively. We had no reserve for uncollected master-servicing advances at March 31, 2011, or December 31, 2010.

Serviced Mortgage Assets

The unpaid principal balance of our serviced mortgage assets was as follows.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     ($ in millions)  

On-balance sheet mortgage loans

     

Held-for-sale and investment

   $ 18,586       $ 20,224   

Off-balance sheet mortgage loans

     

Loans sold to third-party investors

     

Nonagency

     61,450         63,685   

GSEs

     258,351         255,388   

Whole-loan

     17,547         17,524   

Purchased servicing rights

     3,748         3,946   
                 

Total primary serviced mortgage loans

     359,682         360,767   

Subserviced mortgage loans

     23,386         24,173   

Master-servicing-only mortgage loans

     10,044         10,548   
                 

Total serviced mortgage loans

   $ 393,112       $ 395,488   
                 

Our Mortgage operations that conduct primary and master-servicing activities are required to maintain certain servicer ratings in accordance with master agreements entered into with GSEs. At March 31, 2011, our Mortgage operations were in compliance with the servicer-rating requirements of the master agreements.

In certain domestic securitizations of our Mortgage operations, the surety or other provider of contractual credit support is entitled to declare a servicer default and terminate the servicer upon the failure of the loans to meet certain portfolio delinquency and/or cumulative-loss thresholds. Our Mortgage operations did not receive notice of termination from surety providers during the three months ended March 31, 2011 or 2010.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Automobile Servicing Activities

We service consumer automobile contracts. Historically, we have sold a portion of our consumer automobile contracts. With respect to contracts we sell, we retain the right to service and earn a servicing fee for our servicing function. Typically, we conclude that the fee we are paid for servicing consumer automobile finance receivables represents adequate compensation, and consequently, we do not recognize a servicing asset or liability. We recognized automobile servicing fees of $46 million and $61 million during the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Automobile Serviced Assets

The total serviced automobile loans outstanding were as follows.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     ($ in millions)  

On-balance sheet automobile loans

     

Consumer automobile

   $ 56,868       $ 51,254   

Commercial automobile

     36,248         35,629   

Operating leases

     8,898         9,128   

Operations held-for-sale

     19         242   

Off-balance sheet automobile loans

     

Loans sold to third-party investors

     

Whole-loan

     15,852         18,126   

Other

     1,095         979   
                 

Total serviced automobile loans

   $ 118,980       $ 115,358   
                 

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

12. Other Assets

The components of other assets were as follows.

 

     March 31, 2011     December 31, 2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Property and equipment at cost

   $ 1,330      $ 1,315   

Accumulated depreciation

     (953     (939
                

Net property and equipment

     377        376   

Fair value of derivative contracts in receivable position

     3,380        3,966   

Servicer advances

     2,067        2,137   

Restricted cash collections for securitization trusts (a)

     1,470        1,705   

Collateral placed with counterparties

     1,230        1,569   

Restricted cash and cash equivalents

     1,200        1,323   

Cash reserve deposits held for securitization trusts (b)

     1,168        1,168   

Other accounts receivable

     867        641   

Debt issuance costs

     750        704   

Prepaid expenses and deposits

     734        638   

Interests retained in financial asset sales

     569        568   

Goodwill

     526        525   

Nonmarketable equity securities

     479        504   

Investment in used vehicles held-for-sale

     429        386   

Real estate and other investments

     316        280   

Accrued interest and rent receivable

     222        238   

Repossessed and foreclosed assets

     185        211   

Other assets

     794        625   
                

Total other assets

   $ 16,763      $ 17,564   
                

 

(a) Represents cash collection from customer payments on securitized receivables. These funds are distributed to investors as payments on the related secured debt.

 

(b) Represents credit enhancement in the form of cash reserves for various securitization transactions.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

13. Deposit Liabilities

Deposit liabilities consisted of the following.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Domestic deposits

     

Noninterest-bearing deposits

   $ 2,064       $ 2,108   

NOW and money market checking accounts

     8,254         8,081   

Certificates of deposit

     25,051         23,728   

Dealer deposits

     1,591         1,459   
                 

Total domestic deposit liabilities

     36,960         35,376   
                 

Foreign deposits

     

Noninterest-bearing deposits

             23   

NOW and money market checking accounts

     1,092         961   

Certificates of deposit

     2,325         2,390   

Dealer deposits

     319         298   
                 

Total foreign deposit liabilities

     3,736         3,672   
                 

Total deposit liabilities

   $ 40,696       $ 39,048   
                 

Noninterest-bearing deposits primarily represent third-party escrows associated with our mortgage loan-servicing portfolio. The escrow deposits are not subject to an executed agreement and can be withdrawn without penalty at any time. At March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, certificates of deposit included $7.9 billion and $7.0 billion, respectively, of domestic certificates of deposit in denominations of $100 thousand or more.

14. Short-term Borrowings

The following table presents the composition of our short-term borrowings portfolio.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     Unsecured      Secured      Total      Unsecured      Secured      Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Demand notes

   $ 2,345       $       $ 2,345       $ 2,033       $       $ 2,033   

Bank loans and overdrafts

     2,055                 2,055         1,970                 1,970   

Federal Home Loan Bank

             1,000         1,000                 1,300         1,300   

Other (a)

     216         1,779         1,995         224         1,981         2,205   
                                                     

Total short-term borrowings

   $ 4,616       $ 2,779       $ 7,395       $ 4,227       $ 3,281       $ 7,508   
                                                     

 

(a) Other primarily includes nonbank secured borrowings at our Mortgage and International Automotive Finance operations.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

15. Long-term Debt

The following tables present the composition of our long-term debt portfolio.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     Unsecured      Secured      Total      Unsecured      Secured      Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Long-term debt

                 

Due within one year 

   $ 7,672       $ 11,294       $ 18,966       $ 8,555       $ 13,603       $ 22,158   

Due after one year (a)

     39,745         29,189         68,934         38,499         25,508         64,007   

Fair value adjustment

     239                 239         447                 447   
                                                     

Total long-term debt (b)

   $ 47,656       $ 40,483       $ 88,139       $ 47,501       $ 39,111       $ 86,612   
                                                     

 

(a) Includes $7.4 billion guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) under the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (TLGP) and $2.6 billion of trust preferred securities at both March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010.

 

(b) Includes fair value option-elected secured long-term debt of $922 million and $972 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively. Refer to Note 21 for additional information.

The following table presents the scheduled remaining maturity of long-term debt at March 31, 2011, assuming no early redemptions will occur. The actual payment of secured debt may vary based on the payment activity of the related pledged assets.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2011     2012     2013     2014     2015     2016 and
thereafter
    Fair value
adjustment
     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Unsecured

                 

Long-term debt

   $ 7,093      $ 12,818      $ 1,892      $ 4,222      $ 3,719      $ 20,513      $ 239       $ 50,496   

Original issue discount

     (646     (350     (264     (190     (56     (1,334             (2,840
                                                                 

Total unsecured

     6,447        12,468        1,628        4,032        3,663        19,179        239         47,656   
                                                                 

Secured

                 

Long-term debt

     9,141        9,133        9,628        5,606        3,475        3,178                40,161   

Troubled debt restructuring concession (a)

     76        106        82        46        12                       322   
                                                                 

Total secured

     9,217        9,239        9,710        5,652        3,487        3,178                40,483   
                                                                 

Total long-term debt

   $ 15,664      $ 21,707      $ 11,338      $ 9,684      $ 7,150      $ 22,357      $ 239       $ 88,139   
                                                                 

 

(a) In the second quarter of 2008, ResCap executed an exchange offer that resulted in a concession being recognized as an adjustment to the carrying value of certain new secured notes. This concession is being amortized over the life of the new notes through a reduction to interest expense using an effective yield methodology.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The following table presents the scheduled remaining maturity of long-term debt held by ResCap at March 31, 2011, assuming no early redemptions will occur. The actual payment of secured debt may vary based on the payment activity of the related pledged assets.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2011      2012      2013      2014      2015      2016 and
thereafter
     Fair value
adjustment
     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

ResCap

                       

Unsecured debt

                       

Long-term debt

   $       $ 372       $ 530       $ 103       $ 113       $       $ 29       $ 1,147   

Original issue discount

                                                               
                                                                       

Total unsecured

             372         530         103         113                 29         1,147   
                                                                       

Secured debt

                       

Long-term debt

     7                 742         707         707         1,818                 3,981   

Troubled debt restructuring concession

     76         106         82         46         12                         322   
                                                                       

Total secured debt

     83         106         824         753         719         1,818                 4,303   
                                                                       

ResCap — Total long-term debt

   $ 83       $ 478       $ 1,354       $ 856       $ 832       $ 1,818       $ 29       $ 5,450   
                                                                       

The following summarizes assets restricted as collateral for the payment of the related debt obligation primarily arising from securitization transactions accounted for as secured borrowings and repurchase agreements.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     Total      Ally Bank (a)      Total      Ally Bank (a)  
     ($ in millions)  

Trading securities

   $ 32       $       $ 36       $   

Investment securities

     2,359         2,358         2,191         2,190   

Loans held-for-sale

     978                 1,035           

Mortgage assets held-for-investment and lending receivables

     11,522         10,323         12,451         11,137   

Consumer automobile finance receivables

     30,352         16,515         27,164         14,927   

Commercial automobile finance receivables

     17,515         11,340         19,741         15,034   

Investment in operating leases, net

     2,423         653         3,199           

Mortgage servicing rights

     2,871         1,728         2,801         1,746   

Other assets

     3,770         1,525         3,990         1,700   
                                   

Total assets restricted as collateral (b)

   $ 71,822       $ 44,442       $ 72,608       $ 46,734   
                                   

Secured debt (c)

   $ 43,262       $ 21,796       $ 42,392       $ 20,199   
                                   

 

(a) Ally Bank is a component of the total column.

 

(b)

Ally Bank has an advance agreement with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (FHLB) and access to the Federal Reserve Bank Discount Window. Ally Bank had assets pledged and restricted as collateral to the FHLB and Federal Reserve Bank totaling $11.8 billion and $15.2 billion at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively. These assets were composed of consumer and commercial mortgage finance receivables and loans, net; consumer automobile finance receivables and loans, net; and investment securities. Under the agreement with the FHLB, Ally Bank also had assets pledged as collateral under a

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

 

blanket lien totaling $8.0 billion and $5.3 billion at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively. These assets were primarily composed of mortgage servicing rights; consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net; and other assets. Availability under these programs is generally only for the operations of Ally Bank and cannot be used to fund the operations or liabilities of Ally or its subsidiaries.

 

(c) Includes $2,779 million and $3,281 million of short-term borrowings at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

Trust Preferred Securities

On December 30, 2009, we entered into a Securities Purchase and Exchange Agreement with Treasury and GMAC Capital Trust I, a Delaware statutory trust (the Trust), which is a finance subsidiary that is wholly owned by Ally. As part of the agreement, the Trust sold to Treasury 2,540,000 trust preferred securities (TRUPS) issued by the Trust with an aggregate liquidation preference of $2.5 billion. Additionally, we issued and sold to Treasury a ten-year warrant to purchase up to 127,000 additional TRUPS with an aggregate liquidation preference of $127 million, at an initial exercise price of $0.01 per security, which Treasury immediately exercised in full.

On March 1, 2011, the Declaration of Trust and certain other documents related to the TRUPS were amended and all the outstanding TRUPS held by Treasury were designated 8.125% Fixed Rate / Floating Rate Trust Preferred Securities, Series 2 (Series 2 TRUPS). On March 7, 2011, Treasury sold 100% of the Series 2 TRUPS in an offering registered with the SEC. Ally did not receive any proceeds from the sale.

Each Series 2 TRUPS security has a liquidation amount of $25. Distributions are cumulative and are payable until redemption at the applicable coupon rate. Distributions are payable at an annual rate of 8.125% payable quarterly in arrears, beginning August 15, 2011, to but excluding February 15, 2016. From and including February 15, 2016, to but excluding February 15, 2040, distributions will be payable at an annual rate equal to three-month London interbank offer rate plus 5.785% payable quarterly in arrears, beginning May 15, 2016. Ally has the right to defer payments of interest for a period not exceeding 20 consecutive quarters. The Series 2 TRUPS have no stated maturity date, but must be redeemed upon the redemption or maturity of the related debentures (Debentures), which mature on February 15, 2040. The Series 2 TRUPS are generally nonvoting, other than with respect to certain limited matters. During any period in which any Series 2 TRUPS remain outstanding but in which distributions on the Series 2 TRUPS have not been fully paid, none of Ally or its subsidiaries will be permitted to (i) declare or pay dividends on, make any distributions with respect to, or redeem, purchase, acquire or otherwise make a liquidation payment with respect to, any of Ally’s capital stock or make any guarantee payment with respect thereto; or (ii) make any payments of principal, interest, or premium on, or repay, repurchase or redeem, any debt securities or guarantees that rank on a parity with or junior in interest to the Debentures with certain specified exceptions in each case.

Funding Facilities

We utilize both committed and uncommitted credit facilities. The financial institutions providing the uncommitted facilities are not legally obligated to advance funds under them. The amounts outstanding under our various funding facilities are included on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.

As of March 31, 2011, Ally Bank had exclusive access to $8.8 billion of funding capacity from committed credit facilities. Ally Bank also has access to a $4.1 billion committed facility that is shared with the parent

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

company. Funding programs supported by the Federal Reserve and the FHLB complement Ally Bank’s private committed facilities.

The total capacity in our committed funding facilities is provided by banks through private transactions. The committed secured funding facilities can be revolving in nature and allow for additional funding during the commitment period, or they can be amortizing and do not allow for any further funding after the closing date. At March 31, 2011, $29.3 billion of our $32.1 billion of committed capacity was revolving. Many of our revolving facilities have a tenor of 364 days and are renewed annually, but recently, we have been able to establish $9.4 billion of committed funding capacity with a tenor greater than 364 days.

Committed Funding Facilities

 

     Outstanding      Unused capacity (a)      Total capacity  
     Mar. 31,
2011
     Dec. 31,
2010
     Mar. 31,
2011
     Dec. 31,
2010
     Mar. 31,
2011
     Dec. 31,
2010
 
     ($ in billions)  

Bank funding

                 

Secured

   $ 5.8       $ 6.4       $ 3.0       $ 1.9       $ 8.8       $ 8.3   

Nonbank funding

                 

Unsecured

                 

Automotive Finance operations

     0.8         0.8                         0.8         0.8   

Secured

                 

Automotive Finance operations and other

     8.1         8.3         8.9         9.1         17.0         17.4   

Mortgage operations

     1.1         1.0         0.3         0.6         1.4         1.6   
                                                     

Total nonbank funding

     10.0         10.1         9.2         9.7         19.2         19.8   
                                                     

Shared capacity (b)

     0.2         0.2         3.9         3.9         4.1         4.1   
                                                     

Total committed facilities

   $ 16.0       $ 16.7       $ 16.1       $ 15.5       $ 32.1       $ 32.2   
                                                     

 

(a) Funding from committed secured facilities is available on request in the event excess collateral resides in certain facilities or is available to the extent incremental collateral is available and contributed to the facilities.

 

(b) Funding is generally available for assets originated by Ally Bank or the parent company, Ally Financial Inc.

Uncommitted Funding Facilities

 

     Outstanding      Unused capacity      Total capacity  
     Mar. 31,
2011
     Dec. 31,
2010
     Mar. 31,
2011
     Dec. 31,
2010
     Mar. 31,
2011
     Dec. 31,
2010
 
     ($ in billions)  

Bank funding

                 

Secured

                 

Federal Reserve funding programs

   $       $       $ 5.7       $ 4.0       $ 5.7       $ 4.0   

FHLB advances

     4.8         5.3         0.8         0.2         5.6         5.5   
                                                     

Total bank funding

     4.8         5.3         6.5         4.2         11.3         9.5   
                                                     

Nonbank funding

                 

Unsecured

                 

Automotive Finance operations

     1.6         1.4         0.5         0.6         2.1         2.0   

Secured

                 

Automotive Finance operations

             0.1         0.1                 0.1         0.1   

Mortgage operations

                     0.1         0.1         0.1         0.1   
                                                     

Total nonbank funding

     1.6         1.5         0.7         0.7         2.3         2.2   
                                                     

Total uncommitted facilities

   $ 6.4       $ 6.8       $ 7.2       $ 4.9       $ 13.6       $ 11.7   
                                                     

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

16. Equity

The following table summarizes information about our Series F-2, Series A, and Series G preferred stock.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  

Mandatorily convertible preferred stock held by U.S. Department of Treasury (a)

     

Series F-2 preferred stock

     

Carrying value ($ in millions)

     $5,685         $5,685   

Par value (per share)

     $0.01         $0.01   

Liquidation preference (per share)

     $50         $50   

Number of share authorized

     228,750,000         228,750,000   

Number of shares issued and outstanding

     118,750,000         118,750,000   

Dividend/coupon

     Fixed 9%      

Redemption/call feature

     Perpetual (b)      

Preferred stock

     

Series A preferred stock (c)

     

Carrying value ($ in millions)

     $1,021         $1,053   

Par value (per share)

     $0.01         $0.01   

Liquidation preference (per share)

     $25         $1,000   

Number of share authorized

     160,870,560         4,021,764   

Number of shares issued and outstanding

     40,870,560         1,021,764   

Dividend/coupon

     

Prior to May 15, 2016

     8.5%      

On and after May 15, 2016

     LIBOR + 6.243%      

Redemption/call feature

     Perpetual (d)      

Series G preferred stock

     

Carrying value ($ in millions)

     $234         $234   

Par value (per share)

     $0.01         $0.01   

Liquidation preference (per share)

     $1,000         $1,000   

Number of share authorized

     2,576,601         2,576,601   

Number of shares issued and outstanding

     2,576,601         2,576,601   

Dividend/coupon

     Fixed 7%      

Redemption/call feature

     Perpetual (e)      

 

(a) Mandatorily convertible to common equity on December 30, 2016.
(b) Convertible prior to mandatory conversion date with consent of Treasury.
(c) Refer to next section of this note for a description of an amendment to the Series A preferred stock that occurred on March 25, 2011.
(d) Nonredeemable prior to May 15, 2016.
(e) Nonredeemable prior to December 31, 2011.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Series A Preferred Stock

On March 1, 2011, pursuant to a registration rights agreement between Ally and GM, GM notified Ally of its intent to sell shares of Ally’s existing Fixed Rate Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A (Existing Series A Preferred Stock), held by a subsidiary of GM. On March 25, 2011, Ally filed a Certificate of Amendment of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (the Amendment) with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. Pursuant to the Amendment, Ally’s Certificate of Incorporation, which included the terms of the Existing Series A Preferred Stock, was amended to modify certain terms of the Existing Series A Preferred Stock. As part of the Amendment, the Existing Series A Preferred Stock was redesignated as Ally’s Fixed Rate / Floating Rate Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A (the Amended Series A Preferred Stock) and the liquidation amount was reduced from $1,000 per share to $25 per share. The Amendment, and a corresponding amendment to Ally’s bylaws, also increased the authorized number of shares of Amended Series A Preferred Stock to 160,870,560 shares, which was adjusted to account for the decreased liquidation amount per share. The total number of shares outstanding following the Amendment is 40,870,560 shares.

Immediately following the Amendment, the subsidiary of GM that held all of the outstanding Amended Series A Preferred Stock sold 100% of such stock in an offering registered with the SEC. Ally did not receive any proceeds from the sale.

Holders of the Amended Series A Preferred Stock are entitled to receive, when, as and if declared by Ally, noncumulative cash dividends. Beginning March 25, 2011, to but excluding May 15, 2016, dividends accrue at a fixed rate of 8.500% per annum. Beginning on May 15, 2016, dividends will accrue at a rate equal to three-month London interbank offer rate (LIBOR) plus 6.243%, commencing on August 15, 2016, in each case on the 15th day of February, May, August, and November. Dividends will be payable to holders of record at the close of business on the preceding February 1, May 1, August 1, or November 1, as the case may be, or on such other date, not more than seventy calendar days prior to the dividend payment date, as will be fixed by the Ally Board of Directors. In the event that dividends with respect to a dividend period have not been paid in full on the dividend payment date, we will be prohibited, subject to certain specified exceptions, from (i) redeeming, purchasing or otherwise acquiring, any stock that ranks on a parity basis with, or junior in interest to, the Amended Series A Preferred Stock; (ii) paying any dividends or making any distributions with respect to any stock that ranks junior in interest to the Amended Series A Preferred Stock, until such time as Ally has paid the dividends payable on shares of the Amended Series A Preferred Stock with respect to a subsequent dividend period; and (iii) declaring or paying any dividend on any stock ranking on a parity basis with the Amended Series A Preferred Stock, subject to certain exceptions.

The holders of the Amended Series A Preferred Stock do not have voting rights other than those set forth in the certificate of designations for the Amended Series A Preferred Stock included in Ally’s Certificate of Incorporation. Ally may not redeem the Amended Series A Preferred Stock before May 15, 2016, and after such time the Amended Series A Preferred Stock may be redeemed in certain circumstances. In the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the affairs of Ally, holders of the Amended Series A Preferred Stock will be entitled to receive the liquidation amount per share of Amended Series A Preferred Stock and an amount equal to all declared, but unpaid dividends declared prior to the date of payment out of assets available for distribution, before any distribution is made for holders of stock that ranks junior in interest to the Amended Series A Preferred Stock, subject to the rights of Ally’s creditors.

The changes to the terms of the Existing Series A Preferred Stock pursuant to the terms of the Amendment were deemed substantive, and as a result, the transaction was accounted for as a redemption of the Existing Series A Preferred Stock and the issuance of the Amended Series A Preferred Stock. The Existing Series A Preferred Stock was removed at its carrying value, the Amended Series A Preferred Stock was recognized at its

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

fair value, and the difference of $32 million was recorded as an increase to retained earnings, which will impact the income available to common stockholders used for the earnings per common share calculation. Refer to Note 20 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for terms of the Series A Preferred Stock prior to the Amendment.

17. Earnings per Common Share

The following table presents the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per common share.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
           2011                 2010        
    

($ in millions, except

per share data)

 

Net income from continuing operations

   $ 170      $ 151   

Preferred stock dividends — U.S. Department of Treasury (a)

     (134     (386

Preferred stock dividends (a)

     (69     (116

Impact of preferred stock amendment

     32          
                

Net loss from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders (b)

     (1     (351
                

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

     (24     11   
                

Net loss attributable to common shareholders

   $ (25   $ (340
                

Basic and diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding (b)

     1,330,970        799,120   
                

Basic and diluted earnings per common share (b)

    

Net loss from continuing operations

   $ (1   $ (439

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

     (18     13   
                

Net loss

   $ (19   $ (426
                

 

(a) The first quarter of 2010 included two quarterly cash dividends each for the Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2, and Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G, totaling $477 million, which were deducted from income to arrive at basic and diluted earnings per common share. Traditionally, the second dividends totaling $303 million would have been declared in the second quarter and deducted from income to arrive at basic and diluted earnings per common share for the second quarter.

 

(b) Due to the antidilutive effect of converting the Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock into common shares and the net loss attributable to common shareholders for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, income attributable to common shareholders and basic weighted-average common shares outstanding were used to calculate basic and diluted earnings per share.

The effects of converting the outstanding Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock into common shares are not included in the diluted earnings per share calculation for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, as the effects would be antidilutive for those periods. As such, 574,156 and 988,200 of potential common shares were excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

18. Regulatory Capital

As a bank holding company, we and our wholly owned state-chartered banking subsidiary, Ally Bank, are subject to risk-based capital and leverage guidelines issued by federal and state banking regulators that require that our capital-to-assets ratios meet certain minimum standards. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary action by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the consolidated financial statements or the results of operations and financial condition of Ally and Ally Bank. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, we must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of our assets and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Our capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk-weightings, and other factors.

The risk-based capital ratios are determined by allocating assets and specified off-balance sheet financial instruments into several broad risk categories with higher levels of capital being required for the categories that present greater risk. Under the guidelines, total capital is divided into two tiers: Tier 1 capital and Tier 2 capital. Tier 1 capital generally consists of common equity, minority interests, and qualifying preferred stock (including senior preferred stock issued and sold to Treasury under TARP) less goodwill and other adjustments. Tier 2 capital generally consists of preferred stock not qualifying as Tier 1 capital, limited amounts of subordinated debt and the allowance for loan losses, and other adjustments. The amount of Tier 2 capital may not exceed the amount of Tier 1 capital.

Total risk-based capital is the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital. Under the guidelines, banking organizations are required to maintain a minimum Total risk-based capital ratio (total capital to risk-weighted assets) of 8% and a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 4%.

The federal banking regulators also have established minimum leverage ratio guidelines. The leverage ratio is defined as Tier 1 capital divided by adjusted average total assets (which reflect adjustments for disallowed goodwill and certain intangible assets). The minimum Tier 1 leverage ratio is 3% or 4% depending on factors specified in the regulations.

A banking institution meets the regulatory definition of “well-capitalized” when its Total risk-based capital ratio equals or exceeds 10% and its Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio equals or exceeds 6% and for insured depository institutions, when its leverage ratio equals or exceeds 5%, unless subject to a regulatory directive to maintain higher capital levels.

In conjunction with the Supervisory Capital Assessment Program (S-CAP), the banking regulators have developed a new measure of capital called “Tier 1 common” defined as Tier 1 capital less noncommon elements including qualified perpetual preferred stock, qualifying minority interest in subsidiaries, and qualifying trust preferred securities.

On October 29, 2010, Ally, IB Finance Holding Company, LLC, Ally Bank, and the FDIC entered into a Capital and Liquidity Maintenance Agreement (CLMA) that supersedes an original agreement dated July 21, 2008. The CLMA requires capital at Ally Bank to be maintained at a level such that Ally Bank’s leverage ratio is at least 15%, which is consistent with capital requirements previously applicable to Ally Bank and thus does not impose any additional capital requirements. For this purpose, the leverage ratio is determined in accordance with the FDIC’s regulations related to capital maintenance.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The following table summarizes our capital ratios.

 

    March 31, 2011     December 31, 2010     Required
minimum
    Well-capitalized
minimum
 
    Amount     Ratio       Amount         Ratio        
    ($ in millions)  

Risk-based capital

           

Tier 1 (to risk-weighted assets)

           

Ally Financial Inc.

  $ 22,143        14.68   $ 22,189        15.00     4.00     6.00

Ally Bank

    11,062        18.73        10,738        19.23        4.00        6.00   

Total (to risk-weighted assets)

           

Ally Financial Inc.

  $ 24,084        15.97   $ 24,213        16.36     8.00     10.00

Ally Bank

    11,800        19.98        11,438        20.48        8.00        10.00   

Tier 1 leverage (to adjusted average assets) (a)

           

Ally Financial Inc.

  $ 22,143        12.78   $ 22,189        13.05     3.00–4.00     (b

Ally Bank

    11,062        15.87        10,738        15.81        15.00  (c)      5.00

Tier 1 common (to risk-weighted assets)

           

Ally Financial Inc.

  $ 12,662        8.40   $ 12,677        8.57     n/a        n/a   

Ally Bank

    n/a        n/a        n/a        n/a        n/a        n/a   

 

n/a = not applicable

 

(a) Federal regulatory reporting guidelines require the calculation of adjusted average assets using a daily average methodology. We currently calculate using a combination of monthly and daily average methodologies.

 

(b) There is no Tier 1 leverage component in the definition of a well-capitalized bank holding company.

 

(c) Ally Bank, in accordance with the CLMA, is required to maintain a Tier 1 leverage ratio of at least 15%.

At March 31, 2011, Ally and Ally Bank were “well-capitalized” and met all capital requirements to which we were subject.

Basel Capital Accord

The minimum risk-based capital requirements adopted by the federal banking agencies follow the Capital Accord (Capital Accord) of the Bank for International Settlements’ Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (Basel Committee). The Capital Accord was published in 1988 and generally applies to depository institutions and their holding companies in the United States. In 2004, the Basel Committee published a revision to the Capital Accord (Basel II). The goal of the Basel II capital rules is to provide more risk-sensitive regulatory capital calculations and promote enhanced risk management practices among large, internationally active banking organizations. U.S. banking regulators published final Basel II rules in December 2007. Ally is required to comply with the Basel II rules, as implemented by the U.S. banking regulators. Prior to full implementation of the Basel II rules, Ally is required to complete a qualification period that includes four consecutive quarters during which it needs to demonstrate that it meets the requirements of the rules to the satisfaction of its primary U.S. banking regulator. The U.S. implementation timetable consists of this qualification period followed by a minimum transition period of three years. During the transition period, Basel II risk-based capital requirements cannot fall below certain floors based on pre-existing capital regulations (Basel I). Ally is currently in the qualification period and expects to be in compliance with all relevant Basel II rules within the established timelines.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

In addition to Basel II, the Basel Committee adopted new capital, leverage, and liquidity guidelines under the Basel Accord (Basel III), which when implemented in the United States, may have the effect of raising capital requirements beyond those required by current law and the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act). Basel III increases the minimum Tier 1 common equity ratio from 2.0% to 4.5%, net of regulatory deductions, and introduces a capital conservation buffer of an additional 2.5% of common equity to risk-weighted assets, raising the target minimum common equity ratio to 7.0%. Basel III increases the minimum Tier 1 capital ratio to 8.5% inclusive of the capital conservation buffer, increases the minimum total capital ratio to 10.5% inclusive of the capital buffer, and introduces a countercyclical capital buffer of up to 2.5% of common equity or other fully loss absorbing capital for periods of excess credit growth. Basel III also introduces a nonrisk adjusted Tier 1 leverage ratio of 3%, based on a measure of the total exposure rather than total assets, and new liquidity standards. The Basel III capital, leverage, and liquidity standards will be phased in over a multiyear period. The Basel III rules, when implemented, will also impose a 15% cap on the amount of Tier 1 capital that can be met, in the aggregate, through significant investments in the common shares of unconsolidated financial subsidiaries, MSRs and deferred tax assets through timing differences, as well as a 10% cap on the amount of each of the three individual items that may be included in Tier 1 capital. In addition, under Basel III rules, after a ten-year phaseout period beginning on January 1, 2013, trust preferred and other “hybrid” securities will no longer qualify as Tier 1 capital. However, under the Dodd-Frank Act, subject to certain exceptions, trust preferred and other “hybrid” securities are phased out from Tier 1 capital in a three-year period starting January 1, 2013.

19. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

We enter into interest rate and foreign-currency swaps, futures, forwards, options, and swaptions in connection with our market risk management activities. Derivative instruments are used to manage interest rate risk relating to specific groups of assets and liabilities, including investment securities, MSRs, debt, and deposits. In addition, we use foreign exchange contracts to mitigate foreign-currency risk associated with foreign-currency-denominated debt, foreign exchange transactions, and our net investment in foreign subsidiaries. Our primary objective for utilizing derivative financial instruments is to manage market risk volatility associated with interest rate and foreign-currency risks related to the assets and liabilities.

Interest Rate Risk

We execute interest rate swaps to modify our exposure to interest rate risk by converting certain fixed-rate instruments to a variable rate. We monitor our mix of fixed- and variable-rate debt in relation to the rate profile of our assets. When it is cost effective to do so, we may enter into interest rate swaps to achieve our desired mix of fixed- and variable-rate debt. Our qualifying accounting hedges consist of hedges of fixed-rate debt obligations in which receive-fixed swaps are designated as hedges of specific fixed-rate debt obligations.

We apply hedge accounting to certain relationships in which we utilize derivative instruments to hedge interest rate risk associated with our fixed-rate debt. We enter into economic hedges to mitigate exposure for the following categories.

 

   

MSRs and retained interests — Our MSRs and retained interest portfolios are generally subject to loss in value when mortgage rates decline. Declining mortgage rates generally result in an increase in refinancing activity that increases prepayments and results in a decline in the value of MSRs and retained interests. To mitigate the impact of this risk, we maintain a portfolio of financial instruments, primarily derivative instruments, which increase in value when interest rates decline. The primary objective is to minimize the overall risk of loss in the value of MSRs and retained interests due to the change in fair value caused by interest rate changes and their interrelated impact to prepayments.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

We use a multitude of derivative instruments to manage the interest rate risk related to MSRs and retained interests. They include, but are not limited to, interest rate futures contracts, call or put options on U.S. Treasuries, swaptions, mortgage-backed securities (MBS), futures, U.S. Treasury futures, interest rate swaps, interest rate floors, and interest rate caps. We monitor and actively manage our risk on a daily basis, and therefore, trading volume can be large.

 

   

Mortgage loan commitments and mortgage loans held-for-sale — We are exposed to interest rate risk from the time an interest rate lock commitment (IRLC) is made until the time the mortgage loan is sold. Changes in interest rates impact the market price for our loans; as market interest rates decline, the value of existing IRLCs and loans held-for-sale increase and vice versa. Our primary objective in risk management activities related to IRLCs and mortgage loans held-for-sale is to eliminate or greatly reduce any interest rate risk associated with these items.

The primary derivative instrument we use to accomplish the risk management objective for mortgage loans and IRLCs is forward sales of mortgage-backed securities, primarily Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac to-be-announced securities. These instruments typically are entered into at the time the IRLC is made. The value of the forward sales contracts moves in the opposite direction of the value of our IRLCs and mortgage loans held-for-sale. We also use other derivatives, such as interest rate swaps, options, and futures, to economically hedge certain portions of the mortgage portfolio. Nonderivative instruments may also be periodically used to economically hedge the mortgage portfolio, such as short positions on U.S. Treasuries. We monitor and actively manage our risk on a daily basis. We do not apply hedge accounting to this derivative portfolio.

 

   

Debt — With the exception of a portion of our fixed-rate debt, we do not apply hedge accounting to our derivative portfolio held to mitigate interest rate risk associated with our debt portfolio. Typically, the significant terms of the interest rate swaps match the significant terms of the underlying debt resulting in an effective conversion of the rate of the related debt.

 

   

Other — We enter into futures, options, and swaptions to economically hedge our net fixed versus variable interest rate exposure. We also enter into equity options to economically hedge our exposure to the equity markets.

Foreign Currency Risk

We enter into derivative financial instrument contracts to mitigate the risk associated with variability in cash flows related to foreign-currency financial instruments. Currency swaps and forwards are used to economically hedge foreign exchange exposure on foreign-currency-denominated debt by converting the funding currency to the same currency of the assets being financed. Similar to our interest rate derivatives, the swaps are generally entered into or traded concurrent with the debt issuance with the terms of the swap matching the terms of the underlying debt.

Our foreign subsidiaries maintain both assets and liabilities in local currencies; these local currencies are generally the subsidiaries’ functional currencies for accounting purposes. Foreign-currency exchange-rate gains and losses arise when the assets or liabilities of our subsidiaries are denominated in currencies that differ from its functional currency. In addition, our equity is impacted by the cumulative translation adjustments resulting from the translation of foreign subsidiary results; this impact is reflected in our other comprehensive income (loss). We enter into foreign-currency forwards and option-based contracts with external counterparties to hedge foreign exchange exposure on our net investments in foreign subsidiaries. In March 2011, we elected to dedesignate all

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

of our existing net investment hedge relationships and change our method of measuring hedge effectiveness from the spot method to the forward method for new hedge relationships entered into during the remainder of the quarter and prospectively. For the net investment hedges that were designated under the spot method for the first portion of the quarter, the hedges were recorded at fair value with changes recorded to other comprehensive income (loss) with the exception of the spot to forward difference that was recorded to earnings. For the new net investment hedges that were designated under the forward method, the hedges were recorded at fair value with the changes recorded to other comprehensive income (loss) including the spot to forward difference. The net derivative gain or loss remains in other comprehensive income (loss) until earnings are impacted by the sale or the liquidation of the associated foreign operation.

In addition, we have a centralized lending program to manage liquidity for all of our subsidiary businesses. Foreign-currency-denominated loan agreements are executed with our foreign subsidiaries in their local currencies. We evaluate our foreign-currency exposure resulting from intercompany lending and manage our currency risk exposure by entering into foreign-currency derivatives with external counterparties. Our foreign-currency derivatives are recorded at fair value with changes recorded as income offsetting the gains and losses on the associated foreign-currency transactions.

Except for our net investment hedges, we generally have not elected to treat any foreign-currency derivatives as hedges for accounting purposes principally because the changes in the fair values of the foreign-currency swaps are substantially offset by the foreign-currency revaluation gains and losses of the underlying assets and liabilities.

Credit Risk

Derivative financial instruments contain an element of credit risk if counterparties are unable to meet the terms of the agreements. Credit risk associated with derivative financial instruments is measured as the net replacement cost should the counterparties that owe us under the contract completely fail to perform under the terms of those contracts, assuming no recoveries of underlying collateral as measured by the market value of the derivative financial instrument.

To mitigate the risk of counterparty default, we maintain collateral agreements with certain counterparties. The agreements require both parties to maintain collateral in the event the fair values of the derivative financial instruments meet established thresholds. In the event that either party defaults on the obligation, the secured party may seize the collateral. Generally, our collateral arrangements are bilateral such that we and the counterparty post collateral for the value of our total obligation to each other. Contractual terms provide for standard and customary exchange of collateral based on changes in the market value of the outstanding derivatives. The securing party posts additional collateral when their obligation rises or removes collateral when it falls. We also have unilateral collateral agreements whereby we are the only entity required to post collateral.

Certain derivative instruments contain provisions that require us to either post additional collateral or immediately settle any outstanding liability balances upon the occurrence of a specified credit risk-related event. If a credit risk related event had been triggered at March 31, 2011, the amount of additional collateral required to be posted by us would have been insignificant.

We placed cash and securities collateral totaling $1.2 billion and $1.6 billion at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively, in accounts maintained by counterparties. We received cash collateral from counterparties totaling $568 million and $916 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively. The receivables for collateral placed and the payables for collateral received are included on our Condensed

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Consolidated Balance Sheet in other assets and accrued expenses and other liabilities, respectively. In certain circumstances, we receive or post securities as collateral with counterparties. We do not record such collateral received on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet unless certain conditions are met. At March 31, 2011, we did not receive any noncash collateral. At December 31, 2010, we received noncash collateral of $29 million.

Balance Sheet Presentation

The following table summarizes the fair value amounts of derivative instruments reported on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. The fair value amounts are presented on a gross basis, are segregated by derivatives that are designated and qualifying as hedging instruments or those that are not, and are further segregated by type of contract within those two categories.

 

    March 31, 2011     December 31, 2010  
    Fair value of
derivative contracts in
    Notional
amount
    Fair value of
derivative contracts in
    Notional
amount
 
    receivable
position (a)
    liability
position (b)
      receivable
position (a)
    liability
position (b)
   
    ($ in millions)  

Qualifying accounting hedges

           

Interest rate risk

           

Fair value accounting hedges

  $ 376      $ 177      $ 13,944      $ 443      $ 114      $ 11,895   

Foreign exchange risk

           

Net investment accounting hedges

    16        84        8,345        12        72        4,407   
                                               

Total qualifying accounting hedges

    392        261        22,289        455        186        16,302   
                                               

Economic hedges

           

Interest rate risk

           

MSRs and retained interests

    2,452        2,537        514,616        2,896        3,118        325,768   

Mortgage loan commitments and mortgage loans held-for-sale

    51        53        30,736        232        80        38,788   

Debt

    195        86        22,546        160        107        21,269   

Other

    56        41        43,939        80        129        32,734   
                                               

Total interest rate risk

    2,754        2,717        611,837        3,368        3,434        418,559   

Foreign exchange risk

    234        246        20,218        143        240        14,359   
                                               

Total economic hedges

    2,988        2,963        632,055        3,511        3,674        432,918   
                                               

Total derivatives

  $ 3,380      $ 3,224      $ 654,344      $ 3,966      $ 3,860      $ 449,220   
                                               

 

(a) Reported as other assets on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. Includes accrued interest of $262 million and $263 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

(b) Reported as accrued expenses and other liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. Includes accrued interest of $9 million and $23 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Statement of Income Presentation

The following table summarizes the location and amounts of gains and losses reported in our Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income on derivative instruments.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
         2011             2010      
     ($ in millions)  

Qualifying accounting hedges

    

(Loss) gain recognized in earnings on derivatives (a)

    

Interest rate contracts

    

Interest on long-term debt

   $ (148   $ 82   

Gain (loss) recognized in earnings on hedged items (b)

    

Interest rate contracts

    

Interest on long-term debt

     145        (62
                

Total qualifying accounting hedges

     (3     20   
                

Economic hedges

    

(Loss) gain recognized in earnings on derivatives

    

Interest rate contracts

    

Servicing asset valuation and hedge activities, net

     (204     63   

Loss on mortgage and automotive loans, net

     (39     (144

Other income, net of losses

     7        (53

Other operating expenses

     4        (3
                

Total interest rate contracts

     (232     (137
                

Foreign exchange contracts (c)

    

Interest on long-term debt

     13        (140

Other income, net of losses

     (104     349   
                

Total foreign exchange contracts

     (91     209   
                

(Loss) gain recognized in earnings on derivatives

   $ (326   $ 92   
                

 

(a) Amounts exclude gains of $88 million and $86 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, related to interest for qualifying accounting hedges of debt, which are primarily offset by the fixed coupon payment on the long-term debt.

 

(b) Amounts exclude gains of $63 million and $39 million related to amortization of deferred basis adjustments on the hedged items for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

 

(c) Amounts exclude gains of $90 million and losses of $245 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, related to the revaluation of the related foreign-denominated debt or receivable.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The following table summarizes derivative instruments used in net investment hedge accounting relationships.

 

     March 31,  
     2011     2010  
    

($ in millions)

 

Net investment hedges

    

Foreign exchange contracts

    

Loss recorded directly to other income, net of losses (a)

   $ (3   $ (1

Loss recognized in other comprehensive income (b)

     (148     (44

 

(a) The amounts represent the forward points excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness.

 

(b) The amounts represent the effective portion of net investment hedges during the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010. There are offsetting gains recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income of $145 million and $44 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, related to the revaluation of the related net investment in foreign operations. The amount of hedge ineffectiveness on net investment hedges during the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, was insignificant.

20. Income Taxes

We recognized total income tax benefit from continuing operations of $68 million and income tax expense from continuing operations of $36 million during the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. A reconciliation of the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate to our effective income tax rate for continuing operations is shown in the following table.

 

     Three months ended March 31,  
     2011     2010  
     Amount     Percent     Amount     Percent  
     ($ in millions)  

Statutory U.S. federal tax expense and rate

   $ 36        35.0   $ 65        35.0

Change in tax rate resulting from

        

Effect of valuation allowance change

     (94     (92.1     (39     (20.9

Foreign tax differential

     (13     (12.7     (8     (4.3

Taxes on unremitted foreign earnings

     6        5.9        22        11.7   

State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit

     (3     (2.8     7        3.7   

Tax-exempt income

     (2     (1.9     (3     (1.6

Other, net

     2        1.9        (8     (4.3
                                

Tax (benefit) expense and effective tax rate

   $ (68     (66.7 )%    $ 36        19.3
                                

For the quarter ended March 31, 2011, we recorded a $101 million reversal of valuation allowance on net deferred tax assets in one of our Canadian subsidiaries. The reversal related to modifications to the legal structure of our Canadian operations. Additionally, we recorded other net increases to our consolidated valuation allowance on deferred tax assets of $102 million, stemming primarily from increases to our deferred tax assets during the period.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

21. Fair Value

Fair Value Measurements

For purposes of this disclosure, fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Fair value is based on the assumptions market participants would use when pricing an asset or liability. Additionally, entities are required to consider all aspects of nonperformance risk, including the entity’s own credit standing, when measuring the fair value of a liability.

GAAP specifies a three-level hierarchy that is used when measuring and disclosing fair value. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices available in active markets (i.e., observable inputs) and the lowest priority to data lacking transparency (i.e., unobservable inputs). An instrument’s categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of significant input to its valuation. The following is a description of the three hierarchy levels.

 

  Level 1 Inputs are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date. Additionally, the entity must have the ability to access the active market, and the quoted prices cannot be adjusted by the entity.

 

  Level 2 Inputs are other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in inactive markets for identical or similar assets or liabilities; or inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

 

  Level 3 Unobservable inputs are supported by little or no market activity. The unobservable inputs represent management’s best assumptions of how market participants would price the assets or liabilities. Generally, Level 3 assets and liabilities are valued using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques that require significant judgment or estimation.

 

  Transfers Transfers into or out of any hierarchy level are recognized at the end of the reporting period in which the transfer occurred. There were no significant transfers between any levels during the three months ended March 31, 2011.

Following are descriptions of the valuation methodologies used to measure material assets and liabilities at fair value and details of the valuation models, key inputs to those models, and significant assumptions utilized.

 

   

Available-for-sale securities — Available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value primarily based on observable market prices. If observable market prices are not available, our valuations are based on internally developed discounted cash flow models (an income approach) that use a market-based discount rate and consider recent market transactions, experience with similar securities, current business conditions, and analysis of the underlying collateral, as available. To estimate cash flows, we are required to utilize various significant assumptions including market observable inputs (e.g., forward interest rates) and internally developed inputs (including prepayment speeds, delinquency levels, and credit losses).

 

   

Loans held-for-sale, net — Our automobile loans held-for-sale are accounted for at the lower-of-cost or fair value. The automobile loans at fair value are presented in the nonrecurring fair value measurement

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

 

table. We based our valuation of automobile loans held-for-sale on internally developed discounted cash flow models (an income approach) and classified all these loans as Level 3. These valuation models estimate the exit price we expect to receive in the loan’s principal market, which depending on characteristics of the loans may be the whole-loan market or the securitization market. Although we utilize and give priority to market observable inputs, such as interest rates and market spreads within these models, we are typically required to utilize internal inputs, such as prepayment speeds, credit losses, and discount rates. While numerous controls exist to calibrate, corroborate, and validate these internal inputs, these internal inputs require the use of judgment and can have a significant impact on the determination of the loan’s value. Accordingly, we classified all automobile loans held-for-sale as Level 3.

Our mortgage loans held-for-sale are accounted for at either fair value because of fair value option elections or they are accounted for at the lower-of-cost or fair value. Mortgage loans held-for-sale are typically pooled together and sold into certain exit markets depending on underlying attributes of the loan, such as GSE eligibility (domestic only), product type, interest rate, and credit quality. Two valuation methodologies are used to determine the fair value of mortgage loans held-for-sale. The methodology used depends on the exit market as described below.

Level 2 mortgage loans — This includes all agency-eligible mortgage loans carried at fair value due to fair value option election, which are valued predominantly using published forward agency prices. It also includes any domestic loans and foreign loans where recently negotiated market prices for the loan pool exist with a counterparty (which approximates fair value) or quoted market prices for similar loans are available.

Level 3 mortgage loans — This includes all conditional repurchase option loans carried at fair value due to the fair value option election and all nonagency eligible residential mortgage loans that are accounted for at the lower of cost or fair value. The fair value of these residential mortgage loans are determined using internally developed valuation models because observable market prices were not available. The loans are priced on a discounted cash flow basis utilizing cash flow projections from internally developed models that utilize prepayment, default, and discount rate assumptions. To the extent available, we will utilize market observable inputs such as interest rates and market spreads. If market observable inputs are not available, we are required to utilize internal inputs, such as prepayment speeds, credit losses, and discount rates.

Refer to the section within this note titled Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities for further information about the fair value elections.

 

   

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net — We elected the fair value option for certain consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans. The elected mortgage loans collateralized on-balance sheet securitization debt in which we estimated credit reserves pertaining to securitized assets that could have exceeded or already had exceeded our economic exposure. We also elected the fair value option for all mortgage securitization trusts required to be consolidated due to the adoption of ASU 2009-17. The elected mortgage loans represent a portion of the consumer finance receivable and loans consolidated upon adoption of ASU 2009-17. The balance that was not elected was reported on the balance sheet at the principal amount outstanding, net of charge-offs, allowance for loan losses, and premiums or discounts.

Securitized mortgage loans are legally isolated from us and are beyond the reach of our creditors. The loans are measured at fair value using a portfolio approach or an in-use premise. Values of loans held

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

on an in-use basis may differ considerably from loans held-for-sale that can be sold in the whole-loan market. This difference arises primarily due to the liquidity of the asset- and mortgage-backed securitization market and is evident in the fact that spreads applied to lower rated asset- and mortgage-backed securities are considerably wider than spreads observed on senior bonds classes and in the whole-loan market. The objective in fair valuing the loans and related securitization debt is to account properly for our retained economic interest in the securitizations. As a result of reduced liquidity in capital markets, values of both these loans and the securitized bonds are expected to be volatile. Since this approach involves the use of significant unobservable inputs, we classified all the mortgage loans elected under the fair value option as Level 3, at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010. Refer to the section within this note titled Fair Value Option of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities for additional information.

 

   

Commercial finance receivables and loans, net — We evaluate our commercial finance receivables and loans, net, for impairment. We generally base the evaluation on the fair value of the underlying collateral supporting the loans when expected to be the sole source of repayment. When the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the collateral, an impairment loss is recognized and reflected as a nonrecurring fair value measurement.

 

   

MSRs — We typically retain MSRs when we sell assets into the secondary market. MSRs currently do not trade in an active market with observable prices; therefore, we use internally developed discounted cash flow models (an income approach) to estimate the fair value of MSRs. These internal valuation models estimate net cash flows based on internal operating assumptions that we believe would be used by market participants combined with market-based assumptions for loan prepayment rates, interest rates, and discount rates that we believe approximate yields required by investors in this asset. Cash flows primarily include servicing fees, float income, and late fees in each case less operating costs to service the loans. The estimated cash flows are discounted using an option-adjusted spread-derived discount rate.

 

   

Interests retained in financial asset sales — Interests retained in financial asset sales are carried at fair value. The interests retained are in securitization trusts and deferred purchase prices on the sale of whole-loans. Due to inactivity in the market, valuations are based on internally developed discounted cash flow models (an income approach) that use a market-based discount rate. The valuation considers recent market transactions, experience with similar assets, current business conditions, and analysis of the underlying collateral, as available. To estimate cash flows, we utilize various significant assumptions, including market observable inputs (e.g., forward interest rates) and internally developed inputs (e.g., prepayment speeds, delinquency levels, and credit losses).

 

   

Derivative instruments — We enter into a variety of derivative financial instruments as part of our risk management strategies. Certain of these derivatives are exchange traded, such as Eurodollar futures. To determine the fair value of these instruments, we utilize the exchange prices for the particular derivative contracts; therefore, we classified these contracts as Level 1.

We also execute over-the-counter derivative contracts, such as interest rate swaps, swaptions, forwards, caps, floors, and agency to-be-announced securities. We utilize third-party-developed valuation models that are widely accepted in the market to value these over-the-counter derivative contracts. The specific terms of the contract and market observable inputs (such as interest rate forward curves and interpolated volatility assumptions) are entered into the model. We classified these over-the-counter derivative contracts as Level 2 because all significant inputs into these models were market observable.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

We also hold certain derivative contracts that are structured specifically to meet a particular hedging objective. These derivative contracts often are utilized to hedge risks inherent within certain on-balance sheet securitizations. To hedge risks on particular bond classes or securitization collateral, the derivative’s notional amount is often indexed to the hedged item. As a result, we typically are required to use internally developed prepayment assumptions as an input into the model to forecast future notional amounts on these structured derivative contracts. Additionally, we hold some foreign currency derivative contracts that utilize an in-house valuation model to determine the fair value of the contracts. Accordingly, we classified all of the above-mentioned derivative contracts as Level 3.

We are required to consider all aspects of nonperformance risk, including our own credit standing, when measuring fair value of a liability. We consider our credit risk and the credit risk of our counterparties in the valuation of derivative instruments through a credit valuation adjustment (CVA). The CVA calculation utilizes our credit default swap spreads and the spreads of the counterparty. Additionally, we reduce credit risk on the majority of our derivatives by entering into legally enforceable agreements that enable the posting and receiving of collateral associated with the fair value of our derivative positions on an ongoing basis.

 

   

Collateral placed with counterparties — Collateral in the form of investment securities are primarily carried at fair value using quoted prices in active markets for similar assets.

 

   

Repossessed and foreclosed assets — Foreclosed on or repossessed assets resulting from loan defaults are carried at the lower of either cost or fair value and are included in other assets on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. The fair value disclosures include only assets carried at fair value.

The majority of assets acquired due to default are foreclosed assets. We revalue foreclosed assets on a periodic basis. We classified properties that are valued by independent third-party appraisals as Level 2. When third-party appraisals are not obtained, valuations are typically obtained from third-party broker price opinion; however, depending on the circumstances, the property list price or other sales price information may be used in lieu of a broker price opinion. Based on historical experience, we adjust these values downward to take into account damage and other factors that typically cause the actual liquidation value of foreclosed properties to be less than broker price opinion or other price sources. This valuation adjustment is necessary to ensure the valuation ascribed to these assets considers unique factors and circumstances surrounding the foreclosed asset. As a result of applying internally developed adjustments to the third-party-provided valuation of the foreclosed property, we classified these assets as Level 3 in the fair value disclosures.

 

   

On-balance sheet securitization debt — We elected the fair value option for certain mortgage loans held-for-investment and the related on-balance sheet securitization debt. We value securitization debt that was elected pursuant to the fair value option and any economically retained positions using market observable prices whenever possible. The securitization debt is principally in the form of asset- and mortgage-backed securities collateralized by the underlying mortgage loans held-for-investment. Due to the attributes of the underlying collateral and current market conditions, observable prices for these instruments are typically not available. In these situations, we consider observed transactions as Level 2 inputs in our discounted cash flow models. Additionally, the discounted cash flow models utilize other market observable inputs, such as interest rates, and internally derived inputs including prepayment speeds, credit losses, and discount rates. Fair value option-elected financing securitization debt is classified as Level 3 as a result of the reliance on significant assumptions and estimates for model inputs. Refer to the section within this note titled Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities for further information about the election. The debt that was not elected under the fair value option is reported on the balance sheet at cost, net of premiums or discounts and issuance costs.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Recurring Fair Value

The following tables display the assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis including financial instruments elected for the fair value option. We often economically hedge the fair value change of our assets or liabilities with derivatives and other financial instruments. The tables below display the hedges separately from the hedged items; therefore, they do not directly display the impact of our risk management activities.

 

     March 31, 2011  
     Recurring fair value measurements  
     Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

        

Trading securities

        

Mortgage-backed residential

   $      $ 35      $ 40      $ 75   

Investment securities

        

Available-for-sale securities

        

Debt securities

        

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

     2,351        539               2,890   

States and political subdivisions

            3               3   

Foreign government

     947        370               1,317   

Mortgage-backed residential

            5,860        1        5,861   

Asset-backed

            2,180        117        2,297   

Corporate debt securities

            1,379               1,379   

Other debt securities

            489               489   
                                

Total debt securities

     3,298        10,820        118        14,236   

Equity securities (a)

     1,165                      1,165   
                                

Total available-for-sale securities

     4,463        10,820        118        15,401   

Mortgage loans held-for-sale, net (b)

            2,928        18        2,946   

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net (b)

                   971        971   

Mortgage servicing rights

                   3,774        3,774   

Other assets

        

Interests retained in financial asset sales

                   569        569   

Fair value of derivative contracts in receivable position

        

Interest rate

     43        2,908        179        3,130   

Foreign currency

            246        4        250   
                                

Total fair value of derivative contracts in receivable position

     43        3,154        183        3,380   

Collateral placed with counterparties (c)

     433                      433   
                                

Total assets

   $ 4,939      $ 16,937      $ 5,673      $ 27,549   
                                

Liabilities

        

Long-term debt

        

On-balance sheet securitization debt (b)

   $      $      $ (922   $ (922

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

        

Fair value of derivative contracts in payable position

        

Interest rate

     (99     (2,727     (68     (2,894

Foreign currency

            (328     (2     (330
                                

Total fair value of derivative contracts in payable position

     (99     (3,055     (70     (3,224

Loan repurchase liabilities (b)

                   (14     (14

Trading liabilities

            (137            (137
                                

Total liabilities

   $ (99   $ (3,192   $ (1,006   $ (4,297
                                

 

(a) Our investment in one industry did not exceed 18%.

 

(b) Carried at fair value due to fair value option elections.

 

(c) Represents collateral in the form of investment securities. Cash collateral was excluded above.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

     December 31, 2010  
     Recurring fair value measurements  
     Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

        

Trading securities

        

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

   $ 77      $      $      $ 77   

Mortgage-backed residential

            25        44        69   

Asset-backed

                   94        94   
                                

Total trading securities

     77        25        138        240   

Investment securities

        

Available-for-sale securities

        

Debt securities

        

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

     3,313        5               3,318   

States and political subdivisions

            2               2   

Foreign government

     873        375               1,248   

Mortgage-backed residential

            5,824        1        5,825   

Asset-backed

            1,948               1,948   

Corporate debt securities

            1,558               1,558   

Other debt securities

            151               151   
                                

Total debt securities

     4,186        9,863        1        14,050   

Equity securities (a)

     796                      796   
                                

Total available-for-sale securities

     4,982        9,863        1        14,846   

Mortgage loans held-for-sale, net (b)

            6,420        4        6,424   

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net (b)

                   1,015        1,015   

Mortgage servicing rights

                   3,738        3,738   

Other assets

        

Interests retained in financial asset sales

                   568        568   

Fair value of derivative contracts in receivable position

        

Interest rate

     242        3,464        105        3,811   

Foreign currency

            155               155   
                                

Total fair value of derivative contracts in receivable position

     242        3,619        105        3,966   

Collateral placed with counterparties (c)

     728                      728   
                                

Total assets

   $ 6,029      $ 19,927      $ 5,569      $ 31,525   
                                

Liabilities

        

Long-term debt

        

On-balance sheet securitization debt (b)

   $      $      $ (972   $ (972

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

        

Fair value of derivative contracts in payable position

        

Interest rate

     (208     (3,222     (118     (3,548

Foreign currency

            (312            (312
                                

Total fair value of derivative contracts in payable position

     (208     (3,534     (118     (3,860
                                

Total liabilities

   $ (208   $ (3,534   $ (1,090   $ (4,832
                                

 

(a) Our investment in one industry did not exceed 23%.

 

(b) Carried at fair value due to fair value option elections.

 

(c) Represents collateral in the form of investment securities. Cash collateral was excluded above.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The following tables present the reconciliation for all Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis. We often economically hedge the fair value change of our assets or liabilities with derivatives and other financial instruments. The Level 3 items presented below may be hedged by derivatives and other financial instruments that are classified as Level 1 or Level 2. Thus, the following tables do not fully reflect the impact of our risk management activities.

 

    Level 3 recurring fair value measurements  
    Fair value
at
January 1,
2011
    Net realized/unrealized
gains (losses)
    Purchases     Sales     Issuances     Settlements     Fair value
at
March 31,
2011
    Net
unrealized
gains
included

in earnings
still held at
March 31,
2011
 
    included
in earnings
    included in
other
comprehensive
income
             
    ($ in millions)  

Assets

                 

Trading securities

                 

Mortgage-backed residential

  $ 44      $ (a)    $      $      $      $      $ (5   $ 40      $ (a) 

Asset-backed

    94        —                       (94                          —    
                                                                       

Total trading securities

    138                             (94            (5     40          

Investment securities

                 

Available-for-sale securities

                 

Debt securities

                 

Mortgage-backed residential

    1        —                                            1        —    

Asset-backed

           —         23        94                             117        —    
                                                                       

Total investment securities

    1        —         23        94                             118        —    

Mortgage loans held-for-sale, net (b)

    4        —                14                             18        —    

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net (b)

    1,015        73  (b)      1                             (118     971        16  (b) 

Mortgage servicing rights

    3,738        116  (c)             2        (266)  (d)      184               3,774        116  (d) 

Other assets

                 

Interests retained in financial asset sales

    568        23  (e)                                  (22     569        (6) (e) 

Derivative contracts, net

                 

Interest rate

    (13     141  (f)                                  (17     111        123  (f) 

Foreign currency

           (f)                                         2        (f) 
                                                                       

Total fair value of derivative contracts in receivable (payable) position, net

    (13     143                                     (17     113        125    
                                                                       

Total assets

  $ 5,451      $ 356       $ 24      $ 110      $ (360   $ 184      $ (162   $ 5,603      $ 253    
                                                                       

Liabilities

                 

Long-term debt

                 

On-balance sheet securitization debt (b)

  $ (972   $ (67) (b)    $ 1      $      $      $      $ 116      $ (922   $ (b) 

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

                 

Loan repurchases liabilities (b)

           —                (14                          (14     —    
                                                                       

Total liabilities

  $ (972   $ (67)      $ 1      $ (14   $      $      $ 116      $ (936   $   
                                                                       

 

(a) The fair value adjustment was reported as other income, net of losses, and the related interest was reported as interest on trading securities in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(b) Carried at fair value due to fair value option elections. Refer to the next section of this note titled Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Liabilities for the location of the gains and losses in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(c) Fair value adjustment was reported as servicing-asset valuation and hedge activities, net, in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(d) Represents excess mortgage servicing rights transferred to an agency-controlled trust in exchange for trading securities. These securities were then sold instantaneously to third-party investors for $266 million.

 

(e) Reported as other income, net of losses, in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(f) Refer to Note 19 for information related to the location of the gains and losses on derivative instruments in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

     Level 3 recurring fair value measurements        
     Fair value
at
January 1,
2010
    Net realized/unrealized
gain (losses)
     Purchases,
issuances,
and
settlements,
net
    Fair value
at
March 31,
2010
    Net unrealized
gains (losses)
included in
earnings still
held at
March 31,
2010
       
     included
in
earnings
           included in
other
comprehensive
income
          
     ($ in millions)        

Assets

                  

Trading securities

                  

Mortgage-backed residential

   $ 99      $ 4        (a)       $       $ (49   $ 54      $ 9        (a)   

Asset-backed

     596                  2         (509     89            
                                                      

Total trading securities

     695        4           2         (558     143        9     

Investment securities

                  

Available-for-sale securities

                  

Debt securities

                  

Mortgage-backed residential

     6                          (3     3            

Asset-backed

     20                          (7     13            
                                                      

Total investment securities

     26                          (10     16            

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net (b)

     1,303        41     (b)                 856        2,572        202        (b)   

Mortgage servicing rights

     3,554        (196     (c)                 185        3,543        (196     (c)   

Other assets

                  

Cash reserve deposits held-for-securitization trusts

     31                          (29     2            

Interests retained in financial asset sales

     471              (d)                 (63     411        2        (d)   

Derivative contracts, net

                  

Interest rate contracts in receivable (payable) position, net

     103        (145     (e)                 46        4        (57     (e)   
                                                      

Total assets

   $ 6,183      $ 79         $ 2       $ 427      $ 6,691      $ (40  
                                                      

Liabilities

                  

Long-term debt

                  

On-balance sheet securitization debt (b)

   $ (1,294   $ (413     (b)       $       $ (677   $ (2,384     $241        (b)   
                                                      

Total liabilities

   $ (1,294   $ (413      $       $ (677   $ (2,384   $ (241  
                                                      

 

(a) The fair value adjustment was reported as other income, net of losses, and the related interest was reported as interest on trading securities in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(b) Carried at fair value due to fair value option elections. Refer to next section of this note titled Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Liabilities for the location of the gains and losses in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(c) Fair value adjustment was reported as servicing-asset valuation and hedge activities, net, in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(d) Reported as other income, net of losses, in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(e) Refer to Note 19 for information related to the location of the gains and losses on derivative instruments in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Nonrecurring Fair Value

We may be required to measure certain assets and liabilities at fair value from time to time. These periodic fair value measures typically result from the application of lower-of-cost or fair value accounting or certain impairment measures. These items would constitute nonrecurring fair value measures.

The following tables display the assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis.

 

    March 31, 2011  
    Nonrecurring
fair value measures
    Lower-of-cost
or
fair value
allowance
or  valuation
reserve
    Total gains
included in
earnings for
the three
months  ended
 
    Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total      
    ($ in millions)  

Assets

           

Mortgage loans held-for-sale (a)

  $      $      $ 597      $ 597      $ (50     n/m  (b) 

Commercial finance receivables and loans, net (c)

           

Automotive

                  416        416        (46     n/m  (b) 

Mortgage

           13        26        39        (15     n/m  (b) 

Other

                  93        93        (41     n/m  (b) 
                                               

Total commercial finance receivables and loans, net

           13        535        548        (102  

Other assets

           

Real estate and other investments (d)

           1               1        n/m      $   

Repossessed and foreclosed assets (e)

           44        37        81        (11     n/m  (b) 
                                               

Total assets

  $      $ 58      $ 1,169      $ 1,227      $ (163   $   
                                               

 

n/m = not meaningful

 

(a) Represents loans held-for-sale that are required to be measured at the lower-of-cost or fair value. The table above includes only loans with fair values below cost during 2011. The related valuation allowance represents the cumulative adjustment to fair value of those specific loans.

 

(b) We consider the applicable valuation or loan loss allowance to be the most relevant indicator of the impact on earnings caused by the fair value measurement. Accordingly, the table above excludes total gains and losses included in earnings for these items. The carrying values are inclusive of the respective valuation or loan loss allowance.

 

(c) Represents the portion of the portfolio specifically impaired during 2011. The related valuation allowance represents the cumulative adjustment to fair value of those specific receivables.

 

(d) Represents model homes impaired during 2011. The total loss included in earnings represents adjustments to the fair value of the portfolio based on the estimated fair value if the model home is under lease or the estimated value if the model home is marketed for sale.

 

(e) The allowance provided for repossessed and foreclosed assets represents any cumulative valuation adjustment recognized to adjust the assets to fair value.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

     March 31, 2010  
     Nonrecurring
fair value measures
     Lower-of-cost
or
fair value
or  valuation
reserve
allowance
    Total gains
included in
earnings for
the three
months  ended
 
     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total       
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

                

Loans held-for-sale (a)

                

Automotive

   $       $       $ 1,155       $ 1,155       $ (141     n/m  (b) 

Mortgage

             277         720         997         (112     n/m  (b) 
                                                    

Total loans held-for-sale

             277         1,875         2,152         (253  

Commercial finance receivables and loans, net (c)

                

Automotive

                     462         462         (105     n/m  (b) 

Mortgage

             99         47         146         (70     n/m  (b) 

Other

                     606         606         (264     n/m  (b) 
                                                    

Total commercial finance receivables and loans, net

             99         1,115         1,214         (439  

Other assets

                

Real estate and other investments (d)

             34                 34         n/m      $ 1   

Repossessed and foreclosed assets (e)

             76         81         157         (44     n/m  (b) 
                                                    

Total assets

   $       $ 486       $ 3,071       $ 3,557       $ (736   $ 1   
                                                    

 

n/m = not meaningful

 

(a) Represents assets held-for-sale that are required to be measured at the lower-of-cost or fair value. The table above includes only loans with fair values below cost during 2010. The related valuation allowance represents the cumulative adjustment to fair value of those specific loans.

 

(b) We consider the applicable valuation or loan loss allowance to be the most relevant indicator of the impact on earnings caused by the fair value measurement. Accordingly, the table above excludes total gains and losses included in earnings for these items. The carrying values are inclusive of the respective valuation or loan loss allowance.

 

(c) Represents the portion of the portfolio specifically impaired during 2010. The related valuation allowance represents the cumulative adjustment to fair value of those specific receivables.

 

(d) Represents model homes impaired during 2010. The total loss included in earnings represents adjustments to the fair value of the portfolio based on the estimated fair value if the model home is under lease or the estimated value if the model home is marketed for sale.

 

(e) The allowance provided for repossessed and foreclosed assets represents any cumulative valuation adjustment recognized to adjust the assets to fair value.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities

A description of the financial assets and liabilities elected to be measured at fair value is as follows. Our intent in electing fair value for all these items was to mitigate a divergence between accounting losses and economic exposure for certain assets and liabilities.

 

   

On-balance sheet mortgage securitizations — We elected to measure at fair value certain domestic consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans and the related debt held in on-balance sheet mortgage securitization structures. The fair value-elected loans are classified as finance receivable and loans, net, on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. Our policy is to separately record interest income on the fair value-elected loans (unless the loans are placed on nonaccrual status); however, the accrued interest was excluded from the fair value presentation. We classified the fair value adjustment recorded for the loans as other income, net of losses, in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

We continued to record the fair value-elected debt balances as long-term debt on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. Our policy is to separately record interest expense on the fair value-elected debt, which continues to be classified as interest on long-term debt in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income. We classified the fair value adjustment recorded for this fair value-elected debt as other income, net of losses, in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

   

Conforming and government-insured mortgage loans held-for-sale — We elected the fair value option for conforming and government-insured mortgage loans held-for-sale funded after July 31, 2009. We elected the fair value option to mitigate earnings volatility by better matching the accounting for the assets with the related hedges.

Excluded from the fair value option were conforming and government-insured loans funded on or prior to July 31, 2009, and those repurchased or rerecognized. The loans funded on or prior to July 31, 2009, were ineligible because the election must be made at the time of funding. Repurchased and rerecognized conforming and government-insured loans were not elected because the election will not mitigate earning volatility. We repurchase or rerecognize loans due to representation and warranty obligations or conditional repurchase options. Typically, we will be unable to resell these assets through regular channels due to characteristics of the assets. Since the fair value of these assets is influenced by factors that cannot be hedged, we did not elect the fair value option.

We carry the fair value-elected conforming and government-insured loans as loans held-for-sale, net, on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. Our policy is to separately record interest income on the fair value-elected loans (unless they are placed on nonaccrual status); however, the accrued interest was excluded from the fair value presentation. Upfront fees and costs related to the fair value-elected loans were not deferred or capitalized. The fair value adjustment recorded for these loans is classified as gain (loss) on mortgage loans, net, in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income. In accordance with GAAP, the fair value option election is irrevocable once the asset is funded even if it is subsequently determined that a particular loan cannot be sold.

 

   

Nongovernment eligible mortgage loans held-for-sale subject to conditional repurchase options —As of January 1, 2011, we elected the fair value option for both nongovernment eligible mortgage loans held-for-sale subject to conditional repurchase options and the related liability. These conditional repurchase options within our private label securitizations allow us to repurchase a transferred financial asset if certain events outside our control are met. The typical conditional repurchase option is a delinquent loan repurchase option that gives us the option to purchase the loan if it exceeds a certain prespecified

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

 

delinquency level. We have complete discretion regarding when or if we will exercise these options, but generally we would do so only when it is in our best interest. We record the asset and the corresponding liability on our balance sheet when the option becomes exercisable. The fair value option election must be made at initial recording. As such, the conditional repurchase option assets and liabilities recorded prior to January 1, 2011, were ineligible for the fair value election.

We carry these fair value-elected optional repurchase loan balance as loans held-for-sale, net, on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. The fair value adjustment recorded for these loans is classified as other income, net of losses, in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income. We carry the fair value elected corresponding liability as accrued expenses and other liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. The fair value adjustment recorded for these liabilities are classified as other income, net of losses, in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

The following table summarizes the fair value option elections and information regarding the amounts recorded as earnings for each fair value option-elected item.

 

    Changes included in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of  Income  

Three months ended March 31,

  Interest
and fees

on finance
receivables
and loans
    Interest
on loans
held-for-sale
    Interest
on
long-term
debt
    Gain on
mortgage
loans, net
    Other
income,
net of losses
    Total
included in
earnings
    Change in
fair value
due to
credit risk (a)
 
    ($ in millions)  

2011

             

Assets

             

Mortgage loans held-for-sale, net

  $      $ 41  (b)    $      $ 142      $      $ 183      $    (c) 

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net

    54  (b)                           19        73        (17 ) (d) 

Liabilities

             

Secured debt

             

On-balance sheet securitization debt

  $      $      $ (31 ) (e)    $      $ (36   $ (67   $  27   (f) 
                   

Total

            $ 189     
                   

2010

             

Assets

             

Mortgage loans held-for-sale, net

  $      $ 56  (b)    $      $ 184      $      $ 240      $   (c) 

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net

    169  (b)                           244        413        (34 ) (d) 

Liabilities

             

Secured debt

             

On-balance sheet securitization debt

  $      $      $ (96 ) (e)    $      $ (317   $ (413   $ 37   (f) 
                   

Total

            $ 240     
                   

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

 

(a) Factors other than credit quality that impact fair value include changes in market interest rates and the illiquidity or marketability in the current marketplace. Lower levels of observable data points in illiquid markets generally result in wide bid/offer spreads.

 

(b) Interest income is measured by multiplying the unpaid principal balance on the loans by the coupon rate and the number of days of interest due.

 

(c) The credit impact for agency eligible loans held-for-sale is assumed to be zero because the loans are either suitable for sale or are covered by a government guarantee. The credit impact for nonagency eligible loans was quantified by applying internal credit loss assumptions to cash flow models.

 

(d) The credit impact for consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans was quantified by applying internal credit loss assumptions to cash flow models.

 

(e) Interest expense is measured by multiplying bond principal by the coupon rate and the number of days of interest due to the investor.

 

(f) The credit impact for on-balance sheet securitization debt is assumed to be zero until our economic interests in a particular securitization is reduced to zero at which point the losses on the underlying collateral will be expected to be passed through to third-party bondholders. Losses allocated to third-party bondholders, including changes in the amount of losses allocated, will result in fair value changes due to credit. We also monitor credit ratings and will make credit adjustments to the extent any bond classes are downgraded by rating agencies.

The following table provides the aggregate fair value and the aggregate unpaid principal balance for the fair value option-elected loans and long-term debt instruments.

 

     March 31, 2011     December 31, 2010  
     Unpaid
principal
balance
    Fair
value (a)
    Unpaid
principal
balance
    Fair
value (a)
 
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

        

Mortgage loans held-for-sale, net

        

Total loans

   $ 2,870      $ 2,946      $ 6,354      $ 6,424   

Nonaccrual loans

     26        15        3        1   

Loans 90+ days past due (b)

     25        14                 

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net

        

Total loans

     2,811        971        2,905        1,015   

Nonaccrual loans (c)

     565        246        586        260   

Loans 90+ days past due (b) (c)

     382        184        366        184   

Liabilities

        

Secured debt

        

On-balance sheet securitization debt

   $ (2,886   $ (922   $ (2,969   $ (972

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

        

Loan repurchase liabilities

     (25     (14              

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

 

(a) Excludes accrued interest receivable.

 

(b) Loans 90+ days past due are also presented within the nonaccrual loan balance and the total loan balance; however, excludes government-insured loans that are still accruing interest.

 

(c) The fair value of consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans is calculated on a pooled basis; therefore, we allocated the fair value of nonaccrual loans and loans 90+ days past due to individual loans based on the unpaid principal balances. For further discussion regarding the pooled basis, refer to the previous section of this note titled Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The following table presents the carrying and estimated fair value of assets and liabilities that are considered financial instruments. Accordingly, items that do not meet the definition of a financial instrument are excluded from the table. When possible, we use quoted market prices to determine fair value. Where quoted market prices are not available, the fair value is internally derived based on appropriate valuation methodologies with respect to the amount and timing of future cash flows and estimated discount rates. However, considerable judgment is required in interpreting market data to develop estimates of fair value, so the estimates are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized or would be paid in a current market exchange. The effect of using different market assumptions or estimation methodologies could be material to the estimated fair values. Fair value information presented herein was based on information available at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010.

 

     March 31, 2011      December 31, 2010  
     Carrying
value
     Fair
value
     Carrying
value
     Fair
value
 
     ($ in millions)  

Financial assets

           

Trading securities

   $ 75       $ 75       $ 240       $ 240   

Investment securities

     15,401         15,401         14,846         14,846   

Loans held-for-sale, net

     7,496         7,552         11,411         11,449   

Finance receivables and loans, net

     105,653         104,856         100,540         99,462   

Interests retained in financial asset sales

     569         569         568         568   

Fair value of derivative contracts in receivable position

     3,380         3,380         3,966         3,966   

Collateral placed with counterparties (a)

     433         433         728         728   

Financial liabilities

           

Deposit liabilities (b)

   $ 38,786       $ 38,793       $ 37,291       $ 37,546   

Short-term borrowings

     7,395         7,386         7,508         7,509   

Long-term debt (c)

     88,725         90,688         87,181         88,996   

Fair value of derivative contracts in liability position

     3,224         3,224         3,860         3,860   

Trading liabilities

     137         137                   

 

(a) Represents collateral in the form of investment securities. Cash collateral was excluded above.

 

(b) The carrying value and fair value amounts exclude dealer deposits.

 

(c) Debt includes deferred interest for zero-coupon bonds of $586 million and $569 million at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The following describes the methodologies and assumptions used to determine fair value for the significant classes of financial instruments. In addition to the valuation methods discussed below, we also followed guidelines for determining whether a market was not active and a transaction was not distressed. As such, we assumed the price that would be received in an orderly transaction (including a market-based return) and not in forced liquidation or distressed sale.

 

   

Investment securities — Bonds, equity securities, notes, and other available-for-sale investment securities are carried at fair value. Refer to the previous section of this note titled Available-for-sale securities for a description of the methodologies and assumptions used to determine fair value. The fair value of the held-to-maturity investment securities is based on valuation models using market-based assumption.

 

   

Loans held-for-sale, net — Refer to the previous sections of this note also titled Loans held-for-sale, net, for a description of methodologies and assumptions used to determine fair value.

 

   

Finance receivables and loans, net — With the exception of mortgage loans held-for-investment, the fair value of finance receivables was based on discounted future cash flows using applicable spreads to approximate current rates applicable to each category of finance receivables (an income approach). The carrying value of wholesale receivables in certain markets and certain other automotive- and mortgage-lending receivables for which interest rates reset on a short-term basis with applicable market indices are assumed to approximate fair value either because of the short-term nature or because of the interest rate adjustment feature. The fair value of wholesale receivables in other markets was based on discounted future cash flows using applicable spreads to approximate current rates applicable to similar assets in those markets.

For mortgage loans held-for-investment used as collateral for securitization debt, we used a portfolio approach or an in-use premise to measure these loans at fair value. The objective in fair valuing these loans (which are legally isolated and beyond the reach of our creditors) and the related collateralized borrowings is to reflect our retained economic position in the securitizations. For mortgage loans held-for-investment that are not securitized, we used valuation methods and assumptions similar to those used for mortgage loans held-for-sale. These valuations consider unique attributes of the loans such as geography, delinquency status, product type, and other factors. Refer to the previous section in this note titled Loans held-for-sale, net, for a description of methodologies and assumptions used to determine the fair value of mortgage loans held-for-sale.

 

   

Derivative assets and liabilities — Refer to the previous section of this note titled Derivative instruments for a description of the methodologies and assumptions used to determine fair value.

 

   

Collateral placed with counterparties — Collateral placed with counterparties in the table above represents only collateral in the form of investment securities. Refer to the previous section of this note also titled Collateral placed with counterparties for additional information.

 

   

Interests retained in financial asset sales — Interest retained in financial asset sales are carried at fair value. Refer to the previous sections of this note titled Interests retained in financial asset sales for a description of the methodologies and assumptions used to determine fair value.

 

   

Debt — The fair value of debt was determined using quoted market prices for the same or similar issues, if available, or was based on the current rates offered to us for debt with similar remaining maturities.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

   

Deposit liabilities — Deposit liabilities represent certain consumer bank deposits as well as mortgage escrow deposits. The fair value of deposits with no stated maturity is equal to their carrying amount. The fair value of fixed-maturity deposits was estimated by discounting cash flows using currently offered rates for deposits of similar maturities.

22. Segment Information

Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise that engage in business activity from which revenues are earned and expenses incurred for which discrete financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by our chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance.

Basis of Presentation

We report our results of operations on a line-of-business basis through five operating segments — North American Automotive Finance operations, International Automotive Finance operations, Insurance operations, Mortgage — Origination and Servicing operations, and Mortgage — Legacy Portfolio and Other operations, with the remaining activity reported in Corporate and Other. The operating segments are determined based on the products and services offered and geographic considerations, and reflect the manner in which financial information is currently evaluated by management. The following is a description of each of our reportable operating segments.

 

   

North American Automotive Finance operations — Provides automotive financing services to consumers and automotive dealers in the United States and Canada and includes the automotive activities of Ally Bank and ResMor Trust. For consumers, we offer retail automotive financing and leasing for new and used vehicles, and through our commercial automotive financing operations, we fund dealer purchases of new and used vehicles through wholesale or floorplan financing.

 

   

International Automotive Finance operations — Provides automotive financing and full-service leasing to consumers and dealers outside of the United States and Canada. Our International Automotive Finance operations will focus the majority of new originations in five core international markets: Germany, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico, and China through our joint venture.

 

   

Insurance operations — Offers consumer and commercial insurance products sold primarily through the dealer channel including vehicle extended service contracts, commercial insurance coverage in the United States and internationally (primarily covering dealers’ wholesale vehicle inventory), and personal automobile insurance in certain countries outside the United States.

 

   

Mortgage — Origination and Servicing operations —The principal activities include originating, purchasing, selling, and securitizing conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans in the United States and Canada; servicing residential mortgage loans for ourselves and others; and providing collateralized lines of credit to other mortgage originators, which we refer to as warehouse lending. We also originate high-quality prime jumbo mortgage loans in the United States. We finance our mortgage loan originations primarily in Ally Bank in the United States and in our trust company, ResMor Trust, in Canada.

 

   

Mortgage — Legacy Portfolio and Other operations — Primarily consists of loans originated prior to January 1, 2009, and includes noncore business activities including discontinued operations, portfolios in

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

 

runoff, our mortgage reinsurance business, and cash held in the ResCap legal entity. These activities, all of which we have discontinued, included, among other things: lending to real estate developers and homebuilders in the United States and United Kingdom; and purchasing, selling, and securitizing nonconforming residential mortgage loans (with the exception of U.S. prime jumbo mortgage loans originated subsequent to January 1, 2009, which are included in our Origination and Servicing operations) in both the United States and internationally.

Corporate and Other consists of our Commercial Finance Group, certain equity investments, other corporate activities, the residual impacts of our corporate funds transfer pricing (FTP) and treasury asset liability management activities (ALM), and reclassifications and eliminations between the reportable operating segments.

We utilize an FTP methodology for the majority of our business operations. The FTP methodology assigns charge rates and credit rates to classes of assets and liabilities based on expected duration and the LIBOR swap curve plus an assumed credit spread. Matching duration allocates interest income and interest expense to these reportable segments so their respective results are insulated from interest rate risk. This methodology is consistent with our ALM practices, which includes managing interest rate risk centrally at a corporate level. The net residual impact of the FTP methodology is included within the results of Corporate and Other as summarized below.

The information presented in our reportable operating segments and geographic areas tables that follow are based in part on internal allocations, which involve management judgment.

Financial information for our reportable operating segments is summarized as follows.

 

    Global Automotive Services     Mortgage (a)              

Three months ended March 31,

  North
American

Automotive
Finance
operations
    International
Automotive
Finance
operations (b)
    Insurance
operations
    Origination
and
Servicing
operations
    Legacy
Portfolio
and Other
operations
    Corporate
and
Other (c)
    Consolidated (d)  
    ($ in millions)  

2011

             

Net financing revenue (loss)

  $ 818      $ 171      $ 22      $ (30   $ 78      $ (522   $ 537   

Other revenue

    109        75        498        351        12        25        1,070   
                                                       

Total net revenue (loss)

    927        246        520        321        90        (497     1,607   

Provision for loan losses

    46        37               2        45        (17     113   

Other noninterest expense

    363        169        386        246        84        144        1,392   
                                                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax

  $ 518      $ 40      $ 134      $ 73      $ (39   $ (624   $ 102   
                                                       

Total assets

  $ 87,662      $ 16,295      $ 9,024      $ 19,164      $ 11,809      $ 29,750      $ 173,704   
                                                       

2010

             

Net financing revenue (loss)

  $ 872      $ 178      $ 30      $ (11   $ 193      $ (510   $ 752   

Other revenue

    203        92        591        346        23        (157     1,098   
                                                       

Total net revenue (loss)

    1,075        270        621        335        216        (667     1,850   

Provision for loan losses

    101        21               1        6        15        144   

Other noninterest expense

    362        202        438        263        125        129        1,519   
                                                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax

  $ 612      $ 47      $ 183      $ 71      $ 85      $ (811   $ 187   
                                                       

Total assets

  $ 74,786      $ 19,378      $ 9,083      $ 16,491      $ 28,045      $ 31,644      $ 179,427   
                                                       

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

 

(a) Represents the ResCap legal entity and the mortgage activities of Ally Bank and ResMor Trust.

 

(b) Amounts include intrasegment eliminations between our North American Automotive Finance operations, International Automotive Finance operations, and Insurance operations.

 

(c) Total assets for the Commercial Finance Group were $1.4 billion and $3.0 billion at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

 

(d) Net financing revenue (loss) after the provision for loan losses totaled $424 million and $608 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Information concerning principal geographic areas was as follows.

 

Three months ended March 31,

   Revenue (a)      Income (loss)
from  continuing
operations
before income tax
expense (benefit) (b)
    Net income
(loss)  (b)
 
     ($ in millions)  

2011

       

Canada

   $ 187       $ 76      $ 176   

Europe

     169         63        50   

Latin America

     237         73        32   

Asia

                    (1
                         

Total foreign

     593         212        257   

Total domestic (c)

     1,014         (110     (111
                         

Total

   $ 1,607       $ 102      $ 146   
                         

2010

       

Canada

   $ 161       $ 50      $ 44   

Europe

     205         (44     (34

Latin America

     207         45        35   

Asia

     3         7        (23
                         

Total foreign

     576         58        22   

Total domestic (c)

     1,274         129        140   
                         

Total

   $ 1,850       $ 187      $ 162   
                         

 

(a) Revenue consists of net financing revenue and total other revenue as presented in our Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(b) The domestic amounts include original discount amortization of $299 million and $296 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

 

(c) Amounts include eliminations between our domestic and foreign operations.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

23. Parent and Guarantor Consolidating Financial Statements

Certain of our senior notes are guaranteed by a group of subsidiaries (the Guarantors). The Guarantors, each of which is a 100% directly owned subsidiary of Ally Financial Inc, are Ally US LLC, IB Finance Holding Company, LLC, GMAC Latin America Holdings LLC, GMAC International Holdings B.V., and GMAC Continental LLC. The Guarantors fully and unconditionally guarantee the senior notes on a joint and several basis.

The following financial statements present condensed consolidating financial data for (i) Ally Financial Inc. (on a parent company only basis), (ii) the combined Guarantors, (iii) the combined nonguarantor subsidiaries (all other subsidiaries), (iv) an elimination column for adjustments to arrive at the information for the parent company, Guarantors, and nonguarantors on a consolidated basis, and (v) the parent company and our subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.

Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for by the parent company and the Guarantors using the equity method for this presentation. Results of operations of subsidiaries are therefore classified in the parent company’s and Guarantors’ investment in subsidiaries accounts. The elimination entries set forth in the following condensed consolidating financial statements eliminate distributed and undistributed income of subsidiaries, investments in subsidiaries, and intercompany balances and transactions between the parent, Guarantors, and nonguarantors.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income

 

     Three months ended March 31, 2011  
     Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
     ($ in millions)  

Financing revenue and other interest income

          

Interest and fees on finance receivables and loans

   $ 252      $ 7      $ 1,364      $      $ 1,623   

Interest and fees on finance receivables and loans — intercompany

     91        5        7        (103       

Interest on loans held-for-sale

                   108               108   

Interest on trading facilities

                   3               3   

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities

     3               101               104   

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities — intercompany

                   2        (2       

Interest-bearing cash

     3               9               12   

Operating leases

     308               372               680   
                                        

Total financing revenue and other interest income

     657        12        1,966        (105     2,530   

Interest expense

          

Interest on deposits

     15               157               172   

Interest on short-term borrowings

     13               113               126   

Interest on long-term debt

     988        2        420               1,410   

Interest on intercompany debt

     (4     7        102        (105       
                                        

Total interest expense

     1,012        9        792        (105     1,708   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

     131               154               285   
                                        

Net financing (loss) revenue

     (486     3        1,020               537   

Dividends from subsidiary

          

Nonbank subsidiaries

     501                      (501       

Other revenue

          

Servicing fees

     80               291               371   

Servicing asset valuation and hedge activities, net

                   (87            (87
                                        

Total servicing income, net

     80               204               284   

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned

                   433               433   

Gain on mortgage and automotive loans, net

                   92               92   

Loss on extinguishment of debt

     (39                          (39

Other gain on investments, net

     9               75               84   

Other income, net of losses

     15               349        (148     216   
                                        

Total other revenue

     65               1,153        (148     1,070   

Total net revenue

     80        3        2,173        (649     1,607   

Provision for loan losses

     83        (1     31               113   

Noninterest expense

          

Compensation and benefits expense

     198        2        234               434   

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

                   186               186   

Other operating expenses

     118        1        801        (148     772   
                                        

Total noninterest expense

     316        3        1,221        (148     1,392   

(Loss) income from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense and undistributed income of subsidiaries

     (319     1        921        (501     102   

Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations

     (133            65               (68
                                        

Net (loss) income from continuing operations

     (186     1        856        (501     170   
                                        

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

     (5            (19            (24

Undistributed income of subsidiaries

          

Bank subsidiary

     251        251               (502       

Nonbank subsidiaries

     86        197               (283       
                                        

Net income

   $ 146      $ 449      $ 837      $ (1,286   $ 146   
                                        

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

    Three months ended March 31, 2010  
    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Financing revenue and other interest income

         

Interest and fees on finance receivables and loans

  $ 316      $ 8      $ 1,294      $      $ 1,618   

Interest and fees on finance receivables and loans — intercompany

    177        1        1        (179       

Interest on loans held-for-sale

    46               169               215   

Interest on trading facilities

                  1               1   

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities

                  101        (2     99   

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities — intercompany

    22               1        (23       

Interest-bearing cash

    1               13               14   

Operating leases

    200               963               1,163   
                                       

Total financing revenue and other interest income

    762        9        2,543        (204     3,110   

Interest expense

         

Interest on deposits

    10               148               158   

Interest on short-term borrowings

    9               102               111   

Interest on long-term debt

    908        5        520               1,433   

Interest on intercompany debt

    (6     1        169        (164       
                                       

Total interest expense

    921        6        939        (164     1,702   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

    70               586               656   
                                       

Net financing (loss) revenue

    (229     3        1,018        (40     752   

Dividends from subsidiaries

         

Nonbank subsidiaries

    5                      (5       

Other revenue

         

Servicing fees

    144               241               385   

Servicing asset valuation and hedge activities, net

                  (133            (133
                                       

Total servicing income, net

    144               108               252   

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned

                  468               468   

(Loss) gain on mortgage and automotive loans, net

    (31            302               271   

Loss on extinguishment of debt

    (116            (2            (118

Other gain on investments, net

                  144        (1     143   

Other income, net of losses

    (76            295        (137     82   
                                       

Total other revenue

    (79            1,315        (138     1,098   

Total net revenue

    (303     3        2,333        (183     1,850   

Provision for loan losses

    (19            163               144   

Noninterest expense

         

Compensation and benefits expense

    195        3        228               426   

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

                  211               211   

Other operating expenses

    153        13        854        (138     882   
                                       

Total noninterest expense

    348        16        1,293        (138     1,519   

(Loss) income from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense and undistributed income of subsidiaries

    (632     (13     877        (45     187   

Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations

    (165            201               36   
                                       

Net (loss) income from continuing operations

    (467     (13     676        (45     151   
                                       

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

    16               (5            11   

Undistributed income of subsidiaries

         

Bank subsidiary

    225        225               (450       

Nonbank subsidiaries

    388        51               (439       
                                       

Net income

  $ 162      $ 263      $ 671      $ (934   $ 162   
                                       

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet

 

     March 31, 2011  
     Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

          

Cash and cash equivalents

          

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 1,288      $      $ 364      $      $ 1,652   

Interest-bearing

     4,652        2        6,640               11,294   

Interest-bearing — intercompany

                   394        (394       
                                        

Total cash and cash equivalents

     5,940        2        7,398        (394     12,946   

Trading securities

                   75               75   

Investment securities

                   15,401               15,401   

Investment securities — intercompany

                                   

Loans held-for-sale, net

                   7,496               7,496   

Finance receivables and loans, net

          

Finance receivables and loans, net

     17,682        389        89,388               107,459   

Intercompany loans to

          

Bank subsidiary

     2,250                      (2,250       

Nonbank subsidiaries

     9,284        388        460        (10,132       

Allowance for loan losses

     (358     (1     (1,447            (1,806
                                        

Total finance receivables and loans, net

     28,858        776        88,401        (12,382     105,653   

Investment in operating leases, net

     4,973               3,925               8,898   

Intercompany receivables from

          

Bank subsidiary

     5,812                      (5,812       

Nonbank subsidiaries

            214               (214       

Investment in subsidiaries

          

Bank subsidiary

     11,165        11,164               (22,329       

Nonbank subsidiaries

     16,928        3,742               (20,670       

Mortgage servicing rights

                   3,774               3,774   

Premiums receivable and other insurance assets

     (6            2,184        (3     2,175   

Other assets

     3,119        4        14,507        (867     16,763   

Assets of operations held-for-sale

     (134            657               523   
                                        

Total assets

   $ 76,655      $ 15,902      $ 143,818      $ (62,671   $ 173,704   
                                        

Liabilities

          

Deposit liabilities

          

Noninterest-bearing

   $      $      $ 2,064      $      $ 2,064   

Interest-bearing

     1,591               37,041               38,632   
                                        

Total deposit liabilities

     1,591               39,105               40,696   

Short-term borrowings

     2,831        50        5,061        (547     7,395   

Long-term debt

     44,051        260        43,828               88,139   

Intercompany debt to

          

Nonbank subsidiaries

     394        460        11,375        (12,229       

Intercompany payables to

          

Nonbank subsidiaries

     4,881               1,110        (5,991       

Interest payable

     1,174        4        672               1,850   

Unearned insurance premiums and service revenue

                   2,842               2,842   

Reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

                   828               828   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     1,326        6        10,574        (905     11,001   

Liabilities of operations held-for-sale

                   546               546   
                                        

Total liabilities

     56,248        780        115,941        (19,672     153,297   
                                        

Total equity

     20,407        15,122        27,877        (42,999     20,407   
                                        

Total liabilities and equity

   $ 76,655      $ 15,902      $ 143,818      $ (62,671   $ 173,704   
                                        

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

     December 31, 2010  
     Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

          

Cash and cash equivalents

          

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 1,251      $      $ 463      $      $ 1,714   

Interest-bearing

     3,414        1        6,541               9,956   

Interest-bearing — intercompany

                   504        (504       
                                        

Total cash and cash equivalents

     4,665        1        7,508        (504     11,670   

Trading securities

                   240               240   

Investment securities

     1,488               13,358               14,846   

Investment securities — intercompany

     2                      (2       

Loans held-for-sale, net

                   11,411               11,411   

Finance receivables and loans, net

          

Finance receivables and loans, net

     10,047        425        91,941               102,413   

Intercompany loans to

          

Bank subsidiary

     3,650                      (3,650       

Nonbank subsidiaries

     9,461        367        463        (10,291       

Allowance for loan losses

     (266     (1     (1,606            (1,873
                                        

Total finance receivables and loans, net

     22,892        791        90,798        (13,941     100,540   

Investment in operating leases, net

     3,864               5,264               9,128   

Intercompany receivables from

          

Bank subsidiary

     5,930                      (5,930       

Nonbank subsidiaries

            213               (213       

Investment in subsidiaries

          

Bank subsidiary

     10,886        10,886               (21,772       

Nonbank subsidiaries

     23,632        3,123               (26,755       

Mortgage servicing rights

                   3,738               3,738   

Premiums receivable and other insurance assets

                   2,190        (9     2,181   

Other assets

     2,912        3        15,539        (890     17,564   

Assets of operations held-for-sale

     (160            850               690   
                                        

Total assets

   $ 76,111      $ 15,017      $ 150,896      $ (70,016   $ 172,008   
                                        

Liabilities

          

Deposit liabilities

          

Noninterest-bearing

   $      $      $ 2,131      $      $ 2,131   

Interest-bearing

     1,459               35,458               36,917   
                                        

Total deposit liabilities

     1,459               37,589               39,048   

Short-term borrowings

     2,519        89        4,900               7,508   

Long-term debt

     43,897        239        42,476               86,612   

Intercompany debt to

          

Nonbank subsidiaries

     504        462        13,481        (14,447       

Intercompany payables to

          

Nonbank subsidiaries

     4,466               1,716        (6,182       

Interest payable

     1,229        3        597               1,829   

Unearned insurance premiums and service revenue

                   2,854               2,854   

Reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

                   862               862   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     1,548        1        11,437        (860     12,126   

Liabilities of operations held-for-sale

                   680               680   
                                        

Total liabilities

     55,622        794        116,592        (21,489     151,519   
                                        

Total equity

     20,489        14,223        34,304        (48,527     20,489   
                                        

Total liabilities and equity

   $ 76,111      $ 15,017      $ 150,896      $ (70,016   $ 172,008   
                                        

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

 

    Three months ended March 31, 2011  
    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Operating activities

         

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

  $ 7,381      $ 5      $ (3,843   $ (501   $ 3,042   

Investing activities

         

Purchases of available-for-sale securities

                  (5,529            (5,529

Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities

    1,494               2,981               4,475   

Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities

    1               1,102               1,103   

Net (increase) decrease in finance receivables and loans

    (7,669     35        3,385               (4,249

Net decrease (increase) in loans — intercompany

    1,578        (22     2        (1,558       

Net (increase) decrease in operating lease assets

    (1,293            1,242               (51

Capital contributions to subsidiaries

    (50     (50            100          

Proceeds from sale of business units, net

                  46               46   

Other, net

    (229     2        818               591   
                                       

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

    (6,168     (35     4,047        (1,458     (3,614

Financing activities

         

Net change in short-term debt — third party

    312        (39     (186            87   

Net increase in bank deposits

                  1,670               1,670   

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — third party

    2,088        28        11,688               13,804   

Repayments of long-term debt — third party

    (2,131     (7     (11,073            (13,211

Net change in debt — intercompany

    (110     (2     (1,556     1,668          

Dividends paid — third party

    (228                          (228

Dividends paid and returns of contributed capital — intercompany

                  (501     501          

Capital contributions from parent

           50        50        (100       

Other, net

    131               (48            83   
                                       

Net cash provided by financing activities

    62        30        44        2,069        2,205   

Effect of exchange-rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

                  (266            (266
                                       

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

    1,275               (18     110        1,367   

Adjustment for change in cash and cash equivalents of operations held-for-sale

                  (91            (91

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

    4,665        2        7,507        (504     11,670   
                                       

Cash and cash equivalents at March 31

  $ 5,940      $ 2      $ 7,398      $ (394   $ 12,946   
                                       

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

     Three months ended March 31, 2010  
     Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
     ($ in millions)  

Operating activities

          

Net cash provided by operating activities

   $ 636      $ 30      $ 6,714      $ (7   $ 7,373   

Investing activities

          

Purchases of available-for-sale securities

                   (4,735            (4,735

Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities

     24               2,664        (24     2,664   

Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities

                   2,873               2,873   

Net increase in investment securities — intercompany

                   (332     332          

Net (increase) decrease in finance receivables and loans

     (1,763     45        (1,853            (3,571

Proceeds from sales of finance receivables and loans

     6               1,181               1,187   

Net decrease in loans — intercompany

     1,955        47        33        (2,035       

Net (increase) decrease in operating lease assets

     (1,868            3,301               1,433   

Capital contributions to subsidiaries

     (160     (62            222          

Returns of contributed capital

     123                      (123       

Proceeds from sale of business units, net

                   (526            (526

Other, net

     49               557               606   
                                        

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

     (1,634     30        3,163        (1,628     (69

Financing activities

          

Net change in short-term debt — third party

     110        (14     (2,725            (2,629

Net increase in bank deposits

                   752               752   

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — third party

     3,299        5        8,859        24        12,187   

Repayments of long-term debt — third party

     (2,615     (56     (16,090            (18,761

Net change in debt — intercompany

     338        (35     (2,000     1,697          

Dividends paid — third party

     (199                          (199

Dividends paid and returns of contributed capital — intercompany

                   (130     130          

Capital contributions from parent

            50        172        (222       

Other, net

     36               258               294   
                                        

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     969        (50     (10,904     1,629        (8,356

Effect of exchange-rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

                   378               378   
                                        

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

     (29     10        (649     (6     (674

Adjustment for change in cash and cash equivalents of operations held-for-sale

                   556               556   

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     757        5        14,026               14,788   
                                        

Cash and cash equivalents at March 31

   $ 728      $ 15      $ 13,933      $ (6   $ 14,670   
                                        

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

24. Contingencies and Other Risks

Temporary Suspension of Mortgage Foreclosure Sales and Evictions and Consent Order

Representatives of federal and state governments, including the United States Department of Justice, the FRB, the FDIC, the SEC and law enforcement authorities in all 50 states, have announced investigations into the procedures followed by mortgage servicing companies and banks, including subsidiaries of Ally, in connection with mortgage foreclosure home sales and evictions. As a result of an examination conducted by the FRB and FDIC on April 13, 2011, each of Ally, Ally Bank, Residential Capital, LLC and GMAC Mortgage, LLC (collectively, the Ally Entities) entered into a Consent Order (the Order) with the FRB and the FDIC. The Order requires, among other things, the Ally Entities to retain independent consultants to conduct a risk assessment related to mortgage servicing activities and to conduct a review of certain past residential mortgage foreclosure actions. We do not expect the costs associated with our required near-term response to the Order to be material. The Order further requires the Ally Entities to make improvements in various areas related to aspects of Ally’s mortgage servicing business, including board oversight, compliance programs, internal audit, communications with borrowers, outsourcing activities, management information systems, and employee training. The estimated increased costs associated with future servicing and foreclosure costs as a result of the Order have been considered as part of the fair value adjustment of our existing mortgage servicing rights for the three months ended March 31, 2011.

We continue to cooperate with the ongoing investigations of the various regulators. Any additional results of these investigations is uncertain, but we expect that Ally or its subsidiaries will become subject to additional penalties, sanctions, or other adverse actions, including montetary fines, that could have a material adverse impact on us.

On September 17, 2010, GMAC Mortgage, LLC (GMACM), our indirect wholly owned subsidiary, temporarily suspended mortgage foreclosure home sales and evictions and postponed hearings on motions for judgment in certain states. This decision was made after an operational matter was detected in the execution of certain affidavits used in connection with judicial foreclosures in some but not all states. The issue relates to whether persons signing the affidavits had appropriately verified the information in them and whether they were signed in the immediate physical presence of a notary. In response to this and to enhance existing procedures, GMACM implemented supplemental procedures that are used in all new foreclosure cases to seek to ensure that affidavits are prepared in compliance with applicable law. GMACM is also conducting an additional review of all foreclosure files in all states prior to proceeding with foreclosure sales.

Our review related to this matter is ongoing, and we cannot estimate the ultimate impact of deficiencies that have been identified or any that may be identified in the future, related to our historical foreclosure procedures. Throughout our review process to date, we have found no instance where a homeowner was foreclosed upon without being in significant default. There are potential risks related to these matters that extend beyond potential liability on individual foreclosure actions. Specific risks could include, for example, claims and litigation related to foreclosure file remediation and resubmission; claims from investors that hold securities that become adversely impacted by continued delays in the foreclosure process; actions by courts, state attorneys general, or regulators to delay further the foreclosure process after submission of corrected affidavits; regulatory fines, sanctions, and other costs; and reputational risks. At March 31, 2011, we recorded a liability of approximately $9 million related to potential monetary fines and penalties we determined were probable and estimable. We did not record any additional liability related to unasserted claims or loss contingencies at March 31, 2011, because we do not believe such liabilities are probable and estimable based on information currently available nor are we able to estimate a range of losses.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Mortgage-backed Securities Litigation

There are twelve cases relating to various private-label MBS offerings that are currently pending. Plaintiffs in these cases include Cambridge Place Investment Management Inc. (two cases pending in Suffolk County Superior Court, Massachusetts); The Charles Schwab Corporation (case pending in San Francisco County Superior Court, California); Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston (case pending in Suffolk County Superior Court, Massachusetts); Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (case pending in Cook County Circuit Court, Illinois); Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis (case filed in Marion County Superior Court, Indiana); Massachusetts Mutual Life Ins. Co. (case pending in federal court in the District of Massachusetts); Allstate Insurance Co. et al. (case pending in Hennepin County District Court, Minnesota); New Jersey Carpenters Health Fund, et al. (a putative class action in which certification has been denied, pending in federal court in the Southern District of New York); West Virginia Investment Management Board (case pending in Kanawha County Circuit Court, West Virginia); Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, et al. (case pending in Hennepin County District Court, Minnesota); and Union Central Life Insurance et al. (case pending in federal court in the Southern District of New York). Each of the above cases includes as defendants certain of our mortgage subsidiaries, and the New Jersey Carpenters, Massachusetts Mutual, and Union Central cases also include as defendants certain current and former employees. The plaintiffs in all cases have alleged that the various defendant subsidiaries made misstatements and omissions in registration statements, prospectuses, prospectus supplements, and other documents related to MBS offerings. The alleged misstatements and omissions typically concern underwriting standards. Plaintiffs claim that such misstatements and omissions constitute violations of state and/or federal securities law and common law including negligent misrepresentation and fraud. Plaintiffs seek monetary damages and rescission. The range of any potential losses related to these matters is not currently determinable.

There are two additional cases pending in the New York County Supreme Court where MBIA Insurance Corp. (MBIA) has alleged that two of our mortgage subsidiaries breached their contractual representations and warranties relating to the characteristics of the mortgage loans contained in certain insured MBS offerings. MBIA further alleges that the defendant subsidiaries failed to follow certain remedy procedures set forth in the contracts and improperly serviced the mortgage loans. Along with claims for breach of contract, MBIA also alleges fraud. The range of any potential losses related to these matters is not currently determinable.

Private-label Matters

Claims related to private-label mortgage-backed securities (PLS) have been brought under federal and state securities laws (among other theories), and it is possible that additional similar claims will be brought in the future. The claims made to date are similar in some respects to the repurchase demands we have previously disclosed related to alleged breaches of representations and warranties our mortgage subsidiaries made in connection with mortgage loans they sold or securitized. Further and as previously disclosed, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), as conservator of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, announced on July 12, 2010,

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

that it issued 64 subpoenas to various entities seeking documents related to PLS in which Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac had invested. Certain of our mortgage subsidiaries received such subpoenas. In connection with our settlement with Fannie Mae announced on December 23, 2010, the FHFA has agreed to withdraw the subpoenas that relate to Fannie Mae. However, we continue to respond to the subpoenas related to Freddie Mac. The FHFA has indicated that documents provided in response to the subpoenas will enable the FHFA to determine whether they believe issuers of PLS are potentially liable to Freddie Mac for losses they might have suffered. While a final outcome in any existing or future legal proceeding related to the foregoing, if unfavorable, could result in additional liability, the range of any potential losses related to the above described matters is not currently determinable.

Loan Repurchases and Obligations Related to Loan Sales

Overview

Our Mortgage operations sell loans that take the form of securitizations guaranteed by the GSEs and to whole-loan investors. We have issued private-label mortgage-backed securities infrequently since 2007. In prior years, our volume of private-label securitization issuances were considerably larger, and they included securitized loans where monolines have insured the related bonds. We have settled with both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, limiting our remaining exposure with the GSEs. In connection with securitizations and loan sales, investors are provided various representations and warranties related to the loans sold. The specific representations and warranties vary among different transactions and investors but typically relate to, among other things, the ownership of the loan, the validity of the lien securing the loan, the loan’s compliance with the criteria for inclusion in the transaction, including compliance with underwriting standards or loan criteria established by the buyer, the ability to deliver required documentation and compliance with applicable laws. In general, the representations and warranties described above may be enforced at any time unless a sunset provision is in place. ResCap assumes all of the customary mortgage representation and warranty obligations for loans purchased from Ally Bank and subsequently sold into the secondary market, generally through securitizations guaranteed by the GSEs. In the event ResCap fails to meet these obligations, Ally Financial Inc. has provided Ally Bank a guaranteed coverage of liability. Upon a breach of a representation, the breach is corrected in a manner conforming to the provisions of the sale agreement. This may require us either to repurchase the loan or indemnify the investor for incurred losses.

Originations

We believe our exposure to mortgage representation and warranty claims is most significant for loans sold between 2004 through 2008, specifically the 2006 and 2007 vintages that were originated and sold prior to enhanced underwriting standards and risk-mitigation actions implemented in 2008 and forward, including product offerings, which are more conservative. Since 2009, we have focused primarily on prime conforming and government-insured mortgages in the United States and high-quality government-insured residential mortgages in Canada. In addition, we ceased offering interest-only jumbo mortgages in 2010. Our representation and warranty risk-mitigation strategies include, but are not limited to, pursuing settlements with investors where economically beneficial in order to resolve a pipeline of demands in lieu of loan-by-loan assessments that could result in us repurchasing loans, aggressively contesting claims we do not consider valid (rescinding claims), or actively seeking recourse against correspondent lenders from whom we purchased loans.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Repurchase Process

As soon as practical, after receiving a claim under representation and warranty obligations, we evaluate the request and take appropriate action. Historically, repurchase demands were related to loans that became delinquent within the first few years following origination and varied by investor. As a result of market developments over the past several years, repurchase demand behavior has changed significantly. GSEs are more likely to submit claims for loans at any point in their life cycle based on their internal audit findings. Direct and whole-loan investors are more likely to submit claims for loans that become delinquent at any time while a loan is outstanding or when a loan incurs a loss. Actual incurred losses more significantly drive monoline investor behavior, which can significantly extend the period over which claims are likely to be presented. This occurs because insurance claims paid by the monolines are not required until over-collateralization is depleted and the monolines are not incented to request loan repurchases until they have paid the insurance claims. Representation and warranty claims are generally reviewed on a loan-by-loan basis to validate if there has been a breach requiring a potential repurchase or indemnification payment. We actively contest claims to the extent we do not consider them valid. We are not required to either repurchase the loan or provide an indemnification payment where claims are not valid.

We seek to manage the risk of repurchase and the associated credit exposure through our underwriting and quality assurance practices and by servicing mortgage loans to meet investor standards. We believe that, in general, the longer a loan performs prior to default the less likely it is that an alleged breach of representation and warranty will have a material impact on the loan’s performance. When we do repurchase loans, we bear the subsequent credit loss on the loans. Repurchased loans are classified as held-for-sale and initially recorded at fair value. While investors’ repurchase and demand behavior has changed given the recent market conditions, we continue to maintain constructive relationships with the GSEs and other investors.

Representation and Warranty Obligation Reserve Methodology

The reserve for representation and warranty obligations reflects management’s best estimate of probable lifetime loss. We consider historical and recent demand trends in establishing the reserve. The methodology used to estimate the reserve considers a variety of assumptions including borrower performance (both actual and estimated future defaults), repurchase demand behavior, historical loan defect experience, and historical and estimated future loss experience, which includes projections of future home price changes as well as other qualitative factors including investor behavior. In cases where we do not have or have limited current or historical demand experience with an investor, it is difficult to predict and estimate the level and timing of any potential future demands. As such, losses cannot currently be reasonably estimated and a liability is not recognized. Management monitors the adequacy of the overall reserve and makes adjustments to the level of reserve, as necessary, after consideration of other qualitative factors including ongoing dialogue with counterparties.

At the time a loan is sold, an estimate of the fair value of the liability is recorded and classified in accrued expenses and other liabilities on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet and recorded as a component of gain (loss) on mortgage and automotive loans, net, in our Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income. We recognize changes in the reserve when additional relevant information becomes available. Changes in the liability are recorded as other operating expenses in our Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income. The repurchase reserve at March 31, 2011, primarily represents non-GSE exposure.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The following tables summarize the changes in our reserve for representation and warranty obligations.

 

     2011     2010  
     ($ in millions)  

Balance at January 1,

   $ 830      $ 1,263   

Provision for mortgage representation and warranty expenses

    

Loan sales

     6        1   

Change in estimate — continuing operations

     26        49   
                

Total additions

     32        50   

Realized losses (a)

     (34     (425

Recoveries

     2        2   
                

Balance at March 31, (b)

   $ 830      $ 890   
                

 

(a) Includes principal losses and accrued interest on repurchased loans, indemnification payments, and settlements with counterparty.

 

(b) Includes international reserves.

Government-sponsored Enterprises

Between 2004 and 2008, we sold $250.8 billion of loans. Each GSE has specific guidelines and criteria for sellers and servicers of loans underlying their securities. In addition, the risk of credit loss of the loan sold was generally transferred to investors upon sale of the securities into the secondary market. Conventional conforming loans were sold to either Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae, and government-insured loans were securitized with Ginnie Mae. For the three months ended March 31, 2011, we received $102 million in repurchase claims of which $49 million are associated with the 2004 through 2008 vintages of loans sold to the GSEs. Overall, we resolved $174 million claims, including $133 million in settlement, repurchase, or indemnification payments and $41 million related to rescinded claims. Our representation and warranty obligation liability with respect to the GSEs considers the existing unresolved claims and our best estimate of future claims we might receive. We consider our experiences with the each GSE in evaluating our liability. During 2010, we reached agreements with Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae that resolve material repurchase obligations with each counterparty.

In March 2010, certain of our mortgage subsidiaries entered into an agreement with Freddie Mac under which we made a one-time payment to Freddie Mac for the release of repurchase obligations relating to most of the mortgage loans sold to Freddie Mac prior to January 1, 2009. The agreement does not cover any violation of servicing obligations related to any failure to comply with any requirements of law applicable to foreclosing on property serving as collateral for any applicable mortgage loan. This agreement does not release any of our obligations with respect to loans where our subsidiary, Ally Bank, is the owner of the servicing.

On December 23, 2010, certain of our mortgage subsidiaries entered into an agreement with Fannie Mae under which we made a one-time payment to Fannie Mae for the release of repurchase obligations, including private-label securitization exposure, related to most of the mortgage loans we sold to Fannie Mae prior to June 30, 2010. We continue to be responsible for other contractual obligations we have with Fannie Mae including all indemnification obligations that may arise in connection with the servicing of the mortgages. The agreement does not cover any violation of servicing obligations related to any failure to comply with any requirements of law applicable to foreclosing on property serving as collateral for any applicable mortgage loan. This agreement does not release any of our obligations with respect to loans where our subsidiary, Ally Bank, is the owner of the servicing.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

The FHFA, as conservator of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, announced on July 12, 2010, that it issued 64 subpoenas to various entities seeking documents related to private-label mortgage-backed securities in which Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac had invested. Certain of these subpoenas were directed at our mortgage subsidiaries. In connection with the agreement reached with Fannie Mae, the FHFA has agreed to withdraw those subpoenas that relate to Fannie Mae while the subpoenas that relate to Freddie Mac remain open.

Whole-loan Sales

In addition to the settlements with the GSEs noted earlier, we have settled with several whole-loan investors concerning alleged breaches of underwriting standards. For the three months ended March 31, 2011, we have received $16 million in repurchase claims of which $14 million are associated with the 2004 through 2008 vintages of loans sold to whole-loan investors. We resolved $31 million of claims, including $7 million in either settlements, repurchases, or indemnification payments and $24 million related to rescinded claims.

Monoline Insurers

Historically, our Mortgage operations have securitized whole loans where the monolines have insured all or some of the related bonds and have guaranteed the timely repayment of bond principal and interest when an issuer defaults. Overall, the representation and warranty obligations to monoline insurers are not as stringent as those of the GSEs and impose a higher burden of proof on the insurer. Typically, any alleged breach requires the insurer to have both the ability to assert a claim as well as evidence that a defect has had a material adverse effect on the interest of the security holders or the insurer. For the period 2004 through 2008, we sold $42.7 billion of loans into these monoline-wrapped securitizations. For the three months ended March 31, 2011, we received $14 million in repurchase claims from the monolines associated with the 2004 through 2008 securitizations. We have resolved $8 million of the total unresolved repurchase demands through indemnification payments.

Unlike the repurchase protocols and experience established with the GSEs, experience with monolines has not been as predictable. A significant portion of the outstanding unresolved monoline repurchase claims are with one insurer, with whom we are currently in litigation.

Private-label Securitization

Historically, our Mortgage operations were very active in the securitization market, selling whole loans into special-purpose entities and selling these private-label mortgage-backed securities to investors. We have issued private-label mortgage-backed securities infrequently since 2007.

In general, representations and warranties provided as part of our securitization activities are less rigorous than those provided to the GSEs and generally impose higher burdens on investors seeking repurchase. In order to successfully assert a claim, an investor must prove breach of the representations and warranties that materially and adversely affects the interest of all investors. Securitization documents typically provide the investors with a right to request that the trustee investigate and initiate a repurchase claim. However, a class of investors generally are required to coordinate with other investors in that class comprising not less than 25% of the percentage interest constituting a class of securities of that class issued by the trust to pursue claims for breach of representations and warranties. In addition, our private-label securitizations generally require that the servicer or trustee give notice to the other parties whenever it becomes aware of facts or circumstances that reveal a breach of representation that materially and adversely affects the interest of the certificate holders. If, for example, we as servicer became aware of such facts and circumstances, we would typically be required to initiate a repurchase at that time. The GSEs were among the purchasers of securities in our private-label securitizations.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

Regarding our securitization activities, we have exposure to potential losses primarily through two avenues. First, investors may request that we repurchase loans or make the investor whole for losses incurred if it is determined that we violated representations and warranties made at the time of the sale. Contractual representations and warranties are different based on the specific deal structure and investor. Second, investors in securitizations may attempt to achieve rescission of their investments, or damages through litigation by claiming that the applicable offering documents were materially deficient. If an investor properly made and proved its allegations, the investor might attempt to claim that damages could include loss of market value on the investment even if there were little or no credit loss in the underlying loans. We have a limited amount of repurchase experience with these investors, and therefore, it is currently not possible to estimate future repurchase obligations and any related loss or range of loss.

25. Subsequent Events

Notes Offering and Debt Repurchase

On April 13, 2011, we completed a securities offering of $1.5 billion in aggregate principal amount of Ally senior guaranteed notes. The offering included $750 million of fixed rate notes at par to yield 4.5% with a February 2014 maturity date and $750 million of floating rate notes to yield a spread of 340 basis points over the three-month London interbank offer rate with a June 2014 maturity date.

In addition, in April, we repurchased certain debt that will result in a $31 million loss for the second quarter 2011. The loss primarily represented accelerated original issue discount amortization of $20 million that was scheduled to amortize in 2011.

Declaration of Quarterly Dividend Payments

On April 18, 2011, the Ally Board of Directors declared quarterly dividend payments on certain outstanding preferred stock. This included a cash dividend of $1.125 per share, or a total of $134 million, on Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2; and a cash dividend of $17.69 per share, or a total of $46 million, on Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G; and a cash dividend of $0.295 per share, or a total of $12 million, on Fixed Rate / Floating Rate Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A. The dividends are payable on May 16, 2011.

 

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Statement of Responsibility for Preparation of Financial Statements

Our Consolidated Financial Statements, together with the notes thereto and the reports of Management and of Deloitte & Touche LLP, are filed as part of this Report. Unaudited supplementary financial data for each quarter within the three years ended December 31, 2010, is included in Note 31 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Our Consolidated Financial Statements, Financial Highlights, and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Ally Financial Inc. and subsidiaries (Ally) were prepared by management, who is responsible for their integrity and objectivity. Where applicable, this financial information has been prepared in conformity with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of this financial information requires the use of estimates, judgments, and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of our Consolidated Financial Statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the periods presented. The critical accounting estimates that may involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity are discussed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

The audit was conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).

The Ally Board of Directors, through its Audit Committee, is responsible for overseeing management’s fulfillment of its responsibilities in the preparation of our Consolidated Financial Statements. The Ally Financial Inc. Audit Committee annually recommends to the Board the selection of independent auditors. In addition, the Ally Financial Inc. Audit Committee reviews the scope of the audits and accounting principles being applied in financial reporting. The independent auditors, representatives of management, and the internal auditors meet regularly (separately and jointly) with the Ally Financial Inc. Audit Committee to review the activities of each and to ensure that each is properly discharging its responsibilities. To reinforce complete independence, Deloitte & Touche LLP has full and free access to meet with the Ally Financial Inc. Audit Committee without management representatives present to discuss the results of the audit, the adequacy of internal control, and the quality of financial reporting.

 

 

/s/ MICHAEL A. CARPENTER

  

/s/ JAMES G. MACKEY

Michael A. Carpenter    James G. Mackey
Chief Executive Officer    Interim Chief Financial Officer
February 25, 2011    February 25, 2011

 

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Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Ally management is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of published financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes 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 the Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity 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 can provide only reasonable assurance and may not prevent or detect misstatements. Further, 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.

Management conducted, under the supervision of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Interim Chief Financial Officer, an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, commonly referred to as the “COSO” criteria.

Based on the assessment performed, management concluded that at December 31, 2010, Ally’s internal control over financial reporting was effective based on the COSO criteria.

The independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has audited the Consolidated Financial Statements of Ally and has issued an attestation report on our internal control over financial reporting at December 31, 2010, as stated in its report, which is included herein.

 

 

/s/ MICHAEL A. CARPENTER

  

/s/ JAMES G. MACKEY

Michael A. Carpenter    James G. Mackey
Chief Executive Officer    Interim Chief Financial Officer
February 25, 2011    February 25, 2011

 

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Ally Financial Inc.:

We have audited the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet of Ally Financial Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the related Consolidated Statements of Income, Changes in Equity, and Cash Flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 25, 2011, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

 
Deloitte & Touche LLP  
Detroit, Michigan  
February 25, 2011 (March 31, 2011 as to the earnings per share information described in Note 1, Description of Business and Significant Accounting Policies, and Note 20, Equity and Earnings per Common Share)

 

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Ally Financial Inc.:

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Ally Financial Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2010, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, as stated in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material aspects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2010, of the Company and our report dated February 25, 2011 (March 31, 2011 as to the earnings per share information described in Note 1, Description of Business and Significant Accounting Policies, and Note 20, Equity and Earnings per Common Share), expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

 

 

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Deloitte & Touche LLP
Detroit, Michigan
February 25, 2011

 

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Consolidated Statement of Income

 

     Year ended December 31,  
       2010         2009         2008    
     ($ in millions, except per share data)  

Financing revenue and other interest income

      

Interest and fees on finance receivables and loans

   $ 6,555      $ 6,395      $ 8,432   

Interest on loans held-for-sale

     664        447        837   

Interest on trading securities

     15        132        127   

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities

     362        226        376   

Interest-bearing cash

     70        99        375   

Other interest income, net

     1        86        325   

Operating leases

     3,780        5,715        7,582   
                        

Total financing revenue and other interest income

     11,447        13,100        18,054   

Interest expense

      

Interest on deposits

     660        700        707   

Interest on short-term borrowings

     447        566        1,451   

Interest on long-term debt

     5,729        6,008        8,283   
                        

Total interest expense

     6,836        7,274        10,441   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

     2,030        3,748        5,478   

Impairment of investment in operating leases

                   1,218   
                        

Net financing revenue

     2,581        2,078        917   

Other revenue

      

Servicing fees

     1,563        1,549        1,747   

Servicing asset valuation and hedge activities, net

     (394     (1,104     (263
                        

Total servicing income, net

     1,169        445        1,484   

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned

     1,865        1,977        2,710   

Gain on mortgage and automotive loans, net

     1,267        811        159   

(Loss) gain on extinguishment of debt

     (123     665        12,628   

Other gain (loss) on investments, net

     505        166        (378

Other (loss) gain on trading securities, net

     (6     173        (689

Other income, net of losses

     644        180        (643
                        

Total other revenue

     5,321        4,417        15,271   

Total net revenue

     7,902        6,495        16,188   

Provision for loan losses

     442        5,604        3,102   

Noninterest expense

      

Compensation and benefits expense

     1,622        1,576        1,916   

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

     876        1,042        1,402   

Other operating expenses

     3,783        5,232        5,031   
                        

Total noninterest expense

     6,281        7,850        8,349   

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense (benefit)

     1,179        (6,959     4,737   

Income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations

     153        74        (136
                        

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

     1,026        (7,033     4,873   
                        

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

     49        (3,265     (3,005
                        

Net income (loss)

   $ 1,075      $ (10,298   $ 1,868   
                        

Net (loss) income attributable to common shareholders

   $ (786   $ (11,523   $ 1,868   
                        

Statement continues on the next page.

 

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     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
     ($ in millions, except per share data)  

Basic and diluted earnings per common share (a)

      

Net (loss) income from continuing operations

   $ (1,042   $ (15,596   $ 44,747   

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

     61        (6,169     (27,595
                        

Net (loss) income

   $ (981   $ (21,765   $ 17,152   
                        

Weighted-average common shares outstanding

     800,597        529,392        108,884   
                        

 

(a) Due to the net loss attributable to common shareholders in 2010 and 2009, income attributable to common shareholders and basic weighted average common shares outstanding were used to calculate basic and diluted earnings per share.

The Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

 

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Consolidated Balance Sheet

 

     December 31,  
     2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

    

Cash and cash equivalents

    

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 1,714      $ 1,840   

Interest-bearing

     9,956        12,948   
                

Total cash and cash equivalents

     11,670        14,788   

Trading securities

     240        739   

Investment securities

     14,846        12,158   

Loans held-for-sale, net ($6,424 and $5,545 fair value-elected)

     11,411        20,625   

Finance receivables and loans, net

    

Finance receivables and loans, net ($1,015 and $1,391 fair value-elected)

     102,413        77,701   

Allowance for loan losses

     (1,873     (2,445
                

Total finance receivables and loans, net

     100,540        75,256   

Investment in operating leases, net

     9,128        15,995   

Mortgage servicing rights

     3,738        3,554   

Premiums receivable and other insurance assets

     2,181        2,720   

Other assets

     17,564        19,887   

Assets of operations held-for-sale

     690        6,584   
                

Total assets

   $ 172,008      $ 172,306   
                

Liabilities

    

Deposit liabilities

    

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 2,131      $ 1,755   

Interest-bearing

     36,917        30,001   
                

Total deposit liabilities

     39,048        31,756   

Short-term borrowings

     7,508        10,292   

Long-term debt ($972 and $1,294 fair value-elected)

     86,612        88,021   

Interest payable

     1,829        1,637   

Unearned insurance premiums and service revenue

     2,854        3,192   

Reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

     862        1,215   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     12,126        10,456   

Liabilities of operations held-for-sale

     680        4,898   
                

Total liabilities

     151,519        151,467   

Equity

    

Common stock and paid-in capital

     19,668        13,829   

Mandatorily convertible preferred stock held by U.S. Department of Treasury

     5,685        10,893   

Preferred stock

     1,287        1,287   

Accumulated deficit

     (6,410     (5,630

Accumulated other comprehensive income

     259        460   
                

Total equity

     20,489        20,839   
                

Total liabilities and equity

   $ 172,008      $ 172,306   
                

The Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

 

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Consolidated Balance Sheet

The assets of consolidated variable interest entities that can be used only to settle obligations of the consolidated variable interest entities and the liabilities of these entities for which creditors (or beneficial interest holders) do not have recourse to our general credit at December 31, 2010, were as follows.

 

       ($ in millions)    

Assets

  

Loans held-for-sale, net

   $ 21   

Finance receivables and loans, net

  

Finance receivables and loans, net ($1,015 fair value-elected)

     33,483   

Allowance for loan losses

     (238
        

Total finance receivables and loans, net

     33,245   

Investment in operating leases, net

     1,065   

Other assets

     3,194   

Assets of operations held-for-sale

     85   
        

Total assets

   $ 37,610   
        

Liabilities

  

Short-term borrowings

   $ 964   

Long-term debt ($972 fair value-elected)

     24,466   

Interest payable

     15   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     352   

Liabilities of operations held-for-sale

     45   
        

Total liabilities

   $ 25,842   
        

The Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

 

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Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

 

    Members’
interests
    Mandatorily
convertible
preferred
interests held
by U.S.
Department
of Treasury
    Preferred
interests
    Retained
earnings
    Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss)
    Total equity     Comprehensive
income (loss)
 
    ($ in millions)  

Balance at December 31, 2007

  $ 8,912        $ 1,052      $ 4,649      $ 952      $ 15,565     

Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of tax (a)

          (155       (155  
                                                       

Balance at January 1, 2008, after cumulative effect of adjustments

  $ 8,912        $ 1,052      $ 4,494      $ 952      $ 15,410     

Capital contributions (b)

    758                758     

Net income

          1,868          1,868      $ 1,868   

Dividends to members (b)

          (79       (79  

Issuance of preferred interests

    $ 5,000        235            5,235     

Other comprehensive loss

            (1,341     (1,341     (1,341

Other

          3          3     
                                                       

Balance at December 31, 2008

  $ 9,670      $ 5,000      $ 1,287      $ 6,286      $ (389   $ 21,854      $ 527   
                                                       

Capital contributions (b)

  $ 1,247              $ 1,247     

Net loss

        $ (4,578       (4,578   $ (4,578

Preferred interests dividends paid to the U.S. Department of Treasury

          (160       (160  

Preferred interests dividends

          (195       (195  

Dividends to members (b)

          (119       (119  

Issuance of preferred interests

    $ 7,500              7,500     

Other comprehensive income

          $ 497        497        497   
                                                       

Balance at June 30, 2009, before conversion from limited liability company to a corporation (c)

  $ 10,917      $ 12,500      $ 1,287      $ 1,234      $ 108      $ 26,046      $ (4,081
                                                       

Statement continues on the next page.

 

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Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

 

    Common
stock and
paid-in
capital
    Mandatorily
convertible
preferred
stock held
by U.S.
Department
of Treasury
    Preferred
stock
    Retained
earnings
(accumulated
deficit)
    Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss)
    Total equity     Comprehensive
(loss) income
 
    ($ in millions)  

Balance at June 30, 2009, after conversion from limited liability company to a corporations (c)

  $ 10,917      $ 12,500      $ 1,287      $ 1,234      $ 108      $ 26,046      $ (4,081

Capital contributions (b)

    55                55     

Net loss

          (5,720       (5,720     (5,720

Preferred stock dividends paid to the U.S. Department of Treasury

          (695       (695  

Preferred stock dividends (b)

          (175       (175  

Dividends to shareholders (b)

          (274       (274  

Issuance of preferred stock

      1,250              1,250     

Conversion of preferred stock

    2,857        (2,857          

Other comprehensive income

            352        352        352   
                                                       

Balance at December 31, 2009

  $ 13,829      $ 10,893      $ 1,287      $ (5,630   $ 460      $ 20,839      $ (9,449
                                                       

Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of tax (d)

          (57     4        (53  
                                                       

Balance at January 1, 2010, after cumulative effect of adjustments

  $ 13,829      $ 10,893      $ 1,287      $ (5,687   $ 464      $ 20,786     

Capital contributions

    15                15     

Net income

          1,075          1,075      $ 1,075   

Preferred stock dividends paid to the U.S. Department of Treasury

          (963       (963  

Preferred stock dividends (b)

          (282       (282  

Dividends to shareholders (b)

          (11       (11  

Conversion of preferred stock and related amendment (e)

    5,824        (5,208       (616      

Other comprehensive loss

            (205     (205     (205

Other (f)

          74          74     
                                                       

Balance at December 31, 2010

  $ 19,668      $ 5,685      $ 1,287      $ (6,410   $ 259      $ 20,489      $ 870   
                                                       

 

(a) Relates to the adoption of ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, which increased retained earnings by $23 million and the adoption of ASC Topic 825, Financial Instruments, which decreased retained earnings by $178 million.

 

(b) Refer to Note 26 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further detail.

 

(c) Effective June 30, 2009, we converted from a Delaware limited liability company into a Delaware corporation. Each unit of each class of common membership interest issued and outstanding immediately prior to the conversion was converted into an equivalent number of shares of common stock with substantially the same rights and preferences as the common membership interests. Upon conversion, holders of our preferred membership interests also received an equivalent number of preferred stock with substantially the same rights and preferences as the former preferred membership interests.

 

(d) Relates to the adoption of ASU 2009-17, Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities. Refer to Note 1 for additional information.

 

(e) Refer to Note 20 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further detail.

 

(f) Represents a reduction of the estimated payment accrued for tax distributions as a result of the completion of the GMAC LLC U.S. Return of Partnership Income for the tax period January 1, 2009, through June 30, 2009. Refer to Note 24 to the Consolidated Financial Statement for further details.

The Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

 

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Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Operating activities

      

Net income (loss)

   $ 1,075      $ (10,298   $ 1,868   

Reconciliation of net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

      

Depreciation and amortization

     4,100        5,958        6,722   

Operating lease impairment

                   1,234   

Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets

            607        58   

Other impairment

     170        1,516          

Amortization and valuation adjustments of mortgage servicing rights

     872        142        2,250   

Provision for loan losses

     469        6,173        3,683   

(Gain) loss on sale of loans, net

     (1,014     (192     1,825   

Net (gains) losses on investment securities

     (520     (2     1,203   

Loss (gain) on extinguishment of debt

     123        (665     (12,628

Originations and purchases of loans held-for-sale

     (73,823     (88,283     (132,023

Proceeds from sales and repayments of loans held-for-sale

     80,093        78,673        141,312   

Net change in

      

Trading securities

     (39     734        741   

Deferred income taxes

     (272     (402     (396

Interest payable

     177        83        (651

Other assets

     1,240        3,711        (1,213

Other liabilities

     (504     (1,473     178   

Other, net

     (540     (1,414     (68
                        

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

     11,607        (5,132     14,095   
                        

Investing activities

      

Purchases of available-for-sale securities

     (24,116     (21,148     (16,202

Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities

     17,872        10,153        14,068   

Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities

     4,527        4,527        7,502   

Net (increase) decrease in finance receivables and loans

     (17,306     14,259        5,570   

Proceeds from sales of finance receivables and loans

     3,138        260        1,366   

Change in notes receivable from GM

     (38     803        (62

Purchases of operating lease assets

     (3,551     (732     (10,544

Disposals of operating lease assets

     8,627        6,612        7,633   

(Purchases) sales of mortgage servicing rights, net

     (56            797   

Proceeds from sale of business units, net (a)

     161        296        319   

Other, net (b)

     3,175        2,098        471   
                        

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

     (7,567     17,128        10,918   
                        

Statement continues on the next page.

 

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Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Financing activities

      

Net change in short-term debt

     (3,629     (338     (22,815

Net increase in bank deposits

     6,556        10,703        6,447   

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

     39,002        30,679        44,724   

Repayments of long-term debt

     (49,530     (61,493     (59,627

Proceeds from issuance of common stock

            1,247          

Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock to the U.S. Department of Treasury

            8,750        5,000   

Dividends paid

     (1,253     (1,592     (113

Other, net

     869        1,064        (1,784
                        

Net cash used in financing activities

     (7,985     (10,980     (28,168
                        

Effect of exchange-rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

     102        (602     629   
                        

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

     (3,843     414        (2,526

Adjustments for change in cash and cash equivalents of operations held-for-sale (a)(b)

     725        (777       

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     14,788        15,151        17,677   
                        

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

   $ 11,670      $ 14,788      $ 15,151   
                        

Supplemental disclosures

      

Cash paid for

      

Interest

   $ 5,531      $ 7,868      $ 12,092   

Income taxes

     517        355        130   

Noncash items

      

Increase in finance receivables and loans due to a change in accounting principle (c)

     17,990                 

Increase in long-term debt due to a change in accounting principle (c)

     17,054                 

Increase in equity (d)

                   235   

Capital contributions from stockholders/members

            34        758   

Conversion of preferred stock to common equity

     5,208                 

Other disclosures

      

Proceeds from sales and repayments of mortgage loans held-for-investment originally designated as held-for-sale

     1,324        1,010        1,747   

Consolidation of loans, net

     137        1,410          

Consolidation of variable interest entity debt

     78        1,184          

Deconsolidation of loans, net

     1,969               2,353   

Deconsolidation of variable interest entity debt

     1,903               2,539   

 

(a) The amounts for the year ended December 31, 2010, are net of cash and cash equivalents of $1.2 billion of business units at the time of disposition.

 

(b) Cash flows of operations held-for-sale are reflected within operating, investing, and financing activities in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. The cash balance of these operations are reported as assets of operations held-for-sale on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

 

(c) Relates to the adoption of ASU 2009-17, Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities. Refer to Note 1 for additional information.

 

(d) Represents long term debt exchanged for preferred interests in 2008.

The Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1. Description of Business and Significant Accounting Policies

Ally Financial Inc. (formerly GMAC Inc. and referred to herein as Ally, we, our, or us) is a leading, independent, globally diversified, financial services firm with $172 billion in assets and operations in 37 countries. Founded in 1919, we are a leading automotive financial services company with over 90 years experience providing a broad array of financial products and services to automotive dealers and their customers. We are also one of the largest residential mortgage companies in the United States. We became a bank holding company on December 24, 2008, under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the BHC Act). Our banking subsidiary, Ally Bank, is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Ally Financial Inc. and a leading franchise in the growing direct (online and telephonic) banking market, with $33.9 billion of deposits at December 31, 2010.

Residential Capital, LLC

Residential Capital, LLC (ResCap), one of our mortgage subsidiaries, was negatively impacted by the events and conditions in the mortgage banking industry and the broader economy. The market deterioration led to fewer sources of, and significantly reduced levels of, liquidity available to finance ResCap’s operations. ResCap is highly leveraged relative to its cash flow and previously recognized credit and valuation losses resulting in a significant deterioration in capital. ResCap’s consolidated tangible net worth, as defined, was $846 million at December 31, 2010, and ResCap remained in compliance with all of its consolidated tangible net worth covenants. For this purpose, consolidated tangible net worth is defined as ResCap’s consolidated equity excluding intangible assets. There continues to be a risk that ResCap may not be able to meet its debt service obligations, may default on its financial debt covenants due to insufficient capital, and/or may be in a negative liquidity position in future periods.

ResCap actively manages its liquidity and capital positions and is continually working on initiatives to address its debt covenant compliance and liquidity needs including debt maturing in the next twelve months and other risks and uncertainties. ResCap’s initiatives could include, but are not limited to, the following: continuing to work with key credit providers to optimize all available liquidity options; possible further reductions in assets and other restructuring activities; focusing production on conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans; exploring strategic alternatives such as alliances, joint ventures, and other transactions with third parties with respect to certain ResCap assets and businesses; and continued exploration of opportunities for funding and capital support from Ally and its affiliates. The outcomes of most of these initiatives are to a great extent outside of ResCap’s control resulting in increased uncertainty as to their successful execution.

During 2009 and 2010, we performed a strategic review of our mortgage business. As a result of this, we effectively exited the European mortgage market through the sale of our U.K. and continental Europe operations. The sale of these operations was completed on October 1, 2010. Certain components of the sale were completed on September 30, 2010. Refer to Note 2 for additional information on the sale. We also completed the sale of certain higher-risk legacy mortgage assets and settled representation and warranty claims with certain counterparties. The ongoing focus of our Mortgage Origination and Servicing operations will be predominately the origination of conforming and government-insured residential mortgages and mortgage servicing. While the opportunities for further risk mitigation remain, the risk in our Mortgage Legacy Portfolio and Other operations has been materially reduced as compared to recent levels.

In the future, Ally and ResCap may take additional actions with respect to ResCap as each party deems appropriate. These actions may include Ally providing or declining to provide additional liquidity and capital support for ResCap; refinancing or restructuring some or all of ResCap’s existing debt; the purchase or sale of ResCap debt securities in the public or private markets for cash or other consideration; entering into derivative or

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

other hedging or similar transactions with respect to ResCap or its debt securities; Ally purchasing assets from ResCap; or undertaking corporate transactions such as a tender offer or exchange offer for some or all of ResCap’s outstanding debt securities, a merger, sale, asset sales, consolidation, spin-off, distribution, or other business combination or reorganization or similar action with respect to all or part of ResCap and/or its affiliates. In this context, Ally and ResCap typically consider a number of factors to the extent applicable and appropriate including, without limitation, the financial condition, results of operations, and prospects of Ally and ResCap; ResCap’s ability to obtain third-party financing; tax considerations; the current and anticipated future trading price levels of ResCap’s debt instruments; conditions in the mortgage banking industry and general economic conditions; other investment and business opportunities available to Ally and/or ResCap; and any nonpublic information that ResCap may possess or that Ally receives from ResCap.

ResCap remains heavily dependent on Ally and its affiliates for funding and capital support, and there can be no assurance that Ally or its affiliates will continue such actions or that Ally will choose to execute any further strategic transactions with respect to ResCap, or that any transactions undertaken will be successful.

Although our continued actions through various funding and capital initiatives demonstrate support for ResCap, there are currently no commitments or assurances for future capital support. Consequently, there remains substantial doubt about ResCap’s ability to continue as a going concern. Should we no longer continue to support the capital or liquidity needs of ResCap or should ResCap be unable to successfully execute other initiatives, it would have a material adverse effect on ResCap’s business, results of operations, and financial position.

Ally has extensive financing and hedging arrangements with ResCap that could be at risk of nonpayment if ResCap were to file for bankruptcy. At December 31, 2010, we had $1.9 billion in secured financing arrangements with ResCap of which $1.5 billion in loans was utilized. Amounts outstanding under the secured financing and hedging arrangements fluctuate. If ResCap were to file for bankruptcy, ResCap’s repayments of its financing facilities, including those with us, could be slower. In addition, we could be an unsecured creditor of ResCap to the extent that the proceeds from the sale of our collateral are insufficient to repay ResCap’s obligations to us. It is possible that other ResCap creditors would seek to recharacterize our loans to ResCap as equity contributions or to seek equitable subordination of our claims so that the claims of other creditors would have priority over our claims. In addition, should ResCap file for bankruptcy, our $846 million investment related to ResCap’s equity position would likely be reduced to zero. If a ResCap bankruptcy were to occur and a substantial amount of our credit exposure is not repaid to us, it would have an adverse impact on our near-term net income and capital position, but we do not believe it would have a materially adverse impact on Ally’s consolidated financial position over the longer term.

Consolidation and Basis of Presentation

The Consolidated Financial Statements include our accounts and accounts of our majority-owned subsidiaries after eliminating all significant intercompany balances and transactions and include all variable interest entities (VIEs) in which we are the primary beneficiary. Refer to Note 11 for further details on our VIEs. Our accounting and reporting policies conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP).

We operate our international subsidiaries in a similar manner as we operate in the United States of America (U.S. or United States), subject to local laws or other circumstances that may cause us to modify our procedures accordingly. The financial statements of subsidiaries that operate outside of the United States generally are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. All assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries (excluding Venezuela due to hyperinflation) are translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates. The

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

resulting translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income, a component of equity. Income and expense items are translated at average exchange rates prevailing during the reporting period.

Certain amounts in prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

Use of Estimates and Assumptions

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and that affect income and expenses during the reporting period and related disclosures. In developing the estimates and assumptions, management uses all available evidence; however, actual results could differ because of uncertainties associated with estimating the amounts, timing, and likelihood of possible outcomes.

Significant Accounting Policies

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and certain highly liquid investment securities with maturities of three months or less from the date of purchase. Cash and cash equivalents that have restrictions on our ability to withdraw the funds are included in other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. The book value of cash equivalents approximates fair value because of the short maturities of these instruments. Certain securities with original maturities less than 90 days that are held as a portion of longer-term investment portfolios, primarily held by our Insurance operations, are classified as investment securities.

Securities

Our portfolio of securities includes government securities, corporate bonds, asset- and mortgage-backed securities, interests in securitization trusts, equity securities, and other investments. Securities are classified based on management’s intent. Our trading securities primarily consist of retained and purchased interests in certain securitizations. The retained interests are carried at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in current period earnings. Debt securities that management has the intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity and reported at amortized cost. All other securities are classified as available for sale and carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income or loss, a component of equity, on an after-tax basis. Premiums and discounts on debt securities are amortized as an adjustment to investment yield generally over the contractual term of the security. We employ a systematic methodology that considers available evidence in evaluating potential other-than-temporary impairment of our investments classified as available-for-sale or held-to-maturity. If the cost of an investment exceeds its fair value, we evaluate, among other factors, the magnitude and duration of the decline in fair value. We also evaluate the financial health of and business outlook for the issuer, the performance of the underlying assets for interests in securitized assets, and our intent and ability to hold the investment.

Once a decline in fair value of an equity security is determined to be other-than-temporary, an impairment charge for the credit component is recorded to other gain (loss) on investments, net, in our Consolidated Statement of Income, and a new cost basis in the investment is established. Noncredit component losses of a debt security are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) when we do not intend to sell the security or is not more likely than not to have to sell the security prior to the security’s anticipated recovery. Noncredit component losses are amortized over the remaining life of the debt security by offsetting the recorded value of the asset.

Realized gains and losses on investment securities are reported in other gain (loss) on investments, net, and are determined using the specific identification method.

For detail on trading securities refer to Note 6 and for detail on investment securities refer to Note 7.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Loans Held-for-sale

Loans held-for-sale may include consumer automobile, consumer mortgage, and commercial receivables and loans. Loans held-for-sale are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value. Loan origination fees, as well as discount points and incremental direct origination costs, are initially recorded as an adjustment of the cost of the loan and are reflected in the gain or loss on sale of loans when sold. Fair value is determined by type of loan and is generally based on contractually established commitments from investors, current investor yield requirements, current secondary market pricing, or cash flow models using market-based yield requirements. Certain of our domestic consumer mortgages are reported at fair value as a result of the fair value option election. Refer to Note 8 for details on loans held-for-sale and Note 27 for details on fair value measurement.

Finance Receivables and Loans

Finance receivables and loans are reported at the principal amount outstanding, net of unearned income, premiums and discounts, and allowances. Unearned income, which includes deferred origination fees reduced by origination costs and unearned rate support received from an automotive manufacturer on certain automotive loans, is amortized over the contractual life of the related finance receivable or loan using the interest method. Loan commitment fees are generally deferred and amortized over the commitment period. For detail on finance receivables and loans, refer to Note 9.

We classify finance receivables and loans between loans held-for-sale and loans held-for-investment based on management’s assessment of our intent and ability to hold loans for the foreseeable future or until maturity. Management’s intent and ability with respect to certain loans may change from time to time depending on a number of factors including economic, liquidity, and capital conditions. Management’s view of the foreseeable future is generally a twelve-month period based on the longest reasonably reliable net income, liquidity, and capital forecast period.

Our portfolio segments are based on the level at which we develop and document our methodology for determining the allowance for loan losses. Additionally, the classes of finance receivables are based on several factors including the method for monitoring and assessing credit risk, the method of measuring carrying value, and the risk characteristics of the finance receivable. Based on an evaluation of our process for developing the allowance for loan losses including the nature and extent of exposure to credit risk arising from finance receivables, we have determined our portfolio segments to be consumer automobile, consumer mortgage, and commercial.

 

   

Consumer automobile — Consists of retail automobile financing for new and used vehicles.

 

   

Consumer mortgage — Consists of the following classes of finance receivables.

 

   

1st Mortgage — Consists of residential mortgage loans that are secured in a first-lien position and have priority over all other liens or claims on the respective collateral.

 

   

Home equity — Consists of residential home equity loans or mortgages with a subordinate-lien position.

 

   

Commercial — Consists of the following classes of finance receivables.

 

   

Commercial and Industrial

 

   

Automobile — Consists of financing operations to fund dealer purchases of new and used vehicle through wholesale or floorplan financing. Additional commercial offerings include automotive dealer term loans, revolving lines of credit, and dealer fleet financing.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

   

Mortgage — Consists primarily of warehouse lending.

 

   

Other — Consists of senior secured commercial lending and our resort finance portfolio. We sold our resort finance portfolio during the third quarter of 2010.

 

   

Commercial Real Estate

 

   

Automobile — Consists of term loans to finance dealership land and buildings.

 

   

Mortgage — Related primarily to activities within our business capital group, which provides financing to residential land developers and homebuilders. These activities are in wind-down and do not represent a material component of our business.

Nonaccrual Loans

Revenue recognition is suspended when all classes of finance receivables and loans are placed on nonaccrual status. Generally, all classes of finance receivables and loans are placed on nonaccrual status when principal or interest has been delinquent for 90 days or when determined not to be probable of full collection. Exceptions include commercial real estate loans that are placed on nonaccrual status when delinquent for 60 days. Revenue accrued, but not collected, at the date finance receivables and loans are placed on nonaccrual status is reversed and subsequently recognized only to the extent it is received in cash or until it qualifies for return to accrual status. However, where there is doubt regarding the ultimate collectability of loan principal, all cash received is applied to reduce the carrying value of such loans. Finance receivables and loans are restored to accrual status only when contractually current and the collection of future payments is reasonably assured. Typically, this requires a sustained period of repayment performance of at least six consecutive months by the borrower.

Generally, we recognize all classes of loans as past due when they are 30 days delinquent.

Impaired Loans

All classes of commercial loans are considered impaired when we determine it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the terms of the loan agreement. Income recognition is consistent with that of nonaccrual loans discussed above. For collateral dependent loans, if the recorded investment in impaired loans exceeds the fair value of the collateral, a valuation allowance is established as a component of the allowance for loan losses.

For all classes of consumer loans, impaired loans are loans that have been modified in troubled debt restructurings. Troubled debt restructurings typically result from our loss mitigation activities and could include rate reductions, principal forgiveness, forbearance, and other actions intended to minimize the economic loss and to avoid foreclosure or repossession of collateral. A troubled debt restructuring involving only a modification of terms requires that the restructured loan be measured at the present value of the expected future cash flows discounted at the effective interest rate at the time of modification, as based on the original loan terms. Alternately, the loan may be measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. If the value of the loan is less than the recorded investment in the loan, we recognize an impairment by creating a valuation allowance or by adjusting an existing valuation allowance for the impaired loan. For loans held-for-investment that are not carried at fair value and are troubled debt restructurings, impairment is measured based on the present value of the expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate prior to the restructuring. Loans with insignificant delays or insignificant short falls in the amount of payments expected not to be collected are not considered to be impaired.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Our policy is to place all modified loans, including troubled debt restructured loans on nonaccrual status until the loan has been brought fully current, the collection of contractual principal and interest is reasonably assured, and six consecutive months of repayment performance is achieved.

Charge-offs

As a general rule, consumer automobile loans are written down to estimated collateral value, less costs to sell, once a loan becomes 120 days past due; and second-lien consumer mortgage loans within our home equity class are charged off at 180 days past due. Consumer first-lien mortgage loans, which consists of our entire 1st mortgage class and a subset of our home equity class that are secured by real estate are written down to estimated collateral value, less costs to sell, once a mortgage loan becomes 180 days past due. Consumer automobile and second-lien consumer mortgage loans in bankruptcy that are 60 days past due are fully charged off within 60 days of receipt of notification of filing from the bankruptcy court. First-lien consumer mortgage loans in bankruptcy that are 60 days past due are written down to estimated collateral value, less costs to sell, within 60 days of receipt of notification of filing from the bankruptcy court. Regardless of other timelines noted within this policy, loans are considered collateral dependent at the time foreclosure proceedings begin and are charged off to the fair value of the underlying collateral, less costs to sell at that time.

Commercial loans are individually evaluated and where collectability of the recorded balance is in doubt are written down to fair value of the collateral less costs to sell. Generally, all commercial loans, both collateral and noncollateral dependent, are charged off when they are 360 days or more past due.

Allowance for Loan Losses

The allowance for loan losses (the allowance) is management’s estimate of incurred losses in the lending portfolios. We determine the amount of the allowance required for each of our portfolio segments based on its relative risk characteristics. The evaluation of these factors for both consumer and commercial finance receivables and loans involves complex, subjective judgments. Additions to the allowance are charged to current period earnings through the provision for loan losses; amounts determined to be uncollectible are charged directly against the allowance, net of amounts recovered on previously charged-off accounts.

The allowance is comprised of two components: reserves established for specific loans evaluated as impaired and portfolio-level reserves established for large groups of typically smaller balance homogenous loans that are collectively evaluated for impairment. We evaluate the adequacy of the allowance based on the combined total of these two components. Determining the appropriateness of the allowance is complex and requires judgment by management about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. It is possible that others, given the same information, may at any point in time reach different reasonable conclusions.

Measurement of impairment for specific reserves is generally determined on a loan by loan basis. An individual loan should be considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due (both principal and interest) according to the contractual terms of the agreement. Loans determined to be specifically impaired are measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, an observable market price, or the estimated fair value of the collateral less estimated costs to sell, whichever is determined to be the most appropriate. When these measurement values are lower than the carrying value of that loan, impairment is recognized. Loans that are deemed not to be individually impaired are pooled with other loans with similar risk characteristics for evaluation of impairment for the portfolio-level allowance.

For the purpose of calculating portfolio-level reserves, we have determined logical grouping of loans into three portfolio segments: consumer automobile, consumer mortgage, and commercial. The allowance consists of the

 

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combination of a quantitative assessment component based on statistical models, a retrospective evaluation of actual loss information to loss forecasts, and a qualitative component based on management judgment. Management takes into consideration relevant qualitative factors, including external and internal trends such as the impacts of changes in underwriting standards, collections and account management effectiveness, geographic concentrations, and economic events, among other factors, that have occurred but are not yet reflected in the quantitative assessment component. All qualitative adjustments are adequately documented, reviewed and approved through our established risk governance processes. Refer to Note 9 for detail on the allowance for loan losses.

Consumer Loans

Our consumer automobile and consumer mortgage portfolio segments are reviewed for impairment based on an analysis of loans that are grouped into common risk categories (i.e., past due status, loan or lease type, collateral type, borrower, industry or geographic concentrations). We perform periodic and systematic detailed reviews of our lending portfolios to identify inherent risks and to assess the overall collectability of those portfolios. Loss models are utilized for these portfolios, which consider a variety of factors including, but not limited to, historical loss experience, current economic conditions, anticipated repossessions or foreclosures based on portfolio trends, delinquencies and credit scores, and expected loss factors by loan type.

Consumer Automobile Portfolio Segment

The allowance for loan losses within the consumer automobile portfolio segment is calculated by leveraging proprietary statistical models and other risk indicators to pools of loans with similar risk characteristics, including credit bureau score, loan-to-value and vehicle type, to arrive at an estimate of incurred losses in the portfolio. These statistical loss forecasting models are utilized to estimate incurred losses and consider a variety of factors including, but not limited to, historical loss experience, estimated defaults based on portfolio trends, delinquencies, and general economic and business trends. These statistical models predict forecasted losses inherent in the portfolio based on both vintage and migration analyses.

The forecasted losses consider historical factors such as frequency (the number of contracts that we expect to default) and loss severity (the expected loss on a per vehicle basis). The loss severity within the consumer automobile portfolio segment is impacted by the market values of vehicles that are repossessed. Vehicle market values are affected by numerous factors including the condition of the vehicle upon repossession, the overall price and volatility of gasoline or diesel fuel, consumer preference related to specific vehicle segments, and other factors.

The quantitative assessment component is supplemented with qualitative reserves based on management’s determination that such adjustments provide a better estimate of credit losses. This qualitative assessment takes into consideration relevant internal and external factors that have occurred but are not yet reflected in the forecasted losses and may affect the credit quality of the portfolio.

Our methodology and policies with respect to the allowance for loan losses for our consumer automobile portfolio segment did not change during 2010.

Consumer Mortgage Portfolio Segment

The allowance for loan losses within the consumer mortgage portfolio segment is calculated by leveraging proprietary statistical models based on pools of loans with similar risk characteristics, including credit bureau score, loan-to-value, loan age, documentation type, product type, and loan purpose, to arrive at an estimate of

 

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incurred losses in the portfolio. These statistical loss forecasting models are utilized to estimate incurred losses and consider a variety of factors including, but not limited to, historical loss experience, estimated foreclosures or defaults based on portfolio trends, delinquencies, and general economic and business trends.

The forecasted losses are statistically derived based on a suite of loan-level behavior models linked into a state transition modeling framework. This transition framework predicts various stages of delinquency, default, and voluntary prepayment over the course of the life of the loan. The transition probability is a function of the loan and borrower characteristics and economic variables and considers historical factors such as frequency (the number of contracts that we except to default) and loss severity (the expected loss on a per property basis). When a default event is predicted, a severity model is applied to estimate future loan losses. The loss severity within the consumer mortgage portfolio segment is impacted by the market values of foreclosed properties, which is affected by numerous factors, including geographic considerations and the condition of the foreclosed property.

The quantitative assessment component is supplemented with qualitative reserves based on management’s determination that such adjustments provide a better estimate of credit losses. This qualitative assessment takes into consideration relevant internal and external factors that have occurred but are not yet reflected in the forecasted losses and may affect the credit quality of the portfolio.

Our methodology and policies with respect to the allowance for loan losses for our consumer mortgage portfolio segment did not change during 2010.

Commercial

The allowance for loan losses within the commercial portfolio is comprised of reserves established for specific loans evaluated as impaired and portfolio-level reserves based on nonimpaired loans grouped into pools based on similar risk characteristics and collectively evaluated.

A loan is considered impaired when it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement based on current information and events. These loans are primarily evaluated individually and are risk-rated based on borrower, collateral, and industry-specific information that management believes is relevant in determining the occurrence of a loss event and measuring impairment. Management establishes specific allowances for commercial loans determined to be individually impaired based on the present value of expected future cash flows, discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, observable market price or the fair value of collateral, whichever is determined to be the most appropriate. Estimated costs to sell or realize the value of the collateral on a discounted basis are included in the impairment measurement, when appropriate.

Nonimpaired loans are grouped into pools based on similar risk characteristics and collectively evaluated. Our risk rating models use historical loss experience, concentrations, current economic conditions, and performance trends. The commercial historical loss experience is updated quarterly to incorporate the most recent data reflective of the current economic environment. The determination of the allowance is influenced by numerous assumptions and many factors that may materially affect estimates of loss, including volatility of loss given default, probability of default, and rating migration. In assessing the risk rating of a particular loan, several factors are considered including an evaluation of historical and current information involving subjective assessments and interpretations. In addition, the allowance related to the commercial portfolio segment is influenced by estimated recoveries from automotive manufacturers relative to guarantees or agreements with them to repurchase vehicles used as collateral to secure the loans.

 

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The quantitative assessment component is supplemented with qualitative reserves based on management’s determination that such adjustments provide a better estimate of credit losses. This qualitative assessment takes into consideration relevant internal and external factors that have occurred and may affect the credit quality of the portfolio.

Our methodology and policies with respect to the allowance for loan losses for our commercial portfolio segment did not change during 2010.

Securitizations and Variable Interest Entities

We securitize, sell, and service consumer automobile loans, operating leases, wholesale loans, and consumer mortgage loans. Securitization transactions typically involve the use of variable interest entities and are accounted for either as sales or secured financings. Economic interests in the securitized and sold assets are generally retained in the form of senior or subordinated interests, interest- or principal-only strips, cash reserve accounts, residual interests, and servicing rights.

In order to conclude whether or not a variable interest entity is required to be consolidated, careful consideration and judgment must be given to the continuing involvement with the variable interest entity. Subsequent to the implementation of ASU 2009-17 on January 1, 2010, in circumstances where we have both the power to direct the activities of the entity that most significantly impact the entity’s performance and the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits of the entity that could be significant, we would conclude that we would consolidate the entity, which would also preclude us from recording an accounting sale on the transaction. In the case of a consolidated variable interest entity, the accounting is consistent with a secured financing, i.e., we continue to carry the loans and we record the securitized debt on our balance sheet. Further, there is no specific accounting record of our economic interests, but rather, they are captured as the difference between the loan and debt accounting.

In transactions where either one or both of the power or economic criteria mentioned above are not met, we then must determine whether or not we achieve a sale for accounting purposes. In order to achieve a sale for accounting purposes, the assets being transferred must be legally isolated, not be constrained by restrictions from further transfer, and be deemed to be beyond our control. If we were to fail any of the three criteria for accounting sale, the accounting would be consistent with the preceding paragraph (i.e., a secured borrowing). However, if we meet the criteria, the transaction would be recorded as a sale, and the variable interest entity would not be consolidated, refer to Note 11 for discussion on variable interest entities.

Prior to the implementation of ASU 2009-17, many of our securitization were performed utilizing qualifying special purpose entities, which were exempt from consideration for consolidation so long as the transaction would otherwise qualify as a sale. Therefore, these transactions were recorded as sales. Additionally, the gain or loss on sale was dependent on the previous carrying amount of the assets involved in the transfer and were allocated between the assets sold and the retained interests based on relative fair values except for certain servicing assets and liabilities, which were initially recorded at fair value on the date of the sale.

Subsequent to the implementation of ASU 2009-17, gains or losses on off-balance sheet securitizations take into consideration the fair value of the retained interests including the value of certain servicing assets or liabilities, which are initially recorded at fair value at the date of sale. The estimate of the fair value of the retained interests and servicing requires us to exercise significant judgment about the timing and amount of future cash flows from the interests. Refer to the Note 27 for a discussion of fair value estimates.

Gains or losses on off-balance sheet securitizations and sales are reported in gain (loss) on mortgage and automotive loans, net, in our Consolidated Statement of Income for consumer automobile loans, wholesale loans,

 

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and consumer mortgage loans. Declines in the fair value of retained interests below the carrying amount are reflected in other comprehensive income, a component of equity, or as other (loss) gain on investments, net, in our Consolidated Statement of Income if such declines are determined to be other than temporary or if the interests are classified as trading. Retained interests, as well as any purchased securities, are generally included in available-for-sale investment securities, trading investment securities, or other assets. Designation as available for sale or trading depends on management’s intent. Securities that are noncertificated and cash reserve accounts related to securitizations are included in other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet.

We retain servicing responsibilities for all of our consumer automobile loan, operating lease, and wholesale loan securitizations and for the majority of our consumer mortgage loan securitizations. We may receive servicing fees based on the securitized loan balances and certain ancillary fees, all of which are reported in servicing fees in the Consolidated Statement of Income. We also retain the right to service the consumer mortgage loans sold in securitization transactions involving the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae), the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac), and the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae) (collectively the Government-sponsored Enterprises or GSEs) and private investors. We also serve as the collateral manager in the securitizations of commercial investment securities.

Whether on or off balance sheet, the investors in the securitization trusts generally have no recourse to our other assets outside of customary market representation and warranty repurchase provisions.

Mortgage Servicing Rights

Primary servicing rights represent our right to service consumer residential mortgages securitized by us or through the GSEs and third-party whole-loan sales. Primary servicing involves the collection of payments from individual borrowers and the distribution of these payments to the investors or master servicer. Master-servicing rights represent our right to service mortgage- and asset-backed securities and whole-loan packages issued for investors. Master servicing involves the collection of borrower payments from primary servicers and the distribution of those funds to investors in mortgage- and asset-backed securities and whole-loans packages. We also purchase and sell primary and master-servicing rights through transactions with other market participants.

We capitalize the value expected to be realized from performing specified mortgage servicing activities for others as mortgage servicing rights (MSRs). These capitalized servicing rights are purchased or retained upon sale or securitization of mortgage loans. MSRs are not recorded on securitizations accounted for as secured financings.

We measure all mortgage servicing assets and liabilities at fair value. We define our servicing rights based on both the availability of market inputs and the manner in which we manage the risks of our servicing assets and liabilities. We leverage all available relevant market data to determine the fair value of our recognized servicing assets and liabilities.

Since quoted market prices for MSRs are not readily available, we estimate the fair value of MSRs by determining the present value of future expected cash flows using modeling techniques that incorporate management’s best estimates of key variables including expected cash flows, prepayment speeds, and return requirements commensurate with the risks involved. Cash flow assumptions are modeled using our internally forecasted revenue and expenses, and where possible, the reasonableness of assumptions is periodically validated through comparisons to market data. Prepayment speed estimates are determined from historical prepayment rates on similar assets or obtained from third-party data. Return requirement assumptions are determined using data obtained from market participants, where available, or based on current relevant interest rates plus a risk-adjusted spread. We also consider other factors that can impact the value of the MSRs, such as surety provider

 

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termination clauses and servicer terminations that could result if we failed to materially comply with the covenants or conditions of our servicing agreements and did not remedy the failure. Since many factors can affect the estimate of the fair value of MSRs, we regularly evaluate the major assumptions and modeling techniques used in our estimate and review these assumptions against market comparables, if available. We monitor the actual performance of our MSRs by regularly comparing actual cash flow, credit, and prepayment experience to modeled estimates. Refer to Note 12 for further discussion of our servicing activities.

Repossessed and Foreclosed Assets

Assets are classified as repossessed and foreclosed and included in other assets when physical possession of the collateral is taken regardless of whether foreclosure proceedings have taken place. Repossessed and foreclosed assets are carried at the lower of the outstanding balance at the time of repossession or foreclosure or the fair value of the asset less estimated costs to sell. Losses on the revaluation of repossessed and foreclosed assets are charged to the allowance for loan and lease losses at the time of repossession. Declines in value after repossession are charged to other operating expenses for loans and depreciation expense for lease contracts as incurred.

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization, are reported in other assets. In accordance with applicable accounting standards, goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of net assets acquired, including identifiable intangibles. Goodwill is reviewed for impairment utilizing a two-step process. The first step of the impairment test requires us to define the reporting units and compare the fair value of each of these reporting units to the respective carrying value. The fair value of the reporting units in our impairment test is determined based on various analyses including discounted cash flow projections using assumptions a market participant would use. If the carrying value is less than the fair value, no impairment exists, and the second step does not need to be completed. If the carrying value is higher than the fair value or there is an indication that impairment may exist, a second step must be performed to compute the amount of the impairment, if any. Applicable accounting standards require goodwill to be tested for impairment annually at the same time every year and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Our annual goodwill impairment assessment is performed as of August 31 of each year. Refer to Note 14 for a discussion of the related goodwill impairment charge in 2009 and 2008. There was no goodwill impairment charge in 2010.

Investment in Operating Leases

Investment in operating leases is reported at cost, less accumulated depreciation and net of impairment charges and origination fees or costs. Depreciation of vehicles is generally provided on a straight-line basis to an estimated residual value over the lease term. Rate support payments that we receive from manufacturers are treated as a reduction to the cost-basis in the underlying lease asset and are recognized over the life of the contract as a reduction to depreciation expense. We periodically evaluate our depreciation rate for leased vehicles based on projected residual values. Income from operating lease assets that includes lease origination fees, net of lease origination costs, is recognized as operating lease revenue on a straight-line basis over the scheduled lease term.

We have significant investments in the residual values of assets in our operating lease portfolio. The residual values represent an estimate of the values of the assets at the end of the lease contracts and are initially determined based on residual values established at contract inception by consulting independently published residual value guides. Realization of the residual values is dependent on our future ability to market the vehicles

 

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under the prevailing market conditions. Over the life of the lease, we evaluate the adequacy of our estimate of the residual value and may make adjustments to the depreciation rates to the extent the expected value of the vehicle (including any residual support payments from GM) at lease termination changes. In addition to estimating the residual value at lease termination, we also evaluate the current value of the operating lease asset and test for impairment to the extent necessary based on market considerations and portfolio characteristics. Impairment is determined to exist if the undiscounted expected future cash flows are lower than the carrying value of the asset. If our operating lease assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value as estimated by discounted cash flows. Certain triggering events necessitated an impairment review of the investment in operating leases of our Global Automotive Services beginning in the second quarter of 2008. Refer to Note 10 for a discussion of the impairment charges recognized in 2008.

When a lease vehicle is returned to us, the asset is reclassified from investment in operating leases to other assets and recorded at the lower-of-cost or estimated fair value, less costs to sell.

Impairment of Long-lived Assets

The carrying value of long-lived assets (including property and equipment) are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying values may not be recoverable from the estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from their use and eventual disposition. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of their carrying amount to future net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. If these assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value as estimated by discounted cash flows. Refer to the previous section of this note titled Investment in Operating Leases for a discussion pertaining to impairments related to our investment in operating leases in 2008. No material impairment was recognized in 2010 or 2009.

An impairment test on an asset group to be discontinued, held-for-sale, or otherwise disposed of is performed upon occurrence of a triggering event or when certain criteria are met (e.g., the asset can be disposed of within twelve months, appropriate levels of authority have approved the sale, and there is an active program to locate a buyer). Long-lived assets held-for-sale are recorded at the lower of their carrying amount or estimated fair value less cost to sell. If the carrying value of the assets held-for-sale exceeds the fair value less cost to sell, we recognize an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets less cost to sell. During 2010 and 2009, impairment losses were recognized on asset groups that were classified as held-for-sale or disposed of by sale. Refer to Note 2 for a discussion of held-for-sale and discontinued operations.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization, are reported in other assets. Included in property and equipment are certain buildings, furniture and fixtures, leasehold improvements, company vehicles, IT hardware and software, and capitalized software costs. Depreciation is computed on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which generally ranges from 3 to 30 years. Capitalized software is generally amortized on a straight-line basis over its useful life, which generally ranges from three to five years. Capitalized software that is not expected to provide substantive service potential or for which development costs significantly exceed the amount originally expected is considered impaired and written down to fair value. Software expenditures that are considered general, administrative, or of a maintenance nature are expensed as incurred.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Private Debt Exchange and Cash Tender Offers

In 2008, we commenced separate private exchange and cash tender offers to purchase and/or exchange certain of outstanding notes held by eligible holders for cash, newly issued notes of Ally, and in some cases preferred stock of a wholly owned Ally subsidiary. Refer to Note 17 for additional information related to the exchange and cash tender offers.

In evaluating the accounting for the private debt exchange and cash tender offers (the Offers), management was required to make a determination as to whether the Offers should be accounted for as a troubled debt restructuring (TDR) or an extinguishment of Ally and ResCap debt. In concluding on the accounting, management evaluated applicable accounting guidance. The relevant accounting guidance required us to determine whether the exchanges of debt instruments should be accounted for as a TDR. A TDR results when it is determined, evaluating six factors considered to be indicators of whether a debtor is experiencing financial difficulties, that the debtor is experiencing financial difficulties, and the creditors grant a concession; otherwise, such exchanges should be accounted for as an extinguishment or modification of debt. The assessment of this critical accounting estimate required management to apply a significant amount of judgment in evaluating the inputs, estimates, and internally generated forecast information to conclude on the accounting for the Offers.

In assessing whether Ally was experiencing financial difficulties for the purpose of accounting for the Offers, management applied applicable accounting guidance. Our assessment considered internal analyses such as our short- and long-term liquidity projections, net income forecasts, and runoff projections. These analyses were based upon our consolidated financial condition and our comprehensive ability to service both Ally and ResCap obligations and were based only on our current business capabilities and funding sources. In addition to our baseline projections, these analyses incorporated stressed scenarios reflecting continued deterioration of the credit markets, further GM financial distress, and significant curtailments of loans originations. Management assigned probability weights to each scenario to determine an overall risk-weighted projection of our ability to meet our consolidated obligations as they come due. These analyses indicated that we could service all Ally and ResCap obligations as they came due in the normal course of business.

Our assessment also considered capital market perceptions of our financial condition, such as our credit agency ratings, market values for our debt, analysts’ reports, and public statements made by us and our stakeholders. Due to the rigor applied to our internal projections, management placed more weight on our internal projections and less weight on capital market expectations.

Based on this analysis and after the consideration of the applicable accounting guidance, management concluded the Offers were not deemed to be a TDR. As a result of this conclusion, the Offers were accounted for as an extinguishment of debt.

Applying extinguishment accounting, we recognized a gain at the time of the exchange for the difference between the carrying value of the exchanged notes and the fair value of the newly issued securities. In accordance with applicable fair value accounting guidance related to Level 3 fair value measures, we performed various analyses with regard to the valuation of the newly issued instruments. Level 3 fair value measures are valuations that are derived primarily from unobservable inputs and rely heavily on management assessments, assumptions, and judgments. In determining the fair value of the newly issued instruments, we performed an internal analysis using trading levels on the trade date, December 29, 2008, of existing Ally unsecured debt, adjusted for the features of the new instruments. We also obtained bid-ask spreads from brokers attempting to make a market in the new instruments.

Based on the determined fair values, we recognized a pretax gain upon extinguishment of $11.5 billion and reflected the newly issued preferred shares at their face value, which was estimated to be $234 million on

 

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December 29, 2008. The majority of costs associated with the Offers were deferred in the basis of the newly issued bonds. In the aggregate, the offers resulted in an $11.7 billion increase to our consolidated equity position.

Unearned Insurance Premiums and Service Revenue

Insurance premiums, net of premiums ceded to reinsurers, and service revenue are earned over the terms of the policies. The portion of premiums and service revenue written applicable to the unexpired terms of the policies is recorded as unearned insurance premiums or unearned service revenue. For extended service and maintenance contracts, premiums and service revenues are earned on a basis proportionate to the anticipated loss emergence. For other short duration contracts, premiums and unearned service revenue are earned on a pro rata basis. For further detail, refer to Note 3.

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs

Commissions, including compensation paid to producers of automotive service contracts and other costs of acquiring insurance that are primarily related to and vary with the production of business, are deferred and recorded in other assets. Deferred policy acquisition costs are amortized over the terms of the related policies and service contracts on the same basis as premiums and revenue are earned except for direct response advertising costs, which are amortized over their expected future benefit. We group costs incurred for acquiring like contracts and consider anticipated investment income in determining the recoverability of these costs.

Reserves for Insurance Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

Reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses are established for the unpaid cost of insured events that have occurred as of a point in time. More specifically, the reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses represent the accumulation of estimates for both reported losses and those incurred, but not reported, including claims adjustment expenses relating to direct insurance and assumed reinsurance agreements. Estimates for salvage and subrogation recoverable are recognized at the time losses are incurred and netted against provision for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses. Reserves are established for each business at the lowest meaningful level of homogeneous data. Since the reserves are based on estimates, the ultimate liability may vary from such estimates. The estimates are regularly reviewed and adjustments, which can potentially be significant, are included in earnings in the period in which they are deemed necessary. Refer to Note 18 for detail on these reserves.

Loan Repurchase and Obligations Related to Loan Sales

Our Mortgage operations sell loans that take the form of securitizations guaranteed by the GSEs and whole-loan purchasers. In addition, we infrequently sell securities to investors through private-label securitizations. In connection with these activities we provide to the GSEs, investors, whole-loan purchasers, and financial guarantors (monolines) various representations and warranties related to the loans sold. These representations and warranties generally relate to, among other things, the ownership of the loan, the validity of the lien securing the loan, the loan’s compliance with the criteria for inclusion in the transaction, including compliance with underwriting standards or loan criteria established by the buyer, ability to deliver required documentation and compliance with applicable laws. Generally, the representations and warranties described in Note 30 may be enforced at any time over the life of the loan. ResCap assumes all of the customary representation and warranty obligations for loans purchased from Ally Bank and subsequently sold into the secondary market. In the event ResCap fails to meet these obligations, Ally Financial Inc. has provided a guarantee to Ally Bank that covers it from liability.

 

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Upon a breach of a representation, we correct the breach in a manner conforming to the provisions of the sale agreement. This may require us either to repurchase the loan or to indemnify (make-whole) a party for incurred losses or provide other recourse to a GSE or investor. Repurchase demands and claims for indemnification payments are reviewed on a loan-by-loan basis to validate if there has been a breach requiring repurchase or a make-whole payment. We actively contest claims to the extent we do not consider them valid. In cases where we repurchase loans, we bear the subsequent credit loss on the loans. Repurchased loans are classified as held-for-sale and initially recorded at fair value. We seek to manage the risk of repurchase and associated credit exposure through our underwriting and quality assurance practices and by servicing mortgage loans to meet investor standards.

The reserve for representation and warranty obligations reflects management’s best estimate of probable lifetime loss. We consider historical and recent demand trends in establishing the reserve. The methodology used to estimate the reserve considers a variety of assumptions including borrower performance (both actual and estimated future defaults), repurchase demand behavior, historical loan defect experience, historical and estimated future loss experience, which includes projections of future home price changes as well as other qualitative factors including investor behavior. In cases where we do not have or have limited current or historical demand experience with an investor, because it is difficult to predict the level and timing of future demands, if any, losses cannot currently be reasonably estimated, and a liability is not recognized. Management monitors the adequacy of the overall reserve and makes adjustments to the level of reserve, as necessary, after consideration of other qualitative factors including ongoing dialogue with counterparties.

At the time a loan is sold, an estimate of the fair value of the liability is recorded and classified in accrued expenses and other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, and recorded as a component of gain (loss) on mortgage and automotive loans, net, in our Consolidated Statement of Income. We recognize changes in the reserve when additional relevant information becomes available. Changes in the liability are recorded as other operating expenses in our Consolidated Statement of Income.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

We use derivative instruments for risk management purposes. Some of our derivative instruments are designated in qualifying hedge accounting relationships; other derivatives instruments do not qualify for hedge accounting or are not elected to be designated in a qualifying hedging relationship. In accordance with applicable accounting standards, all derivative financial instruments, whether designated for hedge accounting or not, are required to be recorded on the balance sheet as assets or liabilities and measured at fair value. Additionally, we generally report derivative financial instruments in the Consolidated Balance Sheet on a gross basis. However, in certain instances we report our position on a net basis where we have asset and liability derivative positions with a single counterparty, we have a legally enforceable right of offset, and we intend to settle the position on a net basis. For additional detail on derivative instruments and hedging activities, refer to Note 23.

At inception of a hedging relationship, we designate each qualifying derivative financial instrument as a hedge of the fair value of a specifically identified asset or liability (fair value hedge); as a hedge of the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability (cash flow hedge); or as a hedge of the foreign-currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation. We formally document all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items and risk management objectives for undertaking various hedge transactions. Both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, we formally assess whether the derivatives that are used in hedging relationships are highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of hedged items.

Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges along with the gain or loss on the hedged asset or liability attributable to the hedged risk, are recorded in

 

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the current period earnings. For qualifying cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the change in the fair value of the derivative financial instruments is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income, a component of equity, and recognized in the income statement when the hedged cash flows affect earnings. For a derivative designated as hedging the foreign-currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation, the gain or loss is reported in accumulated other comprehensive income as part of the cumulative translation adjustment with the exception of the spot to forward difference, which is recorded in current period earnings. The ineffective portions of fair value, cash flow, and net investment hedges are immediately recognized in earnings, along with the portion of the change in fair value that is excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness, if any.

The hedge accounting treatment described herein is no longer applied if a derivative financial instrument is terminated or the hedge designation is removed or is assessed to be no longer highly effective. For these terminated fair value hedges, any changes to the hedged asset or liability remain as part of the basis of the asset or liability and are recognized into income over the remaining life of the asset or liability. For terminated cash flow hedges, unless it is probable that the forecasted cash flows will not occur within a specified period, any changes in fair value of the derivative financial instrument previously recognized remain in other comprehensive income, a component of equity, and are reclassified into earnings in the same period that the hedged cash flows affect earnings. The previously recognized net derivative gain or loss for a net investment hedge continues to remain in accumulated other comprehensive income until earnings are impacted by sale or liquidation of the associated foreign operation. In all instances, after hedge accounting is no longer applied, any subsequent changes in fair value of the derivative instrument will be recorded into earnings.

Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments held for risk management purposes that are not designated as hedges under GAAP are reported in current period earnings.

Loan Commitments

We enter into commitments to make loans whereby the interest rate on the loans is set prior to funding (i.e., interest rate lock commitments). Interest rate lock commitments for mortgage loans to be originated for sale are derivative financial instruments carried at fair value in accordance with applicable accounting standards with changes in fair value included within current period earnings. The fair value of the interest rate lock commitments, which include expected net future cash flows related to the associated servicing of the loan, are accounted for through earnings for all written loan commitments accounted for at fair value. Servicing assets are recognized as distinct assets once they are contractually separated from the underlying loan by sale or securitization. Day-one gains or losses on derivative interest rate lock commitments are recognized when applicable.

Income Taxes

Effective June 30, 2009, we converted from an LLC to a Delaware corporation, thereby ceasing to be a pass-through entity for income tax purposes. As a result, we recorded our deferred tax assets and liabilities using the estimated corporate effective tax rate. Our banking, insurance, and foreign subsidiaries were generally always corporations and continued to be subject to tax and provide for U.S. federal, state, and foreign income taxes.

Our income tax expense, deferred tax assets and liabilities, and reserves for unrecognized tax benefits reflect management’s best assessment of estimated future taxes to be paid. We are subject to income taxes in both the United States and numerous foreign jurisdictions. Significant judgments and estimates are required in determining the consolidated income tax expense.

Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax and financial statement recognition of revenue and expense. In evaluating our ability to recover our deferred tax assets within the jurisdiction from

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

which they arise we consider all available positive and negative evidence including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. In projecting future taxable income, we begin with historical results adjusted for the results of discontinued operations and changes in accounting policies and incorporate assumptions including the amount of future state, federal and foreign pretax operating income, the reversal of temporary differences, and the implementation of feasible and prudent tax planning strategies. These assumptions require significant judgment about the forecasts of future taxable income and are consistent with the plans and estimates we are using to manage the underlying businesses. In evaluating the objective evidence that historical results provide, we consider three years of cumulative operating income (loss). For the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, we have concluded that the negative evidence is more objective and therefore outweighs the positive evidence, and therefore we have recorded total valuation allowances on net deferred tax assets of $2.0 billion and $2.5 billion, respectively. For additional information regarding our provision for income taxes, refer to Note 24.

We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain income tax positions in interest expense and other operating expenses, respectively.

Stock-based Compensation

Under accounting guidance for stock compensation, compensation cost recognized includes cost for stock-based awards. For certain stock-based awards compensation cost is ratably charged to expense over the applicable service periods. For other stock-based awards the awards require liability treatment and are remeasured quarterly at fair value until they are paid, with changes in fair value charged to compensation expense in the period in which the change occurs. Refer to Note 25 for a discussion of our share-based compensation plans.

Earnings per Common Share

We compute earnings (loss) per common share by dividing net income (loss) (after deducting dividends on preferred stock) by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. We compute diluted earnings (loss) per common share by dividing net income (loss) (after deducting dividends on preferred stock) by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period plus the dilution resulting from the conversion of convertible preferred stock, if applicable.

Foreign Exchange

Foreign-denominated assets and liabilities resulting from foreign-currency transactions are valued using period end foreign-exchange rates and the results of operations and cash flows are determined using approximate weighted average exchange rates for the period. Translation adjustments are related to foreign subsidiaries using local currency as their functional currency and are reported as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity. We may elect to enter into foreign-currency derivatives to mitigate our exposure to changes in foreign exchange rates. Refer to Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities above for a discussion of our hedging activities of the foreign-currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation.

Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

Transfers and Servicing — Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets (ASU 2009-16)

As of January 1, 2010, we adopted Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2009-16 (formerly Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board (SFAS) No. 166), which amended Accounting Standards Codification

 

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(ASC) Topic 860, Transfers and Servicing. This standard removes the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity (QSPE) and creates more stringent conditions for reporting a sale when a portion of a financial asset is transferred. To determine if a transfer is to be accounted for as a sale, the transferor must assess whether the transferor and all of the entities included in the transferor’s consolidated financial statements surrendered control of the assets. For partial asset transfers, the transferred portion must represent a pro rata component of the entire asset with no form of subordination. This standard is applied prospectively for transfers that occur on or after the effective date; however, the elimination of the QSPE concept required us to retrospectively assess all current off-balance sheet QSPE structures for consolidation under ASC Topic 810, Consolidation, and record a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings for any consolidation change. Retrospective application of ASU 2009-16, specifically the QSPE removal, was assessed as part of the analysis required by ASU 2009-17, Consolidations — Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities. Refer to the section below for further information related to ASU 2009-17.

Consolidations — Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities (ASU 2009-17)

As of January 1, 2010, we adopted ASU 2009-17 (formerly SFAS No. 167), which amended ASC Topic 810, Consolidation. This standard addresses the primary beneficiary assessment criteria for determining whether an entity is required to consolidate a variable interest entity (VIE). This standard requires an entity to determine whether it is the primary beneficiary by performing a qualitative assessment rather than using the quantitative-based model that was required under the previous accounting guidance. The qualitative assessment consists of determining whether the entity has both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and the right to receive benefits or obligation to absorb losses that could potentially be significant to the VIE. As a result of the implementation of ASU 2009-16 and ASU 2009-17, several of our securitization structures previously held off-balance sheet were recognized as consolidated entities resulting in a day-one increase of $17.6 billion to assets and liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheet ($10.1 billion of the increase related to operations classified as held-for-sale). As part of the day-one entry, there was an immaterial adjustment to our opening equity balance.

Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures — Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements (ASU 2010-06)

As of March 31, 2010, we adopted the majority of ASU 2010-06, which amends ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures. The ASU requires fair value disclosures for each asset and liability class, disclosures related to inputs and valuation methods for measurements that use Level 2 or Level 3 inputs, disclosures of significant transfers between Levels 1 and 2, and the gross presentation of significant transfers into or out of Level 3 within the Level 3 rollforward. The ASU also requires the gross presentation of purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements within the Level 3 rollforward; however, this specific requirement will be effective for us during the three months ended March 31, 2011. The disclosure requirement by class is a greater level of disaggregation compared to the previous requirement, which was based on the major asset or liability category. While the adoption of ASU 2010-06 expanded our disclosures related to fair value measurements, it did not modify the accounting treatment or measurement of items at fair value and, as such, did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial condition or results of operation.

Derivatives and Hedging — Scope Exception Related to Embedded Credit Derivatives (ASU 2010-11)

As of July 1, 2010, we adopted ASU 2010-11, which clarifies that the transfer of credit risk that is only in the form of subordination of one financial instrument to another financial instrument (such as the subordination of one beneficial interest to another tranche of a securitization) is the only embedded derivative feature that does not

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

require an analysis for bifurcation or separate accounting under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging. In addition, the ASU provides guidance on whether other embedded credit derivatives in financial instruments are subject to bifurcation and separate accounting. The adoption did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial condition or results of operation.

Receivables — Disclosures about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses (ASU 2010-20)

As of December 31, 2010, we adopted ASU 2010-20, which requires expanded disclosures related to the credit quality of finance receivables and loans. This disclosure will be effective for us during the December 31, 2010, reporting period. The ASU also requires a rollforward of the allowance for loan losses, additional activity based disclosures for both financing receivables, and the allowance for each reporting period and certain new disclosures about troubled debt restructurings all of which would be effective for us during the March 31, 2011, reporting period. We have early adopted the rollforward requirement in the December 31, 2010, reporting period. As of January 19, 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued ASU 2011-01, Deferral of the Effective Date of Disclosures about Troubled Debt Restructurings in Update No. 2010-20, which effectively defers the disclosure requirements in ASU 2010-20 related to trouble debt restructurings while they deliberate other potential changes to the accounting for troubled debt restructurings. This deferral will end when the deliberations conclude and the guidance is issued. This is anticipated to be for reporting periods ended after June 15, 2011. Since the guidance relates only to disclosures, adoption will not have a material effect on our consolidated financial condition or results of operation.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Revenue Recognition — Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables (ASU 2009-13)

In October 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-13, which amends ASC Topic 605, Revenue Recognition. The guidance significantly changes the accounting for revenue recognition in arrangements with multiple deliverables and eliminates the residual method, which allocated the discount of a multiple deliverable arrangement among the delivered items. Under the guidance, entities will be required to allocate the total consideration to all deliverables at inception using the relative selling price and to allocate any discount in the arrangement proportionally to each deliverable based on each deliverable’s selling price. ASU 2009-13 is effective for revenue arrangements that we enter into or materially modify on or after January 1, 2011. We do not expect the adoption to have a material impact to our consolidated financial condition or results of operation.

Intangibles — Goodwill and Other (ASU 2010-28)

In December 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-28, which amends ASC Topic 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other, to modify Step 1 of the goodwill impairment test for reporting units with zero or negative carrying amounts. For those reporting units, an entity is required to perform Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. Additionally, when determining whether it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists, an entity should consider whether there are any adverse qualitative factors indicating that an impairment may exist. ASU 2010-28 is effective for us on January 1, 2011. We do not expect the adoption to have a material impact to our consolidated financial condition or results of operation.

Financial Services — Insurance — Accounting for Costs Associated with Acquiring or Renewing Insurance Contracts (ASU 2010-26)

In December 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-26, which amends ASC 944, Financial Services — Insurance. The amendments in this ASU specify which costs incurred in the acquisition of new and renewal insurance

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

contracts should be capitalized. All other acquisition-related costs should be expensed as incurred. If the initial application of the amendments in this ASU results in the capitalization of acquisition costs that had not been previously capitalized, an entity may elect not to capitalize those types of costs. The ASU is effective for us on January 1, 2012. We do not expect the adoption to have a material impact to our consolidated financial condition or results of operation.

2. Discontinued and Held-for-sale Operations

Discontinued Operations

We classified certain operations as discontinued using generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America, as the associated operations and cash flows will be eliminated from our ongoing operations and we will not have any significant continuing involvement in their operations after the respective sale transactions. For all periods presented, all of the operating results for these operations were removed from continuing operations and are presented separately as discontinued operations, net of tax. The Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements were adjusted to exclude discontinued operations unless otherwise noted.

Select Mortgage — Legacy Portfolio and Other Operations

During 2009, we committed to sell certain international operations. These operations included residential mortgage loan origination, acquisition, servicing, asset management, sale, and securitizations in the United Kingdom and continental Europe (the Netherlands and Germany). On September 30, 2010, and October 1, 2010, we completed the sale of these operations.

Select Insurance Operations

During 2009, we committed to sell the U.S. and U.K. consumer property and casualty insurance business. These operations provided vehicle and home insurance through a number of distribution channels including independent agents, affinity groups, and the internet. The sale of our U.S. consumer property and casualty insurance business was completed during the first quarter of 2010. We are in active negotiations and expect to complete the sale of our U.K. consumer property and casualty insurance business during the first half of 2011.

Select International Automotive Finance Operations

During 2010, we ceased operations of our International Automotive Finance operations in Australia and Russia and classified them as discontinued. During the fourth quarter of 2010, we also committed to sell our operations in Venezuela, which resulted in a pretax loss of $108 million during the three months ended December 31, 2010. The loss represents the impairment recognized to present the operations at the lower-of-cost or fair value. The fair value was determined using an internally developed discounted cash flow model (a Level 3 fair value input). The impairment loss was primarily driven by the realization of an unfavorable accumulated translation adjustment of $94 million. We expect to complete the sale of our Venezuela operations during 2011.

During 2009, we committed to sell certain operations of our International Automotive Finance operations including our Argentina, Poland, and Ecuador operations and our Masterlease operations in Australia, Belgium, France, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands, Poland, and the United Kingdom. Our Masterlease operations provide full-service individual leasing and fleet leasing products including maintenance, fleet, and accident management services as well as fuel programs, short-term vehicle rental, and title and licensing services. During 2009, we completed the sale of the Masterlease operations in Italy, Mexico, and the Netherlands. During 2010, we completed the sale of our automotive finance operations in Poland and our Masterlease operations in Australia,

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Poland, Belgium, and France. In July and December 2010, we completed the sale of our Argentina operations and our Masterlease operations in the United Kingdom, respectively. We completed the sale of our Ecuador operations during the first quarter of 2011.

Select Commercial Finance Group Operations

During 2009, we committed to sell the North American-based factoring business of our Commercial Finance Group. On April 30, 2010, the sale of the North American-based factoring business was completed.

Select Financial Information

The pretax income or loss recognized for the discontinued operations, including the direct costs to transact a sale, could differ from the ultimate sales price due to the fluidity of ongoing negotiations, price volatility, changing interest rates, changing foreign-currency rates, and future economic conditions.

Selected financial information of discontinued operations is summarized below.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Select Mortgage — Legacy and Other operations

      

Total net revenue (loss)

   $ 60      $ (637   $ (2,073

Pretax income (loss) including direct costs to transact a sale

     47        (2,234     (2,955

Tax (benefit) expense

     (3            100   

Select Insurance operations

      

Total net revenue

   $ 417      $ 1,448      $ 1,780   

Pretax (loss) income including direct costs to transact a sale (a)

     (23     (810     97   

Tax (benefit) expense

     (1     (99     25   

Select International operations

      

Total net revenue

   $ 117      $ 352      $ 432   

Pretax income (loss) including direct costs to transact a sale (a)

     10        (323     15   

Tax (benefit) expense

     (4     (26     13   

Select Commercial Finance operations

      

Total net revenue

   $ 11      $ 39      $ 49   

Pretax income (loss) including direct costs to transact a sale (a)

     7        (32     (23

Tax (benefit) expense

            (9     1   

 

(a) Includes certain income tax activity recognized by Corporate and Other.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Held-for-sale Operations

The assets and liabilities of operations held-for-sale are summarized below.

 

     December 31, 2010  
     Select
Insurance
operations
(a)
    Select
International
operations
(b)
    Total
held-for-sale
operations
 
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

      

Cash and cash equivalents

      

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 5      $ 14      $ 19   

Interest-bearing

            33        33   
                        

Total cash and cash equivalents

     5        47        52   

Investment securities

     435               435   

Finance receivables and loans, net

      

Finance receivables and loans, net

            242        242   

Allowance for loan losses

            (3     (3
                        

Total finance receivables and loans, net

            239        239   

Premiums receivable and other insurance assets

     169               169   

Other assets

     138        16        154   

Impairment on assets of held-for-sale operations

     (224     (135     (359
                        

Total assets

   $ 523      $ 167      $ 690   
                        

Liabilities

      

Interest-bearing deposit liabilities

   $      $ 6      $ 6   

Short-term borrowings

            47        47   

Long-term debt

            115        115   

Interest payable

            2        2   

Unearned insurance premiums and service revenue

     115               115   

Reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

     362               362   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     33               33   
                        

Total liabilities

   $ 510      $ 170      $ 680   
                        

 

(a) Includes the U.K. consumer property and casualty insurance business.

 

(b) Includes the International Automotive Finance operations of Ecuador and Venezuela.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

     December 31, 2009  
     Select
Mortgage
– Legacy
and Other
operations
(a)
    Select
Insurance
operations
(b)
    Select
International
operations
(c)
    Select
Commercial
Finance
Group
operations
(d)
    Total
held-for-sale
operations
 
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

          

Cash and cash equivalents

          

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 4      $ 578      $ 33      $      $ 615   

Interest-bearing

     151               11               162   
                                        

Total cash and cash equivalents

     155        578        44               777   

Trading securities

     36                             36   

Investment securities

            794                      794   

Loans held-for-sale, net

     214                             214   

Finance receivables and loans, net

          

Finance receivables and loans, net

     2,650               660        233        3,543   

Allowance for loan losses

     (89            (11            (100
                                        

Total finance receivables and loans, net

     2,561               649        233        3,443   

Investment in operating leases, net

                   885               885   

Mortgage servicing rights

     (26                          (26

Premiums receivable and other insurance assets

            1,126                      1,126   

Other assets

     512        176        135               823   

Impairment on assets of held-for-sale operations

     (903     (231     (324     (30     (1,488
                                        

Total assets

   $ 2,549      $ 2,443      $ 1,389      $ 203      $ 6,584   
                                        

Liabilities

          

Short-term borrowings

   $      $ 34      $ 57      $      $ 91   

Long-term debt

     1,749               237               1,986   

Interest payable

     3               1               4   

Unearned insurance premiums and service revenue

            517                      517   

Reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

            1,471                      1,471   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     430        84        128        187        829   
                                        

Total liabilities

   $ 2,182      $ 2,106      $ 423      $ 187      $ 4,898   
                                        

 

(a) Includes the operations in continental Europe and the United Kingdom.

 

(b) Includes the U.S. and U.K. consumer property and casualty insurance businesses.

 

(c) Includes the International Automotive Finance operations of Argentina, Ecuador, and Poland and Masterlease in Australia, Belgium, France, Poland, and the United Kingdom.

 

(d) Includes the North American-based factoring business of our Commercial Finance Group.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Recurring Fair Value

The following tables display the assets and liabilities of our held-for-sale operations measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Refer to Note 27 for descriptions of valuation methodologies used to measure material assets and liabilities at fair value and details of the valuation models, key inputs to these models, and significant assumptions used.

 

     Recurring fair value measurements  
     December 31, 2010  
     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

           

Investment securities

           

Available-for-sale securities

           

Debt securities

           

Foreign government

   $ 256       $       $       $ 256   

Other

             179                 179   
                                   

Total assets

   $ 256       $ 179       $       $ 435   
                                   

 

     Recurring fair value measurements  
     December 31, 2009  
     Level 1      Level 2     Level 3     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

         

Trading securities

         

Mortgage-backed

         

Residential

   $       $      $ 36      $ 36   
                                 

Total trading securities

                    36        36   

Investment securities

         

Available-for-sale securities

         

Debt securities

         

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

     243         2               245   

States and political subdivisions

             24               24   

Foreign government

     329                       329   

Corporate debt securities

             7               7   

Other

             189               189   
                                 

Total debt securities

     572         222               794   

Mortgage servicing rights

                    (26     (26

Other assets

         

Interests retained in financial asset sales

                    153        153   

Fair value of derivative contracts in receivable position

         

Interest rate contracts

             60               60   
                                 

Total assets

   $ 572       $ 282      $ 163      $ 1,017   
                                 

Liabilities

         

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

         

Fair value of derivative contracts in liability position

         

Interest rate contracts

   $       $ (40   $      $ (40
                                 

Total liabilities

   $       $ (40   $      $ (40
                                 

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following tables present the reconciliation for all Level 3 assets and liabilities of our held-for-sale operations measured at fair value on a recurring basis.

 

    Level 3 recurring fair value measurements  
    Fair value at
January 1,
2010
    Net realized/
unrealized
gains (losses)
included in
earnings (a)
    Purchases,
issuances, and
settlements, net
    Fair value at
December 31,
2010
    Net unrealized
gains included
in earnings
still held at
December 31,
2010 (a)
 
    ($ in millions)  

Assets

         

Trading securities

         

Mortgage-backed

         

Residential

  $ 36      $ 3      $ (39   $      $   
                                       

Total trading securities

    36        3        (39              

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net (b)

           422        (422 )(c)               

Mortgage servicing rights

    (26            26                 

Other assets

         

Interests retained in financial asset sales

    153               (153              
                                       

Total assets

  $ 163      $ 425      $ (588   $      $   
                                       

Liabilities

         

Secured debt

         

On balance sheet securitization debt (b)

  $      $ (57   $ 57 (c)    $      $   
                                       

Total liabilities

  $      $ (57   $ 57      $      $   
                                       

 

(a) Reported as income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax, in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(b) Carried at fair value due to fair value option elections.

 

(c) Includes a $10.1 billion increase due to the adoption of ASU 2009-17 on January 1, 2010. This increase was subsequently offset when the operations were sold on September 30, 2010.

3. Insurance Premiums and Service Revenue Earned

The following table is a summary of insurance premiums and service revenue written and earned.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
     Written     Earned     Written     Earned     Written     Earned  
     ($ in millions)  

Insurance premiums

            

Direct

   $ 882      $ 807      $ 795      $ 854      $ 982      $ 1,054   

Assumed

     233        299        604        680        737        682   
                                                

Gross insurance premiums

     1,115        1,106        1,399        1,534        1,719        1,736   

Ceded

     (268     (267     (604     (695     (481     (321
                                                

Net insurance premiums

     847        839        795        839        1,238        1,415   

Service revenue

     770        1,026        685        1,138        964        1,295   
                                                

Insurance premiums and service revenue written and earned

   $ 1,617      $ 1,865      $ 1,480      $ 1,977      $ 2,202      $ 2,710   
                                                

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

4. Other Income, Net of Losses

Details of other income, net of losses, were as follows.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Mortgage processing fees and other mortgage income (loss)

   $ 234      $ 128      $ (257

Late charges and other administrative fees (a)

     140        156        159   

Remarketing fees

     137        128        120   

Full-service leasing fees

     72        128        154   

Income (loss) from equity-method investments (b)

     56        17        (496

Real estate services, net

     9        (267     (62

Fair value adjustment on derivatives (c)

     (162     (56     (99

Change due to fair value option elections (d)

     (217     (215     (237

Other, net

     375        161        75   
                        

Total other income, net of losses

   $ 644      $ 180      $ (643
                        

 

(a) Includes nonmortgage securitization fees.

 

(b) During 2008, we recognized $765 million in losses related to an investment accounted for using the equity method. The losses included $195 million as an estimate of our share of the investee’s net loss and the impairment of our remaining investment interests of $570 million. At December 31, 2008, we had no remaining balance in our investment, no further financial obligations, and ceased equity-method accounting.

 

(c) Refer to Note 23 for a description of derivative instruments and hedging activities.

 

(d) Refer to Note 27 for a description of fair value option elections.

5. Other Operating Expenses

Details of other operating expenses were as follows.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Mortgage representation and warranty, net

   $ 670       $ 1,494       $ 238   

Insurance commissions

     587         635         803   

Technology and communications

     500         593         565   

Professional services

     303         505         607   

Vehicle remarketing and repossession

     188         194         287   

Advertising and marketing

     172         202         154   

Lease and loan administration

     160         164         151   

Regulatory and licensing fees

     119         90         15   

State and local nonincome taxes

     111         118         95   

Occupancy

     97         107         157   

Premises and equipment depreciation

     92         85         123   

Restructuring

     80         63         192   

Full-service leasing vehicle maintenance costs

     64         132         150   

Other

     640         850         1,494   
                          

Total other operating expenses

   $ 3,783       $ 5,232       $ 5,031   
                          

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

6. Trading Securities

The fair value for our portfolio of trading securities was as follows.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

U.S. Treasury

   $ 77       $   

Mortgage-backed

     

Residential

     69         143   

Asset-backed

     94         596   
                 

Total trading securities

   $ 240       $ 739   
                 

Net unrealized gains on securities held at December 31, (a)

   $ 21       $ 203   
                 

 

(a) Net unrealized losses totaled $1,864 million at December 31, 2008.

7. Investment Securities

Our portfolio of investment securities includes bonds, equity securities, asset- and mortgage-backed securities, interests in securitization trusts, and other investments. The cost, fair value, and gross unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities were as follows.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     Cost      Gross unrealized     Fair
value
     Cost      Gross unrealized     Fair
value
 
        gains      losses           gains      losses    
     ($ in millions)  

Available-for-sale securities

                     

Debt securities

                     

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

   $ 3,307       $ 22       $ (11   $ 3,318       $ 3,501       $ 15       $ (6   $ 3,510   

States and political subdivisions

     3                 (1     2         779         36         (4     811   

Foreign government

     1,231         19         (2     1,248         1,161         20         (8     1,173   

Mortgage-backed
Residential (a)

     5,844         60         (79     5,825         3,404         76         (19     3,461   

Asset-backed

     1,934         15         (1     1,948         1,000         7         (2     1,005   

Corporate debt

     1,537         34         (13     1,558         1,408         74         (9     1,473   

Other

     152                 (1     151         47                        47   
                                                                     

Total debt securities (b)

     14,008         150         (108     14,050         11,300         228         (48     11,480   

Equity securities

     766         60         (30     796         631         52         (8     675   
                                                                     

Total available-for-sale securities (c)

     14,774         210         (138     14,846         11,931         280         (56     12,155   
                                                                     

Held-to-maturity securities

                     

Total held-to-maturity securities

                                    3                        3   
                                                                     

Total investment securities

   $ 14,774       $ 210       $ (138   $ 14,846       $ 11,934       $ 280       $ (56   $ 12,158   
                                                                     

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

 

(a) Residential mortgage-backed securities include agency-backed bonds totaling $4,503 million and $2,248 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(b) In connection with certain borrowings and letters of credit relating to certain assumed reinsurance contracts, $153 million and $164 million of primarily U.K. Treasury securities were pledged as collateral at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(c) Certain entities related to our Insurance operations are required to deposit securities with state regulatory authorities. These deposited securities totaled $12 million and $15 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

The maturity distribution of available-for-sale debt securities outstanding is summarized in the following tables. Prepayments may cause actual maturities to differ from scheduled maturities.

 

     December 31, 2010  
     Total     Due in one year
or less
    Due after
one year
through five
years
    Due after
five years through
ten years
    Due after
ten years (a)
 
     Amount      Yield     Amount      Yield     Amount      Yield     Amount      Yield     Amount      Yield  
     ($ in millions)  

Fair value of available-for-sale debt securities (b)

                         

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

   $ 3,318         1.4   $ 124         1.2   $ 3,094         1.3   $ 100         3.7   $        

States and political subdivisions

     2         8.7                                                     2         8.7   

Foreign government

     1,248         3.1        7         2.2        1,092         3.1        149         3.5                  

Mortgage-backed Residential

     5,825         3.8                       57         3.2        64         4.4        5,704         3.8   

Asset-backed

     1,948         2.5                       1,146         2.2        500         2.4        302         4.0   

Corporate debt

     1,558         3.9        22         5.7        811         3.5        593         4.3        132         4.0   

Other

     151         1.5        151         1.5                                                
                                                       

Total available-for-sale debt securities

   $ 14,050         3.0      $ 304         1.7      $ 6,200         2.1      $ 1,406         3.5      $ 6,140         3.8   
                                                       

Amortized cost of available-for-sale debt securities

   $ 14,008         $ 305         $ 6,152         $ 1,388         $ 6,163      
                                                       

 

(a) Investments with no stated maturities are included as contractual maturities of greater than 10 years. Actual maturities may differ due to call or prepayment options.
(b) Yields on tax-exempt obligations have been computed on a tax-equivalent basis.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    December 31, 2009  
    Total     Due in one year
or less
    Due after
one year
through five
years
    Due after
five years through
ten years
    Due after
ten years (a)
 
    Amount     Yield     Amount     Yield     Amount     Yield     Amount     Yield     Amount     Yield  
    ($ in millions)  

Fair value of available-for-sale debt securities (b)

                   

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

  $ 3,510        1.9   $ 103        1.1   $ 3,390        1.9   $ 17        4.1   $       

States and political subdivisions

    811        7.0        9        7.0        175        7.2        147        7.0        480        6.9   

Foreign government

    1,173        3.8        66        1.7        872        3.8        229        4.5        6        5.3   

Mortgage-backed Residential

    3,461        6.5                      2        6.5        36        13.0        3,423        6.4   

Asset-backed

    1,005        2.5        34        5.2        735        2.3        186        2.6        50        3.9   

Corporate debt

    1,473        5.2        283        3.4        575        5.8        570        5.4        45        6.9   

Other

    47        3.6                      32        3.4        15        4.0                 
                                                 

Total available-for-sale debt securities

  $ 11,480        4.3      $ 495        2.8      $ 5,781        2.8      $ 1,200        5.2      $ 4,004        6.5   
                                                 

Amortized cost of available-for-sale debt securities

  $ 11,300        $ 473        $ 5,728        $ 1,169        $ 3,930     
                                                 

 

(a) Investments with no stated maturities are included as contractual maturities of greater than 10 years. Actual maturities may differ due to call or prepayment options.

 

(b) Yields on tax-exempt obligations have been computed on a tax-equivalent basis.

The balance of cash equivalents was $5.3 billion and $1.8 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively and are composed primarily of money market accounts and short-term securities, including U.S. Treasury bills.

The following table presents gross gains and losses realized upon the sales of available-for-sale securities and other-than-temporary impairment.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Gross realized gains

   $ 541      $ 350      $ 109   

Gross realized losses

     (35     (129     (264

Other-than-temporary impairment

     (1     (55     (223
                        

Net realized gains (losses)

   $ 505      $ 166      $ (378
                        

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following table presents interest and dividends on available-for-sale securities.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
      2010        2009        2008   
     ($ in millions)  

Taxable interest

   $ 335       $ 180       $ 307   

Taxable dividends

     17         9         26   

Interest and dividends exempt from U.S. federal income tax

     10         37         43   
                          

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale securities

   $ 362       $ 226       $ 376   
                          

Certain available-for-sale securities were sold at a loss in 2010, 2009, and 2008 as a result of market conditions within these respective periods (e.g., a downgrade in the rating of a debt security). The table below summarizes available for sale securities in an unrealized loss position in accumulated other comprehensive income. Based on the methodology described below that has been applied to these securities, we believe that the unrealized losses relate to factors other than credit losses in the current market environment. At December 31, 2010, we do not have the intent to sell the debt securities with an unrealized loss position in accumulated other comprehensive income, and it is not more likely than not that we will not be required to sell these securities before recovery of their amortized cost basis. Also, at December 31, 2010, we had the ability and intent to hold equity securities with an unrealized loss position in accumulated other comprehensive income. As a result, we believe that the securities with an unrealized loss position in accumulated other comprehensive income are not considered to be other-than-temporarily impaired at December 31, 2010. Refer to Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information related to investment securities and our methodology for evaluating potential other-than-temporary impairment.

 

    December 31,  
    2010     2009  
    Less than 12 months     12 months or
longer
    Less than 12 months     12 months or
longer
 
    Fair
value
    Unrealized
loss
    Fair
value
    Unrealized
loss
    Fair
value
    Unrealized
loss
    Fair
value
    Unrealized
loss
 
    ($ in millions)  

Available-for-sale securities

               

Debt securities

               

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

  $ 702      $ (11   $      $      $ 1,430      $ (6   $      $   

States and political subdivisions

    2        (1                   82        (2     8        (2

Foreign government

    323        (2                   536        (8              

Mortgage-backed

    3,159        (77     11        (2     811        (14     6        (5

Asset-backed

    238        (1     2               202        (1     22        (1

Corporate debt

    653        (13     5               47        (1     120        (8

Other

    80        (1                   7                        
                                                               

Total temporarily impaired debt securities

    5,157        (106     18        (2     3,115        (32     156        (16

Total temporarily impaired equity securities

    250        (27     26        (3     115        (5     52        (3
                                                               

Total temporarily impaired available-for-sale securities

  $ 5,407      $ (133   $ 44      $ (5   $ 3,230      $ (37   $ 208      $ (19
                                                               

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

8. Loans Held-for-sale, Net

The composition of loans held-for-sale, net, reported at carrying value was as follows.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     Domestic      Foreign      Total      Domestic      Foreign      Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer automobile

   $       $       $       $ 9,417       $ 184       $ 9,601   

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

     10,191         364         10,555         9,269         530         9,799   

Home equity

     856                 856         1,068                 1,068   
                                                     

Total consumer mortgage (a)

     11,047         364         11,411         10,337         530         10,867   

Commercial

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Other

                                     157         157   
                                                     

Total commercial

                                     157         157   
                                                     

Total loans held for sale (b)

   $ 11,047       $ 364       $ 11,411       $ 19,754       $ 871       $ 20,625   
                                                     

 

(a) Fair value option-elected domestic consumer mortgages were $6.4 billion and $5.5 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Refer to Note 27 for additional information.

 

(b) Totals are net of unamortized premiums and discounts and deferred fees and costs of $161 million and $318 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

During the year ended December 31, 2009, our Mortgage operations reclassified loans with an unpaid principal balance of $8.5 billion from finance receivables and loans, net, to loans held-for-sale, net, on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. Due to capital preservation strategies, business divestitures, and future liquidity considerations, we changed our intent to hold these mortgage loans for the foreseeable future. These loans were measured at fair value immediately prior to the transfer resulting in a valuation loss of $3.4 billion during the year ended December 31, 2009. We recognized the credit and noncredit component of these losses in provision for loan losses and gain (loss) on mortgage loans, net, respectively, in our Consolidated Statement of Income.

The following table summarizes held-for-sale mortgage loans reported at carrying value by higher-risk loan type.

 

     Year ended
December 31,
 
     2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

High original loan-to-value (greater than 100%) mortgage loans

   $ 331       $ 390   

Payment-option adjustable rate mortgage loans

     16         47   

Interest-only mortgage loans

     481         1,360   

Below-market rate (teaser) mortgages

     151         183   
                 

Total (a)

   $ 979       $ 1,980   
                 

 

(a) The majority of these loans are held by our Mortgage Legacy Portfolio and Other operations at December 31, 2010 and 2009.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

9. Finance Receivables and Loans, Net

The composition of finance receivables and loans, net, reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses was as follows.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     Domestic      Foreign      Total      Domestic      Foreign      Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer automobile

   $ 34,604       $ 16,650       $ 51,254       $ 12,514       $ 17,731       $ 30,245   

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

     6,917         390         7,307         6,921         405         7,326   

Home equity

     3,441                 3,441         3,886         1         3,887   
                                                     

Total consumer mortgage

     10,358         390         10,748         10,807         406         11,213   

Commercial

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Automobile

     24,944         8,398         33,342         19,604         7,943         27,547   

Mortgage

     1,540         41         1,581         1,572         96         1,668   

Other

     1,795         312         2,107         2,688         437         3,125   

Commercial real estate

                 

Automobile

     2,071         216         2,287         2,008         221         2,229   

Mortgage

     1         78         79         121         162         283   
                                                     

Total commercial

     30,351         9,045         39,396         25,993         8,859         34,852   

Loans at fair value (a)

     663         352         1,015         1,391                 1,391   
                                                     

Total finance receivables and loans (b)

   $ 75,976       $ 26,437       $ 102,413       $ 50,705       $ 26,996       $ 77,701   
                                                     

 

(a) Includes domestic consumer mortgages at fair value as a result of fair value option election. Refer to Note 27 for additional information.

 

(b) Totals are net of unearned income, unamortized premiums and discounts, and deferred fees and costs of $2.9 billion and $2.4 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following tables present an analysis of the activity in the allowance for loan losses on finance receivables and loans.

 

     Consumer
automobile
    Consumer
mortgage
    Commercial     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Allowance at January 1, 2010

   $ 1,024      $ 640      $ 781      $ 2,445   

Cumulative effect of change in accounting principles (a)

     222                      222   

Charge-offs

        

Domestic

     (776     (239     (282     (1,297

Foreign

     (194     (4     (151     (349
                                

Total charge-offs

     (970     (243     (433     (1,646
                                

Recoveries

        

Domestic

     319        26        18        363   

Foreign

     71        1        13        85   
                                

Total recoveries

     390        27        31        448   
                                

Net charge-offs

     (580     (216     (402     (1,198

Provision for loan losses

     304        164        (26     442   

Discontinued operations

                   (4     (4

Other

            (8     (26     (34
                                

Allowance at December 31, 2010

   $ 970      $ 580      $ 323      $ 1,873   
                                

Allowance for loan losses

        

Individually evaluated for impairment

   $      $ 100      $ 127      $ 227   

Collectively evaluated for impairment

     970        480        196        1,646   

Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality

     20                      20   

Finance receivables and loans at historical cost

        

Ending balance

     51,254        10,748        39,396        101,398   

Individually evaluated for impairment

            487        1,308        1,795   

Collectively evaluated for impairment

     51,254        10,261        38,088        99,603   

Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality

     170                      170   

 

(a) Effect of change in accounting principle due to adoption of ASU 2009-17. Refer to Note 1 for additional information.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

     Consumer
automobile
    Consumer
mortgage
    Commercial     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Allowance at January 1, 2009

   $ 1,394      $ 1,142      $ 897      $ 3,433   

Charge-offs

        

Domestic

     (1,001     (1,424     (955     (3,380

Foreign

     (372     (185     (76     (633

Write downs related to transfers to held-for-sale

     (11     (3,417     (10     (3,438
                                

Total charge-offs

     (1,384     (5,026     (1,041     (7,451
                                

Recoveries

        

Domestic

     189        68        19        276   

Foreign

     71               5        76   
                                

Total recoveries

     260        68        24        352   
                                

Net charge-offs

     (1,124     (4,958     (1,017     (7,099

Provision for loan losses

     755        3,951        898        5,604   

Discontinued operations

     13        556        (3     566   

Other

     (14     (51     6        (59
                                

Allowance at December 31, 2009

   $ 1,024      $ 640      $ 781      $ 2,445   
                                

Allowance for loan losses

        

Individually evaluated for impairment

   $      $ 80      $ 471      $ 551   

Collectively evaluated for impairment

     1,024        560        310        1,894   

Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality

     37                      37   

Finance receivables and loans at historical cost

        

Ending balance

     30,245        11,213        34,852        76,310   

Individually evaluated for impairment

            263        2,121        2,384   

Collectively evaluated for impairment

     30,245        10,950        32,731        73,926   

Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality

     320                      320   

Loans are considered impaired when we determine it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the terms of the loan agreement.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following tables present information about our impaired finance receivables and loans.

 

     December 31,  
     Unpaid
principal
balance
     Carrying
value before
allowance
     Impaired
with no
allowance
     Impaired
with an
allowance
     Allowance
for
impaired
loans
 
     ($ in millions)  

2010

              

Consumer mortgage

              

1st Mortgage

   $ 410       $ 404       $       $ 404       $ 59   

Home equity

     82         83                 83         40   
                                            

Total consumer mortgage

     492         487                 487         99   

Commercial

              

Commercial and industrial

              

Automobile

     340         356         33         323         23   

Mortgage

     44         40                 40         14   

Other

     135         133         20         113         51   

Commercial real estate

              

Automobile

     206         197         108         89         29   

Mortgage

     71         71         28         43         10   
                                            

Total commercial

     796         797         189         608         127   
                                            

Total consumer and commercial

   $ 1,288       $ 1,284       $ 189       $ 1,095       $ 226   
                                            

2009

              

Consumer mortgage

              

1st Mortgage

   $ 228       $ 225       $ 11       $ 214       $ 62   

Home equity

     37         38                 38         18   
                                            

Total consumer mortgage

     265         263         11         252         80   

Commercial

              

Commercial and industrial

              

Automobile

     428         512         61         451         56   

Mortgage

     72                                   

Other (a)

     987         981         101         880         251   

Commercial real estate

              

Automobile

     367         280         136         144         44   

Mortgage

     271         269         5         264         111   
                                            

Total commercial

     2,125         2,042         303         1,739         462   
                                            

Total consumer and commercial

   $ 2,390       $ 2,305       $ 314       $ 1,991       $ 542   
                                            

 

(a) Primarily reflects the resort finance portfolio with an unpaid principal balance of $782 million, a carrying value before allowance of $779 million, an impaired with no allowance balance of $99 million, an impaired with an allowance balance of $680 million, and an allowance for impaired loans balance of $148 million.

 

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     Year ended December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer mortgage

        

Average balance of impaired loans during the year

   $ 484       $ 610       $ 203   

Interest income recognized on impaired loans during the year

     19         25         18   

Commercial

        

Average balance of impaired loans during the year

     1,450         2,818         1,600   

Interest income recognized on impaired loans during the year

     30         60         9   

Total consumer and commercial

        

Average balance of impaired loans during the year

     1,934         3,428         1,803   

Interest income recognized on impaired loans during the year

     49         85         27   

The following table presents an analysis of our past due finance receivables and loans.

 

     December 31, 2010  
     30-59 days
past due
     60-89 days
past due
     90 days or
more past
due
     Total past
due
     Current      Total finance
receivables
and loans
 
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer automobile

   $ 828       $ 175       $ 197       $ 1,200       $ 50,054       $ 51,254   

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

     115         67         205         387         6,920         7,307   

Home equity

     20         12         13         45         3,396         3,441   
                                                     

Total consumer mortgage

     135         79         218         432         10,316         10,748   

Commercial

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Automobile

     21         19         85         125         33,217         33,342   

Mortgage

             36         4         40         1,541         1,581   

Other

                     20         20         2,087         2,107   

Commercial real estate

                 

Automobile

             4         78         82         2,205         2,287   

Mortgage

                     71         71         8         79   
                                                     

Total commercial

     21         59         258         338         39,058         39,396   
                                                     

Total consumer and commercial

   $ 984       $ 313       $ 673       $ 1,970       $ 99,428       $ 101,398   
                                                     

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following table presents the carrying amount of our finance receivables and loans on nonaccrual status.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer automobile

   $ 207       $ 386   

Consumer mortgage

     

1st Mortgage

     500         359   

Home equity

     61         71   
                 

Total consumer mortgage

     561         430   

Commercial

     

Commercial and industrial

     

Automobile

     296         347   

Mortgage

     40         72   

Other (a)

     134         987   

Commercial real estate

     

Automobile

     199         280   

Mortgage

     71         197   
                 

Total commercial

     740         1,883   
                 

Total consumer and commercial

   $ 1,508       $ 2,699   
                 

 

(a) Amount at December 31, 2009, includes the resort finance portfolio with a nonaccrual loan balance of $779 million. We sold our resort finance portfolio during the third quarter of 2010.

Management performs a quarterly analysis of the consumer automobile, consumer mortgage, and commercial portfolios using a range of credit quality indicators to assess the adequacy of the allowance based on historical and current trends. The tables below present select credit quality indicators that are used in the determination of allowance for our consumer automobile, consumer mortgage, and commercial portfolios.

The following table presents performing and nonperforming credit quality indicators in accordance with our internal accounting policies for our consumer finance receivables and loans.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     Performing      Non-
performing
     Total      Performing      Non-
performing
     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer automobile

   $ 51,047       $ 207       $ 51,254       $ 29,859       $ 386       $ 30,245   

Consumer mortgage

                 

1st Mortgage

     6,807         500         7,307         6,967         359         7,326   

Home equity

     3,380         61         3,441         3,816         71         3,887   
                                                     

Total consumer mortgage

   $ 10,187       $ 561       $ 10,748       $ 10,783       $ 430       $ 11,213   
                                                     

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following table presents pass and criticized credit quality indicators based on regulatory definitions for our commercial finance receivables and loans.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     Pass      Criticized (a)      Total      Pass      Criticized (a)      Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Commercial

                 

Commercial and industrial

                 

Automobile

   $ 31,254       $ 2,088       $ 33,342       $ 25,512       $ 2,035       $ 27,547   

Mortgage

     1,504         77         1,581         1,532         136         1,668   

Other

     1,041         1,066         2,107         945         2,180         3,125   

Commercial real estate

                 

Automobile

     2,013         274         2,287         1,965         264         2,229   

Mortgage

             79         79         13         270         283   
                                                     

Total commercial

   $ 35,812       $ 3,584       $ 39,396       $ 29,967       $ 4,885       $ 34,852   
                                                     

 

(a) Includes loans classified as special mention, substandard, or doubtful. These classifications are based on regulatory definitions and generally represent loans within our portfolio that are of higher default risk.

Concentration Risk

Consumer

We monitor our consumer loan portfolio for concentration risk across the geographies in which we lend. The highest concentrations of loans in the United States are in California and Texas, which represent 16.4% of our total outstanding consumer loans at December 31, 2010.

Concentrations in our mortgage portfolio are closely monitored given the volatility of the housing markets. Our consumer mortgage loan concentrations in California, Florida, and Michigan receive particular attention as the real estate value depreciation in these states has been the most severe.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following table shows consumer finance receivables and loans recorded at historical cost reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses by state and foreign concentration.

 

     December 31,  
     2010 (a)      2009  
     Automobile      1st Mortgage
and
home equity
     Automobile      1st Mortgage
and
home equity
 

Texas

     9.2%         4.4%         7.5%         2.9%   

California

     4.6         24.5         2.7         23.3   

Florida

     4.4         4.1         2.1         4.4   

Michigan

     3.7         5.0         1.4         5.4   

New York

     3.4         2.4         2.4         2.9   

Illinois

     2.8         4.7         1.9         4.4   

Pennsylvania

     3.2         1.7         2.4         1.8   

Ohio

     2.5         1.0         1.6         1.2   

Georgia

     2.2         1.8         1.4         2.0   

North Carolina

     2.0         2.0         1.3         2.2   

Other United States

     29.4         44.7         16.7         45.9   

Canada

     14.2         3.6         20.1         3.6   

Germany

     5.7                 13.3           

Brazil

     5.2                 6.8           

Other foreign

     7.5         0.1         18.4           
                                   

Total consumer loans

     100.0%         100.0%         100.0%         100.0%   
                                   

 

(a) Presentation is in descending order as a percentage of total consumer finance receivables and loans at December 31, 2010.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following table includes our five largest state and foreign concentrations within our higher-risk finance receivables and loans recorded at historical cost and reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     High original
loan-to-value
(greater than
100%)
mortgage
loans
     Payment-
option
adjustable-
rate mortgage
loans
     Interest-only
mortgage
loans
     Below-market
rate (teaser)
mortgages
     All higher-
risk loans
 
     ($ in millions)  

December 31,

              

2010

              

California

   $       $ 1       $ 993       $ 89       $ 1,083   

Virginia

                     330         12         342   

Maryland

                     256         7         263   

Michigan

                     225         10         235   

Illinois

                     197         8         205   

All other domestic and foreign

     5         4         1,680         158         1,847   
                                            

Total

   $ 5       $ 5       $ 3,681       $ 284       $ 3,975   
                                            

2009

              

California

   $ 1       $ 2       $ 1,128       $ 102       $ 1,233   

Virginia

                     397         13         410   

Maryland

                     309         8         317   

Michigan

                     259         11         270   

Illinois

                     230         9         239   

All other domestic and foreign

     6         5         2,023         188         2,222   
                                            

Total

   $ 7       $ 7       $ 4,346       $ 331       $ 4,691   
                                            

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Commercial Real Estate

The commercial real estate portfolio consists of loans issued primarily to automotive dealers, homebuilders, and commercial real estate firms. The following table shows commercial real estate finance receivables and loans reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses by geographic region and property type.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  

Geographic region

     

Texas

     10.5%         11.2%   

Florida

     10.3         11.8   

Michigan

     10.1         8.5   

California

     9.6         9.8   

Virginia

     4.4         3.9   

New York

     3.8         3.7   

Pennsylvania

     3.7         3.4   

Oregon

     3.1         2.1   

Georgia

     2.7         2.1   

Alabama

     2.4         2.1   

Other United States

     26.9         26.2   

United Kingdom

     5.0         7.3   

Canada

     4.4         4.3   

Germany

     0.5         0.6   

Other foreign

     2.6         3.0   
                 

Total outstanding commercial real estate loans

     100.0%         100.0%   
                 

Property type

     

Automobile dealers

     91.8%         84.3%   

Residential

     2.5         2.7   

Land and land development

     0.8         5.7   

Apartments

     0.1         2.9   

Other

     4.8         4.4   
                 

Total outstanding commercial real estate loans

     100.0%         100.0%   
                 

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Commercial Criticized Exposure

Exposures deemed criticized represent loans that are classified by regulatory authorities as special mention, substandard, or doubtful. The following table shows industry concentrations commercial criticized finance receivables and loans reported at carrying value before allowance for loan losses.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  

Industry

     

Automotive

     66.5%         49.7%   

Real estate (a)

     12.1         23.4   

Health/medical

     7.3         7.9   

Manufacturing

     3.5         3.1   

Services

     1.9         2.1   

Hardgoods

     1.8         1.1   

Retail

     1.5         2.6   

All other

     5.4         10.1   
                 

Total commercial criticized finance receivables and loans

     100.0%         100.0%   
                 

 

(a) Includes resort finance, which represented 17.3% of the portfolio at December 31, 2009.

10. Investment in Operating Leases, Net

Investments in operating leases were as follows.

 

     December 31,  
     2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Vehicles and other equipment, after impairment

   $ 13,571      $ 23,919   

Accumulated depreciation

     (4,443     (7,924
                

Investment in operating leases, net

   $ 9,128      $ 15,995   
                

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets includes remarketing gains and losses recognized on the sale of operating lease assets. The following summarizes the components of depreciation expense on operating lease assets.

 

     Year ended December 31  
     2010     2009     2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets (excluding remarketing gains)

   $ 2,734      $ 4,264      $ 5,100   

Gross remarketing (gains) losses

     (704     (516     378   
                        

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

   $ 2,030      $ 3,748      $ 5,478   
                        

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following table presents the future lease nonresidual rental payments due from customers for equipment on operating leases.

 

     Year ended
December 31,
 
     ($ in millions)  

2011

   $ 1,513   

2012

     648   

2013

     454   

2014

     173   

2015 and after

     343   
        

Total

   $ 3,131   
        

Our investment in operating lease assets represents the net book value of our leased assets based on the expected residual value upon remarketing the vehicle at the end of the lease. As described in Note 26, GM may sponsor residual support programs that result in the contractual residual value being in excess of our standard residual value. GM reimburses us if remarketing sales proceeds are less than the customer’s contract residual value limited to our standard residual value. In addition to residual support programs, GM also participates in a risk-sharing arrangement whereby GM shares equally in residual losses to the extent that remarketing proceeds are below our standard residual rates (limited to a floor). In connection with the sale of 51% ownership interest in Ally, GM settled its estimated liabilities with respect to residual support and risk sharing on a portion of our operating lease portfolio. Based on the December 31, 2010, outstanding U.S. operating lease portfolio, the maximum amount that could be paid by GM under the residual support programs and the risk-sharing arrangement was $475 million and $996 million, respectively, as more fully discussed in Note 26. We did not receive any residual support or risk-sharing incentives from GM or Chrysler on leases originated in 2010 or 2009.

In light of the significant declines in used vehicle prices during 2008 in the United States, Canada, and several international markets, we concluded certain triggering events occurred during the year ended December 31, 2008, requiring an evaluation of recoverability for certain operating lease assets within our Global Automotive Services. We grouped these operating lease assets at the lowest level that we could reasonably estimate the identifiable cash flows. In assessing for recoverability, we compared our estimates of future cash flows related to these lease assets to their corresponding carrying values. We considered all of the expected cash flows including customer payments, the expected residual value upon remarketing the vehicle at lease termination, and any payments from GM under residual and risk-sharing agreements. To the extent these undiscounted cash flows were less than their respective carrying values, we discounted the cash flows to arrive at an estimated fair value. As a result of this evaluation, during the year ended December 31, 2008, we reduced our carrying values to equal the estimated fair values and realized impairment charges of $1,234 million. Impairments recognized by our North American Automotive Finance operations consisted of $808 million related to sport-utility vehicles and trucks in the United States and Canada and $384 million related to the car portfolio in the United States. The impairment recognized by our International Automotive Finance operations totaled $42 million for full-service leasing portfolio. During the year ended December 31, 2009, $16 million of the 2008 impairment charges related to the full-service leasing portfolio were reclassified to discontinued operations.

While we believe our estimates of discounted future cash flows used for the impairment analysis were reasonable based on current market conditions, the process required the use of significant estimates and assumptions. In developing these estimates and assumptions, management used all available evidence. However, because of uncertainties associated with estimating the amounts, timing, and likelihood of possible outcomes, the actual cash flows could ultimately differ from those estimated as part of the recoverability and impairment analyses.

 

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Imbedded in our residual value projections are estimates of projected recoveries from GM relative to residual support and risk-sharing agreements. No adjustment to these estimates has been made for the collectability of the projected recoveries from GM. At December 31, 2010, expected residual values included estimates of payments from GM of $322 million related to residual support and risk sharing agreements. To the extent GM is not able to fully honor its obligations relative to these agreements, our depreciation expense and remarketing performance would be negatively impacted.

11. Securitizations and Variable Interest Entities

Overview

We are involved in several types of securitization and financing transactions that utilize special-purpose entities (SPEs). An SPE is an entity that is designed to fulfill a specified limited need of the sponsor. Our principal use of SPEs is to obtain liquidity and favorable capital treatment by securitizing certain of our financial assets.

The SPEs involved in securitization and other financing transactions are generally considered VIEs. VIEs are entities that have either a total equity investment that is insufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support or whose equity investors lack the ability to control the entity’s activities.

Securitizations

We provide a wide range of automobile loans or installment contracts and operating leases and mortgage loan products to a diverse customer base. We often securitize these originated loans and leases (which we collectively describe as loans or financial assets) through the use of securitization entities, which may or may not be consolidated on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. We securitize consumer automobile loans through private-label securitizations. We securitize consumer mortgage loans through either the GSEs or nonagency mortgages securitization. During 2010, our consumer mortgage loans were primarily securitized through the GSEs.

In executing a securitization transaction, we typically sell pools of financial assets to a wholly owned, bankruptcy-remote SPE, which then transfers the financial assets to a separate, transaction-specific securitization entity for cash, servicing rights, and in some transactions, other retained interests. The securitization entity is funded through the issuance of beneficial interests in the securitized financial assets. The beneficial interests take the form of either notes or trust certificates which are sold to investors and/or retained by us. These beneficial interests are collateralized by the transferred loans and entitle the investors to specified cash flows generated from the securitized loans. In the aggregate, these beneficial interests have the same average life as the transferred financial assets. In addition to providing a source of liquidity and cost-efficient funding, securitizing these financial assets also reduces our credit exposure to the borrowers beyond any economic interest we may retain. We securitize conforming residential mortgage loans through GSE securitizations, and nonconforming mortgage loans through nonagency securitizations.

Each securitization is governed by various legal documents that limit and specify the activities of the securitization entity. The securitization entity is generally allowed to acquire the loans, to issue beneficial interests to investors to fund the acquisition of the loans, and to enter into derivatives or other yield maintenance contracts (e.g., bond insurance) to hedge or mitigate certain risks related to the financial assets or beneficial interests of the entity. Additionally, the securitization entity is required to service the assets it holds and the beneficial interests it issues. A servicer, who is generally us, is appointed pursuant to the underlying legal documents to perform these functions. Servicing functions include, but are not limited to, making certain payments of property taxes and insurance premiums, default and property maintenance payments, as well as

 

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advancing principal and interest payments before collecting them from individual borrowers. Our servicing responsibilities, which constitute continued involvement in the transferred financial assets, consist of primary servicing (i.e., servicing the underlying transferred financial assets) and/or master servicing (i.e., servicing the beneficial interests that result from the securitization transactions). Certain securitization entities also require the servicer to advance scheduled principal and interest payments due on the beneficial interests issued by the entity regardless of whether cash payments are received on the underlying transferred financial assets. Accordingly, we are required to provide these servicing advances when applicable. Refer to Note 1 and Note 12 for additional information regarding our servicing rights.

The GSEs provide a guarantee of the payment of principal and interest on the beneficial interests issued in securitizations. In private-label securitizations, cash flows from the assets initially transferred into the securitization entity represent the sole source for payment of distributions on the beneficial interests issued by the securitization entity, and for payments to the parties that perform services for the securitization entity, such as the servicer or the trustee. In certain nonagency securitization transactions, a liquidity facility may exist to provide temporary liquidity to the entity. The liquidity provider generally is reimbursed prior to other parties in subsequent distribution periods. Monoline insurance may also exist to cover certain shortfalls to certain investors in the beneficial interests issued by the securitization entity. As noted above, in certain nonagency securitizations, the servicer is required to advance scheduled principal and interest payments due on the beneficial interests regardless of whether cash payments are received on the underlying transferred financial assets. The servicer is allowed to reimburse itself for these servicing advances. Additionally, certain nonagency securitization transactions may allow for the acquisition of additional loans subsequent to the initial loan transfer. Principal collections on other loans and/or the issuance of new beneficial interests, such as variable funding notes, generally fund these loans; we are often contractually required to invest in these new interests.

We may retain beneficial interests in our nonagency securitizations, which may represent a form of significant continuing economic interest. These retained interests include, but are not limited to, senior or subordinate mortgage- or asset-backed securities, interest-only strips, principal-only strips, and residuals. Certain of these retained interests provide credit enhancement to the trust as they may absorb credit losses or other cash shortfalls. Additionally, the securitization agreements may require cash flows to be directed away from certain of our retained interests due to specific over-collateralization requirements, which may or may not be performance driven.

We generally hold certain conditional repurchase options that allow us to repurchase assets from the securitization entity. The majority of the securitizations provide us, as servicer, with a call option that allows us to repurchase the remaining transferred financial assets or outstanding beneficial interests at our discretion once the asset pool reaches a predefined level, which represents the point where servicing becomes burdensome (a clean-up call option). The repurchase price is typically the par amount of the loans plus accrued interest. Additionally, we may hold other conditional repurchase options that allow us to repurchase a transferred financial asset if certain events outside our control are met. The typical conditional repurchase option is a delinquent loan repurchase option that gives us the option to purchase the loan or contract if it exceeds a certain prespecified delinquency level. We have complete discretion regarding when or if we will exercise these options, but generally, we would do so only when it is in our best interest.

Other than our customary representation and warranty provisions, these securitizations are nonrecourse to us, thereby transferring the risk of future credit losses to the extent the beneficial interests in the securitization entities are held by third parties. Our obligation to provide support is limited to the customary representation and warranty provisions. Representation and warranty provisions generally require us to repurchase loans or indemnify the investor for incurred losses to the extent it is determined that the loans were ineligible or were otherwise defective at the time of sale. Refer to Note 30 for detail on representation and warranty provisions. We did not provide any noncontractual financial support to any of these entities during 2010 or 2009.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Other Variable Interest Entities

Servicer Advance Funding Entity

To assist in the financing of our servicer advance receivables, we formed an SPE that issues term notes to third-party investors that are collateralized by servicer advance receivables. These servicer advance receivables are transferred to the SPE and consist of delinquent principal and interest advances we made as servicer, to various investors; property taxes and insurance premiums advanced to taxing authorities and insurance companies on behalf of borrowers; and amounts advanced for mortgages in foreclosure. The SPE funds the purchase of the receivables through financing obtained from the third-party investors and subordinated loans or an equity contribution from our mortgage activities. This SPE is consolidated on our balance sheet at December 31, 2010 and 2009. The beneficial interest holder of this SPE does not have legal recourse to our general credit. We do not have a contractual obligation to provide any type of financial support in the future, nor have we provided noncontractual financial support to the entity during 2010 or 2009.

Other

In 2010, we sold a portfolio of resort finance backed receivables to a third party that financed the acquisition through an SPE. We provided seller financing for the purchase of these assets and also hold a contingent value right in the SPE, which were both recorded at fair value. We do not consolidate the SPE because we have no control over the activities of the SPE.

We have involvements with various other on-balance sheet, immaterial SPEs. Most of these SPEs are used for additional liquidity, whereby we sell certain financial assets into the VIE and issue beneficial interests to third parties for cash.

We also provide long-term guarantee contracts to certain nonconsolidated affordable housing entities. Since we do not have control over the entities or the power to make decisions, we do not consolidate the entities and our involvement is limited to the guarantee.

Involvement with Variable Interest Entities

The determination of whether financial assets transferred by us to these VIEs (and related liabilities) are consolidated on our balance sheet (also referred to as on balance sheet) or not consolidated on our balance sheet (also referred to as off-balance sheet) depends on the terms of the related transaction and our continuing involvement (if any) with the SPE. Prior to the adoption of ASU 2009-17, which amended ASC 810, we were deemed the primary beneficiary and therefore consolidated VIEs when we absorbed the majority of the expected losses or expected residual returns of the entity, and the entity was not considered a qualified special-purpose entity (QSPE). Subsequent to the adoption of ASU 2009-17, we are deemed the primary beneficiary and therefore consolidate VIEs (including entities previously considered QSPEs) for which we have both (a) the power, through voting rights or similar rights, to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance, and (b) a variable interest (or variable interests) that (i) obligates us to absorb losses that could potentially be significant to the VIE and/or (ii) provides us the right to receive residual returns of the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. We determine whether we hold a significant variable interest in a VIE based on a consideration of both qualitative and quantitative factors regarding the nature, size, and form of our involvement with the VIE. We assess whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE on an ongoing basis. Refer to the section in this note titled Changes in Accounting for Variable Interest Entities for additional information.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Our involvement with consolidated and nonconsolidated VIEs in which we hold variable interests is presented below.

 

December 31,

   Consolidated
involvement with VIEs
    Assets of
nonconsolidated VIEs,
net (b)
    Maximum exposure
to loss in
nonconsolidated
VIEs (c)
 
     ($ in millions)  

2010

  

On-balance sheet variable interest entities

      

Consumer automobile

   $ 20,064      $      $   

Consumer mortgage — nonagency

     1,397                 

Commercial automobile

     15,114                 

Other

     1,035                 

Off-balance sheet variable interest entities

      

Consumer mortgage — Ginnie Mae

     2,909  (b)      43,595        43,595  (c) 

Consumer mortgage — CMHC

     124  (b)      4,222        124  (d) 

Consumer mortgage — nonagency

     183  (b)      5,371        5,371  (c) 

Commercial other

     483  (e)      —  (f)      698   
                        

Total

   $ 41,309      $ 53,188      $ 49,788   
                        

2009

      

On-balance sheet variable interest entities

      

Consumer automobile

   $ 23,957      $      $   

Consumer mortgage — nonagency

     3,856                 

Commercial automobile

     8,225                 

Other

     1,930                 

Off-balance sheet variable interest entities

      

Consumer automobile

            7,899        7,899  (c) 

Consumer mortgage — Ginnie Mae

     2,258  (b)      35,049        35,049  (c) 

Consumer mortgage — CMHC

     117  (b)      3,740        117  (d) 

Consumer mortgage — nonagency

     388  (b)      31,428        31,428  (c) 

Commercial other

     (47 ) (g)      —  (f)      177   
                        

Total

   $ 40,684      $ 78,116      $ 74,670   
                        

 

(a) Asset values represent the current unpaid principal balance of outstanding consumer finance receivables and loans within the VIEs.

 

(b) Includes $2.5 billion and $2.0 billion classified as consumer finance receivables and loans, $162 million and $268 million classified as trading securities or other assets, and $569 million and $542 million classified as MSRs at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. CMHC is the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

 

(c) Maximum exposure to loss represents the current unpaid principal balance of outstanding loans based on our customary representation and warranty provisions. This measure is based on the unlikely event that all of the loans have underwriting defects or other defects that trigger a representation and warranty provision and the collateral supporting the loans are worthless. This required disclosure is not an indication of our expected loss.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

(d) Due to combination of the credit loss insurance on the mortgages and the guarantee by CMHC on the issued securities, the maximum exposure to loss would be limited to the amount of the retained interests. Additionally, the maximum loss would occur only in the event that CMHC dismisses ResMor as servicer of the loans due to servicer performance or insolvency.

 

(e) Includes $515 million and $20 million classified as commercial finance receivables and loans and other assets, respectively, net of liabilities of $52 million classified as other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheet.

 

(f) Includes VIEs for which we have no management oversight and therefore we are not able to provide the total assets of the VIEs. However, in 2010 we sold loans with an unpaid principal balance of $1.5 billion into these VIEs.

 

(g) This amount is classified as accrued expenses and other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheet.

On-balance Sheet Variable Interest Entities

We engage in securitization and other financing transactions that do not qualify for off-balance sheet treatment. In these situations, we hold beneficial interests or other interests in the VIE, which represents a form of significant continuing economic interest. The interests held include, but are not limited to, senior or subordinate mortgage- or asset-backed securities, interest-only strips, principal-only strips, residuals, and servicing rights. Certain of these retained interests provide credit enhancement to the securitization entity as they may absorb credit losses or other cash shortfalls. Additionally, the securitization documents may require cash flows to be directed away from certain of our retained interests due to specific over-collateralization requirements, which may or may not be performance-driven. Because these securitization entities are consolidated, these retained interests and servicing rights are not recognized as separate assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Prior to the adoption of ASU 2009-17, we consolidated certain securitization entities that were not QSPEs because we either did not meet sale accounting requirements or held the first loss position in these securitization entities and, as a result, absorbed the majority of the expected losses and expected residual returns of the VIE. Subsequent to adoption of ASU 2009-17 as of January 1, 2010, we consolidate certain of these entities because we had a controlling financial interest in the VIE, primarily due to our servicing activities, and because we hold a significant variable interest in the VIE. Under ASC 810, as amended by ASU 2009-17, we are generally the primary beneficiary of automobile securitization entities, as well as certain mortgage nonagency securitization entities for which we perform servicing activities and have retained a significant variable interest in the form of a beneficial interest. In cases where we did not meet sale accounting under previous guidance, unless we have made modifications to the overall transaction, we do not meet sale accounting under current guidance as we are not permitted to revisit sale accounting guidelines under the current guidance. In cases where substantive modifications are made, we then reassess the transaction under the amended guidance, based on the new circumstances. Refer to the section in this note titled Changes in Accounting for Variable Interest Entities for additional information.

The following table presents the carrying amounts and classifications of assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs as reported on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. The consolidated VIEs included in the tables below represent separate entities with which we are involved. The third party investors in the obligations of consolidated VIEs have legal recourse only to the assets of the VIEs and do not have such recourse to us, except for the customary representation and warranty provisions or when we are the counterparty to certain derivative transactions involving the VIE. In addition, the cash flows from the assets are restricted only to pay such liabilities. Thus, our economic exposure to loss from outstanding third-party financing related to consolidated

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

VIEs is significantly less than the carrying value of the consolidated VIE assets. All assets are restricted for the benefit of the beneficial interest holders. Refer to Note 27 for discussion of the assets and liabilities for which the fair value option has been elected.

 

     December 31,  
     2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

    

Loans held-for-sale, net

   $ 21      $ 237   

Finance receivables and loans, net

    

Consumer

     18,744        15,293   

Commercial

     14,739        6,623   

Allowance for loan losses

     (238     (573
                

Total finance receivables and loans, net

     33,245        21,343   

Investment in operating leases, net

     1,065        9,996   

Other assets

     3,194        4,252   

Assets of operations held-for-sale

     85        2,140   
                

Total assets

   $ 37,610        37,968   
                

Liabilities

    

Short-term borrowings

   $ 964      $ 1,530   

Long-term debt

     24,466        24,220   
                

Interest payable

     15        27   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     352        562   

Liabilities of operations held-for-sale

     45        2,083   
                

Total liabilities

   $ 25,842      $ 28,422   
                

Off-balance Sheet Variable Interest Entities

The nature, purpose, and activities of nonconsolidated securitization entities are similar to those of our consolidated securitization entities with the primary difference being the nature and extent of our continuing involvement. The cash flows from the assets of nonconsolidated securitization entities generally are the sole source of payment on the securitization entities’ liabilities. The creditors of these securitization entities have no recourse to us with the exception of market customary representation and warranty provisions as described in Note 30.

Prior to the adoption of ASU 2009-17, we did not consolidate securitization entities that met the requirements of a QSPE. Subsequent to the adoption of ASU 2009-17 as of January 1, 2010, nonconsolidated VIEs include entities for which we either do not hold significant variable interests or do not provide servicing or asset management functions for the financial assets held by the securitization entity. Additionally, to qualify for off-balance sheet treatment, transfers of financial assets must meet the sale accounting conditions in ASC 860. Our residential mortgage loan securitizations consist of GSEs and nonagency securitizations. Under ASU 2009-17, we are not the primary beneficiary of any GSE loan securitization transaction because we do not have the power to direct the significant activities of such entities. Additionally, under ASU 2009-17, we do not consolidate certain nonagency mortgage securitizations because we do not have a variable interest that could potentially be significant or we do not have power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the performance of the VIE.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

For nonconsolidated securitization entities, the transferred financial assets are removed from our balance sheet provided the conditions for sale accounting are met. The financial assets obtained from the securitization are primarily reported as cash, servicing rights, or retained interests (if applicable). Typically, we conclude that the fee we are paid for servicing consumer automobile finance receivables represents adequate compensation, and consequently, we do not recognize a servicing asset or liability. As an accounting policy election, we elected fair value treatment for our existing MSR portfolio. Liabilities incurred as part of these securitization transactions, such as representation and warranty provisions, are recorded at fair value at the time of sale and are reported as accrued expenses and other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. Upon the sale of the loans, we recognize a gain or loss on sale for the difference between the assets recognized, the assets derecognized, and the liabilities recognized as part of the transaction.

The following summarizes all pretax gains and losses recognized on financial assets sold into nonconsolidated securitization and similar asset-backed financing entities.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Consumer automobile

   $       $       $ (68

Consumer mortgage — GSEs

     1,065         854         369   

Consumer mortgage — nonagency

     17         21         (161

Commercial automobile

             110         269   
                          

Total pretax gain

   $ 1,082       $ 985       $ 409   
                          

Key economic assumptions used in measuring the initial fair value of retained interests related to sales of financial assets to nonconsolidated securitization entities were as follows during 2010, 2009, and 2008. Refer to Note 12 for servicing-related assumptions and to Note 27 for fair value assumptions and classifications.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     Consumer
automobile (a)
    Consumer
mortgage (b)
 

2010 (c)

    

Key assumptions (d)

    

Prepayment speed (e)

     (f)        2.4–48.1%   

Weighted average life (in years)

     (f)        0.2–5.0   

Expected credit losses

     (f)        0.2–9.3%   

Discount rate

     (f)        0.3–60.0%   

2009 (g)

    

Key assumptions (d)

    

Prepayment speed (e)

     (f)        10.0–12.0%   

Weighted average life (in years)

     (f)        4.6–6.3   

Expected credit losses

     (f)        11.0%   

Discount rate

     (f)        0.6–16.0%   

2008 (g)

    

Key assumptions (d)

    

Prepayment speed (e)

     1.2–1.4%        1.9–30.0%   

Weighted average life (in years)

     1.9–2.0        2.4–9.1   

Expected credit losses

     1.6–2.5%        0.0–3.5%   

Discount rate

     22.0–25.0%        2.8–25.0%   

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

 

(a) The fair value of retained interests in commercial automobile securitization approximates carrying value because of the short-term and floating-rate nature of commercial automobile loans.

 

(b) Consumer residential mortgage loans include home equity loans and lines, high loan-to-value loans, and residential first and second mortgage loans. Assumptions on GSE loans are not included as we do not hold a retained interest in those transactions.

 

(c) Includes retained interests related to securitization entities deconsolidated in the current year.

 

(d) The assumptions used to measure the expected yield on variable-rate retained interests are based on a benchmark interest rate yield curve plus a contractual spread, as appropriate. The actual yield curve utilized varies depending on the specific retained interests.

 

(e) Based on monthly prepayment speeds for consumer automobile loans and constant prepayment rate (CPR) for consumer mortgage loans.

 

(f) During 2010 and 2009, no consumer automobile loans were sold into nonconsolidated securitization entities.

 

(g) Includes sales to entities that are now consolidated under ASU 2009-17.

Refer to Note 30 for initial fair value assumptions involving our customary representation and warranty liabilities.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following tables summarize cash flows received from and paid related to securitization entities, asset-backed financings, or other similar transfers of financial assets where the transfer is accounted for as a sale and we have a continuing involvement with the transferred assets (e.g., servicing) that were outstanding in 2010, 2009, and 2008. Cash flows presented below may not be comparable because the prior two years include cash flows related to securitization entities that are now consolidated. Additionally, these tables contain information regarding cash flows received from and paid to nonconsolidated securitization entities that existed during each year.

 

     Consumer
automobile
    Commercial
automobile
     Consumer
mortgage
GSEs
    Consumer
mortgage
nonagency
 
     ($ in millions)  

Year ended December 31,

  

2010

         

Cash proceeds from transfers completed during the year

   $      $       $ 68,822      $ 1,090   

Cash flows received on retained interests in securitization entities

                           81   

Cash proceeds from collections reinvested in revolving securitization entities

                             

Servicing fees

     1                1,081        209   

Purchases of previously transferred financial assets

                    (1,865     (282

Representations and warranties obligations

                    (389     (18

Other cash flows

     (6             (39     (22

2009

         

Cash proceeds from transfers completed during the year

   $      $       $ 56,251      $ 1,258   

Cash flows received on retained interests in securitization entities

     269        1,009                119   

Cash proceeds from collections reinvested in revolving securitization entities

            5,998                  

Servicing fees

     111        39         643        272   

Purchases of previously transferred financial assets

                    (385     (1

Representations and warranties obligations

                    (343     (64

Other cash flows

     (64             (177     (123

2008

         

Cash proceeds from transfers completed during the year

   $ 4,916      $       $ 49,483      $ 2,333   

Cash flows received on retained interests in securitization entities

     301        505                193   

Cash proceeds from collections reinvested in revolving securitization entities

            57,022                  

Servicing fees

     165        117         513        385   

Purchases of previously transferred financial assets

                    (481     (2

Representations and warranties obligations

                    (148     (160

Other cash flows

     (75             (166     (50

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following tables summarizes the key economic assumptions and the sensitivity of the fair value of retained interests to immediate 10% and 20% adverse changes in those assumptions.

 

     Consumer
automobile (a)
    Consumer
mortgage
nonagency
 
     ($ in millions)  

2010

    

Carrying value/fair value of retained interests (b)

     $—        $162   

Weighted average life (in years)

            0.1–11.6   

Annual prepayment rate

     –%WAM        2.4–48.1%WAM   

Impact of 10% adverse change

     $—        $(2)   

Impact of 20% adverse change

            (3)   

Loss assumption

     –%        0.0–46.4%   

Impact of 10% adverse change

     $—        $—   

Impact of 20% adverse change

              

Discount rate

     –%        0.3–80.0%   

Impact of 10% adverse change

     $—        $(2)   

Impact of 20% adverse change

            (4)   

Market interest rate

     —%        0.3—4.1%   

Impact of 10% adverse change

     $—        $—   

Impact of 20% adverse change

            (1)   

2009 (c) (d)

    

Carrying value/fair value of retained interests (b)

     $661        $268   

Weighted average life (in years)

     0.0–0.9        0.0–4.6   

Annual prepayment rate

     0.2–1.1%WAM        0.6–97.5%WAM   

Impact of 10% adverse change

     $(1)        $(20)   

Impact of 20% adverse change

     (2)        (36)   

Loss assumption

     1.1–4.8%        0.0–100.0%   

Impact of 10% adverse change

     $(13)        $(4)   

Impact of 20% adverse change

     (26)        (8)   

Discount rate

     40%        0.2–102.5%   

Impact of 10% adverse change

     $(23)        $(10)   

Impact of 20% adverse change

     (44)        (20)   

Market interest rate

     (e)        (e)   

Impact of 10% adverse change

     $—        $(3)   

Impact of 20% adverse change

            (4)   

 

(a) There were no retained interests in consumer or commercial automobile securitizations at December 31, 2010.

 

(b) These amounts are recorded in trading securities or other assets at fair value. Refer to Note 27 for fair value valuation methods.

 

(c) Amounts include items that were consolidated after the adoption of ASU 2009-17.

 

(d) There were no retained interests in commercial automobile securitizations at December 31, 2009.

 

(e) Forward benchmark interest rate yield curve plus contractual spread.

These sensitivities are hypothetical and should be viewed with caution. Changes in fair value based on a 10% and 20% variation in assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in assumption to the change in fair value may not be linear. Also, in this table, the effect of a variation in a

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

particular assumption on the fair value of the retained interest is calculated without changing any other assumption. In reality, changes in one factor may result in changes in another (e.g., increased market interest rates may result in lower prepayments and increased credit losses), which may magnify or counteract the sensitivities. Further, these sensitivities show only the change in the asset balances and do not show any expected change in the fair value of the instruments used to manage the interest rate and prepayment risks associated with these assets. Refer to Note 12 for further detail on sensitivities related to our mortgage servicing rights.

Expected static pool net credit losses include actual incurred losses plus projected net loan losses divided by the original balance of the outstandings comprising the securitization pool. The following table displays the expected static pool net credit losses on our securitization transactions.

 

     December 31, (a)  
     2010     2009      2008  

Consumer automobile

     (b     2.9%         1.9%   

Consumer mortgage (c)

     0.0–46.4%        0.0–100.0%         0.0–59.0%   

 

(a) Static pool losses not applicable to commercial automobile finance receivable securitizations because of their short term nature.

 

(b) There were no consumer automobile off-balance sheet securitization entities at December 31, 2010.

 

(c) Consumer residential mortgage loan securitizations do not include static pool losses for the GSE securitizations due to the GSE guarantees.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following table represents on-balance sheet loans held-for-sale and finance receivable and loans, off-balance sheet securitizations, and whole loan sales where we have continuing involvement. The table presents quantitative information about delinquencies and net credit losses. Refer to Note 12 for further detail on total serviced assets.

 

     Total finance
receivables and loans
     Amount 60 days
or more past due
     Net credit losses  
     December 31,  
     2010      2009      2010      2009      2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

On-balance sheet loans

                 

Consumer automobile

   $ 51,254       $ 39,846       $ 373       $ 564       $ 613       $ 1,185   

Consumer mortgage (a)

     23,174         23,471         3,437         5,945         335         4,958   

Commercial automobile

     35,629         29,776         186         89         84         94   

Commercial mortgage

     1,660         1,951         110         256         91         790   

Commercial other

     2,107         3,282         20         1,006         227         133   
                                                     

Total on-balance sheet loans

     113,824         98,326         4,126         7,860         1,350         7,160   
                                                     

Off-balance sheet securitization entities

                 

Consumer automobile

             7,475                 144         1         260   

Consumer mortgage — GSEs (b)

     253,192         229,781         13,990         13,471         n/m         n/m   

Consumer mortgage — nonagency

     73,638         103,201         12,220         18,962         4,605         7,478   
                                                     

Total off-balance sheet securitization entities

     326,830         340,457         26,210         32,577         4,606         7,738   
                                                     

Whole-loan transactions (c)

     38,212         44,219         2,950         2,051         300         556   
                                                     

Total

   $ 478,866       $ 483,002       $ 33,286       $ 42,488       $ 6,256       $ 15,454   
                                                     

 

n/m = not meaningful

 

(a) Includes loans subject to conditional repurchase options of $2.3 billion and $1.7 billion guaranteed by the GSEs, and $146 million and $237 million sold to certain nonagency mortgage securitization entities at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. These loans are initially recorded at fair value.

 

(b) Anticipated credit losses are not meaningful due to the GSE guarantees.

 

(c) Whole-loan transactions are not part of a securitization transaction, but represent automobile and consumer mortgage pools of loans sold to nonagency investors.

Changes in Accounting for Variable Interest Entities

During 2009, we executed an amendment to a commercial automobile securitization entity that was previously considered as a QSPE and, therefore, was not consolidated. The amendment contractually required us to deposit additional cash into a collateral account held by the securitization entity. Management determined the amendment caused the entity to no longer be considered a QSPE, and therefore we consolidated the entity. We continued to consolidate this entity after adoption of ASU 2009-17.

ASU 2009-17 became effective on January 1, 2010, and upon adoption, we consolidated certain securitization entities that were previously held off balance sheet. On January 1, 2010, we recognized a net increase of $17.6 billion to assets and liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheet ($10.1 billion of the increase relates to operations classified as held-for-sale that were ultimately sold). Refer to Note 1 for further discussion of the requirements of ASC 860 and ASC 810, including changes to the accounting requirements related to transfers of financial assets and consolidation of VIEs.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

We previously held on our Consolidated Balance Sheet certain mortgage securitization entities, which were on-balance sheet prior to the adoption of ASU 2009-17 because we did not meet the sale accounting requirements at the inception of the transactions. Specific provisions inherent in these deals, included but were not limited to, the ability of the trust to enter into a derivative contract and the inclusion of a loan repurchase right. The existence of the ability to enter into a derivative precluded the entities from being deemed a QSPE and the existence of the loan repurchase right precluded sale accounting treatment. These two provisions, when used in combination, were deemed substantive and precluded sale accounting. We also retained servicing and, in most cases, retained an economic interest in the entities in the form of economic residuals, subordinate bonds, and/or IO strips. During 2010, we completed the sale of 100% of our retained residuals and subordinate bonds related to certain of these on-balance sheet securitization entities. In addition, any repurchase rights associated with these structures were removed from these deals through exercise of such right. These collective actions were deemed to be substantial to warrant a re-characterization of the original transactions and, as such, they were reassessed under ASC 860 and it was concluded that the securitization entities satisfied sale accounting requirements. Furthermore, the sale of the 100% economic interests resulted in the loss of a controlling financial interest in the securitization entities and accordingly consolidation was not required. The combination of these actions resulted in the derecognition of assets previously sold to these securitization entities. Consolidated assets and consolidated liabilities of $1.2 billion and $1.2 billion, respectively, associated with this transaction were derecognized and a gain of $51 million was recorded.

During 2010, we further completed the sale of our significant retained residuals and subordinate bonds related to certain other on-balance sheet securitization entities, which were consolidated upon adoption of ASU 2009-17 (but were not consolidated prior to the adoption of ASU 2009-17). Since we disposed of our variable interests in these securitization entities to unrelated third parties, a reassessment was required to determine whether we continued to hold a controlling financial interest. All subordinate retained economic interests in these entities were sold and therefore we no longer held a controlling financial interest. All assets and liabilities associated with the trust were derecognized and all retained interests in the entities, including insignificant retained senior interests and mortgage servicing rights, were recorded at their fair values at the date of deconsolidation. Consolidated assets and consolidated liabilities of $709 million and $707 million, respectively, associated with this transaction were derecognized and a gain of $1 million was recorded.

Related to these deconsolidations above, we continue to hold servicing rights associated with these transactions, however retained servicing does not preclude deconsolidation because the retained servicing we hold does not absorb a potentially significant level of variability in the securitization entities. Upon completion of the sale, $9 million of servicing rights and $1 million of retained interests associated with this transaction were recorded.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

12. Servicing Activities

Mortgage Servicing Rights

The following table summarizes activity related to MSRs which are carried at fair value.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
         2010             2009      
     ($ in millions)  

Estimated fair value at January 1,

   $ 3,554      $ 2,848   

Additions recognized on sale of mortgage loans

     1,006        807   

Additions from purchases of servicing rights

     56        19   

Subtractions from sales of servicing assets

     (1     (19

Changes in fair value

    

Due to changes in valuation inputs or assumptions used in the valuation model

     23        1,120   

Other changes in fair value

     (894     (1,261

Transfer to assets of operations held-for-sale

            25   

Decrease due to change in accounting principle

     (19       

Other changes that affect the balance

     13        15   
                

Estimated fair value at December 31,

   $ 3,738      $ 3,554   
                

Changes in fair value due to changes in valuation inputs or assumptions used in the valuation model include all changes due to a revaluation by a model or by a benchmarking exercise. Other changes in fair value primarily include the accretion of the present value of the discount related to forecasted cash flows and the economic runoff of the portfolio. The decrease due to change in accounting principle reflects the effect of the initial adoption of ASU 2009-17. Refer to Note 1 for additional information.

The key economic assumptions and sensitivity of the fair value of MSRs to immediate 10% and 20% adverse changes in those assumptions were as follows.

 

     December 31,  
     2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Weighted average life (in years)

     7.0        5.2   

Weighted average prepayment speed

     9.8%        15.6%   

Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change

   $ (155   $ (167

Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change

     (295     (321

Weighted average discount rate

     12.3%        10.3%   

Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change

   $ (80   $ (82

Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change

     (156     (160

These sensitivities are hypothetical and should be considered with caution. Changes in fair value based on a 10% and 20% variation in assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in assumptions to the change in fair value may not be linear. Also, the effect of a variation in a particular assumption on the fair value is calculated without changing any other assumption. In reality, changes in one factor may result in changes in another (e.g., increased market interest rates may result in lower prepayments and increased credit losses) that could magnify or counteract the sensitivities. Further, these sensitivities show only the change in the asset balances and do not show any expected change in the fair value of the instruments used to manage the interest rates and prepayment risks associated with these assets.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Risk Mitigation Activities

The primary risk of our servicing rights is interest rate risk and the resulting impact on prepayments. A significant decline in interest rates could lead to higher-than-expected prepayments that could reduce the value of the MSRs. We economically hedge the impact of these risks with both derivative and nonderivative financial instruments. Refer to Note 23 for additional information regarding the derivative financial instruments used to economically hedge MSRs.

The components of servicing valuation and hedge activities, net, were as follows.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Change in estimated fair value of mortgage servicing rights

   $ (872   $ (106   $ (2,227

Change in fair value of derivative financial instruments

     478        (998     1,964   
                        

Servicing valuation and hedge activities, net

   $ (394   $ (1,104   $ (263
                        

Mortgage Servicing Fees

The components of mortgage servicing fees were as follows.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010      2009      2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Contractual servicing fees, net of guarantee fees and including subservicing

   $ 1,065       $ 1,071       $ 1,196   

Late fees

     77         77         112   

Ancillary fees

     190         164         144   
                          

Total mortgage servicing fees

   $ 1,332       $ 1,312       $ 1,452   
                          

Mortgage Servicing Advances

In connection with our primary servicing activities (i.e., servicing of mortgage loans), we make certain payments of property taxes and insurance premiums, default and property maintenance payments, as well as advances of principal and interest payments before collecting them from individual borrowers. Servicing advances including contractual interest are priority cash flows in the event of a loan principal reduction or foreclosure and ultimate liquidation of the real estate-owned property, thus making their collection reasonably assured. These servicing advances are included in other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet and totaled $1.9 billion and $1.8 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. We maintain an allowance for uncollected primary servicing advances of $25 million and $23 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Our potential obligation is influenced by the loan’s performance and credit quality. Additionally, we have a fiduciary responsibility for mortgage escrow and custodial funds that totaled $4.2 billion and $3.7 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. A portion of these balances are included in deposit liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. Refer to Note 15 for additional information.

When we act as a subservicer of mortgage loans we perform the responsibilities of a primary servicer but do not own the corresponding primary servicing rights. We receive a fee from the primary servicer for such services. As the subservicer, we would have the same responsibilities of a primary servicer in that we would make certain payments of property taxes and insurance premiums, default and property maintenance, as well as advances of

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

principal and interest payments before collecting them from individual borrowers. At December 31, 2010 and 2009, outstanding servicer advances related to subserviced loans were $140 million and $155 million, respectively, and we had a reserve for uncollected subservicer advances of $1 million and $2 million, respectively.

At December 31, 2010 and 2009, we were the master servicer (i.e., servicer of beneficial interests issued by mortgage securitization entities) for 528,249 and 682,148 loans, respectively, having an aggregate unpaid principal balance of $72.6 billion and $94.6 billion, respectively. In many cases, where we act as master servicer, we also act as primary servicer. In connection with our master-servicing activities, we service the mortgage-backed and mortgage-related asset-backed securities and whole-loan packages sold to investors. As the master servicer, we collect mortgage loan payments from primary servicers and distribute those funds to investors in the mortgage-backed and mortgage-related-asset backed securities and whole-loan packages. As the master servicer, we are required to advance scheduled payments to the securitization trust or whole-loan investors. To the extent the primary servicer does not advance the payments, we are responsible for advancing the payment to the trust or whole-loan investors. Master-servicing advances, including contractual interest, are priority cash flows in the event of a default, thus making their collection reasonably assured. In most cases, we are required to advance these payments to the point of liquidation of the loan or reimbursement of the trust or whole-loan investors. We had outstanding master-servicing advances of $90 million and $47 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. We had no reserve for uncollected master-servicing advances at December 31, 2010 or 2009.

Serviced Mortgage Assets

Our total serviced mortgage assets consist of primary, master and subservicing activities as follows.

 

   

Loans owned by us and we are the primary servicer. — These loans are categorized as loans held-for-sale or consumer finance receivables and loans. Included in consumer finance receivables and loans are on-balance sheet securitization entities. Our loans held-for-sale and consumer finance receivable and loan portfolios are discussed in further detail in Note 8 and Note 9, respectively.

 

   

Loans sold to third-party investors where we have retained primary servicing. —The loans sold to a third-party investor were sold through an off-balance sheet securitization entity or a whole-loan transaction.

 

   

Loans that have never been and currently are not owned by us but the primary servicing rights have been purchased. — In the case of purchased servicing rights, there is no recourse to us outside of customary contractual provisions relating to the execution of the services we provide.

 

   

Loans that have never been and currently are not owned by us but for which we act as subservicer under contractual agreements with the primary servicer. — In these cases, loans are not recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. In the case of subservicing rights, there is no recourse to us outside of customary contractual provisions relating to the execution of the services we provide.

In many cases we act as both the primary and master servicer. However, in certain cases, we also service loans that have been purchased and subsequently sold through a securitization trust or whole-loan sale whereby the originator retained the primary servicing rights and we retained the master-servicing rights.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The unpaid principal balance of our serviced mortgage assets were as follows.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

On-balance sheet mortgage loans

     

Held-for-sale and investment

   $ 20,224       $ 26,333   

Operations held-for-sale

             3,160   

Off-balance sheet mortgage loans

     

Loans sold to third-party investors

     

Nonagency

     63,685         71,505   

GSEs

     255,388         231,310   

Whole-loan

     17,524         21,120   

Purchased servicing rights

     3,946         4,800   

Operations held-for-sale

             17,526   
                 

Total primary serviced mortgage loans

     360,767         375,754   

Subserviced mortgage loans

     24,173         28,357   

Subserviced operations held-for-sale

             293   
                 

Total subserviced mortgage loans

     24,173         28,650   

Master-servicing-only mortgage loans

     10,548         14,865   
                 

Total serviced mortgage loans

   $ 395,488       $ 419,269   
                 

Our Mortgage operations that conduct primary and master-servicing activities are required to maintain certain servicer ratings in accordance with master agreements entered into with GSEs. At December 31, 2010, our Mortgage operations were in compliance with the servicer-rating requirements of the master agreements.

In certain domestic securitizations of our Mortgage operations, the surety or other provider of contractual credit support is entitled to declare a servicer default and terminate the servicer upon the failure of the loans to meet certain portfolio delinquency and/or cumulative-loss thresholds. Our Mortgage operations received notice of termination from surety providers with respect to securitizations having an unpaid principal balance of $346 million and $4.8 billion during the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Automobile Servicing Activities

We service consumer automobile contracts. Historically, we have sold a portion of the consumer automobile contracts that we originated. With respect to contracts we sell, we retain the right to service and earn a servicing fee for our servicing function. Typically, we conclude that the fee we are paid for servicing consumer automobile finance receivables represents adequate compensation, and consequently, we do not recognize a servicing asset or liability. We recognized automobile servicing fees of $231 million, $237 million, and $295 million during the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Automobile Serviced Assets

The total serviced automobile assets were as follows.

 

     Outstanding  
     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

On-balance sheet automobile loans

     

Consumer automobile

   $ 51,254       $ 39,846   

Commercial automobile

     35,629         29,776   

Operating leases

     9,128         15,995   

Operations held-for-sale

     242         660   

Off-balance sheet automobile loans

     

Loans sold to third-party investors

     

Securitizations

             7,251   

Whole-loan

     18,126         18,768   

Other

     979         1,365   
                 

Total serviced automobile loans

   $ 115,358       $ 113,661   
                 

13. Premiums Receivable and Other Insurance Assets

Premiums receivable and other insurance assets consisted of the following.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Prepaid reinsurance premiums

   $ 249       $ 346   

Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses

     487         670   

Reinsurance recoverable on paid losses

     54         114   

Premiums receivable

     341         388   

Deferred policy acquisition costs

     1,050         1,202   
                 

Total premiums receivable and other insurance assets

   $ 2,181       $ 2,720   
                 

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

14. Other Assets

The components of other assets were as follows.

 

     December 31,  
     2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Property and equipment at cost

   $ 1,315      $ 1,416   

Accumulated depreciation

     (939     (1,080
                

Net property and equipment

     376        336   

Fair value of derivative contracts in receivable position

     3,966        2,654   

Servicer advances

     2,137        2,180   

Restricted cash collections for securitization trusts (a)

     1,705        3,654   

Collateral placed with counterparties

     1,569        1,760   

Restricted cash and cash equivalents

     1,323        1,590   

Cash reserve deposits held-for-securitization trusts (b)

     1,168        1,594   

Debt issuance costs

     704        829   

Other accounts receivable

     641        573   

Prepaid expenses and deposits

     638        749   

Interests retained in financial asset sales

     568        471   

Goodwill

     525        526   

Nonmarketable equity securities

     504        715   

Investment in used vehicles held-for-sale

     386        522   

Real estate and other investments

     280        340   

Accrued interest and rent receivable

     238        326   

Repossessed and foreclosed assets

     211        336   

Other assets

     625        732   
                

Total other assets

   $ 17,564      $ 19,887   
                

 

(a) Represents cash collection from customer payments on securitized receivables. These funds are distributed to investors as payments on the related secured debt.

 

(b) Represents credit enhancement in the form of cash reserves for various securitization transactions we have executed.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill for the periods shown were as follows.

 

     North
American
Automotive
Finance
operations
    International
Automotive
Finance
operations
    Insurance
operations
    Other     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Goodwill acquired prior to December 31, 2008

   $ 14      $ 527      $ 953      $ 1,541      $ 3,035   

Accumulated impairment losses

     (14            (42     (1,541     (1,597

Foreign-currency translation

            (37     (44            (81
                                        

Goodwill at December 31, 2008

   $      $ 490      $ 867      $      $ 1,357   

Sale of reporting unit

                   (107            (107

Impairment losses (a)

                   (607 ) (b)             (607

Transfer of assets of discontinued operations held-for-sale

            (22     (108            (130

Foreign-currency translation

            1        12               13   
                                        

Goodwill at December 31, 2009 (c)

   $      $ 469      $ 57      $      $ 526   

Transfer of assets of discontinued operations held-for-sale

            (1     (1            (2

Foreign-currency translation

                   1               1   
                                        

Goodwill at December 31, 2010

   $      $ 468      $ 57      $      $ 525   
                                        

 

(a) The impairment losses of our Insurance operations were reported as loss from discontinued operations, net of tax, in the Consolidated Statement of Income. All other impairment losses were reported as other operating expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(b) During the three months ended December 31, 2008, and the three months ended June 30, 2009, our Insurance operations initiated an evaluation of goodwill for potential impairment, which was in addition to our annual impairment evaluation. These tests were initiated in light of a more-than-likely expectation that a reporting unit or a significant portion of a reporting unit will be sold. The fair value was determined using offers provided by willing purchasers. Based on the preliminary results of the assessments, our Insurance operations concluded that the carrying value of these reporting units exceeded the fair value resulting in an impairment loss during both 2008 and 2009.

 

(c) Net of accumulated impairment losses of $649 million for Insurance operations.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

15. Deposit Liabilities

Deposit liabilities consisted of the following.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Domestic deposits

     

Noninterest-bearing deposits

   $ 2,108       $ 1,755   

NOW and money market checking accounts

     8,081         7,213   

Certificates of deposit

     23,728         19,861   

Dealer deposits

     1,459         1,041   
                 

Total domestic deposit liabilities

     35,376         29,870   
                 

Foreign deposits

     

Noninterest-bearing deposits

     23           

NOW and money market checking accounts

     961         165   

Certificates of deposit

     2,390         1,555   

Dealer deposits

     298         166   
                 

Total foreign deposit liabilities

     3,672         1,886   
                 

Total deposit liabilities

   $ 39,048       $ 31,756   
                 

Noninterest-bearing deposits primarily represent third-party escrows associated with our mortgage loan-servicing portfolio. The escrow deposits are not subject to an executed agreement and can be withdrawn without penalty at any time. At December 31, 2010 and 2009, certificates of deposit included $7.0 billion and $4.8 billion, respectively, of domestic certificates of deposit in denominations of $100 thousand or more.

The following table presents the scheduled maturity of total certificates of deposit.

 

     Year ended
December 31,
 
     ($ in millions)  

2011

   $ 12,842   

2012

     6,832   

2013

     2,554   

2014

     1,160   

2015

     2,730   
        

Total certificates of deposit

   $ 26,118   
        

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

16. Short-term Borrowings

The following table presents the composition of our short-term borrowings portfolio.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     Unsecured      Secured      Total      Unsecured      Secured      Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Demand notes

   $ 2,033       $       $ 2,033       $ 1,311       $       $ 1,311   

Bank loans and overdrafts

     1,970                 1,970         1,598                 1,598   

Federal Home Loan Bank

             1,300         1,300                           

Federal Reserve bank advances

                                     5,000         5,000   

Other (a)

     224         1,981         2,205         356         2,027         2,383   
                                                     

Total short-term borrowings

   $ 4,227       $ 3,281       $ 7,508       $ 3,265       $ 7,027       $ 10,292   
                                                     

Weighted average interest rate (b)

           3.5%               2.0%   
                             

 

(a) Other primarily includes nonbank secured borrowings at our Mortgage and International Automotive Finance operations.

 

(b) Based on the debt outstanding and the interest rate at December 31 of each year.

17. Long-term Debt

The following tables present the composition of our long-term debt portfolio.

 

December 31,

   Amount      Interest rate      Weighted
average
interest rate (a)
     Due date
range
     ($ in millions)

2010

           

Senior debt

           

Fixed rate (b)

   $ 45,905            

Variable rate

     2,314            
                 

Total senior debt (c)

     48,219         0.00–16.21%         6.56%       2011–2049

Subordinated debt

           

Fixed rate

     4,227            

Variable rate (d)

     6,632            
                 

Total subordinated debt (e)

     10,859         0.83–17.05%         4.76%       2011–2018

VIE secured debt

           

Fixed rate

     10,706            

Variable rate

     13,760            
                 

Total VIE secured debt

     24,466         0.30–8.30%         2.62%       2011–2016

Trust preferred securities

           

Fixed rate

     2,621         8.00%         8.00%       2040

Fair value adjustment (f)

     447            
                 

Total long-term debt (g)

   $ 86,612            
                 

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

December 31,

   Amount      Interest rate      Weighted
average
interest rate
(a)
     Due date
range
 
     ($ in millions)  

2009

           

Senior debt

           

Fixed rate (b)

   $ 45,357            

Variable rate

     4,133            
                 

Total senior debt (c)

     49,490         0.00–15.31%         6.47%         2010–2049   

Subordinated debt

           

Fixed rate

     4,778            

Variable rate (d)

     6,387            
                 

Total subordinated debt (e)

     11,165         1.36–17.05%         5.53%         2010–2018   

VIE secured debt

           

Fixed rate

     4,461            

Variable rate

     19,756            
                 

Total VIE secured debt

     24,217         0.31–14.99%         2.85%         2010–2016   

Trust preferred securities

           

Fixed rate

     2,620            

Fair value adjustment (f)

     529         8.00%         8.00%         2040   
                 

Total long-term debt (g)

   $ 88,021            
                 

 

(a) Based on the debt outstanding and the interest rate at December 31 of each year.

 

(b) Includes $7.4 billion at both December 31, 2010 and 2009, guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) under the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (TLGP).

 

(c) Includes secured long-term debt of $4.0 billion and $6.7 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(d) Includes $6.4 billion of debt outstanding from the Ally Bank, U.S. and Canadian automotive secured revolving credit facilities at December 31, 2010, and $6.1 billion outstanding from our syndicated U.S. and Canadian automotive secured revolving credit facility at December 31, 2009.

 

(e) Includes secured long-term debt of $10.6 billion and $10.8 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(f) Amount represents the hedge accounting adjustment of fixed-rate debt.

 

(g) Includes fair value option-elected secured long-term debt of $972 million and $1.3 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Refer to Note 27 for additional information.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     Unsecured      Secured      Total      Unsecured      Secured      Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Long-term debt

                 

Due within one year

   $ 8,555       $ 13,603       $ 22,158       $ 7,429       $ 18,898       $ 26,327   

Due after one year

     38,499         25,508         64,007         38,331         22,834         61,165   

Fair value adjustment

     447                 447         529                 529   
                                                     

Total long-term debt

   $ 47,501       $ 39,111       $ 86,612       $ 46,289       $ 41,732       $ 88,021   
                                                     

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following table presents the scheduled maturity of long-term debt, assuming no early redemptions will occur. The actual payment of secured debt may vary based on the payment activity of the related pledged assets.

 

    Year ended December 31,  
    2011     2012     2013     2014     2015     2016 and
thereafter
    Fair value
adjustment
    Total  
    ($ in millions)  

Unsecured

               

Long-term debt

  $ 9,530      $ 12,637      $ 1,884      $ 1,974      $ 3,650      $ 20,548      $ 447      $ 50,670   

Original issue discount

    (975     (350     (263     (191     (57     (1,333            (3,169
                                                               

Total unsecured

    8,555        12,287        1,621        1,783        3,593        19,215        447        47,501   
                                                               

Secured

               

Long-term debt

    13,502        9,145        8,631        3,261        2,514        1,711               38,764   

Troubled debt restructuring concession (a)

    101        105        82        46        13                      347   
                                                               

Total secured

    13,603        9,250        8,713        3,307        2,527        1,711               39,111   
                                                               

Total long-term debt

  $ 22,158      $ 21,537      $ 10,334      $ 5,090      $ 6,120      $ 20,926      $ 447      $ 86,612   
                                                               

 

(a) In the second quarter of 2008, ResCap executed an exchange offer that resulted in a concession being recognized as an adjustment to the carrying value of certain new secured notes. This concession is being amortized over the life of the new notes through a reduction to interest expense using an effective yield methodology.

The following table presents the scheduled maturity of long-term debt held by ResCap, assuming no early redemptions will occur. The actual payment of secured debt may vary based on the payment activity of the related pledged assets.

 

    Year ended December 31,  
    ($ in millions)  
    2011     2012     2013     2014     2015     2016 and
thereafter
    Fair value
adjustment
    Total  

ResCap

               

Unsecured debt

               

Long-term debt

  $ 209      $ 357      $ 529      $ 100      $ 114      $      $ 33      $ 1,342   

Original issue discount

                                                       
                                                               

Total unsecured

    209        357        529        100        114               33        1,342   
                                                               

Secured debt

               

Long-term debt

    508               707        707        707        1,234               3,863   

Troubled debt restructuring concession

    101        105        82        46        13                      347   
                                                               

Total secured debt

    609        105        789        753        720        1,234               4,210   
                                                               

ResCap — Total long-term debt

  $ 818      $ 462      $ 1,318      $ 853      $ 834      $ 1,234      $ 33      $ 5,552   
                                                               

To achieve the desired balance between fixed- and variable-rate debt, we utilize interest rate swap agreements. The use of these derivative financial instruments had the effect of synthetically converting $24.0 billion of our fixed-rate debt into variable-rate obligations and $17.5 billion of our variable-rate debt into fixed-rate obligations at December 31, 2010. In addition, certain of our debt obligations are denominated in currencies other than the currency of the issuing country. Foreign-currency swap agreements are used to hedge exposure to changes in the exchange rates of obligations.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following summarizes assets restricted as collateral for the payment of the related debt obligation primarily arising from securitization transactions accounted for as secured borrowings and repurchase agreements.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     Total      Ally Bank (a)      Total      Ally Bank (a)  
     ($ in millions)  

Loans held-for-sale

   $ 1,035       $       $ 1,420       $   

Mortgage assets held-for-investment and lending receivables

     12,451         11,137         11,356         9,410   

Consumer automobile finance receivables

     27,164         14,927         24,082         6,812   

Commercial automobile finance receivables

     19,741         15,034         21,447         5,095   

Investment securities

     2,227         2,190         2,676         2,613   

Investment in operating leases, net

     3,199                 13,323           

Mortgage servicing rights

     2,801         1,746         2,474         1,015   

Other assets

     3,990         1,700         4,273         1,264   
                                   

Total assets restricted as collateral (b)

   $ 72,608       $ 46,734       $ 81,051       $ 26,209   
                                   

Secured debt (c)

   $ 42,392       $ 20,199       $ 48,759       $ 11,777   
                                   

 

(a) Ally Bank is a component of the total column.

 

(b) Ally Bank has an advance agreement with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (FHLB) and access to the Federal Reserve Bank Discount Window. Ally Bank had assets pledged and restricted as collateral to the FHLB and Federal Reserve Bank totaling $15.2 billion and $22.4 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. These assets were composed of consumer and commercial mortgage finance receivables and loans, net, consumer automobile finance receivables and loans, net, and investment securities. Under the agreement with the FHLB, Ally Bank also had assets pledged as collateral under a blanket lien totaling $5.3 billion and $1.9 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. These assets were primarily composed of mortgage servicing rights, consumer automobile finance receivables and loans, net, and other assets. Availability under these programs is generally only for the operations of Ally Bank and cannot be used to fund the operations or liabilities of Ally or its subsidiaries.

 

(c) Includes $3,281 million and $7,027 million of short-term borrowings at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Trust Preferred Securities

On December 30, 2009, we entered into a Securities Purchase and Exchange Agreement with the U.S. Department of Treasury (Treasury) and GMAC Capital Trust I, a Delaware statutory trust (the Trust), which is a finance subsidiary that is wholly owned by Ally. As part of the agreement, the Trust sold to Treasury 2,540,000 trust preferred securities (TRUPS) issued by the Trust with an aggregate liquidation preference of $2.5 billion. Additionally, we issued and sold to Treasury a ten-year warrant to purchase up to 127,000 additional TRUPS with an aggregate liquidation preference of $127 million, at an initial exercise price of $0.01 per security, which Treasury immediately exercised in full. The TRUPS have no stated maturity date but must be redeemed upon the redemption or maturity (February 15, 2040) of the Debentures. The TRUPS are generally nonvoting, other than voting on certain matters under certain circumstances, including generally, the adverse amendment of the amended and restated declaration of trust governing the TRUPS (the Declaration), and with respect to certain actions to be taken upon the occurrence of certain events of default on the TRUPS or, under certain

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

circumstances, on the Debentures. During any period in which TRUPS remain outstanding but in which distributions on the TRUPS have not been fully paid, Ally is not permitted to (i) declare or pay dividends on; make any distributions with respect thereto; or redeem, purchase, or otherwise acquire, any of Ally’s capital stock or (ii) make any payments of principal, interest, or premium on, or repay, repurchase, or redeem any debt securities that rank on a parity with or junior in interest to the Debentures with certain specified exceptions.

Covenants and Other Requirements

We are subject to a leverage ratio under a revolving syndicated credit facility secured by U.S. and Canadian automotive receivables. The leverage ratio covenant requires our reporting segments, excluding our Mortgage operations, to have a ratio of consolidated borrowed funds to consolidated net worth not to exceed 11.0:1. At December 31, 2010, the leverage ratio was 3.3:1.

In secured funding transactions, there are trigger events that could cause the debt to be prepaid at an accelerated rate or could cause our usage of the credit facility to be discontinued. The triggers are generally based on the financial health and performance of the servicer as well as performance criteria for the pool of receivables, such as delinquency ratios, loss ratios, commercial payment rates. There were no trigger events in 2010.

When we issue debt securities in private offerings we are generally subject to registration rights agreements. Under these agreements, we agree to use reasonable efforts to cause the consummation of a registered exchange offer or to file a shelf registration statement within a prescribed period. In the event that we fail to meet these obligations, we may be required to pay additional penalty interest with respect to the covered debt during the period in which we fail to meet our contractual obligations.

Funding Facilities

We utilize both committed and uncommitted credit facilities. The financial institutions providing the uncommitted facilities are not legally obligated to advance funds under them. The amounts outstanding under our various funding facilities are included on our Consolidated Balance Sheet.

The total capacity in our committed funding facilities is provided by banks through private transactions. The committed secured funding facilities can be revolving in nature and allow for additional funding during the commitment period, or they can be amortizing and do not allow for any further funding after the closing date. At December 31, 2010, $28.8 billion of our $32.2 billion of committed capacity was revolving. Generally, our revolving facilities have a tenor of 364 days and are renewed annually.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Committed Funding Facilities

 

     December 31,  
     Outstanding      Unused capacity (a)      Total capacity  
     2010      2009      2010      2009      2010      2009  
     ($ in billions)  

Bank funding

                 

Secured

   $ 6.4       $       $ 1.9       $       $ 8.3       $   

Nonbank funding

                 

Unsecured

                 

Automotive Finance operations

     0.8         0.7                 0.1         0.8         0.8   

Secured

                 

Automotive Finance operations and other

     8.3         23.0         9.1         9.0         17.4         32.0   

Mortgage operations

     1.0         1.7         0.6         0.4         1.6         2.1   
                                                     

Total nonbank funding

     10.1         25.4         9.7         9.5         19.8         34.9   
                                                     

Shared capacity (b)

     0.2         0.8         3.9         3.2         4.1         4.0   
                                                     

Total committed facilities

     16.7         26.2         15.5         12.7         32.2         38.9   
                                                     

Whole-loan forward flow agreements (c)

                             9.4                 9.4   
                                                     

Total

   $ 16.7       $ 26.2       $ 15.5       $ 22.1       $ 32.2       $ 48.3   
                                                     

 

(a) Funding from committed secured facilities is available on request in the event excess collateral resides in certain facilities or is available to the extent incremental collateral is available and contributed to the facilities.

 

(b) Funding is generally available for assets originated by Ally Bank or the parent company, Ally Financial Inc.

 

(c) Represents commitments of financial institutions to purchase U.S. automotive retail assets.

Uncommitted Funding Facilities

 

     December 31,  
     Outstanding      Unused capacity      Total capacity  
     2010      2009      2010      2009      2010      2009  
     ($ in billions)  

Bank funding

                 

Secured

                 

Federal Reserve funding programs

   $       $ 5.0       $ 4.0       $ 2.8       $ 4.0       $ 7.8   

FHLB advances

     5.3         5.1         0.2         0.8         5.5         5.9   
                                                     

Total bank funding

     5.3         10.1         4.2         3.6         9.5         13.7   
                                                     

Nonbank funding

                 

Unsecured

                 

Automotive Finance operations

     1.4         0.8         0.6         0.1         2.0         0.9   

Secured

                 

Automotive Finance operations

     0.1         0.3                 0.1         0.1         0.4   

Mortgage operations

                     0.1         0.2         0.1         0.2   
                                                     

Total nonbank funding

     1.5         1.1         0.7         0.4         2.2         1.5   
                                                     

Total uncommitted facilities

   $ 6.8       $ 11.2       $ 4.9       $ 4.0       $ 11.7       $ 15.2   
                                                     

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Private Debt Exchange and Cash Tender Offers

On November 20, 2008, we commenced separate private exchange and cash tender offers to purchase and/or exchange certain of our and our subsidiaries (the Ally Offers) and ResCap’s (the ResCap Offers) outstanding notes held by eligible holders for cash, newly issued notes of Ally, and in the case of the Ally Offers only, preferred stock of a wholly owned Ally subsidiary.

In the Ally Offers, we offered to purchase and/or exchange any and all of certain old Ally notes (the Ally Old Notes) held by eligible holders for, at the election of each eligible holder, either (a)(1) newly issued senior guaranteed notes of Ally on substantially the same terms as the applicable series of Ally Old Notes exchanged (the Guaranteed Notes), except for the Guaranteed Notes being guaranteed by certain subsidiaries of Ally, and (2) newly issued 9% perpetual senior preferred stock (which has been subsequently reduced to 7% pursuant to the terms of such securities) with a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share of a wholly owned nonconsolidated subsidiary of Ally (the New Preferred Stock) or (b) cash, in each case in the amounts per $1,000 principal amount of Ally Old Notes as specified in the related offering materials. To the extent that cash required to purchase all Ally Old Notes tendered pursuant to cash elections exceeded $2 billion, each eligible holder who made a cash election had the amount of Ally Old Notes it tendered for cash accepted on a pro rata basis across all series such that the aggregate amount of cash spent in the offers equaled $2 billion, and the balance of Ally Old Notes each such holder tendered that was not accepted for purchase for cash was exchanged into new securities as if such holder had made a new securities election in accordance with option (a) described above.

The Guaranteed Notes (the Note Guarantees) are guaranteed, on a joint and several basis, by GMAC Latin America Holdings LLC, GMAC International Holdings B.V., GMAC Continental LLC, IB Finance Holding Company LLC, and Ally US LLC (each a Note Guarantor), which are all wholly owned subsidiaries of Ally. The Note Guarantees are senior obligations of each Note Guarantor and rank equally with all existing and future senior debt of each Note Guarantor. The Note Guarantees rank senior to all subordinated debt of each Note Guarantor.

In the ResCap Offers, Ally offered to purchase and/or exchange any and all of certain ResCap notes (the ResCap Old Notes) held by eligible holders for, at the election of each eligible holder, either (a)(1) in the case of 8.50% notes of ResCap maturing on May 15, 2010, newly issued 7.50% senior notes of Ally due 2013 (the New Senior Notes) or (2) in the case of all other series of ResCap Old Notes, a combination of New Senior Notes and newly issued 8.00% subordinated notes of Ally due 2018 (the Subordinated Notes), or (b) cash, in all cases in the amount of $1,000 principal amount of ResCap Old Notes as specified in the related offering materials. To the extent that cash required to purchase all ResCap Old Notes tendered pursuant to cash elections exceeded $500 million, each eligible holder who made a cash election had the amount of ResCap Old Notes it tendered for cash accepted on a pro rata basis across all series such that the aggregate amount of cash spent in the offers equaled $500 million, and the balance of ResCap Old notes each such holder tendered that was not accepted for purchase for cash was exchanged into new securities as if such holder had made a new securities election in accordance with option (a) described above.

The Ally Offers and ResCap offers (collectively, the Offers) settled on December 31, 2008. Approximately $17.5 billion in the aggregate principal amount (or 59%) of the outstanding Ally Old Notes were validly tendered and accepted in the Ally Offers, and approximately $3.7 billion in aggregate principal amount (or 39%) of the outstanding ResCap Old Notes were validly tendered and accepted in the ResCap Offers.

The Ally Offers and the ResCap Offers were accounted for as a debt modification and resulted in a pretax gain on extinguishment of debt of $11.5 billion. The gain on extinguishment consisted of a $3.8 billion principal discount, a $5.4 billion discount representing the difference between the face value and the estimated fair value

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

of the new Ally and ResCap notes, and a $2.3 billion discount representing the difference between the face value and estimated fair value of new preferred stock. The discount of the new Ally and ResCap notes will be amortized as interest expense over the terms of the new notes using the effective interest method. Refer to Note 1 for additional information related to the accounting policy.

18. Reserves for Insurance Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

The following table provides a reconciliation of the activity in the reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Balance at beginning of year

   $ 1,215      $ 2,895      $ 3,089   

Reinsurance recoverables

     (670     (1,660     (893
                        

Net balance at beginning of year

     545        1,235        2,196   

Net reserves reclassified from liabilities of discontinued operations held-for-sale (a)

     784                 

Net reserves ceded — retroactive reinsurance (b)

     (85            (703

Net reserves sold (c)

     (452     (82       

Incurred from continuing operations related to

      

Current year

     932        1,021        1,437   

Prior years (d)

     (56     19        (41
                        

Total incurred from continuing operations

     876        1,040        1,396   

Incurred from discontinued operations related to

      

Current year

     301        1,007        1,142   

Prior years (e)

     1        (4     (16
                        

Total incurred from discontinued operations

     302        1,003        1,126   

Paid related to

      

Current year

     (1,015     (1,353     (1,692

Prior years

     (316     (583     (931
                        

Total paid

     (1,331     (1,936     (2,623

Net reserves reclassified to liabilities of discontinued operations held-for-sale (f)

     (269     (784       

Effects of exchange-rate changes

     5        69        (157
                        

Net balance at end of year

     375        545        1,235   

Reinsurance recoverables

     487        670        1,660   
                        

Balance at end of year

   $ 862      $ 1,215      $ 2,895   
                        

 

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(a) Represents the fair value of reserves of discontinued operations held-for-sale at the beginning of the year.

 

(b) On November 30, 2010, we entered into a loss portfolio transfer that ceded our losses and loss adjustment expenses related to business underwritten by our international reinsurance agency, which was sold on the same date. On November 3, 2008, we entered into a loss portfolio transfer that ceded our losses and loss adjustment expenses related to business underwritten by our U.S. reinsurance agency, which was sold on the same date. The loss portfolio transfers were accounted for as retroactive reinsurance. Retroactive reinsurance balances result from reinsurance placed to cover losses on insured events occurring prior to the inception of a reinsurance contract.

 

(c) During 2010 and 2009, we completed the sale of our U.S. personal automotive insurance business.

 

(d) Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses from continuing operations were adjusted as a result of changes in prior years’ reserve estimates for certain assumed reinsurance coverages, international private passenger automobile coverages, or dealer-related products.

 

(e) Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses from discontinued operations were adjusted as a result of changes in prior year reserve estimates for certain private passenger automobile coverages.

 

(f) Reclassification is net of reinsurance recoveries.

19. Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities

The components of accrued expenses and other liabilities were as follows.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Fair value of derivative contracts in payable position

   $ 3,860       $ 1,895   

Loan repurchase liabilities

     2,500         1,953   

Accounts payable

     1,267         1,275   

Collateral received from counterparties

     916         432   

Reserve for mortgage representation and warranty obligation

     830         1,263   

Current and deferred income taxes, net

     647         1,058   

Employee compensation and benefits

     591         403   

GM payable, net

     202         179   

Securitization trustee payable

     179         528   

Reinsurance payable

     91         208   

Deferred revenue

     85         91   

Other liabilities

     958         1,171   
                 

Total accrued expenses and other liabilities

   $ 12,126       $ 10,456   
                 

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

20. Equity and Earnings per Common Share

Common Stock

Our common stock has a par value of $0.01 and there are 2,021,384 shares authorized for issuance. Our common stock is not registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and there is no established trading market for the shares. Treasury holds 73.78% of Ally common stock. The following table presents changes in the number of shares issued and outstanding.

 

     2010      2009      2008  
     (in shares)  

Members’ interest / common stock (a)

        

January 1,

     799,120         269,960         107,984   

New issuances:

        

Conversion of Series F-2 Preferred Stock (b)

     531,850                   

Common equity investments (c)

             269,960           

Conversion of Series F Preferred Stock (d)

             259,200           

Contributions of loan participations (e)

                     161,976   
                          

December 31,

     1,330,970         799,120         269,960   
                          

 

(a) On June 30, 2009, our members’ interests became common stock due to our conversion from a limited liability company to a corporation. As a result, each unit of each class of common and preferred membership interests issued and outstanding was converted into shares of capital stock with substantially the same rights and preferences as such membership interests. Refer to Note 24 for additional information regarding the tax impact of the conversion.

 

(b) On December 30, 2010, 110,000,000 shares of Series F-2 Preferred Stock owned by Treasury were converted into 531,850 shares of Ally common stock.

 

(c) On January 16, 2009, we completed a rights offering for $1.3 billion of common equity from existing Ally common shareholders.

 

(d) On December 30, 2009, 60,000,000 shares of Series F Preferred Stock, all of which were owned by Treasury, were converted into 259,200 shares of Ally common stock.

 

(e) On December 29, 2008, GM and an affiliate of Cerberus Capital Management contributed to Ally $750 million of subordinated participations in a $3.5 billion senior secured credit facility between Ally and ResCap in exchange for additional common membership interests in Ally.

Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock held by Treasury

Series F-2 Preferred Stock

On December 30, 2009, Ally entered into a Securities Purchase and Exchange Agreement (the Purchase Agreement) with Treasury, pursuant to which a series of transactions occurred resulting in Treasury acquiring 228,750,000 shares of Ally’s newly issued Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2 (the New MCP), with a total liquidation preference of $11,437,500,000. On December 30, 2010, Treasury converted 110,000,000 shares of the New MCP into 531,850 shares of Ally common stock. The conversion occurred at an agreed upon rate that exceeded the initial conversion rate as defined in Exhibit H to the Ally Certificate of Incorporation. The fair value of the additional shares was approximately $586 million and

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

represented an inducement. The fair value of the additional common shares issued to Treasury was determined using a combination of valuation techniques consistent with the market approach (Level 3 fair value inputs). The market approach we used to estimate the fair value of our common stock incorporated a combination of the tangible equity and earnings multiples from comparable publicly traded companies deemed similar to Ally (and its operating segments) and by observing comparable transactions in the marketplace. We also considered the implied valuation of our common stock based on the December 30, 2010, conversion with Treasury.

In connection with the conversion, the New MCP Certificate of Designation was amended to require us to deliver additional shares to the New MCP holders upon occurrence of certain specified events. The fair value associated with this provision was $30 million and was reflected in the New MCP balance at December 31, 2010. The fair value of the provision was determined utilizing an option pricing model using inputs and assumptions that management believes a willing market participant would use in estimating fair value (a Level 3 fair value input).

As a result, Treasury now holds 118,750,000 shares of the New MCP, with a total liquidation preference of $5,937,500,000. Dividends of the New MCP accrue at 9% per annum. Dividends are payable quarterly, in arrears, only if and when declared by Ally’s Board of Directors. The New MCP generally is nonvoting, other than class-voting on certain matters under certain circumstances, including generally, the authorization of senior capital stock, the adverse amendment of the New MCP, and any exchange or reclassification involving the New MCP or merger or consolidation of Ally. Upon conversion of the New MCP into Ally common stock, the holder would have the voting rights associated with the common stock.

The shares of the New MCP are convertible into common stock at the applicable conversion rate (as provided in the Certificate of Designation) either: (i) at Ally’s option, at any time or from time to time, with the prior approval of the Federal Reserve provided that Ally is not permitted to convert any shares of the New MCP held by Treasury except (a) with the prior written consent of Treasury (which consent may be granted in the sole discretion of Treasury with respect to each conversion considering such factors as it deems appropriate at such time, which may include seeking to condition the terms on which it may provide such consent, which may include seeking an alteration of the conversion rate) or (b) pursuant to an order of the Federal Reserve compelling such a conversion; or (ii) at the option of the holder, upon the occurrence of certain specified transactions. All shares of the New MCP that remain outstanding on December 30, 2016, will automatically convert into common stock at a conversion rate of 0.00432 common shares per share of the New MCP. Under any conversion of the New MCP, settlement will always occur by issuance of our common stock.

Subject to the approval of the Federal Reserve and the restrictions imposed by the terms of our other preferred stock, we may opt to redeem, in whole or in part, from time to time, the New MCP then outstanding at any time. On or before December 30, 2011, the New MCP may be redeemed at the liquidation preference, plus any accrued and unpaid dividends. After December 30, 2011, the New MCP may be redeemed at the greater of the liquidation preference, plus any accrued and unpaid dividends or the as-converted value, as defined in the Certificate of Designation.

Subject to certain exceptions, for so long as any shares of the New MCP are outstanding and owned by Treasury, Ally is generally prohibited from paying certain dividends or distributions on, or redeeming, repurchasing, or acquiring its capital stock or other equity securities without the consent of Treasury. Additionally, Ally is generally prohibited from making any dividends or distributions on, or redeeming, repurchasing, or acquiring its capital stock or other equity securities unless all accrued and unpaid dividends for all past dividend periods on the New MCP are fully paid.

 

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The following table summarizes information about the New MCP.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  

Par value (per share)

   $ 0.01       $ 0.01   

Liquidation preference (per share)

   $ 50       $ 50   

Number of shares authorized

     228,750,000         228,750,000   

Number of shares issued and outstanding (a)

     118,750,000         228,750,000   

 

(a) On December 30, 2010, 110,000,000 shares were converted into 531,850 shares of Ally common stock.

Preferred Stock

The following table summarizes information about our Series G and Series A preferred stock.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  

Series G

     

Par value (per share)

   $ 0.01       $ 0.01   

Liquidation preference (per share)

   $ 1,000       $ 1,000   

Number of shares authorized

     2,576,601         2,576,601   

Number of shares issued and outstanding

     2,576,601         2,576,601   

Series A

     

Par value (per share)

   $ 0.01       $ 0.01   

Liquidation preference (per share)

   $ 1,000       $ 1,000   

Number of shares authorized

     4,021,764         4,021,764   

Number of shares issued and outstanding

     1,021,764         1,021,764   

Series G Preferred Stock

Effective June 30, 2009, and as previously disclosed, we converted (the Conversion) from a Delaware limited liability company into a Delaware corporation in accordance with applicable law. In connection with the Conversion, the 7% Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock (the Blocker Preferred) of Preferred Blocker Inc. (PBI), a wholly owned subsidiary, was required to be converted into or exchanged for preferred stock. For this purpose, we had previously authorized for issuance its 7% Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G (the Series G Preferred Stock). Pursuant to the terms of a Certificate of Merger, effective October 15, 2009, PBI merged with and into Ally with Ally continuing as the surviving entity. At that time, each share of the Blocker Preferred issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the merger was converted into the right to receive an equal number of newly issued shares of Series G Preferred Stock. In the aggregate, 2,576,601 shares of Series G Preferred Stock were issued to holders of the Blocker Preferred in connection with the merger. The Series G Preferred Stock ranks equally in right of payment with each of our outstanding series of preferred stock in accordance with the terms thereof.

The Series G Preferred Stock accrues dividends at a rate of 7% per annum. Dividends are payable quarterly, in arrears, only if and when declared by Ally’s Board of Directors. The Series G Preferred Stock may not be redeemed prior to December 31, 2011. Subject to any other restrictions contained in the terms of any other series of stock or other agreements that Ally is or may become subject to, on or after December 31, 2011, at Ally’s option and subject to Ally having obtained any required regulatory approvals, Ally may, subject to certain conditions, redeem the Series G Preferred Stock, in whole or in part, at any time or from time to time, upon proper notice given, at a redemption price equal to the liquidation amount plus the amount of any accrued and

 

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unpaid dividends thereon through the date of redemption. The Series G Preferred Stock generally is nonvoting other than class-voting on certain matters under certain circumstances including generally, the authorization of senior capital stock or amendments that adversely impact the Series G Preferred Stock. Ally is generally prohibited from making any Restricted Payments on or prior to January 1, 2014, and may only make Restricted Payments after January 1, 2014, if certain conditions are satisfied. For this purpose, Restricted Payments include, subject to certain exceptions, any dividend payment or distribution of assets on any common stock or any redemption, purchase, or other acquisition of any shares of common stock.

Series A Preferred Stock

A subsidiary of GM currently holds 1,021,764 shares of Ally Fixed Rate Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A (the Series A Preferred Stock). We are required to make distributions at a rate of 10% per annum for each fiscal quarter with respect to the Series A Preferred Stock if certain conditions are met. The Ally Board of Directors is permitted to reduce any distribution to the extent required to avoid a reduction of the equity capital of Ally below a minimum amount of equity capital as specified in our Certificate of Incorporation. In addition, with the consent of GM, the Ally Board of Directors may suspend the payment of distributions with respect to any one or more fiscal quarters. Distributions not made do not accumulate. Ally’s other series of outstanding preferred stock, outstanding debt, and certain agreements between Ally and Treasury, limit Ally’s ability to repurchase or redeem the Series A Preferred Stock. The terms of such other stock and agreements will, under a variety of circumstances, prohibit Ally from repurchasing or redeeming any shares of the Series A Preferred Stock or will require that Ally redeem such other series of preferred stock on a pro rata basis with any shares of the Series A Preferred Stock that it redeems. Subject to an applicable replacement capital covenant and any other restrictions contained in the terms of any other series of stock, Ally may redeem all or any portion of the outstanding shares of Series A Preferred Stock. Any such redemption shall be at a price equal to (i) at any time prior to November 30, 2011, the sum of the liquidation amount, multiplied by 1.03, plus any accrued but unpaid dividends, or (ii) at any time from and after November 30, 2011, the sum of the liquidation amount and any accrued but unpaid dividends. The Series A Preferred Stock generally is nonvoting other than class voting on certain matters under certain circumstances including generally, the authorization of senior capital stock or amendments that adversely impact the Series A Preferred Stock.

 

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Earnings per Common Share

The following table presents the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per common share.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
     ($ in millions, except per share data)  

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 1,026      $ (7,033   $ 4,873   

Less: Preferred stock dividends — U.S. Department of Treasury

     963        855          

Less: Preferred stock dividends

     282        370          

Less: Impact of the conversion of preferred stock and related amendment

     616                 
                        

Net (loss) income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders (a)

     (835     (8,258     4,873   
                        

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

     49        (3,265     (3,005
                        

Net (loss) income attributable to common shareholders

   $ (786   $ (11,523   $ 1,868   
                        

Basic and diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding

     800,597        529,392        108,884   
                        
     (per share data in whole dollars)  

Basic and diluted earnings per common share (a)(b)

      

Net (loss) income from continuing operations

   $ (1,042   $ (15,596   $ 44,747   

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

     61        (6,169     (27,595
                        

Net (loss) income

   $ (981   $ (21,765   $ 17,152   
                        

 

(a) Due to the net loss attributable to common shareholders in 2010 and 2009, loss attributable to common shareholders for basic earnings per common share was used to calculate diluted earnings per common share. Adding back the effect of dilutive securities would result in anti-dilution.

 

(b) Due to the net loss attributable to common shareholders in 2010 and 2009, basic weighted-average common shares were used to calculate diluted earnings per common share. Adding dilutive securities to the denominator would result in anti-dilution.

The effects of converting the outstanding Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock into common shares are not included in the diluted earnings per share calculation for 2010 and 2009 as the effects would be anti-dilutive for those periods. As such, 987,050 and 416,655 of potential common stock equivalents were excluded for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, from the diluted earnings per share calculation. There were no potential common stock equivalents for the year ended December 31, 2008.

 

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21. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following table presents changes, net of tax, in each component of accumulated in other comprehensive income (loss).

 

    Unrealized
gains
(losses) on
investment
securities(a)
    Translation
adjustments
and net
investment
hedges
    Cash flow
hedges
    Defined
benefit
pension
plans
    Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss)
 
    ($ in millions)  

Balance at January 1, 2008

  $ 92      $ 852      $ (9   $ 17      $ 952   

Net unrealized losses arising during the period

    (255     (1,020     (24     (138     (1,437

Less: Net realized losses reclassified to net income

    (91            (5            (96
                                       

2008 net change

    (164     (1,020     (19     (138     (1,341
                                       

Balance at December 31, 2008

    (72     (168     (28     (121     (389

Net unrealized gains arising during the period

    115        601               24        740   

Less: Net realized losses reclassified to net income

    (108            (1            (109

2009 net change

    223        601        1        24        849   
                                       

Balance at December 31, 2009

    151        433        (27     (97     460   

Net unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period

    320        (18     33        (40     295   

Less: Net realized gains (losses) reclassified to net income

    497        (1                   496   

2010 net change

    (177     (17     33        (40     (201
                                       

Balance at December 31, 2010

  $ (26   $ 416      $ 6      $ (137   $ 259   
                                       

 

(a) Represents the after-tax difference between the fair value and amortized cost of our available-for-sale securities portfolio.

22. Regulatory Capital and Other Regulatory Matters

As a bank holding company, we and our wholly owned banking subsidiary, Ally Bank, are subject to risk based capital and leverage guidelines issued by federal and state banking regulators that require that our capital-to-assets ratios meet certain minimum standards. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary action by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on our consolidated financial statements or the results of operations and financial condition of Ally Bank. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, we must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of our assets and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Our capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors.

The risk-based capital ratios are determined by allocating assets and specified off-balance sheet financial instruments into several broad risk categories with higher levels of capital being required for the categories, which presents greater risk. Under the guidelines, total capital is divided into two tiers: Tier 1 capital and Tier 2 capital. Tier 1 capital generally consists of common equity, minority interests, and qualifying preferred stock (including fixed-rate cumulative preferred stock issued and sold to Treasury) less goodwill and other

 

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adjustments. Tier 2 capital generally consists of preferred stock not qualifying as Tier 1 capital, limited amounts of subordinated debt and the allowance for loan losses, and other adjustments. The amount of Tier 2 capital may not exceed the amount of Tier 1 capital.

Total risk-based capital is the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital. Under the guidelines, banking organizations are required to maintain a minimum Total risk-based capital ratio (total capital to risk-weighted assets) of 8% and a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 4%.

The federal banking regulators also have established minimum leverage ratio guidelines. The leverage ratio is defined as Tier 1 capital divided by adjusted average total assets (which reflect adjustments for disallowed goodwill and certain intangible assets). The minimum Tier 1 leverage ratio is 3% or 4% depending on factors specified in the regulations.

A banking institution meets the regulatory definition of “well-capitalized” when its Total risk-based capital ratio equals or exceeds 10% and its Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio equals or exceeds 6% unless subject to a regulatory directive to maintain higher capital levels and for insured depository institutions, a leverage ratio that equals or exceeds 5%.

In conjunction with the Supervisory Capital Assessment Program (S-CAP), the banking regulators have developed a new measure of capital called “Tier 1 common” defined as Tier 1 capital less noncommon elements including qualified perpetual preferred stock, qualifying minority interest in subsidiaries, and qualifying trust preferred securities.

On October 29, 2010, Ally, IB Finance Holding Company, LLC, Ally Bank, and the FDIC entered into a Capital and Liquidity Maintenance Agreement (CLMA) that supersedes an original agreement dated July 21, 2008. The CLMA requires capital at Ally Bank to be maintained at a level such that Ally Bank’s leverage ratio is at least 15%, which is consistent with capital requirements currently applicable to Ally Bank and thus does not impose any additional capital requirements. For this purpose, the leverage ratio is determined in accordance with the FDIC’s regulations related to capital maintenance.

Additionally, on May 21, 2009, the Federal Reserve Board (FRB) granted Ally Bank an expanded exemption from Section 23A of the Federal Reserve Act and the FRB’s Regulation W. The exemption enables Ally Bank to make certain extensions of credit to consumers for the purchase of GM vehicles or vehicles floorplanned by Ally and to provide floorplan financing for the purchase of GM vehicles, subject to certain limitations. The exemption requires Ally to maintain a Total risk-based capital ratio of 15% and Ally Bank to maintain a Tier 1 leverage ratio of 15%.

On January 28, 2010, the federal banking agencies published a final rule amending the risk based capital guidelines associated with the implementation of ASU 2009-17. The rule permits banking organizations to phase in the effects of the consolidation on risk-weighted assets and also makes provisions associated with the impact of allowance for loan and lease losses effects on Tier 2 capital during 2010. Ally elected to utilize this optional phase-in approach. After full implementation of the phase-in on January 1, 2011, we will continue to be in compliance with all required minimum ratios. Refer to Note 1 for additional information related to the adoption of ASU 2009-17.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following table summarizes our capital ratios.

 

     December 31,         
     2010      2009      Required
minimum
  Well-capitalized
minimum
 
     Amount      Ratio      Amount      Ratio       
     ($ in millions)  

Risk-based capital

                

Tier 1 (to risk-weighted assets)

                

Ally Financial Inc.

   $ 22,189         15.00%       $ 22,398         14.15%       4.00%     6.00%   

Ally Bank

     10,738         19.23%         7,768         20.85%       4.00%     6.00%   

Total (to risk-weighted assets)

                

Ally Financial Inc.

   $ 24,213         16.36%       $ 24,623         15.55%       15.00% (a)     10.00%   

Ally Bank

     11,438         20.48%         8,237         22.10%       8.00%     10.00%   

Tier 1 leverage (to adjusted average assets) (b)

                

Ally Financial Inc.

   $ 22,189         13.05%       $ 22,398         12.70%       3.00–4.00%     (c)   

Ally Bank

     10,738         15.81%         7,768         15.42%       15.00% (d)     5.00%   

Tier 1 common (to risk-weighted assets)

                

Ally Financial Inc.

   $ 12,677         8.57%       $ 7,678         4.85%       n/a     n/a   

Ally Bank

     n/a         n/a         n/a         n/a       n/a     n/a   

 

n/a = not applicable

 

(a) Ally, in accordance with the FRB exemption from Section 23A, is required to maintain a Total risk-based capital ratio of 15%.

 

(b) Federal regulatory reporting guidelines require the calculation of adjusted average assets using a daily average methodology. We currently calculate using a combination of monthly and daily average methodologies. We are in the process of modifying information systems to address the daily average requirement.

 

(c) There is no Tier 1 leverage component in the definition of a well-capitalized bank holding company.

 

(d) Ally Bank, in accordance with the FRB exemption from Section 23A, is required to maintain a Tier 1 leverage ratio of at least 15%.

At December 31, 2010, Ally and Ally Bank were “well-capitalized” and met all capital requirements to which we were subject.

Basel Capital Accord

The minimum risk-based capital requirements adopted by the federal banking agencies follow the Capital Accord of the Bank for International Settlements’ Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (Basel Committee). The Capital Accord was published in 1988 and generally applies to depository institutions and their holding companies in the United States. In 2004, the Basel Committee published a revision to the Capital Accord (Basel II). The goal of the Basel II capital rules is to provide more risk-sensitive regulatory capital calculations and promote enhanced risk management practices among large, internationally active banking organizations. U.S. banking regulators published final Basel II rules in December 2007. Ally is required to comply with the Basel II rules, as implemented by the U.S. banking regulators. Prior to full implementation of the Basel II rules, Ally is required to complete a qualification period of four consecutive quarters during which it needs to demonstrate that it meets the requirements of the rules to the satisfaction of its primary U.S. banking regulator. The U.S. implementation timetable consists of the qualification period followed by a minimum transition period of three

 

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years. During the transition period, Basel II risk-based capital requirements cannot fall below certain floors based on pre-existing capital regulations (Basel I). Ally is currently in the qualification period and expects to be in compliance with all relevant Basel II rules within the established timelines.

In addition to Basel II, the Basel Committee recently adopted new capital, leverage and liquidity guidelines under the Basel Accord (Basel III), which, when implemented in the United States, may have the effect of raising capital requirements beyond those required by current law and the Dodd-Frank Act. Basel III increases the minimum Tier 1 common equity ratio to 4.5%, net of regulatory deductions, and introduces a capital conservation buffer of an additional 2.5% of common equity to risk-weighted assets, raising the target minimum common equity ratio to 7.0%. Basel III increases the minimum Tier 1 capital ratio to 8.5% inclusive of the capital conservation buffer, increases the minimum total capital ratio to 10.5% inclusive of the capital buffer, and introduces a countercyclical capital buffer of up to 2.5% of common equity or other fully loss absorbing capital for periods of excess credit growth. Basel III also introduces a nonrisk adjusted Tier 1 leverage ratio of 3%, based on a measure of the total exposure rather than total assets, and new liquidity standards. The Basel III capital, leverage and liquidity standards will be phased in over a multiyear period. The Basel III rules, when implemented, will also impose a 15% cap on the amount of Tier 1 capital that can be met, in the aggregate, through significant investments in the common shares of unconsolidated financial subsidiaries. MSRs and deferred tax assets through timing differences. In addition, under Basel III rules, after a ten-year phase out period beginning on January 1, 2013, trust preferred and other “hybrid” securities will no longer qualify as Tier 1 capital.

International Banks, Finance Companies, and Other Foreign Operations

Certain of our foreign subsidiaries operate in local markets as either banks or regulated finance companies and are subject to regulatory restrictions. These regulatory restrictions, among other things, require that our subsidiaries meet certain minimum capital requirements and may restrict dividend distributions and ownership of certain assets. Total assets of our regulated international banks and finance companies were approximately $14.5 billion and $13.6 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. In addition, the Bank Holding Company Act imposes restrictions on Ally’s ability to invest equity abroad without FRB approval. Many of our other operations are also heavily regulated in many jurisdictions outside the United States.

Depository Institutions

On December 24, 2008, Ally Bank received approval from the Utah Department of Financial Institutions (UDFI) to convert from an industrial bank to a commercial nonmember state-chartered bank. Ally Bank’s deposits are insured by the FDIC, and Ally Bank is required to file periodic reports with the FDIC concerning its financial condition. Total assets of Ally Bank were $70.3 billion and $55.3 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Ally Bank is subject to Utah law (and, in certain instances, federal law) which places restrictions and limitations on the amount of dividends or other distributions. Ally did not receive any dividends from Ally Bank in 2010 or 2009.

The Federal Reserve Bank requires banks to maintain minimum average reserve balances. The amount of the required reserve balance for Ally Bank was $2.4 million and $34.3 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

U.S. Mortgage Business

Our U.S. mortgage business is subject to extensive federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations, in addition to judicial and administrative decisions that impose requirements and restrictions on this business. As a

 

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Federal Housing Administration lender, certain of our U.S. mortgage subsidiaries are required to submit audited financial statements to the Department of Housing and Urban Development on an annual basis. It is also subject to examination by the Federal Housing Commissioner to assure compliance with Federal Housing Administration regulations, policies, and procedures. The federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations to which our U.S. mortgage business is subject, among other things, impose licensing obligations and financial requirements; limit the interest rates, finance charges, and other fees that can be charged; regulate the use of credit reports and the reporting of credit information; impose underwriting requirements; regulate marketing techniques and practices; require the safeguarding of nonpublic information about customers; and regulate servicing practices, including the assessment, collection, foreclosure, claims handling, and investment and interest payments on escrow accounts.

Certain of our mortgage subsidiaries are required to maintain regulatory net worth requirements. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory actions by federal, state, and foreign agencies that could have a material effect on our results of operations and financial condition. These entities were in compliance with these requirements at December 31, 2010.

Insurance Companies

Our Insurance operations are subject to certain minimum aggregate capital requirements, net asset and dividend restrictions under applicable state and foreign insurance law, and the rules and regulations promulgated by various U.S. and foreign regulatory agencies. Under various state and foreign insurance regulations, dividend distributions may be made only from statutory unassigned surplus, with approvals required from the regulatory authorities for dividends in excess of certain statutory limitations. At December 31, 2010, the maximum dividend that could be paid by the insurance subsidiaries over the next twelve months without prior statutory approval was $190 million.

23. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

We enter into interest rate and foreign-currency swaps, futures, forwards, options, and swaptions in connection with our market risk management activities. Derivative instruments are used to manage interest rate risk relating to specific groups of assets and liabilities, including investment securities, MSRs, debt, and deposits. In addition, we use foreign exchange contracts to mitigate foreign-currency risk associated with foreign-currency-denominated debt, foreign exchange transactions, and our net investment in foreign subsidiaries. Our primary objective for utilizing derivative financial instruments is to manage market risk volatility associated with interest rate and foreign-currency risks related to the assets and liabilities.

Interest Rate Risk

We execute interest rate swaps to modify our exposure to interest rate risk by converting certain fixed-rate instruments to a variable rate. We apply hedge accounting for certain derivative instruments used to hedge fixed-rate debt. We monitor our mix of fixed- and variable-rate debt in relation to the rate profile of our assets. When it is cost effective to do so, we may enter into interest rate swaps to achieve our desired mix of fixed- and variable-rate debt. Our qualifying accounting hedges consist of hedges of fixed-rate debt obligations in which receive fixed swaps are designated as hedges of specific fixed-rate debt obligations.

We enter into economic hedges to mitigate exposure for the following categories.

 

   

MSRs and retained interests — Our MSRs and retained interest portfolios are generally subject to loss in value when mortgage rates decline. Declining mortgage rates generally result in an increase in refinancing activity that increases prepayments and results in a decline in the value of MSRs and retained

 

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interests. To mitigate the impact of this risk, we maintain a portfolio of financial instruments, primarily derivatives that increase in value when interest rates decline. The primary objective is to minimize the overall risk of loss in the value of MSRs due to the change in fair value caused by interest rate changes and their interrelated impact to prepayments.

We use a multitude of derivative instruments to manage the interest rate risk related to MSRs and retained interests. They include, but are not limited to, interest rate futures contracts, call or put options on U.S. Treasuries, swaptions, mortgage-backed securities (MBS) futures, U.S. Treasury futures, interest rate swaps, interest rate floors, and interest rate caps. We monitor and actively manage our risk on a daily basis, and therefore trading volume can be large.

 

   

Mortgage loan commitments and mortgage and automobile loans held-for-sale — We are exposed to interest rate risk from the time an interest rate lock commitment (IRLC) is made until the time the mortgage loan is sold. Changes in interest rates impact the market price for our loans; as market interest rates decline, the value of existing IRLCs and loans held-for-sale go up and vice versa. Our primary objective in risk management activities related to IRLCs and mortgage loans held-for-sale is to eliminate or greatly reduce any interest rate risk associated with these items.

The primary derivative instrument we use to accomplish the risk management objective for mortgage loans and IRLCs is forward sales of mortgage-backed securities, primarily Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac to-be-announced securities. These instruments typically are entered into at the time the IRLC is made. The value of the forward sales contracts moves in the opposite direction of the value of our IRLCs and mortgage loans held-for-sale. We also use other derivatives, such as interest rate swaps, options, and futures, to economically hedge certain portions of the mortgage portfolio. Nonderivative instruments may also be periodically used to economically hedge the mortgage portfolio, such as short positions on U.S. Treasuries. We monitor and actively manage our risk on a daily basis. We do not apply hedge accounting to this derivative portfolio.

Our automotive whole-loan forward flow agreements, which represented the commitment of financial institutions to purchase U.S. automotive retail assets, expired during 2010. We completed the final transaction under these arrangements in October 2010.

 

   

Debt — As part of our previous on-balance sheet securitizations and/or secured aggregation facilities, certain interest rate swaps or interest rate caps were included within consolidated variable interest entities; these swaps or caps were generally required to meet certain rating agency requirements or were required by the facility lender or provider. The interest rate swaps and/or caps are generally entered into when the debt is issued; accordingly, current trading activity on this particular derivative portfolio is minimal. Additionally, effective January 1, 2010, the derivatives that were hedging certain of our off-balance sheet securitization activities are now hedging these securitizations as on-balance sheet securitization activities. We consolidated the off-balance sheet securitizations on January 1, 2010, due to accounting principle changes associated with ASU 2009-17. Refer to Note 1 and Note 11 for additional information related to the recent adoption and subsequent reassessments.

With the exception of a portion of our fixed-rate debt, we do not apply hedge accounting to our derivative portfolio held to economically hedge our debt portfolio. Typically, the significant terms of the interest rate swaps match the significant terms of the underlying debt resulting in an effective conversion of the rate of the related debt.

 

   

Other — We enter into futures, options, and swaptions to economically hedge our net fixed versus variable interest rate exposure. We also enter into equity options to economically hedge our exposure to the equity markets.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Foreign Currency Risk

We enter into derivative financial instrument contracts to hedge exposure to variability in cash flows related to foreign-currency financial instruments. Currency swaps and forwards are used to hedge foreign exchange exposure on foreign-currency-denominated debt by converting the funding currency to the same currency of the assets being financed. Similar to our interest rate hedges, the swaps are generally entered into or traded concurrent with the debt issuance with the terms of the swap matching the terms of the underlying debt.

Our foreign subsidiaries maintain both assets and liabilities in local currencies; these local currencies are generally the subsidiaries’ functional currencies for accounting purposes. Foreign-currency exchange-rate gains and losses arise when the assets or liabilities of our subsidiaries are denominated in currencies that differ from its functional currency. In addition, our equity is impacted by the cumulative translation adjustments resulting from the translation of foreign subsidiary results; this impact is reflected in our other comprehensive income (loss). We enter into foreign-currency forwards and option-based contracts with external counterparties to hedge foreign exchange exposure on our net investments in foreign subsidiaries. Our net investment hedges are recorded at fair value with changes recorded to other comprehensive income (loss) with the exception of the spot to forward difference that is recorded in current period earnings. The net derivative gain or loss remains in other comprehensive income (loss) until earnings are impacted by the sale or the liquidation of the associated foreign operation.

In addition, we have a centralized lending program to manage liquidity for all of our subsidiary businesses. Foreign-currency-denominated loan agreements are executed with our foreign subsidiaries in their local currencies. We evaluate our foreign-currency exposure resulting from intercompany lending and manage our currency risk exposure by entering into foreign-currency derivatives with external counterparties. Our foreign-currency derivatives are recorded at fair value with changes recorded as income offsetting the gains and losses on the hedged foreign-currency transactions.

Except for our net investment hedges, we generally elected not to treat any foreign-currency derivatives as hedges for accounting purposes principally because the changes in the fair values of the foreign-currency swaps are substantially offset by the foreign-currency revaluation gains and losses of the underlying assets and liabilities.

Credit Risk

Derivative financial instruments contain an element of credit risk if counterparties are unable to meet the terms of the agreements. Credit risk associated with derivative financial instruments is measured as the net replacement cost should the counterparties that owe us under the contract completely fail to perform under the terms of those contracts, assuming no recoveries of underlying collateral as measured by the market value of the derivative financial instrument.

To further mitigate the risk of counterparty default, we maintain collateral agreements with certain counterparties. The agreements require both parties to maintain collateral in the event the fair values of the derivative financial instruments meet established thresholds. In the event that either party defaults on the obligation, the secured party may seize the collateral. Generally, our collateral arrangements are bilateral such that we and the counterparty post collateral for the value of their total obligation to each other. Contractual terms provide for standard and customary exchange of collateral based on changes in the market value of the outstanding derivatives. The securing party posts additional collateral when their obligation rises or removes collateral when it falls. We also have unilateral collateral agreements whereby we are the only entity required to post collateral.

Certain derivative instruments contain provisions that require us to either post additional collateral or immediately settle any outstanding liability balances upon the occurrence of a specified credit risk-related event.

 

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If a credit risk related event had been triggered at December 31, 2010, the amount of additional collateral required to be posted by us would have been insignificant.

We placed cash and securities collateral totaling $1.6 billion and $1.8 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, in accounts maintained by counterparties. We received cash collateral from counterparties totaling $916 million and $432 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The receivables for collateral placed and the payables for collateral received are included on our Consolidated Balance Sheet in other assets and accrued expenses and other liabilities, respectively. In certain circumstances, we receive or post securities as collateral with counterparties. We do not record such collateral received on our Consolidated Balance Sheet unless certain conditions are met. At December 31, 2010 and 2009, we received noncash collateral of $29 million and $107 million, respectively.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Balance Sheet Presentation

The following tables summarize the fair value amounts of derivative instruments reported on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. The fair value amounts are presented on a gross basis, are segregated by derivatives that are designated and qualifying as hedging instruments or those that are not, and are further segregated by type of contract within those two categories.

 

    December 31,  
    2010           2009        
    Fair value of
derivative contracts in
          Fair value of
derivative contracts in
       
    receivable
position (a)
    liability
position (b)
    Notional
amount
    receivable
position (a)
    liability
position (b)
    Notional
amount
 
    ($ in millions)  

Qualifying accounting hedges

           

Interest rate risk

           

Fair value accounting hedges

  $ 443      $ 114      $ 11,895      $ 478      $ 47      $ 16,938   

Foreign exchange risk

           

Net investment accounting hedges

    12        72        4,407        10        41        2,414   

Cash flow accounting hedges

                                112        334   
                                               

Total foreign exchange risk

    12        72        4,407        10        153        2,748   
                                               

Total qualifying accounting hedges

    455        186        16,302        488        200        19,686   
                                               

Economic hedges

           

Interest rate risk

           

MSRs and retained interests

    2,896        3,118        325,768        805        816        153,818   

Mortgage loan commitments and mortgage and automobile loans held-for-sale

    232        80        38,788        225        132        45,470   

Off-balance sheet securitization activities

                         139               4,440   

Debt

    160        107        21,269        392        548        53,501   

Other

    80        129        32,734        50        24        12,629   
                                               

Total interest rate risk

    3,368        3,434        418,559        1,611        1,520        269,858   
                                               

Foreign exchange risk

    143        240        14,359        555        175        22,927   
                                               

Total economic hedges

    3,511        3,674        432,918        2,166        1,695        292,785   
                                               

Total derivatives

  $ 3,966      $ 3,860      $ 449,220      $ 2,654      $ 1,895      $ 312,471   
                                               

 

(a) Reported as other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Includes accrued interest of $263 million and $314 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(b) Reported as accrued expenses and other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Includes accrued interest of $23 million and $91 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

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Statement of Income Presentation and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

The following table summarizes the location and amounts of gains and losses reported in our Consolidated Statement of Income on derivative instruments.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
         2010             2009      
     ($ in millions)  

Qualifying accounting hedges

    

Gain (loss) recognized in earnings on derivatives(a)

    

Interest rate contracts

    

Interest on long-term debt

   $ 171      $ (311

(Loss) gain recognized in earnings on hedged items(b)

    

Interest rate contracts

    

Interest on long-term debt

     (129     260   
                

Total qualifying accounting hedges

     42        (51
                

Economic hedges

    

Gain (loss) recognized in earnings on derivatives

    

Interest rate contracts

    

Servicing asset valuation and hedge activities, net

     478        (998

Loss on mortgage and automotive loans, net

     (332     (156

Other loss on investments, net

            (4

Other income, net of losses

     (91     20   

Other operating expenses

     (9     (14
                

Total interest rate contracts

     46        (1,152
                

Foreign exchange contracts (c)

    

Interest on long-term debt

     (169     (66

Other income, net of losses

     158        (806
                

Total foreign exchange contracts

     (11     (872
                

Gain (loss) recognized in earnings on derivatives

   $ 77      $ (2,075
                

 

(a) Amounts exclude gains of $329 million and $535 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, related to interest for qualifying accounting hedges of debt, which are primarily offset by the fixed coupon payment on the long-term debt.

 

(b) Amounts exclude gains of $210 million and $144 million related to amortization of deferred basis adjustments on the hedged items for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

(c) Amounts exclude losses of $14 million and gains of $632 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, and 2009, respectively, related to the revaluation of the related foreign-denominated debt or receivable.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following table summarizes derivative instruments used in cash flow hedge accounting relationships and net investment hedge accounting relationships.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
         2010             2009      
     ($ in millions)  

Cash flow hedges

    

Foreign exchange contracts

    
                

Net gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive income (a)

   $ 4      $ 10   
                

Net investment hedges

    

Foreign exchange contracts

    

Gain reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to other income, net of losses

   $ 12      $   

Loss recorded directly to other income, net of losses (b)

     (18       
                

Total other income, net of losses

   $ (6   $   
                

Loss recognized in other comprehensive income (c)

   $ (183   $ (32
                

 

(a) The amount for the year ended December 31, 2010, represents gains of $111 million related to the effective portion of cash flow hedges offset by the reclassification of accumulated gains totaling $107 million from accumulated other comprehensive income on our Consolidated Balance Sheet to other income, net of losses on the Consolidated Statement of Income. The amount for the year ended December 31, 2009, represents losses of $18 million related to the effective portion of cash flow hedges offset by the reclassification of accumulated losses totaling $28 million from accumulated other comprehensive income on our Consolidated Balance Sheet to other income, net of losses on the Consolidated Statement of Income. The reclassified amounts completely offset the effective portion related to the revaluation of the related foreign-denominated debt. The amount of hedge ineffectiveness on cash flow hedges during the years ended December 31, 2010, and 2009, was insignificant.

 

(b) The amounts represent the forward points excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness.

 

(c) The amounts represent the effective portion of net investment hedges during the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009. There are offsetting gains recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income of $187 million and $1 million for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, related to the revaluation of the related net investment in foreign operations. The amount of hedge ineffectiveness on net investment hedges during the years ended December 31, 2010, and 2009, was insignificant.

24. Income Taxes

Effective June 30, 2009, we converted from a limited liability company (LLC) to a corporation (the Conversion). Prior to the Conversion, most of our U.S. entities were pass-through entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes. U.S. federal, state, and local income taxes were generally not provided for these entities as they were not taxable entities except in a few local jurisdictions that tax LLCs or partnerships. LLC members were required to report their share of our taxable income on their respective income tax returns. As a result of the Conversion, we became subject to corporate U.S. federal, state, and local taxes beginning in the third quarter of 2009.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities result from temporary differences between assets and liabilities measured for financial reporting purposes and those measured for income tax return purposes. The Conversion resulted in a $1.2 billion increase in income tax expense related to the establishment of deferred tax liabilities and assets of

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

$2.5 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively. Our banking, insurance, and foreign subsidiaries generally were and continue to be corporations that are subject to U.S. and foreign income taxes and are required to provide for these taxes. The Conversion did not change the tax status of these subsidiaries.

The significant components of income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations were as follows.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Current income tax expense

      

U.S. federal

   $ 12      $ 146      $ 148   

Foreign

     474        175        168   

State and local

     58        14        27   
                        

Total current expense

     544        335        343   
                        

Deferred income tax benefit

      

U.S. federal

     (6     (109     (166

Foreign

     (378     (34     (279

State and local

     (7     (118     (34
                        

Total deferred benefit

     (391     (261     (479
                        

Total income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations

   $ 153      $ 74      $ (136
                        

A reconciliation of the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate to our effective income tax rate for continuing operations is shown in the following table.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  

Statutory U.S. federal tax rate

     35.0%        35.0%        35.0%   

Change in tax rate resulting from

      

Changes in unrecognized tax benefits

     3.2        (0.1       

State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit

     0.2        4.1        0.6   

Effect of valuation allowance change

     (12.2     (30.7     2.9   

Foreign income tax rate differential

     (6.5     (0.7     0.2   

Taxes on unremitted earnings of subsidiaries

     (6.0     0.4          

Tax-exempt income

     (0.5     0.2        (0.2

Foreign capital loss

     (0.1     15.0          

Change in tax status

            (17.9       

LLC results not subject to federal or state income taxes

            (7.8     (41.2

Other

     (0.1     1.4        (0.2
                        

Effective tax rate

     13.0%        (1.1 )%      (2.9 )% 
                        

At December 31, 2010, we had U.S. federal and state net operating and capital loss carryforwards of $1.4 billion and $2.3 billion, respectively. The federal net operating loss carryforwards expire in the years 2025–2030. The capital loss carryforwards expire in the years 2013–2015. The corresponding expiration periods for the state operating and capital loss carryforwards are 2014–2030 and 2014–2015, respectively. Additionally, foreign tax credits carryforwards of $123 million are available as of December 31, 2010, in the United States and expire in the years 2012–2020.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Also, at December 31, 2010, we had foreign net operating loss carryforwards of $1.7 billion. The foreign operating loss carryforwards of $1.1 billion in the United Kingdom, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Denmark, and Sweden have an indefinite carryforward period. The Canadian loss carryforwards of $0.4 billion expire in the years 2024–2030. The remaining net operating loss carryforwards of $0.2 billion expire in the years 2011–2025.

We assessed the available positive and negative evidence to estimate if sufficient future taxable income of the appropriate character will be generated to utilize the existing deferred tax assets. A significant piece of objective negative evidence evaluated for certain tax jurisdictions that have legal entities with net deferred tax assets was the cumulative loss incurred over the three-year period ended December 31, 2010 and the absence of any available tax-planning strategies. This objective negative evidence outweighed the positive evidence, which was more subjective in nature.

Based on this assessment, valuation allowances have been recorded against our domestic net deferred tax assets and certain international net deferred tax assets. However, the amount of the net deferred tax asset considered realizable could change in the future depending on actual taxable income or capital gains and other relevant factors. In particular, it is reasonably possible that we will reverse, within the next twelve months, a valuation allowance recorded on net deferred tax assets of our Canadian subsidiary totaling $92 million at December 31, 2010. Included within tax expense was a benefit of $144 million in 2010, and charges of $2.1 billion in 2009 and $139 million in 2008 to adjust valuation allowances reflecting our judgment that certain tax assets will not be realized.

The significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities are reflected in the following table.

 

     December 31,  
     2010     2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Deferred tax assets

    

Tax loss carryforwards

   $ 1,728      $ 1,121   

Provision for loan losses

     753        1,702   

Mark-to-market on consumer loans

     655        160   

Contingency

     223        207   

Sales of finance receivables and loans

     205        22   

State and local taxes

     170        242   

Unearned insurance premiums

     151        184   

Tax credit carryforwards

     132        18   

Basis difference in subsidiaries

     82        917   

Other

     363        330   
                

Gross deferred tax assets

     4,462        4,903   
                

Valuation allowance

     (1,993     (2,503
                

Net deferred tax assets

     2,469        2,400   
                

Deferred tax liabilities

    

Lease transactions

     1,545        1,556   

Deferred acquisition costs

     332        401   

Unrealized gains on securities

     304        368   

Debt transactions

     84          

MSRs

     54        278   

Tax on unremitted earnings

     46        19   

Other

     101        80   
                

Gross deferred tax liabilities

     2,466        2,702   
                

Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)

   $ 3      $ (302
                

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Foreign pretax income totaled $0.6 billion in 2010, and foreign pretax losses totaled $1.7 billion and $2.2 billion in 2009 and 2008, respectively. Foreign pretax income is subject to U.S. taxation when effectively repatriated. Through the Conversion date, our U.S. incorporated insurance and banking operations provided federal income taxes on the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries to the extent these earnings were not deemed indefinitely reinvested outside the United States. It was the responsibility of our members to provide for federal income taxes on the undistributed foreign subsidiary earnings of our disregarded entities to the extent the earnings was not indefinitely reinvested. Subsequent to the Conversion date, all of our domestic subsidiaries fully provide for federal income taxes on the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries except to the extent these earnings are indefinitely reinvested outside the United States. At December 31, 2010, $4.1 billion of accumulated undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries were indefinitely reinvested. Quantification of the unrecognized deferred tax liability for temporary differences related to investments in foreign subsidiaries that are essentially permanent in duration is not practicable.

Tax benefits related to positions considered uncertain are recognized only if, based on the technical merits of the issue, it is more likely than not that we will sustain the position and then at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits.

 

     2010     2009     2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Balance at January 1,

   $ 172      $ 150      $ 155   

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

     69        27        8   

Additions for tax positions of prior years

     3        24        33   

Reductions for tax positions of prior years

     (23     (24     (19

Settlements

     (9     (28     (2

Expiration of statute of limitations

     (2              

Foreign-currency translation adjustments

     4        23        (25
                        

Balance at December 31,

   $ 214      $ 172      $ 150   
                        

At December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, the balance of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect our effective tax rate is $199 million, $157 million, and $148 million, respectively. Included in the unrecognized tax benefits balances are some items, the recognition of which would not affect the effective tax rate, such as the tax effect of certain temporary differences, the portion of gross state unrecognized tax benefits that would be offset by the tax benefit of the associated federal deduction and the portion of gross foreign unrecognized tax benefits that would be offset by tax reductions in other jurisdictions.

We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain income tax positions in interest expense and other operating expenses, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, $26 million, $12 million, and $25 million, respectively, were accrued for interest and penalties with the cumulative accrued balance totaling $201 million at December 31, 2010; $170 million at December 31, 2009; and $132 million at December 31, 2008. In addition, the accrued balances for interest and penalties were impacted by translation adjustments on those denominated in foreign currencies.

We anticipate the examination of various U.S. income tax returns along with the examinations by various foreign, state, and local jurisdictions will be completed within the next twelve months. As such, it is reasonably possible that certain tax positions may be settled and the unrecognized tax benefits would decrease by $121 million which includes interest and penalties.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

We file tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various states and foreign jurisdictions. For our most significant operations, at December 31, 2010, the following summarizes the oldest tax years that remain subject to examination.

 

Jurisdiction

   Tax year  

United States

     2004   

Canada

     2003   

Germany

     2007   

United Kingdom

     1995   

Mexico

     2004   

Brazil

     2005   

25. Employee Benefit and Compensation Plans

Defined Contribution Plan

A significant number of our employees are covered by defined contribution plans. Employer contributions vary based on criteria specific to each individual plan and amounted to $62 million, $61 million, and $76 million in 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively. These costs were recorded in compensation and benefit expenses in our Consolidated Statement of Income. We expect contributions for 2011 to be similar to contributions made in 2010.

Defined Benefit Pension Plan

Certain of our employees are eligible to participate in separate retirement plans that provide for pension payments upon retirement based on factors such as length of service and salary. In recent years, we have transferred, frozen, or terminated a significant number of our other defined benefit plans. During 2009, we began the process of terminating certain of our international pension plans that resulted in a minimal impact on earnings. All income and expense noted for pension accounting was recorded in compensation and benefits expense in our Consolidated Statement of Income.

The following summarizes information related to our pension plans.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
         2010             2009      
     ($ in millions)  

Projected benefit obligation

   $ 509      $ 457   

Fair value of plan assets

     388        356   
                

Underfunded status

   $ (121   $ (101
                

The underfunded status of our pension plans increased in 2010 primarily due to annual changes in actuarial assumptions, in particular, the discount rate, which were partially offset by an improvement of the fair value of plan assets as a result of market performance. The underfunded position is recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheet and the change in the underfunded position was recorded in other comprehensive income (loss).

Net periodic pension expense (income) includes curtailment, settlement, and other gains and losses and was minimal for 2010, 2009, and 2008.

 

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Other Postretirement Benefits

Certain of our subsidiaries participated in various postretirement medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans. We have provided for certain amounts associated with estimated future postretirement benefits other than pensions and characterized such amounts as other postretirement benefits. Other postretirement benefits expense (income), which is recorded in compensation and benefits expense in our Consolidated Statement of Income, was minimal in 2010, 2009, and 2008. We expect our other postretirement benefit expense to continue to be minimal in future years.

Share-based Compensation Plans

Based on our transactions with Treasury during 2009, we are required to comply with the limitations on executive pay as determined by the Special Master of TARP Compensation (Special Master). As such, we established Deferred Stock Units (DSUs) and Incentive Restricted Stock Units (IRSUs) as forms of compensation to our senior executives, which were subsequently approved by the Special Master. We also grant Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to executives under the Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan (LTIP). Each of our approved compensation plans and awards were designed to provide our executives with an opportunity to share in the future growth in value of Ally, which is necessary to attract and retain key executives. These compensation plans are share-based compensation plans accounted for under ASC 718, CompensationStock Compensation.

During 2010, Ally converted the awards associated with our share-based compensation plans from basis points to phantom shares, which resulted in each basis point being converted to approximately 80 phantom shares. This change did not affect the vesting, fair value, or any other features of the awards. Also in 2010, Ally amended its LTIP plan documents for retirement-eligible individuals. Individuals meeting the retirement criteria are now eligible to continue with the established vesting and payment schedule for their outstanding awards, should they retire. As such, Ally recorded an additional $6 million of compensation expense in 2010, which would have otherwise been recognized in future periods.

In December 2010, as part of the annual valuation process as required by the LTIP plan, Ally remeasured the award value for the outstanding stock awards from $7,812 per share to $10,342 per share. The new value was determined based on the share valuation used in the MCP conversion transaction with Treasury. See further discussion in Note 20. The increase in award value was approved by the Compensating, Nominating and Governance Committee (CNG Committee) and the Ally Board of Directors and resulted in additional compensation expense for RSU, DSU, and IRSU awards of $15 million, $25 million, and $3 million, respectively, recognized in December 2010.

RSU awards are incentive awards granted to executives as phantom shares of Ally. The majority of awards granted in 2008 and 2009 vest ratably on an annual basis based on continued service on December 31 with the final tranche vesting on December 31, 2012. Awards granted in 2010 vest ratably over a three-year period starting on the date the award was issued with the majority of the awards fully vesting in February 2013. Participants have the option at grant date to defer the valuation and payout for any tranche until the final year of the award. Under applicable accounting rules, the awards require liability treatment and are remeasured quarterly at fair value until they are paid. The compensation costs related to these awards are ratably charged to expense over the applicable service period. Changes in fair value related to the portion of the awards that have vested and have not been paid are recognized in earnings in the period in which the changes occur. The fair value of the awards granted during 2008 was diluted by the capital transactions that occurred at the end of 2008. The total RSU awards outstanding at December 31, 2010, represented approximately 23,321 shares with 6,001 shares

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

awarded during 2008, 7,249 shares awarded during 2009, and 10,071 shares awarded during 2010. The total RSU awards outstanding at December 31, 2009, represented approximately 22,455 shares with 13,265 shares awarded during 2008 and 9,190 shares awarded during 2009. We recognized compensation expense of $63 million and $25 million for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

DSU awards are granted to senior executives as phantom shares of Ally and are included as part of their base salary. The DSU awards are granted ratably each pay period throughout the year, vest immediately upon grant, and are paid in cash ratably each year after grant for five years. Under applicable accounting rules, the awards require liability treatment and are remeasured quarterly at fair value until they are paid, with each change in value fully charged to compensation expense in the period in which the change occurs. The total DSU awards outstanding at December 31, 2010 and 2009, represented approximately 10,035 shares and 4,555 shares respectively. We recognized compensation expense of $75 million and $35 million for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, for the outstanding awards.

IRSU awards are incentive awards granted to senior executives as phantom shares of Ally. The IRSU awards cliff vest three years from the date of grant based on continued service with Ally. The IRSU awards are paid out in 25% increments once we pay Treasury a corresponding 25% increment of our TARP obligations. A participant must be employed by Ally at the time of the payback to receive a payout for their award. The payouts are based on the fair value of the phantom shares at the time of payback. Under applicable accounting rules, the awards require liability treatment and are remeasured quarterly at fair value until they are paid. The compensation costs related to these awards are ratably charged to expense over the requisite service period. Changes in fair value relating to the portion of the awards that have vested and have not been paid are recognized in earnings in the period in which the changes occur. The total IRSU awards outstanding at December 31, 2010 and 2009, represented approximately 4,996 shares and 3,596 shares respectively. We recognized compensation expense of $10 million and $1 million for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, for the outstanding awards.

26. Related Party Transactions

Related party activities represent transactions with GM, FIM Holdings LLC (FIM Holdings), and affiliated companies. GM and FIM Holdings have both a direct and indirect ownership interest in Ally.

 

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Balance Sheet

A summary of the balance sheet effect of transactions with GM, FIM Holdings, and affiliated companies follows.

 

     December 31,  
         2010              2009      
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

     

Available-for-sale investment in asset-backed security — GM (a)

   $       $ 20   

Secured

     

Finance receivables and loans, net

     

Commercial and industrial — Automobile

     

Wholesale automotive financing — GM (b)

     253         280   

Term loans to dealers — GM (b)

     48         71   

Lending receivables — affiliates of FIM Holdings

     49         54   

Notes receivable from GM (c)

     438         884   

Investment in operating leases, net — GM (d)

     65         69   

Other assets

     

Other — GM

     22         102   
                 

Total secured

     875         1,460   

Unsecured

     

Commercial and industrial — Automobile

     

Notes receivable from GM (c)

     45         27   

Other assets

     

Subvention receivables (rate and residual support) — GM

     200         165   

Lease pull-ahead receivable — GM

     1         21   

Other — GM

     22         26   
                 

Total unsecured

     268         239   

Liabilities

     

Unsecured short-term borrowings

     

Notes payable to GM

   $ 25       $ 154   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     

Wholesale payable — GM

     113         161   

Other payables — GM

     89         18   

 

(a) In November 2006, Ally retained an investment in a note secured by operating lease assets transferred to GM. As part of the transfer, Ally provided a note to a trust, a wholly owned subsidiary of GM. The note was classified in investment securities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

 

(b) Represents wholesale financing and term loans to certain dealerships wholly owned by GM or in which GM has an interest. The loans are generally secured by the underlying vehicles or assets of the dealerships.

 

(c) Represents wholesale financing we provide to GM for vehicles, parts, and accessories in which GM retains title while consigned to us or dealers primarily in Italy and Germany in 2010 and in the United Kingdom and Italy in 2009. The financing to GM remains outstanding until the title is transferred to Ally or the dealers. The amount of financing provided to GM under this arrangement varies based on inventory levels. These loans are secured by the underlying vehicles or other assets (except loans relating to parts and accessories in Italy).

 

(d) Primarily represents buildings classified as operating lease assets that are leased to GM-affiliated entities. These leases are secured by the underlying assets.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Statement of Income

A summary of the income statement effect of transactions with GM, FIM Holdings, and affiliated companies follows.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
         2010             2009             2008      
     ($ in millions)  

Net financing revenue

      

GM and affiliates lease residual value support — North American
operations (a)

   $ (82   $ 195      $ 779   

GM and affiliates rate support — North American operations

     674        770        985   

Wholesale subvention and service fees from GM

     189        215        304   

Interest earned on wholesale automotive financing

     9        14        25   

Interest earned on term loans to dealers

     2        3        4   

Interest expense on loans with GM

     (4     (46     (52

Interest earned on notes receivable from GM

      

Interest on notes receivable from GM and affiliates

     9        63        122   

Interest on wholesale settlements (b)

     178        149        103   

Interest income (expense) on loans with FIM Holdings affiliates, net

     4        3        (40

Consumer lease payments from GM (c)

     15        78        66   

Other revenue

      

Insurance premiums earned from GM

     155        159        242   

Service fees on transactions with GM

     8        6        6   

Revenues from GM-leased properties, net

     2        9        13   

Losses on model home asset sales with an affiliate of Cerberus

                   (27

Other (d)

     1        (3     5   

Servicing fees

      

U.S. automobile operating leases (e)

     2        25        85   

Servicing asset valuation

      

Losses on sales of securitized excess servicing to Cerberus

                   (24

Expense

      

Off-lease vehicle selling expense reimbursement (f)

     (14     (26     (47

Other expenses for exclusivity and royalty fees and other services (g)

     130        122        206   

 

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(a) Represents total amount of residual support and risk sharing (incurred) earned under the residual support and risk-sharing programs.

 

(b) The settlement terms related to the wholesale financing of certain GM products are at shipment date. To the extent that wholesale settlements with GM are made before the expiration of transit, we receive interest from GM.

 

(c) GM sponsors lease pull-ahead programs whereby consumers are encouraged to terminate lease contracts early in conjunction with the acquisition of a new GM vehicle with the customer’s remaining payment obligation waived. For certain programs, GM compensates us for the waived payments adjusted based on remarketing results associated with the underlying vehicle.

 

(d) Includes income or (expense) related to derivative transactions that we enter into with GM as counterparty.

 

(e) Represents servicing income related to automobile leases distributed as a dividend to GM on November 22, 2006.

 

(f) An agreement with GM provides for the reimbursement of certain selling expenses incurred by us on off-lease vehicles sold by GM at auction.

 

(g) We reimburse GM for certain services, rent, and marketing expenses provided to us. This amount includes rental payments for our primary executive and administrative offices located in the Renaissance Center in Detroit, Michigan.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Statement of Changes in Equity

A summary of the changes to the statement of changes in equity related to transactions with GM, FIM Holdings, and affiliated companies follows.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009      2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Equity

       

Capital contributions received (a)

   $      $ 1,280       $ 758   

Dividends paid to shareholders/members (b)

     11        393         79   

Preferred stock dividends — GM

     102        128           

Other (c)

     (74               

 

(a) On January 16, 2009, we completed a $1.25 billion rights offering pursuant to which we issued additional common membership interests to FIM Holdings and a subsidiary of GM. On December 29, 2008, GM and an affiliate of Cerberus Capital Management contributed to Ally $750 million subordinated participations in a $3.5 billion senior secured credit facility between Ally and ResCap in exchange for additional common membership interests in Ally.

 

(b) Pursuant to an operating agreement, certain of our shareholders were permitted distributions to pay the taxes they incurred from ownership of their Ally interests prior to our conversion from a tax partnership to a corporation. In March 2009, we executed a transaction that had 2008 tax-reporting implications for our shareholders. In accordance with the operating agreement, the approvals of both our Ally Board of Directors and Treasury were obtained in advance for the payment of tax distributions to our shareholders. In 2010, the amount distributed to GM was $11 million. This represented an accrual for GM tax settlements and refunds received related to tax periods prior to the November 30, 2006, sale by GM of 51% interest in Ally (Sale Transactions). Amounts distributed to GM and FIM Holdings were $220 million and $173 million, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2009. The 2009 amount includes $55 million of remittances to GM for tax settlements and refunds received related to tax periods prior to the Sale Transactions. The 2008 amounts primarily represent remittances to GM for tax settlements and refunds received related to tax periods prior to the Sale Transactions as required by the terms of the Purchase and Sale Agreement between GM and FIM Holdings.

 

(c) Represents a reduction of the estimated payment accrued for tax distributions as a result of the completion of the GMAC LLC U.S. Return of Partnership Income for the tax period January 1, 2009, through June 30, 2009.

GM, GM dealers, and GM-related employees compose a significant portion of our customer base, and our Global Automotive Service operations are highly dependent on GM production and sales volume. As a result, a significant adverse change in GM’s business, including significant adverse changes in GM’s liquidity position and access to the capital markets, the production or sale of GM vehicles, the quality or resale value of GM vehicles, the use of GM marketing incentives, GM’s relationships with its key suppliers, GM’s relationship with the United Auto Workers and other labor unions, and other factors impacting GM or its employees could have a significant adverse effect on our profitability and financial condition.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

We provide vehicle financing through purchases of retail automobile and lease contracts with retail customers of GM dealers. We also finance the purchase of new and used vehicles by GM dealers through wholesale financing, extend other financing to GM dealers, provide fleet financing for GM dealers to buy vehicles they rent or lease to others, provide wholesale vehicle inventory insurance to GM dealers, provide automotive extended service contracts through GM dealers, and offer other services to GM dealers. GM’s level of automobile production and sales directly impacts our financing and leasing volume; the premium revenue for wholesale vehicle inventory insurance; the volume of automotive extended service contracts; and the profitability and financial condition of the GM dealers to whom we provide wholesale financing, term loans, and fleet financing. In addition, the quality of GM vehicles affects our obligations under automotive extended service contracts relating to such vehicles. Further, the resale value of GM vehicles, which may be impacted by various factors relating to GM’s business such as brand image, the number of new GM vehicles produced, the number of used vehicles remarketed, or reduction in core brands, affects the remarketing proceeds we receive upon the sale of repossessed vehicles and off-lease vehicles at lease termination.

At December 31, 2010, we had an estimated $875 million in secured credit exposure, which included primarily wholesale vehicle financing to GM-owned dealerships, notes receivable from GM, and vehicles leased directly to GM. We further had $691 million in unsecured exposure, which included estimates of payments from GM related to residual support and risk-sharing agreements. Under the terms of certain agreements between Ally and GM, Ally has the right to offset certain of its exposures to GM against amounts Ally owes to GM.

Retail and Lease Programs

GM may elect to sponsor incentive programs (on both retail contracts and operating leases) by supporting financing rates below the standard market rates at which we purchase retail contracts and leases. These marketing incentives are also referred to as rate support or subvention. When GM utilizes these marketing incentives, they pay us the present value of the difference between the customer rate and our standard rate at contract inception, which we defer and recognize as a yield adjustment over the life of the contract.

GM may also sponsor residual support programs as a way to lower customer monthly payments. Under residual support programs, the customer’s contractual residual value is adjusted above our standard residual values. In addition, under risk-sharing programs and eligible contracts, GM shares equally in residual losses at the time of the vehicle’s disposal to the extent that remarketing proceeds are below our standard residual values (limited to a floor).

For contracts where we are entitled to receive residual support, GM pays the present value of the expected residual support owed to us at contract origination as opposed to after contract termination at the time of sale of the related vehicle. The residual support amount GM ultimately owes us is finalized as the leases actually terminate. Under the terms of the residual support program, in cases where the estimate was incorrect, GM may be obligated to pay us, or we may be obligated to reimburse GM.

Based on the December 31, 2010, outstanding North American operating lease and retail balloon portfolios, the additional maximum contractual amount that could be paid by GM under the residual support programs was $475 million and would be paid only in the unlikely event that the proceeds from the entire portfolio of lease assets were lower than both the contractual residual value and our standard residual rates.

Based on the December 31, 2010, outstanding North American operating lease portfolio, the maximum contractual amount that could be paid under the risk-sharing arrangements was $996 million and would be paid only in the unlikely event that the proceeds from all outstanding lease vehicles were lower than our standard residual rates and no higher than the contractual risk-sharing floor.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Retail and lease contracts acquired by us that included rate subvention from GM as a percentage of total new GM retail and lease contracts acquired, were as follows.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  

GM and affiliates subvented contracts acquired

     

North American operations

     51%         69%   

International operations (a)

     43%         53%   

 

(a) Represents subvention for continuing operations only.

Distribution of Operating Lease Assets

In connection with the Sale Transactions, we transferred to GM certain U.S. lease assets, related secured debt, and other assets, respectively. We retained an investment in a note, which had an immaterial balance at December 31, 2010, which was secured by the lease assets distributed to GM. We continue to service the assets and related secured debt on behalf of GM and receive a fee for this service. As required for other securitization transactions, we are obligated as servicer to repurchase any lease asset that is in breach of any of the covenants of the securitization documents. In addition, in a number of the transactions securitizing the lease assets transferred to GM, the trusts issued one or more series of floating-rate debt obligations and entered into primary derivative transactions to remove the market risk associated with funding the fixed payment lease assets with floating interest rate debt. To facilitate these securitization transactions, we entered into secondary derivative transactions with the primary derivative counterparties essentially offsetting the primary derivatives. As part of the distribution, GM assumed the rights and obligations of the primary derivatives whereas we retained the secondary, leaving both companies exposed to market value movements of their respective derivatives. Ally and GM subsequently entered into derivative transactions with each other intended to offset the exposure each party has to its component of the primary and secondary derivatives. At December 31, 2010, these derivative transactions were expired.

Exclusivity Arrangement

On November 30, 2006, and in connection with the Sale Transactions, GM and Ally entered into several service agreements that codified the mutually beneficial historical relationship between the companies. One such agreement was the United States Consumer Financing Services Agreement (the Financing Services Agreement). The Financing Services Agreement, among other things, provided that subject to certain conditions and limitations, whenever GM offers vehicle financing and leasing incentives to customers (e.g., lower interest rates than market rates), it would do so exclusively through Ally. This requirement is effective through November 2016, and in consideration for this, Ally pays to GM an annual exclusivity fee and was required to meet certain targets with respect to consumer retail and lease financings of new GM vehicles.

Effective December 29, 2008, and in connection with the approval of Ally’s application to become a bank holding company, GM and Ally modified certain terms and conditions of the Financing Services Agreement. Certain of these amendments include the following: (1) for a two-year period, GM can offer retail financing incentive programs through a third-party financing source under certain specified circumstances and, in some cases, subject to the limitation that pricing offered by such third party meets certain restrictions, and after such two-year period GM can offer any such incentive programs on a graduated basis through third parties on nonexclusive, side-by-side basis with Ally, provided that pricing of such third parties meets certain requirements; (2) Ally will have no obligation to provide operating lease products; and (3) Ally will have no targets against which it could be assessed penalties. After December 31, 2013, GM will have the right to offer retail financing

 

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incentive programs through any third-party financing source, including Ally, without any restrictions or limitations. A primary objective of the Financing Services Agreement continues to be supporting distribution and marketing of GM products.

Royalty Agreement

For certain insurance products, GM and Ally have entered into the Intellectual Property License Agreement for the right of Ally to use the GM name on certain insurance products. In exchange, Ally will pay to GM a minimum annual guaranteed royalty fee of $15 million.

Other

GM provides payment guarantees on certain commercial assets we have outstanding with certain third-party customers. At December 31, 2010 and 2009, commercial obligations guaranteed by GM were $122 million and $68 million, respectively. Additionally, GM is bound by repurchase obligations to repurchase new vehicle inventory under certain circumstances, such as dealer franchise termination.

27. Fair Value

Fair Value Measurements

For purposes of this disclosure, fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Fair value is based on the assumptions market participants would use when pricing an asset or liability. Additionally, entities are required to consider all aspects of nonperformance risk, including the entity’s own credit standing, when measuring the fair value of a liability.

GAAP specifies a three-level hierarchy that is used when measuring and disclosing fair value. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices available in active markets (i.e., observable inputs) and the lowest priority to data lacking transparency (i.e., unobservable inputs). An instrument’s categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of significant input to its valuation. The following is a description of the three hierarchy levels.

 

Leve1 l Inputs are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date. Additionally, the entity must have the ability to access the active market, and the quoted prices cannot be adjusted by the entity.

 

Level 2 Inputs are other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in inactive markets for identical or similar assets or liabilities; or inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

 

Level 3 Unobservable inputs are supported by little or no market activity. The unobservable inputs represent management’s best assumptions of how market participants would price the assets or liabilities. Generally, Level 3 assets and liabilities are valued using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques that require significant judgment or estimation.

 

Transfers Transfers into or out of any hierarchy level are recognized at the end of the reporting period in which the transfer occurred. There were no significant transfers between any levels during the year ended December 31, 2010.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Following are descriptions of the valuation methodologies used to measure material assets and liabilities at fair value and details of the valuation models, key inputs to those models, and significant assumptions utilized.

 

   

Trading securities — Trading securities are recorded at fair value. Our portfolio includes U.S. Treasury, asset-backed, and mortgage-backed securities (including senior and subordinated interests) and may be investment-grade, noninvestment grade, or unrated securities. We base our valuation of trading securities on observable market prices when available; however, observable market prices may not be available for a significant portion of these assets due to illiquidity in the markets. When observable market prices are not available, valuations are primarily based on internally developed discounted cash flow models (an income approach) that use assumptions consistent with current market conditions. The valuation considers recent market transactions, experience with similar securities, current business conditions, and analysis of the underlying collateral, as available. To estimate cash flows, we utilize various significant assumptions including market observable inputs (e.g., forward interest rates) and internally developed inputs (e.g., prepayment speeds, delinquency levels, and credit losses).

 

   

Available-for-sale securities — Available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value primarily based on observable market prices. If observable market prices are not available, our valuations are based on internally developed discounted cash flow models (an income approach) that use a market-based discount rate and consider recent market transactions, experience with similar securities, current business conditions, and analysis of the underlying collateral, as available. To estimate cash flows, we are required to utilize various significant assumptions including market observable inputs (e.g., forward interest rates) and internally developed inputs (including prepayment speeds, delinquency levels, and credit losses).

 

   

Loans held-for-sale, net — Our automobile loans held-for-sale are accounted for at the lower-of-cost or fair value. The automobile loans at fair value are presented in the nonrecurring fair value measurement table. We based our valuation of automobile loans held-for-sale on internally developed discounted cash flow models (an income approach) and classified all these loans as Level 3. These valuation models estimate the exit price we expect to receive in the loan’s principal market, which depending on characteristics of the loans may be the whole-loan market or the securitization market. Although we utilize and give priority to market observable inputs, such as interest rates and market spreads within these models, we are typically required to utilize internal inputs, such as prepayment speeds, credit losses, and discount rates. While numerous controls exist to calibrate, corroborate, and validate these internal inputs, these internal inputs require the use of judgment and can have a significant impact on the determination of the loan’s value. Accordingly, we classified all automobile loans held-for-sale as Level 3.

Our mortgage loans held-for-sale are accounted for at either fair value because of fair value option elections or they are accounted for at the lower-of-cost or fair value. Mortgage loans held for sale are typically pooled together and sold into certain exit markets depending on underlying attributes of the loan, such as GSE eligibility (domestic only), product type, interest rate, and credit quality. Two valuation methodologies are used to determine the fair value of mortgage loans held-for-sale. The methodology used depends on the exit market as described below.

Level 2 mortgage loans — This includes all mortgage loans measured at fair value on a recurring basis due to fair value option elections. Refer to the section in this note titled Fair Value Option of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities for additional information. Level 2 also includes all nonagency domestic loans or international loans where recently negotiated market prices for the loan pool exist with a counterparty (which approximates fair value) or quoted market prices for similar loans are available. As these valuations are derived from quoted market prices, we classify these valuations as Level 2 in the fair value disclosures.

 

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Level 3 mortgage loans — This includes all mortgage loans measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. The fair value of these loans was determined using internally developed valuation models because observable market prices were not available. These valuation models estimate the exit price we expect to receive in the loan’s principal market, which depending on characteristics of the loan may be the whole-loan or securitization market. Although we utilize and give priority to market observable inputs such as interest rates and market spreads within these models, we are typically required to utilize internal inputs, such as prepayment speeds, credit losses, and discount rates. While numerous controls exist to calibrate, corroborate, and validate these internal inputs, the generation of these internal inputs requires the use of judgment and can have a significant impact on the determination of the loan’s fair value. Accordingly, we classify these valuations as Level 3 in the fair value disclosures.

 

   

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net — We elected the fair value option for certain consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans. The elected mortgage loans collateralized on-balance sheet securitization debt in which we estimated credit reserves pertaining to securitized assets that could have exceeded or already had exceeded our economic exposure. We also elected the fair value option for all mortgage securitization trusts required to be consolidated due to the adoption of ASU 2009-17. The elected mortgage loans represent a portion of the consumer finance receivable and loans consolidated upon adoption of ASU 2009-17. The balance that was not elected was reported on the balance sheet at the principal amount outstanding, net of charge-offs, allowance for loan losses, and premiums or discounts.

Securitized mortgage loans are legally isolated from us and are beyond the reach of our creditors. The loans are measured at fair value using a portfolio approach or an in-use premise. Values of loans held on an in-use basis may differ considerably from loans held-for-sale that can be sold in the whole-loan market. This difference arises primarily due to the liquidity of the asset- and mortgage-backed securitization market and is evident in the fact that spreads applied to lower rated asset- and mortgage-backed securities are considerably wider than spreads observed on senior bonds classes and in the whole-loan market. The objective in fair valuing the loans and related securitization debt is to account properly for our retained economic interest in the securitizations. As a result of reduced liquidity in capital markets, values of both these loans and the securitized bonds are expected to be volatile. Since this approach involves the use of significant unobservable inputs, we classified all the mortgage loans elected under the fair value option as Level 3, at December 31, 2010 and 2009. Refer to the section within this note titled Fair Value Option of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities for additional information.

 

   

Commercial finance receivables and loans, net — We evaluate our commercial finance receivables and loans, net, for impairment. We generally base the evaluation on the fair value of the underlying collateral supporting the loans when expected to be the sole source of repayment. When the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the collateral, an impairment loss is recognized and reflected as a nonrecurring fair value measurement.

 

   

MSRs — We typically retain MSRs when we sell assets into the secondary market. MSRs currently do not trade in an active market with observable prices; therefore, we use internally developed discounted cash flow models (an income approach) to estimate the fair value of MSRs. These internal valuation models estimate net cash flows based on internal operating assumptions that we believe would be used by market participants combined with market-based assumptions for loan prepayment rates, interest rates, and discount rates that we believe approximate yields required by investors in this asset. Cash flows primarily include servicing fees, float income, and late fees in each case less operating costs to service the loans. The estimated cash flows are discounted using an option-adjusted spread-derived discount rate.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

   

Interests retained in financial asset sales — Interests retained in financial asset sales are carried at fair value. The interests retained are in securitization trusts and deferred purchase prices on the sale of whole-loans. Due to inactivity in the market, valuations are based on internally developed discounted cash flow models (an income approach) that use a market-based discount rate. The valuation considers recent market transactions, experience with similar assets, current business conditions, and analysis of the underlying collateral, as available. To estimate cash flows, we utilize various significant assumptions, including market observable inputs (e.g., forward interest rates) and internally developed inputs (e.g., prepayment speeds, delinquency levels, and credit losses).

 

   

Derivative instruments — We enter into a variety of derivative financial instruments as part of our risk management strategies. Certain of these derivatives are exchange traded, such as Eurodollar futures, or traded within highly active dealer markets, such as agency to-be-announced securities. To determine the fair value of these instruments, we utilize the exchange price or dealer market price for the particular derivative contract; therefore, we classified these contracts as Level 1.

We also execute over-the-counter derivative contracts, such as interest rate swaps, swaptions, forwards, caps, and floors. We utilize third-party-developed valuation models that are widely accepted in the market to value these over-the-counter derivative contracts. The specific terms of the contract and market observable inputs (such as interest rate forward curves and interpolated volatility assumptions) are entered into the model. We classified these over-the-counter derivative contracts as Level 2 because all significant inputs into these models were market observable.

We also hold certain derivative contracts that are structured specifically to meet a particular hedging objective. These derivative contracts often are utilized to hedge risks inherent within certain on-balance sheet securitizations. To hedge risks on particular bond classes or securitization collateral, the derivative’s notional amount is often indexed to the hedged item. As a result, we typically are required to use internally developed prepayment assumptions as an input into the model to forecast future notional amounts on these structured derivative contracts. Accordingly, we classified these derivative contracts as Level 3.

We are required to consider all aspects of nonperformance risk, including our own credit standing, when measuring fair value of a liability. We consider our credit risk and the credit risk of our counterparties in the valuation of derivative instruments through a credit valuation adjustment (CVA). The CVA calculation utilizes our credit default swap spreads and the spreads of the counterparty. Additionally, we reduce credit risk on the majority of our derivatives by entering into legally enforceable agreements that enable the posting and receiving of collateral associated with the fair value of our derivative positions on an ongoing basis.

 

   

Collateral placed with counterparties — Collateral in the form of investment securities are primarily carried at fair value using quoted prices in active markets for similar assets.

 

   

Repossessed and foreclosed assets — Foreclosed on or repossessed assets resulting from loan defaults are carried at the lower of either cost or fair value and are included in other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The fair value disclosures include only assets carried at fair value.

The majority of assets acquired due to default are foreclosed assets. We revalue foreclosed assets on a periodic basis. We classified properties that are valued by independent third-party appraisals as Level 2. When third-party appraisals are not obtained, valuations are typically obtained from third-party broker price opinion; however, depending on the circumstances, the property list price or other sales price

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

information may be used in lieu of a broker price opinion. Based on historical experience, we adjust these values downward to take into account damage and other factors that typically cause the actual liquidation value of foreclosed properties to be less than broker price opinion or other price sources. This valuation adjustment is necessary to ensure the valuation ascribed to these assets considers unique factors and circumstances surrounding the foreclosed asset. As a result of applying internally developed adjustments to the third-party-provided valuation of the foreclosed property, we classified these assets as Level 3 in the fair value disclosures.

 

   

On-balance sheet securitization debt — We elected the fair value option for certain mortgage loans held-for-investment and the related on-balance sheet securitization debt. We value securitization debt that was elected pursuant to the fair value option and any economically retained positions using market observable prices whenever possible. The securitization debt is principally in the form of asset- and mortgage-backed securities collateralized by the underlying mortgage loans held-for-investment. Due to the attributes of the underlying collateral and current market conditions, observable prices for these instruments are typically not available. In these situations, we consider observed transactions as Level 2 inputs in our discounted cash flow models. Additionally, the discounted cash flow models utilize other market observable inputs, such as interest rates, and internally derived inputs including prepayment speeds, credit losses, and discount rates. Fair value option-elected financing securitization debt is classified as Level 3 as a result of the reliance on significant assumptions and estimates for model inputs. Refer to the section within this note titled Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities for further information about the election. The debt that was not elected under the fair value option is reported on the balance sheet at cost, net of premiums or discounts and issuance costs.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Recurring Fair Value

The following tables display the assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis including financial instruments elected for the fair value option. We often economically hedge the fair value change of our assets or liabilities with derivatives and other financial instruments. The tables below display the hedges separately from the hedged items; therefore, they do not directly display the impact of our risk management activities.

 

     Recurring fair value measurements  

December 31, 2010

   Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

        

Trading securities

        

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

   $ 77      $      $      $ 77   

Mortgage-backed

        

Residential

            25        44        69   

Asset-backed

                   94        94   
                                

Total trading securities

     77        25        138        240   

Investment securities

        

Available-for-sale securities

        

Debt securities

        

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

     3,313        5               3,318   

States and political subdivisions

            2               2   

Foreign government

     873        375               1,248   

Mortgage-backed

        

Residential

            5,824        1        5,825   

Asset-backed

            1,948               1,948   

Corporate debt securities

            1,558               1,558   

Other debt securities

            151               151   
                                

Total debt securities

     4,186        9,863        1        14,050   

Equity securities (a)

     796                      796   
                                

Total available-for-sale securities

     4,982        9,863        1        14,846   

Mortgage loans held-for-sale, net (b)

            6,420        4        6,424   

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net (b)

                   1,015        1,015   

Mortgage servicing rights

                   3,738        3,738   

Other assets

        

Interests retained in financial asset sales

                   568        568   

Fair value of derivative contracts in receivable position

        

Interest rate contracts

     242        3,464        105        3,811   

Foreign currency contracts

            155               155   
                                

Total fair value of derivative contracts in receivable position

     242        3,619        105        3,966   

Collateral placed with counterparties (c)

     728                      728   
                                

Total assets

   $ 6,029      $ 19,927      $ 5,569      $ 31,525   
                                

Liabilities

        

Long-term debt

        

On-balance sheet securitization debt (b)

   $      $      $ (972   $ (972

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

        

Fair value of derivative contracts in liability position

        

Interest rate contracts

     (208     (3,222     (118     (3,548

Foreign currency contracts

            (312            (312
                                

Total fair value of derivative contracts in liability position

     (208     (3,534     (118     (3,860
                                

Total liabilities

   $ (208   $ (3,534   $ (1,090   $ (4,832
                                

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

 

(a) Our investment in any one industry did not exceed 23%.

 

(b) Carried at fair value due to fair value option elections.

 

(c) Represents collateral in the form of investment securities. Cash collateral was excluded above.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

     Recurring fair value measurements  

December 31, 2009

   Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

        

Trading securities

        

Mortgage-backed

        

Residential

   $      $ 44      $ 99      $ 143   

Asset-backed

                   596        596   
                                

Total trading securities

            44        695        739   

Investment securities

        

Available-for-sale securities

        

Debt securities

        

U.S. Treasury and federal agencies

     1,989        1,521               3,510   

States and political subdivisions

            811               811   

Foreign government

     911        262               1,173   

Mortgage-backed

        

Residential

            3,455        6        3,461   

Asset-backed

            985        20        1,005   

Corporate debt securities

     2        1,471               1,473   

Other

     47                      47   
                                

Total debt securities

     2,949        8,505        26        11,480   

Equity securities

     671        4               675   
                                

Total available-for-sale securities

     3,620        8,509        26        12,155   

Mortgage loans held-for-sale, net (a)

            5,545               5,545   

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net (a)

                   1,391        1,391   

Mortgage servicing rights

                   3,554        3,554   

Other assets

        

Cash reserve deposits held-for-securitization trusts

                   31        31   

Interests retained in financial asset sales

                   471        471   

Fair value of derivative contracts in receivable position

     184        2,035        435        2,654   

Collateral placed with counterparties (b)

     808        37               845   
                                

Total assets

   $ 4,612      $ 16,170      $ 6,603      $ 27,385   
                                

Liabilities

        

Long-term debt

        

On balance sheet securitization debt (a)

   $      $      $ (1,294   $ (1,294

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

        

Fair value of derivative contracts in liability position

     (172     (1,391     (332     (1,895
                                

Total liabilities

   $ (172   $ (1,391   $ (1,626   $ (3,189
                                

 

(a) Carried at fair value due to fair value option elections.

 

(b) Represents collateral in the form of investment securities. Cash collateral was excluded above.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following tables present the reconciliation for all Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis. We often economically hedge the fair value change of our assets or liabilities with derivatives and other financial instruments. The Level 3 items presented below may be hedged by derivatives and other financial instruments that are classified as Level 1 or Level 2. Thus, the following tables do not fully reflect the impact of our risk management activities.

 

    Level 3 recurring fair value measurements  
    Fair value at
January 1,
2010
   

 

Net realized/unrealized
gains(losses)

    Purchases,
issuances, and
settlements,
net
    Fair value at
December 31,
2010
    Net
unrealized
gains (losses)
included in
earnings still
held at
December 31,
2010
 
      included in
earnings
    included in
other
comprehensive
income
       
    ($ in millions)  

Assets

           

Trading securities

           

Mortgage-backed

           

Residential

  $ 99      $ 6  (a)    $      $ (61   $ 44      $ 24  (a) 

Asset-backed

    596               5        (507     94          
                                               

Total trading securities

    695        6        5        (568     138        24   

Investment securities

           

Available-for-sale securities

           

Debt securities

           

Mortgage backed

           

Residential

    6               (2     (3     1          

Asset backed

    20                      (20              
                                               

Total debt securities

    26               (2     (23     1          

Mortgage loans held-for-sale,
net (b)

           3  (b)        1        4        3  (b) 

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net (b)

    1,391        1,903  (b)             (2,279     1,015        1,189  (b) 

Mortgage servicing rights

    3,554        (871 ) (c)             1,055        3,738        (871 ) (c) 

Other assets

           

Cash reserve deposits held-for-securitization trusts

    31                      (31              

Interests retained in financial asset sales

    471        94  (d)        3        568        14  (d) 

Fair value of derivative contracts in receivable (liability) position, net

           

Interest rate contracts, net

    103        180  (e)             (296     (13     388  (e) 
                                               

Total assets

  $ 6,271      $ 1,315      $ 3      $ (2,138   $ 5,451      $ 747   
                                               

Liabilities

           

Long-term debt

           

On-balance sheet securitization debt (b)

  $ (1,294   $ (1,881 ) (b)    $      $ 2,193      $ (972   $ (1,387 ) (b) 
                                               

Total liabilities

  $ (1,294   $ (1,881   $      $ 2,193      $ (972   $ (1,387
                                               

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

 

(a) The fair value adjustment was reported as other (loss) gain on trading securities, net, and the related interest was reported as interest on trading securities in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(b) Carried at fair value due to fair value option elections. Refer to the next section of this note titled Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Liabilities for the location of the gains and losses in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(c) Fair value adjustment was reported as servicing-asset valuation and hedge activities, net, in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(d) Reported as other income, net of losses, in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(e) Refer to Note 23 for information related to the location of the gains and losses on derivative instruments in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Level 3 recurring fair value measurements  
    Fair value at
January 1,
2009
   

 

Net realized/unrealized
gains (losses)

    Purchases,
issuances,
and
settlements,
net
    Net
transfers
into/(out of)
Level 3
    Fair value at
December 31,
2009
    Net
unrealized
(losses) gains
included in
earnings still
held at
December 31,
2009
 
      included in
earnings
    included in
other
comprehensive
income
         
    ($ in millions)  

Assets

             

Trading securities

             

Mortgage-backed

             

Residential

  $ 211      $ (42 ) (a)    $      $ (89   $ 19      $ 99      $ 33  (a) 

Asset-backed

    509        165  (a)      13        (91            596        166  (a) 
                                                       

Total trading securities

    720        123        13        (180     19        695        199   

Investment securities

             

Available-for-sale securities

             

Debt securities

             

Mortgage-backed

             

Residential

    2               (4            8        6          

Asset-backed

    607        6  (b)      5        (598            20          
                                                       

Total debt securities

    609        6        1        (598     8        26          

Equity securities

    22               1               (23              
                                                       

Total available-for-sale securities

    631        6        2        (598     (15     26          

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans,
net (c)

    1,861        941  (c)             (1,411            1,391        480  (c) 

Mortgage servicing rights

    2,848        (122 ) (d)             828               3,554        (110 ) (d) 

Other assets

             

Cash reserve deposits held-for-securitization trusts

    41        2  (e)             (12            31        3  (e) 

Interests retained in financial asset sales

    1,001        (14 ) (e)      3        (519            471        (10 ) (e) 

Fair value of derivative contracts in receivable (liability) position, net

    149        324  (f)      (5     (510     145        103        917  (f) 
                                                       

Total assets

  $ 7,251      $ 1,260      $ 13      $ (2,490   $ 149      $ 6,271      $ 1,479   
                                                       

Liabilities

             

Long-term debt

             

On-balance sheet securitization debt(c)

  $ (1,899   $ (875 ) (c)    $      $ 1,480      $      $ (1,294   $ (455 ) (c) 
                                                       

Total liabilities

  $ (1,899   $ (875   $      $ 1,480      $      $ (1,294   $ (445
                                                       

 

(a) The fair value adjustment was reported as other (loss) gain on trading securities, net, and the related interest was reported as interest on trading securities in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(b) The fair value adjustment was reported as other gain (loss) on investment, net, and the related interest and dividends were reported as interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities.

 

(c) Carried at fair value due to fair value option elections. Refer to the next section of this note titled Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Liabilities for the location of the gains and losses in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(d) Fair value adjustment reported as servicing-asset valuation and hedge activities, net, in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(e) Reported as other income, net of losses, in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(f) Refer to Note 23 for information related to the location of the gains and losses on derivative instruments in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Nonrecurring Fair Value

We may be required to measure certain assets at fair value from time to time. These periodic fair value measures typically result from the application of lower-of-cost or fair value accounting or certain impairment measures. These items would constitute nonrecurring fair value measures.

The following tables display the assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis.

 

    Nonrecurring fair value measures     Lower-of-cost
or fair value
or valuation
reserve
allowance
    Total gains
included in
earnings
for the
year ended
 

December 31, 2010

  Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total      
    ($ in millions)  

Assets

           

Mortgage loans held-for-sale, net (a)

  $      $      $ 844      $ 844      $ (48   $  n/m (b) 

Commercial finance receivables and loans, net (c)

           

Automobile

                  379        379        (52     n/m (b) 

Mortgage

           28        26        54        (14     n/m (b) 

Other

                  107        107        (61     n/m (b) 
                                               

Total commercial finance receivables and loans, net

           28        512        540        (127  

Other assets

           

Real estate and other investments (d)

           5               5        n/m      $   

Repossessed and foreclosed assets (e)

           43        44        87        (13     n/m (b) 
                                               

Total assets

  $      $ 76      $ 1,400      $ 1,476      $ (188   $   
                                               

 

n/m = not meaningful

 

(a) Represents loans held for sale that are required to be measured at the lower-of-cost or fair value. The table above includes only loans with fair values below cost during 2010. The related valuation allowance represents the cumulative adjustment to fair value of those specific assets.

 

(b) We consider the applicable valuation or loan loss allowance to be the most relevant indicator of the impact on earnings caused by the fair value measurement. Accordingly, the table above excludes total gains and losses included in earnings for these items. The carrying values are inclusive of the respective valuation or loan loss allowance.

 

(c) Represents the portion of the portfolio specifically impaired during 2010. The related valuation allowance represents the cumulative adjustment to fair value of those specific receivables.

 

(d) Represents model homes impaired during 2010. The total loss included in earnings represents adjustments to the fair value of the portfolio based on the estimated fair value if the model home is under lease or the estimated value if the model home is marketed for sale.

 

(e) The allowance provided for repossessed and foreclosed assets represents any cumulative valuation adjustment recognized to adjust the assets to fair value.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

     Nonrecurring fair value measures      Lower-of-cost
or fair value
or valuation
reserve
allowance
    Total losses
included in
earnings
for the
year ended
 

December 31, 2009

   Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total       
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

                

Loans held-for-sale, net (a)

   $       $ 31       $ 5,453       $ 5,484       $ (227     n/m  (b) 

Commercial finance receivables and loans,
net (c)

             85         1,443         1,528         (770   $ (87 ) (d) 

Other assets

                

Real estate and other investments (e)

             49         65         114         n/m  (f)      (226

Repossessed and foreclosed assets (g)

             111         108         219         (104     n/m  (b) 

Goodwill (h)

                                     n/m  (f)      (607
                                                    

Total assets

   $       $ 276       $ 7,069       $ 7,345       $ (1,101   $ (920
                                                    

 

n/m = not meaningful

 

(a) Represents loans held-for-sale that are required to be measured at the lower-of-cost or fair value. The table above includes only loans with fair values below cost during 2009. The related valuation allowance represents the cumulative adjustment to fair value of those specific assets.

 

(b) We consider the applicable valuation or loan loss allowance to be the most relevant indicator of the impact on earnings caused by the fair value measurement. Accordingly, the table above excludes total gains and losses included in earnings for these items. The carrying values are inclusive of the respective valuation or loan loss allowance.

 

(c) Represents the portion of the portfolio specifically impaired during 2009. The related valuation allowance represents the cumulative adjustment to fair value of those specific receivables.

 

(d) Represents losses recognized on the impairment of our resort finance portfolio, which provided debt capital to resort and timeshare developers.

 

(e) Represents model homes impaired during 2009. The total loss included in earnings represents adjustments to the fair value of the portfolio based on the estimated fair value if the model home is under lease or the estimated fair value if the model home is marketed for sale.

 

(f) The total gain (loss) included in earnings is the most relevant indicator of the impact on earnings.

 

(g) The allowance provided for repossessed and foreclosed assets represents any cumulative valuation adjustment recognized to adjust the assets to fair value.

 

(h) Represents goodwill impaired during 2009. The impairment related to a reporting unit within our Insurance operations.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities

On January 1, 2008, we elected to measure at fair value certain domestic consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans and the related debt held in on-balance sheet mortgage securitization structures. During the three months ended September 30, 2009, we also elected the fair value option for conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans held-for-sale funded after July 31, 2009. As of January 1, 2010, we elected the fair value option for all on-balance sheet mortgage securitization structures that were required to be consolidated due to the adoption of ASU 2009-17. Refer to Note 1 for additional information related to the adoption. Our intent in electing fair value for all these items was to mitigate a divergence between accounting losses and economic exposure for certain assets and liabilities.

A description of the financial assets and liabilities elected to be measured at fair value is as follows.

 

   

On-balance sheet mortgage securitizations — We carry the fair value-elected consumer loans as finance receivable and loans, net, on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Our policy is to separately record interest income on the fair value-elected loans (unless the loans are placed on nonaccrual status); however, the accrued interest was excluded from the fair value presentation. We classified the fair value adjustment recorded for the loans as other income, net of losses, in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

We continued to record the fair value-elected debt balances as long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Our policy is to separately record interest expense on the fair value-elected securitization debt, which continues to be classified as interest on long-term debt in the Consolidated Statement of Income. We classified the fair value adjustment recorded for this fair value-elected debt as other income, net of losses, in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

   

Conforming and government-insured mortgage loans held-for-sale — During the three months ended September 30, 2009, we elected the fair value option for conforming and government-insured mortgage loans held-for-sale funded after July 31, 2009. We elected the fair value option to mitigate earnings volatility by better matching the accounting for the assets with the related hedges.

Excluded from the fair value option were conforming and government-insured loans funded on or prior to July 31, 2009, and those repurchased or reorganized. The loans funded on or prior to July 31, 2009, were ineligible because the election must be made at the time of funding. Repurchased and rerecognized conforming and government-insured loans were not elected because the election will not mitigate earning volatility. We repurchase or rerecognize loans due to representation and warranty obligations or conditional repurchase options. Typically, we will be unable to resell these assets through regular channels due to characteristics of the assets. Since the fair value of these assets is influenced by factors that cannot be hedged, we did not elect the fair value option.

We carry the fair value-elected conforming and government-insured loans as loans held-for-sale, net, on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Our policy is to separately record interest income on the fair value-elected loans (unless they are placed on nonaccrual status); however, the accrued interest was excluded from the fair value presentation. Upfront fees and costs related to the fair value-elected loans were not deferred or capitalized. The fair value adjustment recorded for these loans is classified as gain (loss) on mortgage loans, net, in the Consolidated Statement of Income. In accordance with GAAP, the fair value option election is irrevocable once the asset is funded even if it is subsequently determined that a particular loan cannot be sold.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following tables summarize the fair value option elections and information regarding the amounts recorded as earnings for each fair value option-elected item.

 

    Changes included in the Consolidated Statement of Income  

Year ended December 31,

  Interest
and fees
on finance
receivables
and loans
    Interest on
loans
held-for-sale
    Interest on
long-term
debt
    Gain on
mortgage
loans, net
    Other
income,
net of
losses
    Total
included in
earnings
    Change in
fair value
due to
credit
risk (a)
 
    ($ in millions)  

2010

             

Assets

             

Mortgage loans held-for-sale, net

  $      $  221  (b)    $      $ 845      $ 3      $ 1,069      $ —  (c) 

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net

    555  (b)                           1,348        1,903        (8 ) (d) 

Liabilities

             

Long-term debt

             

On-balance sheet securitization debt

  $      $      $ (313 ) (e)    $      $ (1,568     (1,881   $  29  (f) 
                   

Total

            $ 1,091     
                   

2009

             

Assets

             

Mortgage loans held-for-sale, net

  $      $  85  (b)    $      $ 344      $      $ 429      $ —  (c) 

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net

    508  (b)                           433        941        (118 ) (d) 

Liabilities

             

Long-term debt

             

On-balance sheet securitization debt

  $      $      $ (227 ) (e)    $      $ (648     (875   $ 230  (f) 
                   

Total

            $ 495     
                   

 

(a) Factors other than credit quality that impact fair value include changes in market interest rates and the illiquidity or marketability in the current marketplace. Lower levels of observable data points in illiquid markets generally result in wide bid/offer spreads.
(b) Interest income is measured by multiplying the unpaid principal balance on the loans by the coupon rate and the number of days of interest due.
(c) The credit impact for loans held-for-sale is assumed to be zero because the loans are either suitable for sale or are covered by a government guarantee.
(d) The credit impact for consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans was quantified by applying internal credit loss assumptions to cash flow models.
(e) Interest expense is measured by multiplying bond principal by the coupon rate and the number of days of interest due to the investor.
(f) The credit impact for on-balance sheet securitization debt is assumed to be zero until our economic interests in a particular securitization is reduced to zero at which point the losses on the underlying collateral will be expected to be passed through to third-party bondholders. Losses allocated to third-party bondholders, including changes in the amount of losses allocated, will result in fair value changes due to credit. We also monitor credit ratings and will make credit adjustments to the extent any bond classes are downgraded by rating agencies.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

The following table provides the aggregate fair value and the aggregate unpaid principal balance for the fair value option-elected loans and long-term debt instruments.

 

     December 31,  
     2010     2009  
     Unpaid principal
balance
    Fair value(a)     Unpaid principal
balance
    Fair value
(a)
 
     ($ in millions)  

Assets

        

Mortgage loans held-for-sale, net Total loans

   $ 6,354      $ 6,424      $ 5,427      $ 5,545   

Nonaccrual loans

     3        1        3        3   

Loans 90+ days past due (b)

                            

Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net Total loans

     2,905        1,015        7,180        1,391   

Nonaccrual loans (c)

     586        260        2,343        499   

Loans 90+ days past due(b)(c)

     366        184        1,434        314   

Liabilities

        

Long-term debt

        

On-balance sheet securitization debt

   $ (2,969   $ (972   $ (7,166   $ (1,294

 

(a) Excludes accrued interest receivable.

 

(b) Loans 90+ days past due are also presented within the nonaccrual loan balance and the total loan balance; however, excludes government-insured loans that are still accruing interest.

 

(c) The fair value of consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans is calculated on a pooled basis; therefore, we allocated the fair value of nonaccrual loans and loans 90+ days past due to individual loans based on the unpaid principal balances. For further discussion regarding the pooled basis, refer to the previous section of this note titled Consumer mortgage finance receivables and loans, net.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The following table presents the carrying and estimated fair value of assets and liabilities that are considered financial instruments. Accordingly, items that do not meet the definition of a financial instrument are excluded from the table. When possible, we use quoted market prices to determine fair value. Where quoted market prices are not available, the fair value is internally derived based on appropriate valuation methodologies with respect to the amount and timing of future cash flows and estimated discount rates. However, considerable judgment is required in interpreting market data to develop estimates of fair value, so the estimates are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized or would be paid in a current market exchange. The effect of using different market assumptions or estimation methodologies could be material to the estimated fair values. Fair value information presented herein was based on information available at December 31, 2010 and 2009.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     Carrying
value
     Estimated fair
value
     Carrying
value
     Estimated fair
value
 
     ($ in millions)  

Financial assets

           

Trading securities

   $ 240       $ 240       $ 739       $ 739   

Investment securities

     14,846         14,846         12,158         12,158   

Loans held-for-sale, net

     11,411         11,449         20,625         19,855   

Finance receivables and loans, net

     100,540         99,462         75,256         72,213   

Interests retained in financial asset sales

     568         568         471         471   

Fair value of derivative contracts in receivable position

     3,966         3,966         2,654         2,654   

Collateral placed with counterparties (a)

     728         728         845         845   

Financial liabilities

           

Deposit liabilities (b)

   $ 37,291       $ 37,546       $ 30,549       $ 30,795   

Short-term borrowings

     7,508         7,509         10,292         10,282   

Long-term debt (c)

     87,181         88,996         88,527         85,306   

Fair value of derivative contracts in liability position

     3,860         3,860         1,895         1,895   

 

(a) Represents collateral in the form of investment securities. Cash collateral was excluded above.

 

(b) The carrying value and fair value amounts exclude dealer deposits.

 

(c) Debt includes deferred interest for zero-coupon bonds of $569 million and $506 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

The following describes the methodologies and assumptions used to determine fair value for the respective classes of financial instruments. In addition to the valuation methods discussed below, we also followed guidelines for determining whether a market was not active and a transaction was not distressed. As such, we assumed the price that would be received in an orderly transaction (including a market-based return) and not in forced liquidation or distressed sale.

 

   

Trading securities — Refer to the previous section of this note titled Trading securities for a description of the methodologies and assumptions used to determine fair value.

 

   

Investment securities — Bonds, equity securities, and other available-for-sale investment securities are carried at fair value. Refer to the previous section of this note titled Available-for-sale securities for a description of the methodologies and assumptions used to determine fair value. The fair value of the held-to-maturity investment securities is based on valuation models using market-based assumption.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

   

Loans held-for-sale, net — Refer to the previous sections of this note also titled Loans held-for-sale, net, for a description of methodologies and assumptions used to determine fair value.

 

   

Finance receivables and loans, net — With the exception of mortgage loans held-for-investment, the fair value of finance receivables was based on discounted future cash flows using applicable spreads to approximate current rates applicable to each category of finance receivables (an income approach). The carrying value of wholesale receivables in certain markets and certain other automobile- and mortgage-lending receivables for which interest rates reset on a short-term basis with applicable market indices are assumed to approximate fair value either because of the short-term nature or because of the interest rate adjustment feature. The fair value of wholesale receivables in other markets was based on discounted future cash flows using applicable spreads to approximate current rates applicable to similar assets in those markets.

For mortgage loans held-for-investment used as collateral for securitization debt, we used a portfolio approach or an in-use premise to measure these loans at fair value. The objective in fair valuing these loans (which are legally isolated and beyond the reach of our creditors) and the related collateralized borrowings is to reflect our retained economic position in the securitizations. For mortgage loans held-for-investment that are not securitized, we used valuation methods and assumptions similar to those used for mortgage loans held-for-sale. These valuations consider unique attributes of the loans such as geography, delinquency status, product type, and other factors. Refer to the previous section in this note titled Loans held-for-sale, net, for a description of methodologies and assumptions used to determine the fair value of mortgage loans held-for-sale.

 

   

Derivative instruments — Refer to the previous section of this note titled Derivative instruments for a description of the methodologies and assumptions used to determine fair value.

 

   

Collateral placed with counterparties — Collateral placed with counterparties in the table above represents only collateral in the form of investment securities. Refer to the previous section of this note also titled Collateral placed with counterparties for additional information.

 

   

Interests retained in financial asset sales — Refer to the previous sections of this note titled Interests retained in financial asset sales for a description of the methodologies and assumptions used to determine fair value.

 

   

Debt — The fair value of debt was determined using quoted market prices for the same or similar issues, if available, or was based on the current rates offered to us for debt with similar remaining maturities.

 

   

Deposit liabilities — Deposit liabilities represent certain consumer bank deposits as well as mortgage escrow deposits. The fair value of deposits with no stated maturity is equal to their carrying amount. The fair value of fixed-maturity deposits was estimated by discounting cash flows using currently offered rates for deposits of similar maturities.

28. Segment and Geographic Information

Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise that engage in business activity from which revenues are earned and expenses incurred for which discrete financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by our chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance.

Basis of Presentation

We report our results of operations on a line-of-business basis through five operating segments – North American Automotive Finance operations, International Automotive Finance operations, Insurance operations,

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Mortgage – Origination and Servicing operations, and Mortgage – Legacy Portfolio and Other operations, with the remaining activity reported in Corporate and Other. The operating segments are determined based on the products and services offered and geographic considerations, and reflect the manner in which financial information is currently evaluated by management. The following is a description of each of our reportable operating segments.

 

   

North American Automotive Finance operations — Provides automotive financing services to consumers and automotive dealers in the United States and Canada and includes the automotive activities of Ally Bank and ResMor Trust. For consumers, we offer retail automotive financing and leasing for new and used vehicles, and through our commercial automotive financing operations, we fund dealer purchases of new and used vehicles through wholesale or floorplan financing.

 

   

International Automotive Finance operations — Provides automotive financing and full-service leasing to consumers and dealers outside of the United States and Canada. Our International Automotive Finance operations will focus the majority of new originations in five core international markets: Germany, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico, and China through our joint venture.

 

   

Insurance operations — Offers consumer and commercial insurance products sold primarily through the dealer channel including vehicle extended service contracts, commercial insurance coverage in the United States and internationally (primarily covering dealers’ wholesale vehicle inventory), and personal automobile insurance in certain countries outside the United States.

 

   

Mortgage — Origination and Servicing operations —The principal activities include originating, purchasing, selling, and securitizing conforming and government-insured residential mortgage loans in the United States and Canada; servicing residential mortgage loans for ourselves and others; and providing collateralized lines of credit to other mortgage originators, which we refer to as warehouse lending. We also originate high quality prime jumbo mortgage loans in the United States. We finance our mortgage loan originations primarily in Ally Bank in the United States and in our trust company, ResMor Trust, in Canada.

 

   

Mortgage — Legacy Portfolio and Other operations — Primarily consists of loans originated prior to January 1, 2009, and includes noncore business activities including discontinued operations, portfolios in runoff, and cash held in the ResCap legal entity. These activities, all of which we have discontinued, include, among other things; lending to real estate developers and homebuilders in the United States and United Kingdom; purchasing, selling, and securitizing nonconforming residential mortgage loans (with the exception of U.S. prime jumbo mortgage loans) in both the United States and internationally; certain conforming origination channels closed in 2008; and our mortgage reinsurance business.

Corporate and Other consists of our Commercial Finance Group, certain equity investments, other corporate activities, the residual impacts of our corporate funds-transfer-pricing (FTP) and treasury asset liability management activities (ALM), and reclassifications and eliminations between the reportable operating segments.

We utilize an FTP methodology for the majority of our business operations. The FTP methodology assigns charge rates and credit rates to classes of assets and liabilities based on expected duration and the LIBOR swap curve plus an assumed credit spread. Matching duration allocates interest income and interest expense to these reportable segments so their respective results are insulated from interest rate risk. This methodology is consistent with our ALM practices, which includes managing interest rate risk centrally at a corporate level. The net residual impact of the FTP methodology is included within the results of Corporate and Other as summarized below.

The information presented in our reportable operating segments and geographic areas tables that follow are based in part on internal allocations, which involve management judgment.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Change in Reportable Segment Information

As a result of a change in management’s view of our operations, we have changed the presentation and profit measures of our reportable operating segments as of December 31, 2010. These changes include the following.

 

   

We presented our Origination and Servicing operations and Legacy Portfolio and Other operations reportable operating segments under the new collective business description, Mortgage. Previously our Origination and Servicing operations and Legacy Portfolio and Other operations were combined in one reportable operating segment, Mortgage operations. The new presentation is consistent with the organizational alignment of the business and management’s current view of the mortgage business.

 

   

Beginning in the fourth quarter of 2010, we began presenting operating results for all of our reportable operating segments on solely a pretax basis. This presentation is consistent with the measure of operating segment results regularly reviewed by our chief operating decision maker.

 

   

During the fourth quarter of 2010, we made modifications to the FTP allocations applicable to our North American Automotive Finance operations commercial loan portfolio.

Amounts for 2009 and 2008 have been reclassified to conform to the current management view.

Financial information for our reportable operating segments is summarized as follows.

 

    Global Automotive Services     Mortgage(a)     Corporate
and Other(c)
    Consolidated(d)  

Year ended December 31,

  North
American
Automotive
Finance
operations
    International
Automotive
Finance
operations(b)
    Insurance
operations
    Origination
and Servicing
operations
    Legacy
Portfolio and
Other
operations
     
    ($ in millions)  

2010

             

Net financing revenue (loss)

  $ 3,321      $ 683      $ 97      $ (26   $ 605      $ (2,099   $ 2,581   

Other revenue (expense)

    690        316        2,263        1,834        260        (42     5,321   
                                                       

Total net revenue (loss)

    4,011        999        2,360        1,808        865        (2,141     7,902   

Provision for loan losses

    286        54                (29     173        (42     442   

Other noninterest expense

    1,381        717        1,791        920        946        526        6,281   
                                                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense

  $ 2,344      $ 228      $ 569      $ 917      $ (254   $ (2,625   $ 1,179   
                                                       

Total assets

  $ 81,893      $ 15,979      $ 8,789      $ 24,478      $ 12,308      $ 28,561      $ 172,008   
                                                       

2009

             

Net financing revenue (loss)

  $ 3,074      $ 705      $ 192      $ (58   $ 626      $ (2,461   $ 2,078   

Other revenue (expense)

    757        263        2,079        1,063        (685     940        4,417   
                                                       

Total net revenue (loss)

    3,831        968        2,271        1,005        (59     (1,521     6,495   

Provision for loan losses

    611        230               41        4,231        491        5,604   

Other noninterest expense

    1,596        895        1,942        925        2,014        478        7,850   
                                                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense

  $ 1,624      $ (157   $ 329      $ 39      $ (6,304   $ (2,490   $ (6,959
                                                       

Total assets

  $ 68,282      $ 21,802      $ 10,614      $ 20,010      $ 18,884      $ 32,714      $ 172,306   
                                                       

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Global Automotive Services     Mortgage(a)     Corporate
and Other(c)
    Consolidated(d)  

Year ended December 31,

  North
American
Automotive
Finance
operations
    International
Automotive
Finance
operations(b)
    Insurance
operations
    Origination
and Servicing
operations
    Legacy
Portfolio and
Other
operations
     
    ($ in millions)  

2008

             

Net financing revenue (loss)

  $ 1,531      $ 877      $ 261      $ (149   $ 510      $ (2,113   $ 917   

Other revenue

    1,066        365        2,700        1,281        168        9,691        15,271   
                                                       

Total net revenue

    2,597        1,242        2,961        1,132        678        7,578        16,188   

Provision for loan losses

    1,198        204                8        1,682        10        3,102   

Other noninterest expense

    1,721        936        2,462        662        2,066        502        8,349   
                                                       

(Loss) income from continuing operations before income tax expense

  $ (322   $ 102      $ 499      $ 462      $ (3,070   $ 7,066      $ 4,737   
                                                       

Total assets

  $ 71,981      $ 29,290      $ 12,013      $ 11,870      $ 32,893      $ 31,429      $ 189,476   
                                                       

 

(a) Represents the ResCap legal entity and the mortgage activities of Ally Bank and ResMor Trust.
(b) Amounts include intrasegment eliminations between our North American Automotive Finance operations, International Automotive Finance operations, and Insurance operations.
(c) At December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, total assets were $1.6 billion, $3.3 billion, and $6.0 billion for the Commercial Finance Group, respectively.
(d) Net financing revenue after the provision for loan losses totaled $2,139 million, $(3,526) million, and $(2,185) million in 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Information concerning principal geographic areas was as follows.

 

Year ended December 31,

   Revenue(a)     Income (loss)
from continuing
operations
before income
tax expense
(benefit) (b)
    Net income (loss)
(b)
    Identifiable  assets
(c)
     Long-lived  assets
(d)
 
     ($ in millions)  

2010

           

Canada

   $ 904      $ 449      $ 402      $ 17,321       $ 1,522   

Europe

     807        346        278        11,321         406   

Latin America

     869        170        164        6,917         35   

Asia

     4        7        (43     24           
                                         

Total foreign

     2,584        972        801        35,583         1,963   

Total domestic (e)

     5,318        207        274        135,900         7,541   
                                         

Total

   $ 7,902      $ 1,179      $ 1,075      $ 171,483       $ 9,504   
                                         

2009

           

Canada

   $ 654      $ 197      $ 148      $ 17,885       $ 3,985   

Europe

     921        31        (86     15,555         906   

Latin America

     709        116        163        6,574         33   

Asia

     (55     (24     (13     1,378         8   
                                         

Total foreign

     2,229        320        212        41,392         4,932   

Total domestic (e)

     4,266        (7,279     (10,510     130,388         11,399   
                                         

Total

   $ 6,495      $ (6,959   $ (10,298   $ 171,780       $ 16,331   
                                         

2008

           

Canada

   $ (116   $ (526   $ (382   $ 19,044       $ 6,211   

Europe

     1,236        224        116        37,266         2,349   

Latin America

     971        186        228        7,350         167   

Asia

     (6     (13     (20     2,445         179   
                                         

Total foreign

     2,085        (129     (58     66,105         8,906   

Total domestic (e)

     14,103        4,866        1,926        122,014         17,915   
                                         

Total

   $ 16,188      $ 4,737      $ 1,868      $ 188,119       $ 26,821   
                                         

 

(a) Revenue consists of net financing revenue and total other revenue as presented in our Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

(b) The domestic amounts include original discount amortization of $1.2 billion, $1.1 billion, and $70 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

 

(c) Identifiable assets consist of total assets excluding goodwill.

 

(d) Long-lived assets consist of investment in operating leases, net, and net property and equipment.

 

(e) Amounts include eliminations between our domestic and foreign operations.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

29. Parent and Guarantor Consolidating Financial Statements

Certain of our senior notes are guaranteed by a group of subsidiaries (the Guarantors). The Guarantors, each of which is a 100% directly owned subsidiary of Ally Financial Inc., are Ally US LLC, IB Finance Holding Company, LLC, GMAC Latin America Holdings LLC, GMAC International Holdings B.V., and GMAC Continental LLC. The Guarantors fully and unconditionally guarantee the senior notes on a joint and several basis.

The following financial statements present condensed consolidating financial data for (i) Ally Financial Inc. (on a parent company only basis), (ii) the combined Guarantors, (iii) the combined nonguarantor subsidiaries (all other subsidiaries), (iv) an elimination column for adjustments to arrive at the information for the parent company, Guarantors, and nonguarantors on a consolidated basis, and (v) the parent company and our subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.

Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for by the parent company and the Guarantors using the equity method for this presentation. Results of operations of subsidiaries are therefore classified in the parent company’s and Guarantors’ investment in subsidiaries accounts. The elimination entries set forth in the following condensed consolidating financial statements eliminate distributed and undistributed income of subsidiaries, investments in subsidiaries, and intercompany balances and transactions between the parent, Guarantors, and nonguarantors.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Year ended December 31, 2010

         

Financing revenue and other interest income

         

Interest and fees on finance receivables and loans

  $ 938      $ 26      $ 5,591      $      $ 6,555   

Interest and fees on finance receivables and loans — intercompany

    526        5        4        (535       

Interest on loans held-for-sale

    75               589               664   

Interest on trading securities

                  15               15   

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities

    4               360        (2     362   

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities — intercompany

    112               9        (121       

Interest bearing cash

    13               57               70   

Other interest income, net

                  2        (1     1   

Operating leases

    1,063               2,717               3,780   
                                       

Total financing revenue and other interest income

    2,731        31        9,344        (659     11,447   

Interest expense

         

Interest on deposits

    52               608               660   

Interest on short-term borrowings

    43        1        403               447   

Interest on long-term debt

    3,804        14        1,903        8        5,729   

Interest on intercompany debt

    (21     6        560        (545       
                                       

Total interest expense

    3,878        21        3,474        (537     6,836   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

    435               1,595               2,030   
                                       

Net financing (loss) revenue

    (1,582     10        4,275        (122     2,581   

Dividends from subsidiaries

         

Nonbank subsidiaries

    182        5               (187       

 

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Table of Contents

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Other revenue

         

Servicing fees

    434               1,130        (1     1,563   

Servicing-asset valuation and hedge activities, net

                  (394            (394
                                       

Total servicing income, net

    434               736        (1     1,169   

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned

                  1,865               1,865   

Gain on mortgage and automotive loans, net

    31               1,236               1,267   

Loss on extinguishment of debt

    (127            (8     12        (123

Other gain on investments, net

    6               505        (6     505   

Other (loss) gain on trading securities, net

    (13            7               (6

Other income, net of losses

    (80     1        1,284        (561     644   
                                       

Total other revenue

    251        1        5,625        (556     5,321   

Total net revenue

    (1,149     16        9,900        (865     7,902   

Provision for loan losses

    (204     (1     647               442   

Noninterest expense

         

Compensation and benefits expense

    785        11        826               1,622   

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

                  876               876   

Other operating expenses

    744        4        3,632        (597     3,783   
                                       

Total noninterest expense

    1,529        15        5,334        (597     6,281   

(Loss) income from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense and undistributed income of subsidiaries

    (2,474     2        3,919        (268     1,179   

Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations

    (592     (1     746               153   
                                       

Net (loss) income from continuing operations

    (1,882     3        3,173        (268     1,026   
                                       

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

    70               (21            49   

Undistributed income of subsidiaries

         

Bank subsidiary

    902        902               (1,804       

Nonbank subsidiaries

    1,985        259               (2,244       
                                       

Net income

  $ 1,075      $ 1,164      $ 3,152      $ (4,316   $ 1,075   
                                       

 

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Table of Contents

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Year ended December 31, 2009

         

Financing revenue and other interest income

         

Interest and fees on finance receivables and loans

  $ 891      $ 36      $ 5,468      $      $ 6,395   

Interest and fees on finance receivables and loans — intercompany

    837        5        7        (849       

Interest on loans held-for-sale

    238               209               447   

Interest on trading securities

                  132               132   

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities

                  226               226   

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities — intercompany

    280               3        (283       

Interest-bearing cash

    26               73               99   

Other interest income, net

                  86               86   

Operating leases

    466               5,249               5,715   
                                       

Total financing revenue and other interest income

    2,738        41        11,453        (1,132     13,100   

 

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Table of Contents

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Interest expense

         

Interest on deposits

    27               673               700   

Interest on short-term borrowings

    30        2        534               566   

Interest on long-term debt

    3,819        22        2,407        (240     6,008   

Interest on intercompany debt

    (46     10        684        (648       
                                       

Total interest expense

    3,830        34        4,298        (888     7,274   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

    169               3,579               3,748   
                                       

Net financing (loss) revenue

    (1,261     7        3,576        (244     2,078   

Dividends from subsidiaries

         

Nonbank subsidiaries

    550                      (550       

Other revenue

         

Servicing fees

    690               859               1,549   

Servicing-asset valuation and hedge activities, net

                  (1,104            (1,104
                                       

Total servicing income, net

    690               (245            445   

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned

                  1,977               1,977   

Gain on mortgage and automotive loans, net

    10               801               811   

Gain on extinguishment of debt

    623               1,751        (1,709     665   

Other gain on investments, net

    558               153        (545     166   

Other gain on trading securities, net

    8               165               173   

Other income, net of losses

    (249     2        1,025        (598     180   
                                       

Total other revenue

    1,640        2        5,627        (2,852     4,417   

Total net revenue

    929        9        9,203        (3,646     6,495   

Provision for loan losses

    (148            5,752               5,604   

Noninterest expense

         

Compensation and benefits expense

    590        6        980               1,576   

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

                  1,042               1,042   

Other operating expenses

    714        12        5,109        (603     5,232   
                                       

Total noninterest expense

    1,304        18        7,131        (603     7,850   

Loss from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense and undistributed (loss) income of subsidiaries

    (227     (9     (3,680     (3,043     (6,959

Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations

    (24            98               74   
                                       

Net loss from continuing operations

    (203     (9     (3,778     (3,043     (7,033
                                       

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

    (287            (2,978            (3,265

Undistributed (loss) income of subsidiaries

         

Bank subsidiary

    (1,953     (1,953            3,906          

Nonbank subsidiaries

    (7,855     70               7,785          
                                       

Net loss

  $ (10,298   $ (1,892   $ (6,756   $ 8,648      $ (10,298
                                       

 

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Table of Contents

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Year ended December 31, 2008

         

Financing revenue and other interest income

         

Interest and fees on finance receivables and loans

  $ 1,029      $ 41      $ 7,367      $ (5   $ 8,432   

Interest and fees on finance receivables and loans — intercompany

    1,079        31        200        (1,310       

Interest on loans held-for-sale

    473               364               837   

Interest on trading securities

                  130        (3     127   

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities

    99               263        14        376   

Interest and dividends on available-for-sale investment securities — intercompany

    6               8        (14       

Interest-bearing cash

    136               239               375   

Other interest income, net

    (40            362        3        325   

Operating leases

    4,238               3,350        (6     7,582   
                                       

Total financing revenue and other interest income

    7,020        72        12,283        (1,321     18,054   

Interest expense

         

Interest on deposits

    87               620               707   

Interest on short-term borrowings

    270        10        1,168        3        1,451   

Interest on long-term debt

    3,420        16        5,354        (507     8,283   

Interest in intercompany debt

    (83     38        855        (810       
                                       

Total interest expense

    3,694        64        7,997        (1,314     10,441   

Depreciation expense on operating lease assets

    2,731        (2     2,749               5,478   

Impairment of investment in operating leases

    915               303               1,218   
                                       

Net financing (loss) revenue

    (320     10        1,234        (7     917   

Dividends from subsidiaries

         

Nonbank subsidiaries

    568                      (568       

Other revenue

         

Servicing fees

    918               829               1,747   

Servicing-asset valuation and hedge activities, net

                  (263            (263
                                       

Total servicing income, net

    918               566               1,484   

Insurance premiums and service revenue earned

                  2,710               2,710   

(Loss) gain on mortgage and automotive loans, net

    (165            324               159   

Gain on extinguishment of debt

    8,131               1,916        2,581        12,628   

Other loss on investments, net

    (67            (311            (378

Other gain (loss) on trading securities, net

    3               (692            (689

Other income, net of losses

    (914     2        1,058        (789     (643
                                       

Total other revenue

    7,906        2        5,571        1,792        15,271   

Total net revenue

    8,154        12        6,805        1,217        16,188   

Provision for loan losses

    696        2        2,404               3,102   

Noninterest expense

         

Compensation and benefits expense

    444        10        1,462               1,916   

Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

                  1,402               1,402   

Other operating expenses

    1,231        3        4,700        (903     5,031   
                                       

Total noninterest expense

    1,675        13        7,564        (903     8,349   

 

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Table of Contents

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense (benefit) and undistributed loss of subsidiaries

    5,783        (3     (3,163     2,120        4,737   

Income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations

    8        (1     (143            (136
                                       

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

    5,775        (2     (3,020     2,120        4,873   
                                       

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

    10               (3,015            (3,005

Undistributed loss of subsidiaries

         

Bank subsidiary

    (116     (116            232          

Nonbank subsidiaries

    (3,801     (368            4,169          
                                       

Net income (loss)

  $ 1,868      $ (486   $ (6,035   $ 6,521      $ 1,868   
                                       

 

F-232


Table of Contents

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

December 31, 2010

         

Assets

         

Cash and cash equivalents

         

Noninterest-bearing

  $ 1,251      $      $ 463      $      $ 1,714   

Interest-bearing

    3,414        1        6,541               9,956   

Interest-bearing — intercompany

                  504        (504       
                                       

Total cash and cash equivalents

    4,665        1        7,508        (504     11,670   

Trading securities

                  240               240   

Investment securities

    1,488               13,358               14,846   

Investment securities — intercompany

    2                      (2       

Loans held-for-sale

                  11,411               11,411   

Finance receivables and loans, net

         

Finance receivables and loans, net

    10,047        425        91,941               102,413   

Intercompany loans to

         

Bank subsidiary

    3,650                      (3,650       

Nonbank subsidiaries

    9,461        367        463        (10,291       

Allowance for loan losses

    (266     (1     (1,606            (1,873
                                       

Total finance receivables and loans, net

    22,892        791        90,798        (13,941     100,540   

Investment in operating leases, net

    3,864               5,264               9,128   

Intercompany receivables from

         

Bank subsidiary

    5,930                      (5,930       

Nonbank subsidiaries

           213               (213       

Investment in subsidiaries

         

Bank subsidiary

    10,886        10,886               (21,772       

Nonbank subsidiaries

    23,632        3,123               (26,755       

Mortgage servicing rights

                  3,738               3,738   

Premiums receivable and other insurance assets

                  2,190        (9     2,181   

Other assets

    2,912        3        15,539        (890     17,564   

Assets of operations held-for-sale

    (160            850               690   
                                       

Total assets

  $ 76,111      $ 15,017      $ 150,896      $ (70,016   $ 172,008   
                                       

 

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Table of Contents

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Liabilities

         

Deposit liabilities

         

Noninterest-bearing

  $      $      $ 2,131      $      $ 2,131   

Interest-bearing

    1,459               35,458               36,917   
                                       

Total deposit liabilities

    1,459               37,589               39,048   

Short-term borrowings

    2,519        89        4,900               7,508   

Long-term debt

    43,897        239        42,476               86,612   

Intercompany debt to Nonbank subsidiaries

    504        462        13,481        (14,447       

Intercompany payables to Nonbank subsidiaries

    4,466               1,716        (6,182       

Interest payable

    1,229        3        597               1,829   

Unearned insurance premiums and service revenue

                  2,854               2,854   

Reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

                  862               862   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

    1,548        1        11,437        (860     12,126   

Liabilities of operations held-for-sale

                  680               680   
                                       

Total liabilities

    55,622        794        116,592        (21,489     151,519   
                                       

Total equity

    20,489        14,223        34,304        (48,527     20,489   
                                       

Total liabilities and equity

  $ 76,111      $ 15,017      $ 150,896      $ (70,016   $ 172,008   
                                       

 

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Table of Contents

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

December 31, 2009

         

Assets

         

Cash and cash equivalents

         

Noninterest-bearing

  $ 418      $      $ 1,422      $      $ 1,840   

Interest-bearing

    339        5        12,604               12,948   

Interest-bearing — intercompany

                                  
                                       

Total cash and cash equivalents

    757        5        14,026               14,788   

Trading securities

                  739               739   

Investment securities

                  12,158               12,158   

Investment securities — Intercompany

    380               261        (641       

Loans held-for-sale

    1,758               18,867               20,625   

Finance receivables and loans, net

         

Finance receivables and loans, net

    4,997        524        72,180               77,701   

Intercompany loans to

         

Bank subsidiary

    5,139                      (5,139       

Nonbank subsidiaries

    16,073        83        161        (16,317       

Allowance for loan losses

    (383     (3     (2,059            (2,445
                                       

Total finance receivables and loans, net

    25,826        604        70,282        (21,456     75,256   

Investment in operating leases, net

    1,479               14,516               15,995   

Intercompany receivables from

         

Bank subsidiary

    1,001                      (1,001       

Nonbank subsidiaries

    178               198        (376       

Investment in subsidiaries

         

Bank subsidiary

    7,903        7,903               (15,806       

Nonbank subsidiaries

    26,186        3,067               (29,253       

Mortgage servicing rights

                  3,554               3,554   

Premiums receivable and other insurance assets

                  2,728        (8     2,720   

Other assets

    4,443        4        16,795        (1,355     19,887   

Assets of operations held-for-sale

    (324            6,908               6,584   
                                       

Total assets

  $ 69,587      $ 11,583      $ 161,032      $ (69,896   $ 172,306   
                                       

 

F-235


Table of Contents

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Liabilities

         

Deposit liabilities

         

Noninterest-bearing

  $      $      $ 1,755      $      $ 1,755   

Interest-bearing

    1,041               28,960               30,001   
                                       

Total deposit liabilities

    1,041               30,715               31,756   

Short-term borrowings

    1,795        39        8,458               10,292   

Long-term debt

    40,888        406        46,732        (5     88,021   

Intercompany debt to

         

Nonbank subsidiaries

    260        163        21,702        (22,125       

Intercompany payables to

         

Nonbank subsidiaries

    1,385        1               (1,386       

Interest payable

    1,082        12        553        (10     1,637   

Unearned insurance premiums and service revenue

                  3,192               3,192   

Reserves for insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses

                  1,215               1,215   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

    2,297        (7     9,452        (1,286     10,456   

Liabilities of operations held-for-sale

                  4,898               4,898   
                                       

Total liabilities

    48,748        614        126,917        (24,812     151,467   
                                       

Total equity

    20,839        10,969        34,115        (45,084     20,839   
                                       

Total liabilities and equity

  $ 69,587      $ 11,583      $ 161,032      $ (69,896   $ 172,306   
                                       

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Year ended December 31, 2010

         

Operating activities

         

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities

  $ 4,552      $ 13      $ 7,230      $ (188   $ 11,607   

Investing activities

         

Purchases of available-for-sale securities

    (1,485            (22,631            (24,116

Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities

    41               17,872        (41     17,872   

Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities

                  4,527               4,527   

Net decrease (increase) in investment securities — intercompany

    323               260        (583       

Net (increase) decrease in finance receivables and loans

    (5,177     98        (12,227            (17,306

Proceeds from sales of finance receivables and loans

    6               3,132               3,138   

Change in notes receivable from GM

           (2     (36            (38

Net (decrease) increase in loans — intercompany

    7,736        (283     (302     (7,151       

Net (increase) decrease in operating lease assets

    (2,770            7,846               5,076   

Purchases of mortgages servicing rights, net

                  (56            (56

Capital contributions to subsidiaries

    (2,036     (1,737            3,773          

Returns of contributed capital

    880                      (880       

Sale of business unit, net

    59               102               161   

Other, net

    104        (1     3,072               3,175   
                                       

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

    (2,319     (1,925     (1,559     (4,882     (7,567

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Financing activities

         

Net change in short-term debt — third party

    735        50        (4,414            (3,629

Net increase in bank deposits

                  6,556               6,556   

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt – third party

    5,824        90        33,047        41        39,002   

Repayments of long-term debt — third party

    (4,292     (256     (44,982            (49,530

Net change in debt — intercompany

    243        300        (7,774     7,231          

Dividends paid — third party

    (1,253                          (1,253

Dividends paid and returns of contributed capital — intercompany

                  (1,068     1,068          

Capital contributions from parent

           1,725        2,048        (3,773       

Other, net

    418               451               869   
                                       

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

    1,675        1,909        (16,136     4,567        (7,985

Effect of exchange-rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

                  102               102   
                                       

Net (increase) decrease in cash and cash equivalents

    3,908        (3     (7,245     (503     (3,843

Cash and cash equivalents reclassified to assets held-for-sale

                  725               725   

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

    757        5        14,026               14,788   
                                       

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

  $ 4,665      $ 2      $ 7,506      $ (503   $ 11,670   
                                       

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Year ended December 31, 2009

         

Operating activities

         

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities

  $ (3,308   $ 25      $ (1,299   $ (550   $ (5,132

Investing activities

         

Purchases of available-for-sale securities

    (145            (21,148     145        (21,148

Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities

    89               10,153        (89     10,153   

Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities

                  4,527               4,527   

Net decrease (increase) in investment securities — intercompany

    2               (103     101          

Net (increase) decrease in finance receivables and loans

    (363     118        14,504               14,259   

Proceeds from sales of finance receivables and loans

    446               (186            260   

Change in notes receivable from GM

                  803               803   

Net (increase) decrease in loans — intercompany

    (2,551     163        (261     2,649          

Net (increase) decrease in operating lease assets

    (1,519            7,399               5,880   

Capital contributions to subsidiaries

    (8,092     (6,052            14,144          

Returns of contributed capital

    706                      (706       

Sale of business unit, net

                  296               296   

Other, net

    (64     (1     2,163               2,098   
                                       

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

    (11,491     (5,772     18,147        16,244        17,128   

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Financing activities

         

Net change in short-term debt — third party

    6        (78     (266            (338

Net increase in bank deposits

                  10,703               10,703   

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — third party

    9,641        128        20,821        89        30,679   

Repayments of long-term debt — third party

    (8,831     (107     (52,410     (145     (61,493

Net change in debt — intercompany

    (7     (255     2,995        (2,733       

Proceeds from issuance of common members’ interests

    1,247                             1,247   

Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock held by U.S. Department of Treasury

    8,750                             8,750   

Dividends paid — third party

    (1,592                          (1,592

Dividends paid and returns of contributed capital — intercompany

                  (1,256     1,256          

Capital contributions from parent

           6,052        8,092        (14,144       

Other, net

    699               365               1,064   
                                       

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

    9,913        5,740        (10,956     (15,677     (10,980

Effect of exchange-rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

                  (602            (602
                                       

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

    (4,886     (7     5,290        17        414   

Cash and cash equivalents reclassified to assets held-for-sale

                  (777            (777

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

    5,643        12        9,513        (17     15,151   
                                       

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

  $ 757      $ 5      $ 14,026      $      $ 14,788   
                                       

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Year ended December 31, 2008

         

Operating activities

         

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

  $ 2,049      $ (19   $ 12,633      $ (568   $ 14,095   

Investing activities

         

Purchases of available-for-sale securities

    (6,783            (11,317     1,898        (16,202

Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities

    8,903               5,165               14,068   

Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities

    898               6,604               7,502   

Net increase in investment securities — intercompany

                  (158     158          

Net decrease (increase) in finance receivables and loans

    6,504        (32     (902            5,570   

Proceeds from sales of finance receivables and loans

    1,347               19               1,366   

Change in notes receivable from GM

                  (62            (62

Net (increase) decrease in loans — intercompany

    (7,559     149        2,418        4,992          

Net decrease (increase) in operating lease assets

    2,925        2        (5,838            (2,911

Sales of mortgage servicing rights, net

                  797               797   

Capital contributions to subsidiaries

    (1,402     (24            1,426          

Returns of contributed capital

    274                      (274       

Sale of business unit, net

                  319               319   

Other, net

    (515     (1     987               471   
                                       

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

    4,592        94        (1,968     8,200        10,918   

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

    Parent     Guarantors     Nonguarantors     Consolidating
adjustments
    Ally
consolidated
 
    ($ in millions)  

Financing activities

         

Net change in short-term debt — third party

    (5,393     118        (17,540            (22,815

Net increase in bank deposits

                  6,447               6,447   

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — third party

           245        44,479               44,724   

Repayments of long-term debt

    (10,001     (263     (47,465     (1,898     (59,627

Net change in debt — intercompany

    268        (181     5,080        (5,167       

Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock held by U.S. Department of Treasury

    5,000                             5,000   

Dividends paid — third party

    (113                          (113

Dividends paid and returns of contributed capital — intercompany

           (16     (826     842          

Capital contributions from parent

           24        1,402        (1,426       

Other, net

    (1,761            (23            (1,784
                                       

Net cash used in financing activities

    (12,000     (73     (8,446     (7,649     (28,168

Effect of exchange-rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

                  629               629   
                                       

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

    (5,359     2        2,848        (17     (2,526

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

    11,002        10        6,665               17,677   
                                       

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

  $ 5,643      $ 12      $ 9,513      $ (17   $ 15,151   
                                       

30. Guarantees, Commitments, Contingencies, and Other Risks

Guarantees

Guarantees are defined as contracts or indemnification agreements that contingently require us to make payments to third parties based on changes in the underlying agreements with the guaranteed parties. The following summarizes our outstanding guarantees made to third parties on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, for the periods shown.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     Maximum
liability
     Carrying
value of
liability
     Maximum
liability
     Carrying
value of
liability
 
     ($ in millions)  

Default automotive repurchases

   $ 1,274       $ 151       $ 699       $ 81   

Guarantees for repayment of third-party debt

     1,068         989         782           

Standby letters of credit and other guarantees

     513         121         2,012         153   

Default Automotive Repurchases

Our International Automotive Finance operations provide certain investors in our on- and off-balance sheet arrangements (securitizations) and whole-loan transactions with repurchase commitments for loans that become

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

contractually delinquent within a specified time from their date of origination or purchase. The maximum obligation represents the principal balance for loans sold that are covered by these stipulations. Refer to Note 11 for further information regarding our securitization trusts.

Guarantees for Repayment of Third-party Debt

Under certain arrangements, our International Automotive Finance operations guarantee the repayment of third party debt obligations in the case of default. These guarantees are collateralized by retail loans or finance leases.

Standby Letters of Credit

Our Commercial Finance Group issues standby letters of credit to customers that represent irrevocable guarantees of payment of specified financial obligations. Third-party beneficiaries primarily utilize standby letters of credit as insurance in the event of nonperformance by our customers. Assets of the customers (i.e., trade receivables, inventory, and cash deposits) generally collateralize letters of credit. Expiration dates on letters of credit range from certain ongoing commitments that will expire during the upcoming year to terms of several years for certain letters of credit.

If nonperformance by a customer occurs for letters of credit, we can be liable for payment of the letter of credit to the beneficiary with our likely recourse being a charge back to the customer or liquidation of the collateral. The majority of customers with whom we have letter of credit exposure fall into the “acceptable” risk rating category of our Commercial Finance Group’s internal risk-rating system. This category is essentially at the midpoint of our risk rating classifications.

Commitments

Financing Commitments

The contractual commitments were as follows.

 

     December 31,  
     2010      2009  
     ($ in millions)  

Commitments to

     

Sell mortgages or securities (a)

   $ 14,349       $ 10,465   

Originate/purchase mortgages or securities (a)

     7,735         9,193   

Sell retail automotive receivables (b)

             4,807   

Provide capital to investees (c)

     76         145   

Warehouse and construction-lending commitments (d)

     1,509         1,291   

Home equity lines of credit (e)

     2,749         2,972   

Unused revolving credit line commitments (f)

     1,910         3,006   

 

(a) Amounts primarily include commitments accounted for as derivatives.

 

(b) We entered into agreements with third-party banks to sell automotive retail receivables in which we transferred all credit risk to the purchaser (whole-loan sales). We completed the final transactions under these deals in October 2010.

 

(c) We are committed to contribute capital to certain private equity funds. The fair value of these commitments is considered in the overall valuation of the underlying assets with which they are associated.

 

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(d) The fair value of these commitments is considered in the overall valuation of the related assets.

 

(e) We are committed to fund the remaining unused balances on home equity lines of credit for certain home equity loans sold into securitization structures (both on- and off-balance sheet structures) if certain deal-specific triggers are met. At December 31, 2010, the commitments to fund home equity lines of credit in off-balance sheet securitizations represented $1.0 billion of the total unfunded commitments of $2.7 billion.

 

(f) The unused portion of revolving lines of credit reset at prevailing market rates and, as such, approximate market value.

The mortgage lending and revolving credit line commitments contain an element of credit risk. Management reduces its credit risk for unused mortgage-lending and unused revolving credit line commitments by applying the same credit policies in making commitments as it does for extending loans. We typically require collateral as these commitments are drawn.

Lease Commitments

Future minimum rental payments required under operating leases, primarily for real property, with noncancelable lease terms expiring after December 31, 2010, are as follows.

 

Year ended December 31,

      
     ($ in millions)  

2011

   $ 85   

2012

     64   

2013

     57   

2014

     51   

2015

     39   

2016 and thereafter

     60   
        

Total minimum payment required

   $ 356   
        

Certain of the leases contain escalation clauses and renewal or purchase options. Rental expenses under operating leases were $97 million, $104 million, and $189 million in 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

Contractual Commitments

We have entered into multiple agreements for information technology, marketing and advertising, and voice and communication technology and maintenance. Many of the agreements are subject to variable price provisions, fixed or minimum price provisions, and termination or renewal provisions.

 

Year ended December 31,

      
     ($ in millions)  

2011

   $ 291   

2012 and 2013

     324   

2014 and 2015

     194   

2016 and thereafter

     9   
        

Total future payment obligations

   $ 818   
        

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Contingencies

Legal Contingencies

We are subject to potential liability under laws and government regulations and various claims and legal actions that are pending or may be asserted against us.

We are named as defendants in a number of legal actions and are, from time to time, involved in governmental proceedings arising in connection with our various businesses. Some of the pending actions purport to be class actions. We establish reserves for legal claims when payments associated with the claims become probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated. The actual costs of resolving legal claims may be substantially higher or lower than the amounts reserved for those claims. Based on information currently available, advice of counsel, available insurance coverage, and established reserves, it is the opinion of management that the eventual outcome of the actions against us will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Temporary Suspension of Mortgage Foreclosure Sales and Evictions

Representatives of federal and state governments, including the United States Department of Justice, the FRB, the FDIC, the SEC and law enforcement authorities in all 50 states, have announced investigations into the procedures followed by mortgage servicing companies and banks, including subsidiaries of Ally, in connection with mortgage foreclosure home sales and evictions. We are cooperating with these investigations. The result of these investigations is uncertain but we expect that Ally or its subsidiaries will become subject to penalties, sanctions, or other adverse actions that could have a material adverse impact on us.

On September 17, 2010, GMAC Mortgage, LLC (GMACM), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Ally Financial Inc., temporarily suspended mortgage foreclosure home sales and evictions and postponed hearings on motions for judgment in certain states. This decision was made after an operational matter was detected in the execution of certain affidavits used in connection with judicial foreclosures in some but not all states. The issue relates to whether persons signing the affidavits had appropriately verified the information in them and whether they were signed in the immediate physical presence of a notary. In response to this and to enhance existing processes, GMACM implemented supplemental procedures that are used in all new foreclosure cases to seek to ensure that affidavits are properly verified and executed. GMACM is also conducting an additional review of all foreclosure files in all states prior to going to foreclosure sale.

Our review related to this matter is ongoing, and we cannot predict the ultimate impact of any deficiencies that have been or may be identified in our historical foreclosure processes. However, thus far we have not found any evidence of unwarranted foreclosures. There are potential risks related to these matters that extend beyond potential liability on individual foreclosure actions. Specific risks could include, for example, claims and litigation related to foreclosure file remediation and resubmission; claims from investors that hold securities that become adversely impacted by continued delays in the foreclosure process; actions by courts, state attorneys general, or regulators to delay further the foreclosure process after submission of corrected affidavits; regulatory fines and sanctions; and reputational risks. At December 31, 2010, we recorded a liability of approximately $13 million related to potential fines and penalties we determined were probable and estimable. We did not record any additional liability related to unasserted claims or loss contingencies at December 31, 2010, because we do not believe such liabilities are probable and estimable based on information currently available nor are we able to estimate a range of losses.

 

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Mortgage-backed Securities Litigation

There are nine cases relating to various private-label MBS offerings that are currently pending. Plaintiffs in these cases include Cambridge Place Investment Management Inc. (two cases pending in Suffolk County Superior Court, Massachusetts); The Charles Schwab Corporation (case pending in San Francisco County Superior Court, California); Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (case pending in Cook County Circuit Court, Illinois); Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis (case filed in Marion County Superior Court, Indiana); Massachusetts Mutual Life Ins. Co. (case pending in federal court in the District of Massachusetts); Allstate Insurance Co. (served in Hennepin County, Minnesota, District Court); New Jersey Carpenters Health Fund, et al. (a putative class action in which certification has been denied, pending in federal court in the Southern District of New York); and the West Virginia Investment Management Board (case pending in the Kanawha County Circuit Court, West Virginia). Each of the above cases includes as defendants certain of our mortgage subsidiaries, and the New Jersey Carpenters and Massachusetts Mutual cases also include as defendants certain current and former employees. The plaintiffs in all cases have alleged that the various defendant subsidiaries made misstatements and omissions in registration statements, prospectuses, prospectus supplements, and other documents related to MBS offerings. The alleged misstatements and omissions typically concern underwriting standards. Plaintiffs claim that such misstatements and omissions constitute violations of state and/or federal securities law and common law including negligent misrepresentation and fraud. Plaintiffs seek monetary damages and rescission. The range of any potential losses related to these matters is not currently determinable.

There are two additional cases pending in the New York County Supreme Court where MBIA Insurance Corp. (MBIA) has alleged that two of our mortgage subsidiaries breached their contractual representations and warranties relating to the characteristics of the mortgage loans contained in certain insured MBS offerings. MBIA further alleges that the defendant subsidiaries failed to follow certain remedy procedures set forth in the contracts and improperly serviced the mortgage loans. Along with claims for breach of contract, MBIA also alleges fraud. The range of any potential losses related to these matters is not currently determinable.

Private-label Matters

Claims related to private-label mortgage-backed securities (PLS) have been brought under federal and state securities laws (among other theories), and it is possible that additional similar claims will be brought in the future. The claims made to date are similar in some respects to the repurchase demands we have previously disclosed related to alleged breaches of representations and warranties our mortgage subsidiaries made in connection with mortgage loans they sold or securitized. Further and as previously disclosed, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), as conservator of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, announced on July 12, 2010, that it issued 64 subpoenas to various entities seeking documents related to PLS in which Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac had invested. Certain of our mortgage subsidiaries received such subpoenas. In connection with our settlement with Fannie Mae announced on December 23, 2010, the FHFA has agreed to withdraw the subpoenas that relate to Fannie Mae. However, we continue to respond to the subpoenas related to Freddie Mac. The FHFA has indicated that documents provided in response to the subpoenas will enable the FHFA to determine whether they believe issuers of PLS are potentially liable to Freddie Mac for losses they might have suffered. While a final outcome in any existing or future legal proceeding related to the foregoing, if unfavorable, could result in additional liability, the range of any potential losses related to the above described matters is not currently determinable.

Other Contingencies

We are subject to potential liability under various other exposures including tax, nonrecourse loans, self-insurance, and other miscellaneous contingencies. We establish reserves for these contingencies when the item becomes probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated. The actual costs of resolving these items may be

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

substantially higher or lower than the amounts reserved for any one item. Based on information currently available, it is the opinion of management that the eventual outcome of these items will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Other Risks

Loan Repurchases and Obligations Related to Loan Sales

Overview

Our Mortgage operations sell loans that take the form of securitizations guaranteed by the GSEs and to whole-loan investors. We have issued private-label mortgage-backed securities infrequently since 2007. In prior years, our volume of private-label securitization issuances were considerably larger, and they included securitized loans where monolines have insured the related bonds. We have settled with both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, limiting our remaining exposure with the GSEs. In connection with securitizations and loan sales, investors are provided various representations and warranties related to the loans sold. The specific representations and warranties vary among different transactions and investors but typically relate to, among other things, the ownership of the loan, the validity of the lien securing the loan, the loan’s compliance with the criteria for inclusion in the transaction, including compliance with underwriting standards or loan criteria established by the buyer, the ability to deliver required documentation and compliance with applicable laws. In general, the representations and warranties described above may be enforced at any time unless a sunset provision is in place. ResCap assumes all of the customary representation and warranty obligations for loans purchased from Ally Bank and subsequently sold into the secondary market, generally through securitizations guaranteed by the GSEs. In the event ResCap fails to meet these obligations, Ally Financial Inc. has provided Ally Bank a guaranteed coverage of liability. Upon a breach of a representation, the breach is corrected in a manner conforming to the provisions of the sale agreement. This may require us either to repurchase the loan or indemnify the investor for incurred losses.

Originations

We believe our exposure to representation and warranty claims is most significant for loans sold between 2004 through 2008, specifically the 2006 and 2007 vintages which were originated and sold prior to enhanced underwriting standards and risk-mitigation actions implemented in 2008 and forward, including product offerings which are more conservative. Since 2009, we have focused primarily on prime conforming and government-insured mortgages in the United States and high-quality government-insured residential mortgages in Canada. In addition, we ceased offering interest-only jumbo mortgages in 2010. Our representation and warranty risk-mitigation strategies include, but are not limited to, pursuing settlements with investors where economically beneficial in order to resolve a pipeline of demands in lieu of loan by loan assessments that could result in us repurchasing loans, aggressively contesting claims we do not consider valid (rescinding claims), or actively seeking recourse against correspondent lenders from whom we purchased loans.

Repurchase Process

As soon as practical, after receiving a claim under representation and warranty obligations, we evaluate the request and take appropriate action. Historically, repurchase demands were related to loans that became delinquent within the first few years following origination and varied by investor. As a result of market developments over the past several years repurchase demand behavior has changed significantly. Direct investors, GSEs, and whole-loan investors are more likely to submit claims for loans that become delinquent at any time while a loan is outstanding or when a loan incurs a loss. Actual incurred losses more significantly drive monoline investor behavior, which can significantly extend the period over which claims are likely to be presented. This occurs because insurance claims paid by the monolines are not required until overcollateralization is depleted and the monolines are not incented to request loan repurchases until they have paid the insurance claims. Representation and warranty claims are generally reviewed on

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

a loan by loan basis to validate if there has been a breach requiring a potential repurchase or indemnification payment. We actively contest claims to the extent we do not consider them valid. We are not required to either repurchase the loan or provide an indemnification payment where claims are not valid.

We seek to manage the risk of repurchase and the associated credit exposure through our underwriting and quality assurance practices and by servicing mortgage loans to meet investor standards. We believe that, in general, the longer a loan performs prior to default the less likely it is that an alleged breach of representation and warranty will have a material impact on the loan’s performance. When we do repurchase loans, we bear the subsequent credit loss on the loans. Repurchased loans are classified as held-for-sale and initially recorded at fair value. While investors’ repurchase and demand behavior has changed given the recent market conditions, we continue to maintain constructive relationships with the GSEs and other investors.

Representation and Warranty Obligation Reserve Methodology

The reserve for representation and warranty obligations reflects management’s best estimate of probable lifetime loss. We consider historical and recent demand trends in establishing the reserve. The methodology used to estimate the reserve considers a variety of assumptions including borrower performance (both actual and estimated future defaults), repurchase demand behavior, historical loan defect experience, and historical and estimated future loss experience, which includes projections of future home price changes as well as other qualitative factors including investor behavior. In cases where we do not have or have limited current or historical demand experience with an investor, it is difficult to predict and estimate the level and timing of any potential future demands. As such, losses cannot currently be reasonably estimated and a liability is not recognized. Management monitors the adequacy of the overall reserve and makes adjustments to the level of reserve, as necessary, after consideration of other qualitative factors including ongoing dialogue with counterparties.

At the time a loan is sold, an estimate of the fair value of the liability is recorded and classified in accrued expenses and other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheet and recorded as a component of gain (loss) on mortgage and automotive loans, net, in our Consolidated Statement of Income. We recognize changes in the reserve when additional relevant information becomes available. Changes in the liability are recorded as other operating expenses in our Consolidated Statement of Income. The repurchase reserve at December 31, 2010, primarily represents exposure not related to the GSEs.

The following tables summarize the changes in our reserve for representation and warranty obligations.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
         2010             2009      
     ($ in millions)  

Balance at January 1,

   $ 1,263      $ 231   

Provision for mortgage representation and warranty expenses

    

Loan sales

     70        11   

Change in estimate — continuing operations

     670        1,475   

Change in estimate — discontinued operations

            6   
                

Total additions

     740        1,492   

Realized losses (a)

     (1,185     (450

Recoveries

     12        9   

Transfer to discontinued operations

            (19
                

Balance at December 31,

   $ 830      $ 1,263   
                

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

 

(a) Includes principal losses and accrued interest on repurchased loans, indemnification payments, and settlements with counterparty.

Government sponsored Enterprises

Between 2004 and 2008, we sold $250.8 billion of loans. Each GSE has specific guidelines and criteria for sellers and servicers of loans underlying their securities. In addition, the risk of credit loss of the loan sold was generally transferred to investors upon sale of the securities into the secondary market. Conventional conforming loans were sold to either Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae, and government-insured loans were securitized with Ginnie Mae. For the year ended December 31, 2010, we received $842 million in repurchase claims of which $784 million are associated with the 2004 through 2008 vintages of loans sold to the GSEs. We resolved $968 million claims including $756 million in either settlement, repurchase, or indemnification payments and $212 million related to rescinded claims. Our representation and warranty obligation liability with respect to the GSEs considers the existing unresolved claims and our best estimate of future claims we might receive. We consider our experiences with the each GSE in evaluating our liability. During 2010, we reached agreements with Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae which resolve material repurchase obligations with each counterparty.

In March 2010, certain of our mortgage subsidiaries entered into an agreement with Freddie Mac under which we made a one-time payment to Freddie Mac for the release of repurchase obligations relating to most of the mortgage loans sold to Freddie Mac prior to January 1, 2009. The agreement does not cover any violation of servicing obligations related to any failure to comply with any requirements of law applicable to foreclosing on property serving as collateral for any applicable mortgage loan. This agreement does not release any of our obligations with respect to loans where our subsidiary, Ally Bank, is the owner of the servicing.

On December 23, 2010, certain of our mortgage subsidiaries entered into an agreement with Fannie Mae under which we made a one-time payment to Fannie Mae for the release of repurchase obligations, including private label securitization exposure, related to most of the mortgage loans we sold to Fannie Mae prior to June 30, 2010. We continue to be responsible for other contractual obligations we have with Fannie Mae including all indemnification obligations that may arise in connection with the servicing of the mortgages. The agreement does not cover any violation of servicing obligations related to any failure to comply with any requirements of law applicable to foreclosing on property serving as collateral for any applicable mortgage loan. This agreement does not release any of our obligations with respect to loans where our subsidiary, Ally Bank, is the owner of the servicing.

The FHFA as conservator of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, announced on July 12, 2010, that it issued 64 subpoenas to various entities seeking documents related to private-label mortgage-backed securities in which Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac had invested. Certain of these subpoenas were directed at our mortgage subsidiaries. In connection with the agreement reached with Fannie Mae, the FHFA has agreed to withdraw those subpoenas that relate to Fannie Mae while the subpoenas that relate to Freddie Mac remain open.

Whole-loan Sales

In addition to the settlements with the GSEs noted earlier, we have settled with several whole-loan investors concerning alleged breaches of underwriting standards. For the year ended December 31, 2010, we have received $126 million in repurchase claims of which $120 million are associated with the 2004 through 2008 vintages of loans sold to whole-loan investors. We resolved $108 million of claims, including $44 million in either settlements, repurchases, or indemnification payments and $64 million related to rescinded claims.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

Monoline Insurers

Historically, our Mortgage operations have securitized whole loans where the monolines have insured all or some of the related bonds and have guaranteed the timely repayment of bond principal and interest when an issuer defaults. Overall, the representation and warranty obligations to monoline insurers are not as stringent as those to the GSEs and impose a higher burden of proof on the insurer. Typically, any alleged breach requires the insurer to have both the ability to assert a claim as well as evidence that a defect has had a material adverse effect on the interest of the security holders or the insurer. For the period 2004 through 2008, we sold $42.7 billion of loans into these monoline-wrapped securitizations. For the year ended December 31, 2010, we received $151 million in repurchase claims from the monolines associated with the 2004 through 2008 securitizations. We resolved $43 million of the claims including $36 million of indemnification payments and $7 million related to rescinded claims.

Unlike the repurchase protocols and experience established with the GSEs, experience with monolines has not been as predictable. A significant portion of the outstanding unresolved monoline repurchase claims are with one insurer with whom we are currently in litigation.

Private-label Securitization

Historically, our Mortgage operations were very active in the securitization market selling whole loans into special-purpose entities and selling these private-label mortgage backed securities to investors. We have issued private-label mortgage-backed securities infrequently since 2007.

In general, representations and warranties provided as part of our securitization activities are less rigorous than those provided to the GSEs and generally impose higher burdens on investors seeking repurchase. In order to successfully assert a claim, an investor must prove breach of the representations and warranties that materially and adversely affects the interest of all investors. Securitization documents typically provide the investors with a right to request that the trustee investigate and initiate a repurchase claim. However, a class of investors generally are required to coordinate with other investors in that class comprising not less than 25% of the percentage interest constituting a class of securities for that class issued by the trust to pursue claims for breach of representations and warranties. In addition, our private-label securitizations generally require that the servicer or trustee give notice to the other parties whenever it becomes aware of facts or circumstances that reveal a breach of representation that materially and adversely affects the interest of the certificate holders. If, for example, we as servicer became aware of such facts and circumstances, we would typically be required to initiate a repurchase at that time. The GSEs were among the purchasers of securities in our private-label securitizations.

Regarding our securitization activities, we have exposure to potential loss primarily through two avenues. First, investors may request that we repurchase loans or make the investor whole for losses incurred if it is determined that we violated representations and warranties made at the time of the sale. Contractual representations and warranties are different based on the specific deal structure and investor. Second, investors in securitizations may attempt to achieve rescission of their investments, or damages through litigation by claiming that the applicable offering documents were materially deficient. If an investor properly made and proved its allegations, the investor might attempt to claim that damages could include loss of market value on the investment even if there were little or no credit loss in the underlying loans. We have a limited amount of repurchase experience with these investors, and therefore it is currently not possible to estimate future repurchase obligations and any related loss or range of loss.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

31. Quarterly Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

     First
quarter
    Second
quarter
    Third
quarter
    Fourth
quarter
 
     ($ in millions)  

2010

        

Net financing revenue

   $ 752      $ 709      $ 590      $ 530   

Total other revenue

     1,098        1,388        1,457        1,378   
                                

Total net revenue

     1,850        2,097        2,047        1,908   

Provision for loan losses

     144        218        9        71   

Other noninterest expense

     1,519        1,444        1,713        1,605   
                                

Income from continuing operations before income tax expense

     187        435        325        232   

Income tax expense from continuing operations

     36        33        48        36   
                                

Net income from continuing operations

     151        402        277        196   
                                

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

     11        163        (8     (117
                                

Net income

   $ 162      $ 565      $ 269      $ 79   
                                
     (per share data in whole dollars)  

Basic earnings per common share (a)(b)

        

(Loss) income from continuing operations

   $ (439   $ 472      $ (64   $ (1,005

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

     13        204        (9     (146
                                

Net (loss) income

   $ (426   $ 676      $ (73   $ (1,151
                                

Diluted earnings per common share (a)(b)

        

(Loss) income from continuing operations

   $ (439   $ 211      $ (64   $ (1,005

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

     13        91        (9     (146
                                

Net (loss) income

   $ (426   $ 302      $ (73   $ (1,151
                                
     ($ in millions)  

2009

        

Net financing revenue

   $ 459      $ 379      $ 564      $ 676   

Total other revenue

     1,247        865        1,407        898   
                                

Total net revenue

     1,706        1,244        1,971        1,574   

Provision for loan losses

     745        1,117        679        3,063   

Other noninterest expense

     1,650        1,723        2,163        2,314   
                                

Loss from continuing operations before income tax (benefit) expense

     (689     (1,596     (871     (3,803

Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations

     (128     1,093        (294     (597
                                

Net loss from continuing operations

     (561     (2,689     (577     (3,206
                                

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

     (114     (1,214     (190     (1,747
                                

Net loss

   $ (675   $ (3,903   $ (767   $ (4,953
                                

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

     First
quarter
    Second
quarter
    Third
quarter
    Fourth
quarter
 
     (per share data in whole dollars)  

Basic and diluted earnings per common share (a)

        

Loss from continuing operations

   $ (1,384   $ (5,408   $ (1,763   $ (6,816

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

     (229     (2,249     (351     (3,221
                                

Net loss

   $ (1,613   $ (7,657   $ (2,114   $ (10,037
                                
     ($ in millions)  

2008

        

Net financing revenue (loss)

   $ 702      $ 226      $ 464      $ (475

Total other revenue

     1,859        1,271        780        11,361   
                                

Total net revenue

     2,561        1,497        1,244        10,886   

Provision for loan losses

     431        642        837        1,192   

Other noninterest expense

     1,840        2,128        2,468        1,913   
                                

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense (benefit)

     290        (1,273     (2,061     7,781   

Income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations

     74        8        (116     (102
                                

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

     216        (1,281     (1,945     7,883   
                                

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

     (805     (1,201     (578     (421
                                

Net (loss) income

   $ (589   $ (2,482   $ (2,523   $ 7,462   
                                
     (per share data in whole dollars)  

Basic and diluted earnings per common share (a)

        

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 2,007      $ (11,870   $ (18,015   $ 70,643   

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

     (7,459     (11,117     (5,351     (3,772
                                

Net (loss) income

   $ (5,452   $ (22,987   $ (23,366   $ 66,871   
                                

 

(a) Due to averaging of shares, quarterly earnings per common share may not equal totals reported for the full year.
(b) The first quarter includes two quarterly cash dividends each on the Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2, and Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G, totaling $477 million, which are deducted from income to arrive at basic and diluted earnings per common share for the first quarter. Traditionally, the second dividends of $303 million would have been declared in the second quarter and deducted from income to arrive at basic and diluted earnings per common share for the second quarter.

32. Subsequent Events

Declaration of Quarterly Dividend Payments

On January 4, 2011, the Ally Board of Directors declared quarterly dividend payments on certain outstanding preferred stock. This included a cash dividend of $1.125 per share, or a total of $134 million, on Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2 and a cash dividend of $17.50 per share, or a total of $45 million, on Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G. The dividends were paid on February 15, 2011.

 

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ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — (Continued)

 

February 2011 Notes Offering and Debt Repurchase

On February 11, 2011, we completed a securities offering of $2.25 billion in aggregate principal amount of Ally senior guaranteed notes due February 2014. The offering included $1.0 billion of fixed rate notes at par to yield 4.5% and $1.25 billion of floating rate notes with the same maturity date to yield a spread of 320 basis points over the three-month London interbank offer rate.

In addition, in February, we repurchased certain debt that will result in a $42 million loss for the first quarter 2011. The loss primarily represented accelerated original issue discount amortization of $31 million that was scheduled to amortize in 2011.

 

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            Shares

LOGO

Common Stock

 

 

 

Preliminary Prospectus

                    , 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 


Table of Contents

The information in this preliminary prospectus is not complete and may be changed. The selling stockholder may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This preliminary prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.

 

[Alternate Pages for Units Prospectus]

Subject to Completion, Dated June 28, 2011

Preliminary Prospectus

LOGO

    % Tangible Equity Units

Ally Financial Inc.

The United States Department of the Treasury (“Treasury”) is offering tangible equity units, or “Units,” of Ally Financial Inc. (“Ally”). See “Principal and Selling Stockholders.” Ally will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of Units by Treasury.

Each Unit has a stated amount of $             and is composed of a prepaid stock purchase contract and a junior subordinated amortizing note due                     , 2014. Each amortizing note has an initial principal amount of $             and a scheduled final installment payment date of                     , 2014.

On                     , 2014 (subject to postponement in certain limited circumstances), each purchase contract will automatically settle, unless settled earlier as described herein, and we will deliver a number of shares of our common stock based on the applicable market value of our common stock. The applicable market value is the average of the daily volume weighted average prices, or daily VWAPs, of our common stock on each of the 20 consecutive trading days beginning on, and including, the 23rd scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014.

On the mandatory settlement date, each purchase contract will settle, unless settled earlier, as follows (subject to adjustment):

 

   

if the applicable market value equals or exceeds the threshold appreciation price, which is $            , you will receive                           shares of our common stock;

 

   

if the applicable market value is greater than $             but less than the threshold appreciation price, you will receive a number of shares of our common stock having a value, based on the applicable market value, equal to $            ; and

 

   

if the applicable market value is less than or equal to $            , you will receive              shares of our common stock.

At any time prior to the close of business on the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014, you may settle your purchase contract early, and we will deliver              shares of our common stock per purchase contract (subject to adjustment). In addition, if a “fundamental change” (as defined herein) occurs and you elect to settle your purchase contracts early in connection with such fundamental change, you will receive a number of shares of our common stock based on the fundamental change early settlement rate, as described herein. We may elect to settle all, but not less than all, outstanding purchase contracts prior to                     , 2014 at the “early mandatory settlement rate” (as defined herein), upon a date fixed by us upon not less than 10 business days’ notice. Except for cash in lieu of fractional shares, the purchase contract holders will not receive any cash distributions under the purchase contracts.

The amortizing notes will pay you equal quarterly cash installments of $             per amortizing note, which in the aggregate will be equivalent to     % per year with respect to each $             stated amount of Units. So long as no event of default has occurred and is continuing, we have the right, at any time and from time to time, to defer installment payments by extending the installment payment period, so long as such period does not extend beyond                     , 2017, which we refer to as an “extension period.” At the end of any extension period, we will pay all installment payments for which the related installment payment date occurred during such extension period, together with interest on the full amount of such installment payments compounded quarterly at the rate specified for the interest component of the amortizing notes. The amortizing notes will be our junior subordinated obligations, and will rank (i) junior both in liquidation and right of payment, to the extent set forth in the junior subordinated debt indenture, to all of our “Senior Indebtedness” (as defined herein) and (ii) equally with all of our unsecured, junior subordinated indebtedness, whether currently existing or hereinafter created, other than junior subordinated indebtedness that is designated as junior to the amortizing notes. If we elect to settle the purchase contracts early, you will have the right to require us to repurchase your amortizing notes, except in certain circumstances as described herein.

Each Unit may be separated into its constituent purchase contract and amortizing note after the initial issuance date of the Units, and the separate components may be combined to create a Unit.

Concurrently with this offering, Treasury is also making a public offering of              shares of our common stock. Treasury has granted the underwriters of that offering an option to purchase up to an additional              shares of our common stock to cover over-allotments. The closing of the offering of Units is conditioned upon the closing of the offering of our common stock, and the closing of the offering of our common stock is conditioned upon the closing of the offering of Units.

Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for the Units or our common stock. We have applied to list the Units and our common stock on the New York Stock Exchange, subject to satisfaction of its minimum listing standards with respect to the Units and our common stock. If the Units are approved for listing, we expect trading to begin within 30 calendar days after the date on which the Units are first issued. However, we do not intend to apply to list the separate purchase contracts or the separate amortizing notes on any securities exchange or automated inter-dealer quotation system.

Treasury has granted the underwriters the right to purchase up to              additional Units to cover over-allotments, if any, at the public offering price less the underwriters’ discount, within 30 days from the date of this prospectus.

Investing in the Units involves risks. See “Risk Factors” beginning on page 10.

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

Neither the Units, the purchase contracts nor the amortizing notes are deposits or savings accounts. These securities are not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency or instrumentality.

 

     Per Unit      Total  

Public Offering Price and Proceeds to Treasury

   $                   $               

Underwriting Discount, and Commissions (1)

   $                   $               

 

(1) Ally has agreed to pay all underwriting discounts and commissions, transfer taxes and transaction fees, if any, applicable to the sale of the Units and the fees and disbursement of counsel for Treasury incurred in connection with the sale.

The underwriters expect to deliver the Units to purchasers on or about                     , 2011 through the book-entry facilities of The Depository Trust Company.

 

Citi   Goldman, Sachs & Co.   J.P. Morgan   Morgan Stanley

 

Barclays Capital    Deutsche Bank Securities

The date of this prospectus is                     , 2011


Table of Contents

The Offering

The summary below describes the principal terms of the Units, the purchase contracts and the amortizing notes. Certain of the terms and conditions described below are subject to important limitations and exceptions. The “Description of the Units,” “Description of the Purchase Contracts” and “Description of the Amortizing Notes” sections of this prospectus contain a more detailed description of the terms and conditions of the Units, the purchase contracts and the amortizing notes. As used in this section, each of the terms “we,” “us,” “our,” and “Ally” means Ally Financial Inc. and does not include any subsidiary of Ally Financial Inc.

Treasury currently holds 118,750,000 shares of our Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2 (the “Series F-2 preferred stock”), having an aggregate liquidation amount of $5,937,500,000. In connection with this offering and the concurrent common stock offering, Treasury intends (i) to convert (the “conversion”) 58,750,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock into shares of our common stock based on a conversion price equal to the public offering price of our common stock in the concurrent common stock offering (the “common stock public offering price”), which, based on the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of the prospectus for the concurrent common stock offering, would result in the conversion of the Series F-2 preferred stock into              shares of common stock and              additional shares of our common stock pursuant to the modified terms of the Series F-2 preferred stock, and (ii) to exchange (the “exchange”) the remaining 60,000,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock having an aggregate liquidation amount of $3 billion, for a number of Units having an aggregate stated amount of $3 billion. See “Concurrent Transactions.” The closing of each of this Units offering, the concurrent common stock offering, the conversion and the exchange is conditioned upon the closing of each such other transaction. Unless the context otherwise requires, the following description of us and the Units assumes the successful completion of each of this Units offering, the concurrent common stock offering, the conversion and the exchange.

The Units

 

Issuer

Ally Financial Inc., a Delaware corporation.

 

Number of Units offered by Treasury

             Units. Treasury has granted the underwriters the right to purchase up to              additional Units to cover over-allotments, if any, at the public offering price less the underwriters’ discount, within 30 days from the date of this prospectus.

 

Stated amount and initial offering price of each Unit

$             for each Unit.

 

Components of each Unit

Each Unit is composed of two parts:

 

   

a prepaid stock purchase contract (a “purchase contract”); and

 

   

a junior subordinated amortizing note (an “amortizing note”).

 

  Unless settled earlier at the holder’s option or our option, each purchase contract will automatically settle, subject to postponement in certain limited circumstances, on                     , 2014 (such date, as so postponed, if applicable, the “mandatory settlement date”), and we will deliver not more than              shares and not less than              shares of our common stock per purchase contract, subject to adjustment, based upon the applicable settlement rate and applicable market value of our common stock, as described below under “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Delivery of Common Stock.”

 

 

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  No fractional shares of our common stock will be issued to holders upon settlement of purchase contracts. In lieu of fractional shares, holders will be entitled to receive a cash payment of equivalent value calculated as described herein. Other than cash payments in lieu of fractional shares, the purchase contract holders will not receive any cash distributions under the purchase contracts.

 

  Each amortizing note will have an initial principal amount of $            , will bear interest at the rate of     % per annum and will have a scheduled final installment payment date of                     , 2014. On             ,             ,              and              of each year, commencing on                     , 2011, we will pay equal quarterly cash installments of $             per amortizing note (except for the                     , 2011 installment payment, which will be $         per amortizing note), which in the aggregate will be equivalent to     % per year with respect to each $         stated amount of Units. Each installment payment will constitute a payment of interest and a partial repayment of principal, allocated as set forth on the amortization schedule set forth under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Amortization Schedule.” We will have the right to defer installment payments at any time and from time to time under the circumstances, and subject to the conditions, described opposite the caption “Option to extend installment payment period” below, so long as such deferral period does not extend beyond                     , 2017.

 

  The return to an investor on a Unit will depend upon the return provided by each component. The overall return will consist of the value of the shares of our common stock delivered upon settlement of the purchase contracts and the cash installments paid on the amortizing notes.

 

Each Unit may be separated into, and recreated from, its components

Each Unit may be separated by a holder into its constituent purchase contract and amortizing note on any business day during the period beginning on, and including, the business day immediately following the date of initial issuance of the Units to, but excluding, the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014 or any “early mandatory settlement date,” as defined below. Prior to separation, the purchase contracts and amortizing notes may only be purchased and transferred together as Units. If you hold a separate purchase contract and a separate amortizing note, you may combine the two components to recreate a Unit. See “Description of the Units—Separating and Recreating Units.”

 

Trading

Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for the Units or our common stock. We have applied to list the Units and our common stock being offered concurrently with this offering on the New York Stock Exchange, subject to satisfaction of its minimum listing standards with respect to the Units and our common stock. If the Units are approved for listing, we expect trading to begin within 30 calendar days after the Units are first issued. However, we do not

 

 

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intend to apply to list the separate purchase contracts or the separate amortizing notes on any securities exchange or automated inter-dealer quotation system. See “Description of the Units—Listing of Securities.”

 

Use of proceeds

We will not receive any proceeds from the sale of Units in this offering.

 

United States federal income tax considerations

Although there is no authority directly on point and therefore the issue is not entirely free from doubt, each Unit will be treated as an investment unit composed of two separate instruments for U.S. federal income tax purposes: (i) a purchase contract and (ii) an amortizing note. Under this treatment, a holder of Units will be treated as if it held each component of the Units for U.S. federal income tax purposes. By acquiring a Unit, you will agree to treat (i) a Unit as an investment unit composed of two separate instruments in accordance with its form and (ii) the amortizing notes as indebtedness of Ally for U.S. federal income tax purposes. If, however, the components of a Unit were treated as a single instrument, the U.S. federal income tax consequences could differ from the consequences described herein.

 

  Holders should read the discussion in “Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations” and consult their tax advisers regarding the tax treatment of an investment in Units and whether a purchase of a Unit is advisable in light of the investor’s particular tax situation.

The Purchase Contracts

 

Mandatory settlement date

                    , 2014, subject to postponement in limited circumstances.

 

Mandatory settlement

On the mandatory settlement date, unless a purchase contract has been settled earlier, each purchase contract will automatically settle, and we will deliver a number of shares of our common stock, based on the applicable settlement rate.

 

Settlement rate for the mandatory settlement date

The “settlement rate” for each purchase contract will be not more than              shares and not less than              shares of our common stock (each subject to adjustment as described herein) depending on the applicable market value of our common stock, calculated as described below.

 

   

If the applicable market value is equal to or greater than the threshold appreciation price (as defined below), you will receive              shares of common stock per purchase contract (the “minimum settlement rate”).

 

   

If the applicable market value is greater than $             (the “reference price”) but less than the threshold appreciation price,

 

 

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you will receive a number of shares per purchase contract equal to $            , divided by the applicable market value.

 

   

If the applicable market value is less than or equal to the reference price, you will receive              shares of common stock per purchase contract (the “maximum settlement rate”).

 

  Each of the maximum settlement rate and the minimum settlement rate is subject to adjustment as described below under “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Adjustments to the Fixed Settlement Rates.”

 

  The “applicable market value” means the average of the “daily VWAPs” (as defined below) of our common stock on each of the 20 consecutive trading days beginning on, and including, the 23rd scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014.

 

  The reference price is the public offering price of our common stock in the concurrent common stock offering described above.

 

  The “threshold appreciation price” is equal to $            , divided by the minimum settlement rate (rounded to the nearest $0.01). The threshold appreciation price, which is initially $            , represents an appreciation of approximately     % over the reference price.

 

  No fractional shares of our common stock will be issued to holders upon settlement of purchase contracts. In lieu of fractional shares, holders will be entitled to receive a cash payment of equivalent value calculated as described herein. Other than cash payments in lieu of fractional shares, the purchase contract holders will not receive any cash distributions under the purchase contracts.

The following table illustrates the settlement rate per purchase contract and the value of our common stock issuable upon settlement on the mandatory settlement date, determined using the applicable market value shown, subject to adjustment.

 

Applicable Market Value of Our
Common Stock

  

Settlement Rate

  

Value of Common Stock Delivered
(Based on the Applicable Market
Value Thereof)

Less than or equal to $

                shares of our common stock    Less than $            

Greater than $             but less than the threshold appreciation price

  

 

A number of shares of our common

stock equal to $             , divided by the applicable market value

  

 

             $            

Equal to or greater than the threshold appreciation price

                shares of our common stock    Greater than $            

Early settlement at your election

   At any time prior to the close of business on the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014, you may settle any or all of your purchase contracts early, and we will deliver to you a number of shares of our common stock per purchase contract equal

 

 

 

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to the minimum settlement rate, which is subject to adjustment as described below under “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Adjustments to the Fixed Settlement Rates.” That is, the market value of our common stock on the early settlement date will not affect the early settlement rate.

 

  However, if you settle your purchase contracts early in connection with a “fundamental change” (as defined herein), you will receive a number of shares of our common stock based on the “fundamental change early settlement rate,” as described under “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Early Settlement Upon a Fundamental Change.”

 

  Your right to settle a purchase contract prior to the close of business on the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014 is subject to delivery of your purchase contract.

 

  Upon early settlement at your election of a purchase contract that is a component of a Unit (whether or not in connection with a fundamental change), the corresponding amortizing note will remain outstanding and registered in the name of the holder who elected to settle the related purchase contract early.

 

Early mandatory settlement at our election

We may elect to settle all, but not fewer than all, outstanding purchase contracts early at the “early mandatory settlement rate” (as described under “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Early Settlement at Our Election”) upon a date fixed by us upon not less than 10 business days’ notice (the “early mandatory settlement date”).

 

  The “early mandatory settlement rate” will be the maximum settlement rate, unless the daily VWAP of our common stock for 20 or more trading days in a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on the trading day immediately preceding the “notice date” (as defined under “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Early Settlement at Our Election”) exceeds 130% of the threshold appreciation price in effect on each such trading day, in which case the “early mandatory settlement rate” will be the fundamental change early settlement rate with the “effective date” for this purpose being deemed to be the early mandatory settlement date and the “stock price” for this purpose being deemed to be the average of the daily VWAPs of our common stock over the 10 consecutive trading day period ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the early mandatory settlement date.

 

  If we elect to settle the purchase contracts early, holders will have the right to require us to repurchase their amortizing notes for cash at the repurchase price, except in the certain circumstances, and subject to the conditions, described under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Repurchase of Amortizing Notes at the Option of the Holder.”

The Amortizing Notes

 

Initial principal amount of each amortizing note

$            

 

 

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Installment payments

Each installment payment of $             per amortizing note (except for the                     , 2011 installment payment, which will be $             per amortizing note) will be paid in cash and will constitute a partial repayment of principal and a payment of interest, computed at an annual rate of %. Interest will be calculated on the basis of a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months. Payments will be applied first to the interest due and payable and then to the reduction of the unpaid principal amount, allocated as set forth on the amortization schedule set forth under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Amortization Schedule.”

 

Installment payment dates

            ,             ,              and              of each year, commencing on                     , 2011, with a scheduled final installment payment date of                     , 2014.

 

Option to extend installment payment period

So long as no event of default has occurred and is continuing, we have the right, at any time and from time to time, to defer installment payments by extending the installment payment period, so long as such period of time does not extend beyond                     , 2017 (the “extension period”). At the end of any extension period, we will pay all installment payments for which the related installment payment date occurred during such extension period, together with, to the extent permitted by law, interest on the full amount of such installment payments compounded quarterly at the rate specified for the interest component of the amortizing notes. We will give the holders of Units and separate amortizing notes at least 10 business days’ notice of the end of an extension period.

 

  Prior to the termination of any extension period, we may further defer installment payments by extending such extension period. Such extension period, including all such previous and further extensions, may not extend beyond                     , 2017. Upon the termination of any extension period and the payment of all amounts then due, we may commence a new extension period, if consistent with the terms described under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Option to Extend Installment Payment Period.” No installment payment (or interest thereon) shall be due and payable during an extension period, except at the end of such period.

 

  We have no present intention of exercising our right to defer installment payments by extending the installment payment period on the amortizing notes.

 

Ranking of the amortizing notes

The amortizing notes will be our junior subordinated obligations and will rank:

 

   

junior both in liquidation and right of payment to all “Senior Indebtedness” (as defined under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Subordination”);

 

 

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effectively junior in right of payment to any of our secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness;

 

   

structurally junior to all existing and future indebtedness (including trade payables) incurred by our subsidiaries; and

 

   

equal with all of our junior subordinated indebtedness, whether currently existing or hereinafter created, other than junior subordinated indebtedness that is designated as junior to the amortizing notes, to which the amortizing notes will rank senior.

 

  At March 31, 2011, we had approximately $98.1 billion in principal amount of total debt outstanding, consisting of $54.9 billion and $43.2 billion in principal amount of unsecured and secured debt, respectively. At March 31, 2011, Ally on a standalone basis had approximately $49.9 billion in aggregate principal amount of total debt outstanding, all of which was unsecured. At March 31, 2011, we had aggregate principal amount of $2.7 billion of trust preferred securities outstanding.

 

The indenture governing the amortizing notes does not limit the amount of debt that we or our subsidiaries may incur.

 

Repurchase of amortizing notes at the option of the holder

If we elect to settle the purchase contracts early, holders will have the right to require us to repurchase their amortizing notes for cash at the repurchase price, except in the circumstances, and subject to the conditions, described under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Repurchase of Amortizing Notes at the Option of the Holder.”

 

Concurrent transactions

Treasury currently holds 118,750,000 shares of our Series F-2 preferred stock, having an aggregate liquidation amount of $5,937,500,000. In connection with this offering and the concurrent common stock offering, Treasury intends (i) to convert 58,750,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock into shares of our common stock based on a conversion price equal to the common stock public offering price, and (ii) to exchange the remaining 60,000,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock having an aggregate liquidation amount of $3 billion, for a number of our tangible equity units (the “Units”) having an aggregate stated amount of $3 billion.

 

 

The number of shares of common stock we will issue to Treasury in connection with the conversion will depend upon the common stock public offering price. The higher the common stock public offering price is, the fewer the number of shares of common stock Treasury will receive and the lower the common stock public offering price is, the greater the number of shares of common stock Treasury will receive. The following table sets forth the number of shares we will

 

 

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issue to Treasury in connection with the conversion for each common stock public offering price set forth below:

Public Offering Price

   Number of Shares
Issued to Treasury
 

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

 

  In addition, we and Treasury intend to modify certain terms of the Series F-2 preferred stock relating to the anti-dilution provisions applicable to the common stock received by Treasury from its partial conversion of Series F-2 preferred stock in December 2010, so that Treasury will receive              additional shares of our common stock in connection with the offering.

Concurrently with this offering, Treasury is also making a public offering of                      shares of our common stock. Treasury has granted the underwriters of that offering an option to purchase up to an additional              shares of our common stock to cover over-allotments.

 

  The closing of each of this offering, the concurrent common stock offering, the conversion and the exchange is conditioned upon the closing of each such other transaction.

Certain Accounting Treatment of Treasury’s Conversion and Receipt of Additional Shares

In connection with Treasury’s intention to convert shares of Series F-2 preferred stock it holds into common stock as part of this offering and at the common stock public offering price, Treasury will receive a number of shares of our common stock in excess of the amount it would have received pursuant to the stated conversion rate in the Series F-2 preferred stock. In addition, as stated above, Treasury will also receive additional shares of our common stock as a result of an agreed upon modification to the terms of the Series F-2 preferred stock. The value of these additional shares received by Treasury will be treated as a dividend or equivalent for financial reporting purposes.

 

  The issuance of these additional shares will be a one-time non-cash transaction, which will not affect the amount of our total equity. It will increase our accumulated deficit with an offsetting increase to common stock and paid-in capital, and the value of the non-cash dividend will reduce our net income attributable to common shareholders and therefore will substantially affect the calculation of earnings per share in the quarter in which this offering closes and the full year.

 

  Assuming that the public offering price of our common stock in the concurrent offering will be $             per share (the midpoint of the range set forth on the cover of the prospectus for the concurrent common stock offering), net income attributable to common stock will be reduced by $                     in the quarter in which this offering closes and earnings per share will be reduced by $         per share due to this one time, non-cash transaction.

 

 

 

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RISK FACTORS

You should carefully consider the following risk factors that may affect our business, future operating results and financial condition, as well as the other information set forth in this prospectus before making a decision to invest in the Units. Any of the following risks could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. In such case, the trading price of the Units would likely decline due to any of these risks, and you may lose all or part of your investment.(1)

Risks Related to Ownership of the Units, Separate Purchase Contracts, Separate Amortizing Notes and Common Stock

You will bear the risk that the market value of our common stock may decline.

The purchase contracts, pursuant to which we will deliver to you shares of our common stock, are components of the Units. The number of shares of common stock that you will receive upon settlement of a purchase contract on the mandatory settlement date, whether as a component of a Unit or a separate purchase contract, will depend upon the applicable market value, which is equal to the average of the daily VWAPs of our common stock on each of the 20 consecutive trading days beginning on, and including, the 23rd scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014. There can be no assurance that the market value of the common stock received by you will be equal to or greater than the reference price of $            . If the applicable market value of our common stock is less than the reference price, then the market value of the common stock issued to you on the mandatory settlement date (assuming that the market value is the same as the applicable market value of the common stock) will be less than the effective price per share paid by you for such common stock on the date of issuance of the Units. Furthermore, because we will in no event deliver more than              shares (subject to adjustment as described herein) upon settlement of a purchase contact, the market value of the common stock delivered to you upon any early settlement may be less than the effective price per share paid by you for such common stock on the date of the issuance of the Units. Therefore, you assume the entire risk that the market value of our common stock may decline before the mandatory settlement date, early settlement date, fundamental change early settlement date or early mandatory settlement date, as applicable. Any decline in the market value of our common stock may be substantial.

The opportunity for equity appreciation provided by an investment in the Units is less than that provided by a direct investment in our common stock.

The aggregate market value of our common stock delivered to you upon settlement of a purchase contract on the mandatory settlement date generally will exceed the $             stated amount of each Unit only if the applicable market value of our common stock exceeds the threshold appreciation price. Therefore, during the period prior to the mandatory settlement date, an investment in a Unit affords less opportunity for equity appreciation than a direct investment in our common stock. If the applicable market value exceeds the reference price but is less than the threshold appreciation price, you will realize no equity appreciation on our common stock above the reference price. Furthermore, if the applicable market value exceeds the threshold appreciation price, you would receive only a portion of the appreciation in the market value of the shares of our common stock you would have received had you purchased shares of common stock with $             at the public offering price in the concurrent common stock offering. See “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Delivery of Common Stock” for a table showing the number of shares of common stock that you would receive at various applicable market values.

We may not be able to settle your purchase contracts and deliver shares of our common stock, or make payments on the amortizing notes, in the event that we file for bankruptcy.

Pursuant to the terms of the purchase contract agreement, your purchase contracts will automatically accelerate upon the occurrence of specified events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization with respect to

 

(1)  To replace the first paragraph under “Risk Factors” in the prospectus for the common stock offering.

 

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Ally. However, a bankruptcy court may prevent us from delivering our common stock to you in settlement of your purchase contracts. In such circumstances, we expect that your resulting claim for damages will rank equally with the claims of our common stockholders, in which case you will only be able to recover damages to the extent holders of our common stock receive any recovery. See “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Consequences of Bankruptcy.”

In addition, with respect to the amortizing notes, bankruptcy law generally prohibits the payment of pre-bankruptcy debt by a company that has commenced a bankruptcy case while the case is pending. If Ally becomes a debtor in a bankruptcy case, so long as the case was pending, you would likely not receive timely payments of principal or interest due under the amortizing note component of the Units and the subordination provisions of the notes would give the holders of “Senior Indebtedness” (as defined under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Subordination”) a prior right to receive any distributions on account of your claim until they were paid in full.

The trading prices for the Units, the purchase contracts and the amortizing notes will be directly affected by the trading prices for our common stock, the general level of interest rates and our credit quality, each of which is impossible to predict.

It is impossible to predict whether the prices of our common stock, interest rates or our credit quality will rise or fall. Trading prices of the common stock will be influenced by general stock market conditions and our operating results and business prospects and other factors described elsewhere in these “Risk Factors.”

The market for our common stock likely will influence, and be influenced by, any market that develops for the Units or the separate purchase contracts. For example, investors’ anticipation of the distribution into the market of the additional shares of common stock issuable upon settlement of the purchase contracts could depress the price of our common stock and increase the volatility of the common stock price, which could in turn depress the price of the Units or the separate purchase contracts. The price of our common stock also could be affected by possible sales of such common stock by investors who view the Units as a more attractive means of equity participation in Ally and by hedging or arbitrage trading activity that is likely to develop involving the Units, separate purchase contracts and the common stock. The arbitrage activity could, in turn, affect the trading prices of the Units, the separate purchase contracts and the common stock.

Developments in the equity-linked and convertible securities markets may adversely affect the market value of the Units.

Governmental actions that interfere with the ability of equity-linked and convertible securities investors to effect short sales of the underlying shares of common stock could significantly affect the market value of the Units. Such government actions would make the convertible arbitrage strategy that many equity-linked and convertible securities investors employ difficult to execute for outstanding equity-linked or convertible securities of any company whose shares of common stock are subject to such actions.

At an open meeting on February 24, 2010, the SEC adopted a new short sale price test through an amendment to Rule 201 of Regulation SHO. The amendments to Rule 201 became effective on May 10, 2010 and restrict short selling when the price of a “covered security” has triggered a “circuit breaker” by falling at least 10% in one day, at which point short sale orders can be displayed or executed only if the order price is above the current national best bid, subject to certain limited exceptions. Compliance with the amendments to Rule 201 was required by November 10, 2010. The new restrictions may interfere with the ability of investors in, and potential purchasers of, the Units, to effect short sales in our common stock and conduct the convertible arbitrage strategy that we believe some of them will employ, or seek to employ, with respect to the Units.

In addition, on June 10, 2010, the SEC approved a six-month pilot (the “circuit breaker pilot”) pursuant to which several national securities exchanges and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (“FINRA”)

 

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adopted rules to halt trading in securities included in the S&P 500 Index if the price of any such security moves 10% or more from a sale in a five-minute period. On September 10, 2010, the SEC approved an expansion of the circuit breaker pilot to include component securities of the Russell 1000 Index and over 300 exchange traded funds. Our common stock is not included in either the S&P 500 Index or the Russell 1000 Index and therefore is not subject to the circuit breaker pilot at this time. However, our common stock may in the future be included in either the S&P 500 Index or the Russell 1000 Index or the SEC could further expand the circuit breaker pilot in the future or adopt other rules that limit trading in response to market volatility. Any such additional regulatory actions may decrease or prevent an increase in the market price and/or liquidity of our common stock and/or interfere with the ability of investors in, and potential purchasers of, the Units, to effect hedging transactions in or relating to our common stock and conduct the convertible arbitrage strategy that we believe some of them will employ, or will seek to employ, with respect to the Units and/or separate purchase contracts.

Although the direction and magnitude of the effect that the amendments to Regulation SHO, the circuit breaker pilot and any additional regulations may have on the trading price and the liquidity of the Units will depend on a variety of factors, many of which cannot be determined at this time, past regulatory actions have had a significant impact on the trading prices and liquidity of convertible debt instruments. For example, in September 2008, the SEC issued emergency orders generally prohibiting short sales in the common stock of a variety of financial services companies while Congress worked to provide a comprehensive legislative plan to stabilize the credit and capital markets. The orders made the convertible arbitrage strategy that many convertible debt investors employ difficult to execute and adversely affected both the liquidity and trading price of convertible notes issued by many of the financial services companies subject to the prohibition. Any governmental actions that restrict the ability of investors in, or potential purchasers of, the Units to effect short sales in our common stock or to implement hedging strategies, including the recently adopted amendments to Regulation SHO, could similarly adversely affect the trading price and the liquidity of the Units and/or separate purchase contracts.

You may receive shares of common stock upon settlement of the purchase contracts that are lower in value than the price of the common stock just prior to the mandatory settlement date.

Because the applicable market value of the common stock is determined over the 20 consecutive trading days beginning on, and including, the 23rd scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014, the number of shares of common stock delivered for each purchase contract may, on the mandatory settlement date, be greater than or less than the number that would have been delivered based on the daily VWAP of the common stock on the last trading day in such 20 trading day period. In addition, you will bear the risk of fluctuations in the market price of the shares of common stock deliverable upon settlement of the purchase contracts between the end of such period and the date such shares are delivered.

If you elect to settle your purchase contracts prior to the mandatory settlement date, you may not receive the same return on your investment as purchasers whose purchase contracts are settled on the mandatory settlement date.

Holders of the Units or separate purchase contracts have the option to settle their purchase contracts early at any time beginning on, and including, the business day immediately following the date of initial issuance of the Units until the close of business on the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014. However, if you settle your purchase contracts prior to the close of business on the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014, you will receive for each purchase contract a number of shares of common stock equal to the minimum settlement rate, regardless of the current market value of our common stock, unless you elect to settle your purchase contracts early in connection with a fundamental change, in which case you will be entitled to settle your purchase contracts at the fundamental change early settlement rate, which may be greater than the minimum settlement rate. In either case, you may not receive the same return on your investment as purchasers whose purchase contracts are settled on the mandatory settlement date.

 

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Upon issuance of the Units, our common stock will incur immediate dilution.

Upon issuance of the Units, which includes a purchase contract component, our common stock will incur immediate and substantial net tangible book value dilution on a per share basis.

We may issue additional shares of our common stock, which may dilute the value of our common stock but may not trigger an anti-dilution adjustment under the terms of the purchase contracts.

The trading price of our common stock may be adversely affected if we issue additional shares of our common stock. The number of shares of common stock issuable upon settlement of the purchase contracts is subject to adjustment only for certain events, including, but not limited to, the issuance of stock dividends on our common stock, the issuance of certain rights or warrants, subdivisions, combinations, distributions of capital stock, indebtedness or assets, certain cash dividends and certain issuer tender or exchange offers. The number of shares of common stock deliverable upon settlement is not subject to adjustment for other events that may adversely affect the value of our common stock, such as employee stock options grants, offerings of our common stock for cash, certain exchanges of our common stock for other Ally securities or in connection with acquisitions and other transactions. The terms of the Units do not restrict our ability to offer our common stock in the future or to engage in other transactions that could dilute our common stock, which may adversely affect the value of the Units and separate purchase contracts.

If we exercise our right to defer installment payments on the amortizing notes, the market price of the Units and separate amortizing notes is likely to be adversely affected.

We will have the right to defer installment payments at any time and from time to time under the circumstances, and subject to the conditions, described under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Option to Extend Installment Payment Period” so long as such deferral period does not extend beyond                     , 2017. During any such deferral period, holders of the Units and separate amortizing notes will have no remedies against us for nonpayment unless we fail to pay all previously deferred installment payments (including interest thereon) in cash within 30 days of the last day of such deferral period. If we exercise our right to defer installment payments, the market price of the Units and separate amortizing notes may be more volatile than the market prices of other securities that are not subject to optional payment deferral features.

The fundamental change early settlement rate may not adequately compensate you.

If a “fundamental change” occurs and you elect to exercise your fundamental change early settlement right, you will be entitled to settle your purchase contracts at the fundamental change early settlement rate. Although the fundamental change early settlement rate is designed to compensate you for the lost option value of your purchase contracts as a result of the early settlement of the purchase contracts, this feature may not adequately compensate you for such loss. In addition, if the stock price in the fundamental change is greater than $             per share (subject to adjustment), this feature of the purchase contracts will not compensate you for any loss suffered in connection with a fundamental change. See “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Early Settlement Upon a Fundamental Change.”

Our obligation to settle the purchase contracts at the fundamental change early settlement rate could be considered a penalty, in which case the enforceability thereof would be subject to general principles of reasonableness of economic remedies.

The amortizing notes will not provide holders with the right to require us to repurchase them upon a fundamental change.

The terms of the indenture governing the amortizing notes do not provide holders of amortizing notes with the right to require us to repurchase their amortizing notes upon the occurrence of a fundamental change.

 

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Accordingly, holders of our amortizing notes will bear the risk that any such fundamental change occurs and adversely affects our capital structure, credit ratings or the value of the amortizing notes.

Until you acquire our common stock, you are not entitled to any rights with respect to our common stock, but you are subject to all changes made with respect to our common stock.

Until you acquire our common stock upon settlement on the mandatory settlement date or any early settlement, you are not entitled to any rights with respect to our common stock, including voting rights and rights to receive any dividends or other distributions on our common stock, but you are subject to all changes affecting the common stock. You will have the rights with respect to shares of our common stock only when you become the holder of record of such shares. You will be deemed to be the holder of record of shares of our common stock issuable upon settlement of the purchase contracts as follows:

 

   

in the case of settlement of purchase contracts on the mandatory settlement date, as of the close of business on the last trading day of the 20 trading day period during which the applicable market value is determined;

 

   

in the case of settlement of purchase contracts in connection with any early settlement at the holder’s option, as of the close of business on the early settlement date;

 

   

in the case of settlement of purchase contracts following exercise of a holder’s fundamental change early settlement right, as of the close of business on the date such right is exercised; and

 

   

in the case of settlement of purchase contracts following exercise by us of our early mandatory settlement right, as of the close of business on the notice date.

For example, in the event that an amendment is proposed to our certificate of incorporation or bylaws requiring stockholder approval and the record date for determining the stockholders of record entitled to vote on the amendment occurs prior to the date you are deemed the owner of the shares of our common stock, you will not be entitled to vote on the amendment, although you will nevertheless be subject to any changes in the powers, preferences or special rights of our common stock once you become a stockholder.

The secondary market for the Units, the purchase contracts and the amortizing notes may be illiquid.

We have applied to list the Units and our common stock on the New York Stock Exchange, subject to satisfaction of its minimum listing standards with respect to the Units and our common stock. However, we can give you no assurance that the Units and our common stock will be so listed. If the Units are approved for listing, we expect that the Units will begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange within 30 calendar days after the date on which the Units are first issued. In addition, the underwriters have advised us that they intend to make a market in the Units. Listing on the New York Stock Exchange does not guarantee that a trading market will develop, and the underwriters may discontinue market making at any time in their sole discretion without prior notice to Unit holders. Accordingly we cannot assure you that a liquid trading market will develop for the Units (or, if developed, that a liquid trading market will be maintained), that you will be able to sell Units at a particular time or that the prices you receive when you sell will be favorable.

Beginning on the business day immediately succeeding the date of initial issuance of the Units, purchasers of Units will be able to separate each Unit into a purchase contract and an amortizing note. We are unable to predict how the separate purchase contracts or the separate amortizing notes will trade in the secondary market, or whether that market will be liquid or illiquid. We do not intend to apply to list the separate purchase contracts or the separate amortizing notes on any securities exchange or automated inter-dealer quotation system.

 

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The purchase contract agreement will not be qualified under the Trust Indenture Act, and the obligations of the purchase contract agent are limited.

The purchase contract agreement between us and the purchase contract agent will not be qualified as an indenture under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, and the purchase contract agent will not be required to qualify as a trustee under the Trust Indenture Act. Thus, you will not have the benefit of the protection of the Trust Indenture Act with respect to the purchase contract agreement or the purchase contract agent. The amortizing notes constituting a part of the Units will be issued pursuant to an indenture, which will be qualified under the Trust Indenture Act. Accordingly, if you hold Units, you will have the benefit of the protections of the Trust Indenture Act only to the extent applicable to the amortizing notes. The protections generally afforded the holder of a security issued under an indenture that has been qualified under the Trust Indenture Act include:

 

   

disqualification of the indenture trustee for “conflicting interests,” as defined under the Trust Indenture Act;

 

   

provisions preventing a trustee that is also a creditor of the issuer from improving its own credit position at the expense of the security holders immediately prior to or after a default under such indenture; and

 

   

the requirement that the indenture trustee deliver reports at least annually with respect to certain matters concerning the indenture trustee and the securities.

Our obligations to make payments on the amortizing notes are subordinate to our payment obligations under our Senior Indebtedness.

Our obligations under the amortizing notes rank junior in right of payment to all of its existing and future Senior Indebtedness, as defined under the caption “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Subordination.” In addition, the amortizing notes will not be guaranteed by any of our subsidiaries, which are separate legal entities that have no obligation to pay, or make funds available to pay, any amounts due on the amortizing notes. The amortizing notes will therefore be effectively subordinated to all indebtedness and other obligations, including trade payables and preferred stock, if any, of our subsidiaries. This means that, unless all Senior Indebtedness is repaid in full, we cannot make any payments on the amortizing notes if our unsecured indebtedness for borrowed money is accelerated in the event of our bankruptcy, insolvency or liquidation or if the amortizing notes are accelerated.

The terms of the indenture under which the amortizing notes will be issued do not limit our ability to incur additional debt, including secured or unsecured debt that will rank senior to the amortizing notes and purchase contracts.

We may not have the ability to raise the funds necessary to repurchase the amortizing notes following the exercise of our early mandatory settlement right, and our debt outstanding at that time may contain limitations on our ability to repurchase the amortizing notes.

If we elect to exercise our early mandatory settlement right, holders of the amortizing notes will have the right to require Ally to repurchase the amortizing notes on the repurchase date at the repurchase price described under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Repurchase of Amortizing Notes at the Option of the Holder.” However, we may not have enough available cash or be able to obtain financing at the time we are required to make repurchases of amortizing notes surrendered for repurchase. In addition, our ability to pay the repurchase price for the amortizing notes may be limited by agreements governing our current and future indebtedness. Our failure to repurchase amortizing notes at a time when the repurchase is required by the indenture would constitute a default under the indenture. A default under the indenture could also lead to a default under agreements governing our indebtedness outstanding at that time. If the repayment of the related indebtedness were to be accelerated after any applicable notice or grace periods, we may not have sufficient funds to repay the indebtedness and the repurchase price for the amortizing notes.

 

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You have limited remedies for defaults under the indenture.

Although various events may constitute defaults under the indenture, a default that is not an “event of default” will not trigger the acceleration of installment payments due on the amortizing notes. Such acceleration will occur only upon our failure to pay in full all installment payments within 30 days of             , 2017 or as a result of specified events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of us. See “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Events of Default.”

The U.S. federal income tax consequences relating to the Units are uncertain.

Although there is no authority directly on point and the issue is not entirely free from doubt, each Unit will be treated in accordance with its form as an investment unit composed of two separate instruments for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the amortizing notes will be treated as indebtedness for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Under this treatment, you will be treated as if you acquired each component of a Unit for U.S. federal income tax purposes. By acquiring a Unit, you will agree to treat (i) a Unit as an investment unit composed of two separate instruments in accordance with its form and (ii) the amortizing notes as indebtedness, in each case for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

No statutory, judicial or administrative authority directly addresses the characterization of the Units or instruments similar to the Units for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, some aspects of the U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment in the Units are not certain. Specifically, even though in form separate instruments, the amortizing notes and the purchase contracts could be recharacterized as a single instrument for U.S. federal income tax purposes, in which case (i) you could be required to recognize as income the entire amount of each payment on the amortizing notes (rather than treating a portion as a tax-free return of principal) and (ii) payments made to you, if you are a Non-U.S. Holder (as defined below under “Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations”), on the amortizing notes, including payments denominated as principal, could be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax as dividend income.

If U.S. federal withholding were imposed or withheld in respect of payments made on or with respect to the Units, the purchase contracts, the amortizing notes or common stock, we would not be required to pay a “gross up” for such taxes.

No ruling is being requested from the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) with respect to the Units (or the components thereof), and no assurance can be given that the IRS will agree with the conclusions expressed below under “Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations.” You should consult your tax adviser regarding potential alternative tax characterizations of the Units.

You may be subject to tax upon an adjustment to the settlement rate of the purchase contracts even though you do not receive a corresponding cash distribution.

The settlement rate of the purchase contracts is subject to adjustment in certain circumstances, including the payment of cash dividends to our stockholders or upon a fundamental change. If the settlement rate is adjusted as a result of a distribution that is taxable to our common stockholders, such as a cash dividend, you will be deemed, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, to have received a taxable dividend to the extent of our earnings and profits, without the receipt of any cash. If you are a Non-U.S. Holder (as defined in “Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations”), this deemed dividend may be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax (currently at a 30% rate, or any lower rate that may be specified by an applicable treaty), which may be withheld from shares of common stock or sales proceeds subsequently paid or credited to you. See “Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations.”

 

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The sale or availability for sale of substantial amounts of our common stock could cause our common stock price to decline or impair our ability to raise capital.

Sales of a substantial number of shares of our common stock in the public market following this offering, or the perception that large sales could occur, or the settlement of the purchase contracts that are components of the Units or the perception that settlement could occur, could depress the market price of our common stock and could impair our ability to raise capital through the sale of equity and equity-related securities. Upon completion of this offering and the concurrent common stock offering, there will be              shares of common stock issued and outstanding, assuming the common stock public offering price is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of the prospectus for the common stock offering.

Of the outstanding shares of common stock, the              shares of common stock to be sold in the concurrent common stock offering (             shares if the underwriters for that offering exercise their over-allotment option in full) will be freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act, unless those shares are held by any of our “affiliates,” as that term is defined under Rule 144 of the Securities Act. Following the expiration of any applicable lock-up periods referred to in the section of this prospectus entitled “Shares Eligible for Future Sale,” the remaining outstanding shares of common stock may be eligible for resale under Rule 144 under the Securities Act subject to applicable restrictions under Rule 144. In addition, pursuant to Exhibit F of the Bylaws of Ally Financial Inc. (the “Registration Rights Agreement”), we have granted our existing common stockholders the right to require us in certain circumstances to file registration statements under the Securities Act covering additional resales of our common stock held by them and the right to participate in other registered offerings in certain circumstances. As restrictions on resale end or if these stockholders exercise their registration rights or otherwise sell their shares, the market price of our common stock could decline.

In particular, following this offering, Treasury or GMAC Common Equity Trust I might sell a large number of the shares of our common stock that they hold. Such sales of a substantial number of shares of our common stock could adversely affect the market price of our common stock.

The number of shares of our common stock Treasury will receive upon conversion of our Series F-2 preferred stock will depend upon the public offering price of the common stock in the concurrent offering.

Treasury currently holds 118,750,000 shares of our Series F-2 preferred stock, having an aggregate liquidation amount of $5,937,500,000. In connection with this offering and the concurrent common stock offering, Treasury intends to convert 58,750,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock into shares of our common stock based on a conversion price equal to the common stock public offering price, which, based on the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of the prospectus for the concurrent common stock offering, would result in the conversion of the Series F-2 preferred stock into              shares of common stock. See “Concurrent Transactions.”

Accordingly, the number of shares of our common stock we will issue to Treasury in connection with the conversion will depend upon the common stock public offering price. For example, if the common stock public offering price is $             (the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of the prospectus for the common stock offering), then we will issue              shares of our common stock to Treasury upon conversion. By contrast, if the common stock public offering price were to increase by $1.00, then we will issue              shares of our common stock to Treasury upon conversion and if the common stock public offering price were to decrease by $1.00, then we will issue              shares of our common stock to Treasury upon conversion.

We have no current plans to pay dividends on our common stock, and our ability to pay dividends on our common stock may be limited.

We have no current plans to commence payment of a dividend on our common stock. Our payment of dividends on our common stock in the future will be determined by our Board of Directors in its sole discretion and will depend on business conditions, our financial condition, earnings and liquidity, and other factors.

 

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Our Series G preferred stock prohibits us from making dividend payments on our common stock before January 1, 2014 and allows dividend payments thereafter only if 1) our senior guaranteed notes issued on December 31, 2008 are rated investment grade and 2) the payment, together with other dividend payments we made since December 31, 2008, is less than 25% of the excess of our cumulative consolidated net income from January 1, 2014 to the most recently ended fiscal quarter for which financial statements are available at the time of such dividend payment. In addition, so long as any share of our Series A preferred stock remains outstanding, no dividend or distribution may be declared or paid on our common stock unless all accrued and unpaid dividends have been paid on such series of preferred stock.

Any indentures and other financing agreements that we enter into in the future may limit our ability to pay cash dividends on our capital stock, including our common stock. In the event that any of our indentures or other financing agreements in the future restrict our ability to pay dividends in cash on our common stock, we may be unable to pay dividends in cash on our common stock unless we can refinance the amounts outstanding under those agreements.

In addition, under Delaware law, our Board of Directors may declare dividends on our capital stock only to the extent of our statutory “surplus” (which is defined as the amount equal to total assets minus total liabilities, in each case at fair market value, minus statutory capital), or if there is no such surplus, out of our net profits for the then current and/or immediately preceding fiscal year. Further, even if we are permitted under our contractual obligations and Delaware law to pay cash dividends on our common stock, we may not have sufficient cash to pay dividends in cash on our common stock.

Any plans to commence payment of dividends on our common stock in the future would be subject to the FRB’s review and absence of objection. See “Business—Certain Regulatory Matters—Bank Holding Company Status”. There is no assurance that, upon the FRB’s review of our future capital plans, we would be permitted to make any planned payments of dividends on our common stock.

Anti-takeover provisions contained in our organizational documents and Delaware law could delay or prevent a takeover attempt or change in control of our company, which could adversely affect the price of our common stock.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, our amended and restated bylaws, and Delaware law contain provisions that could have the effect of rendering more difficult or discouraging an acquisition deemed undesirable by our Board of Directors. Our organizational documents include provisions:

 

   

Limiting the liability of our directors, and providing indemnification to our directors and officers; and

 

   

Limiting the ability of our stockholders to call and bring business before special meetings.

These provisions, alone or together, could delay hostile takeovers and changes in control of the company or changes in management.

In addition, after the completion of this offering, we will be subject to Section 203 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “DGCL”), which generally prohibits a corporation from engaging in various business combination transactions with any “interested stockholder” (generally defined as a stockholder who owns 15% or more of a corporation’s voting stock) for a period of three years following the time that such stockholder became an interested stockholder, except under certain circumstances including receipt of prior board approval.

Any provision of our Certificate of Incorporation or our Bylaws or Delaware law that has the effect of delaying or deterring a hostile takeover or change in control could limit the opportunity for our stockholders to receive a premium for their shares of our common stock and could also affect the price that some investors are willing to pay for our common stock.

See “Description of Capital Stock” for a further discussion of these provisions.

 

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Because there has not been any public market for our common stock, the market price and trading volume of our common stock may be volatile.

You should consider an investment in our common stock to be risky and you should invest in our common stock only if you can withstand a significant loss and wide fluctuations in the market value of your investment. The price of our common stock after the closing of this offering may fluctuate widely, depending upon many factors, including, but not limited to:

 

   

the perceived prospects for the auto finance and mortgage industries in general or for our company;

 

   

differences between our actual financial and operating results and those expected by investors;

 

   

changes in the share price of public companies with which we compete;

 

   

news about our new products or services, enhancements, significant contracts, acquisitions or strategic investments;

 

   

changes in our capital structure, such as future issuances of securities, repurchases of our common stock or our incurrence of debt;

 

   

changes in general economic or market conditions;

 

   

broad market fluctuations;

 

   

regulatory actions or changes in applicable laws, rules or regulations;

 

   

unfavorable or lack of published research by securities or industry analysts; and

 

   

departure of key personnel.

In addition, the market price of our common stock is likely to be influenced by the purchase contracts that are components of the Units. For example, the market price of our common stock could become more volatile and could be depressed by investors’ anticipation of the potential resale in the market of a substantial number of additional shares of our common stock, including shares of common stock received upon settlement of the purchase contracts that are components of the Units, possible sales of our common stock by investors who view the Units as a more attractive means of equity participation in us than owning shares of our common stock, and hedging or arbitrage trading activity that may develop involving the Units and our common stock.

Our common stock may trade at prices significantly below the initial public offering price in the concurrent offering. In addition, when the market price of a company’s common equity drops significantly, stockholders often institute securities class action lawsuits against the company. A lawsuit against us could cause us to incur substantial costs and could divert the time and attention of our management and other resources.

Treasury, which is the selling securityholder, is a federal agency and your ability to bring a claim against Treasury under the federal securities laws may be limited.

The doctrine of sovereign immunity, as limited by the Federal Tort Claims Act (the “FTCA”), provides that claims may not be brought against the United States of America or any agency or instrumentality thereof unless specifically permitted by act of Congress. The FTCA bars claims for fraud or misrepresentation. At least one federal court, in a case involving a federal agency, has held that the United States may assert its sovereign immunity to claims brought under the federal securities laws. In addition, Treasury and its officers, agents, and employees are exempt from liability for any violation or alleged violation of the anti-fraud provisions of Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act by virtue of Section 3(c) thereof. The underwriters are not claiming to be agents of Treasury in this offering. Accordingly, any attempt to assert such a claim against the officers, agents or employees of Treasury for a violation of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or the Exchange Act resulting from an alleged material misstatement in or material omission from this prospectus or the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part or resulting from any other act or omission in connection with this offering by Treasury would likely be barred.

 

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RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES AND PREFERRED STOCK DIVIDENDS

The following table sets forth our ratio of earnings to combined fixed charges and preferred dividend requirements for the periods presented:

     Three
months
ended
March 31,
2011 (a)
     Year ended December 31,  
        2010 (a)      2009 (a)      2008 (a)      2007 (a)      2006 (a)  
     ($ in millions)  

Ratio of earnings to combined fixed charges and preferred dividend requirements (b)(c)

     0.94         0.89         0.03         1.53         0.89         1.13   

 

(a) During 2010 and 2009, we committed to sell certain operations of our International Automotive Finance operations, Insurance operations, Mortgage operations, and Commercial Finance Group. We report these businesses separately as discontinued operations in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Refer to Note 2 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of our discontinued operations. All reported periods of the calculation of the ratio of earnings to fixed charges exclude discontinued operations.

 

(b) Amount for 2010 includes a $616 million reduction to retained earnings (accumulated deficit) related to a conversion of preferred stock and related amendment that occurred on December 30, 2010, as described in Note 20 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

(c) The ratio indicates a less than one-to-one coverage for the three months ended March 31, 2011, and the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2007. Earnings available for fixed charges and preferred dividend requirements for the three months ended March 31, 2011, and the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2007, were inadequate to cover total fixed charges and preferred dividend requirements. The deficit amounts for the ratio were $123 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, and $1,015 million, $8,192 million, and $1,542 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2007, respectively.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF THE UNITS

Treasury is offering              Units (or              Units if the underwriters exercise their over-allotment option in full), each with a stated amount of $            . Each Unit is composed of a prepaid stock purchase contract (a “purchase contract”) and a junior subordinated amortizing note (an “amortizing note”). The following summary of the terms of the Units, the summary of the terms of the purchase contracts set forth under the caption “Description of the Purchase Contracts” and the summary of the terms of the amortizing notes set forth under the caption “Description of the Amortizing Notes” in this prospectus contain a description of all of the material terms of the Units and their components but are not complete. We refer you to:

 

   

the form of purchase contract agreement to be entered into between Ally and The Bank of New York Mellon, as purchase contract agent (the “purchase contract agreement”), to be dated the date of first issuance of the Units, under which the purchase contracts and Units will be issued; and

 

   

the amended and restated junior subordinated debt indenture, dated as of March 1, 2011 (the “base indenture”), and a related supplemental indenture for such amortizing notes to be dated the date of first issuance of the amortizing notes (the “supplemental indenture” and, together with the base indenture, the “indenture”), between Ally, as issuer, and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee, under which the amortizing notes will be issued.

The base indenture and the form of purchase contract agreement have been filed, and the supplemental indenture will be filed, as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part. Whenever particular sections or defined terms are referred to, such sections or defined terms are incorporated herein by reference.

As used in this section, each of the terms “we,” “us,” “our,” and “Ally” means Ally Financial Inc. and does not include any subsidiary of Ally Financial Inc.

Components of the Units

Each Unit offered is composed of:

 

   

a prepaid stock purchase contract pursuant to which we will deliver to the holder, not later than                     , 2014 (subject to postponement in certain limited circumstances, the “mandatory settlement date”), a number of shares of our common stock per purchase contract equal to the settlement rate described below under “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Delivery of Common Stock,” subject to adjustment; and

 

   

a junior subordinated amortizing note with an initial principal amount of $             that pays equal quarterly installments of $             per amortizing note (except for the                     , 2011 installment payment, which will be $             per amortizing note), which in the aggregate will be equivalent to     % per year with respect to the $             stated amount per Unit.

Unless previously settled at your option as described in “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Early Settlement” or “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Early Settlement Upon a Fundamental Change” or unless previously settled at our option as described in “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Early Settlement at Our Election,” we will deliver to you not more than              shares and not less than              shares of our common stock, par value $0.01 (the “common stock”) on the mandatory settlement date, based upon the “applicable settlement rate” (as defined below), which is subject to adjustment as described herein, and the “applicable market value” (as defined below) of our common stock, as described below under “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Delivery of Common Stock.”

 

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Each amortizing note will have an initial principal amount of $            . On             ,             ,              and              of each year, commencing on                     , 2011, we will pay equal quarterly installments of $             on each amortizing note (except for the                     , 2011 installment payment, which will be $             per amortizing note). Each installment will be composed of a payment of interest (at a rate of     % per annum) and a partial repayment of principal on the amortizing note, allocated as set forth on the amortization schedule set forth under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Amortization Schedule.” We will have the right to defer installment payments at any time and from time to time under the circumstances, and subject to the conditions, described under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Option to Extend Installment Payment Period” so long as such deferral period does not extend beyond                     , 2017.

The stated amount of each Unit must be allocated between the amortizing note and the purchase contract based upon their relative fair market values for U.S. federal income tax purposes. We have determined that the fair market value of each amortizing note is $             and the fair market value of each purchase contract is $            . Each holder agrees to this allocation and this position will be binding on each holder (but not on the IRS).

Separating and Recreating Units

Subject to the conditions and under the circumstances described below, a holder of a Unit will have the right to separate a Unit into its component parts, and a holder of a separate purchase contract and a separate amortizing note will have the right to combine the two components to recreate a Unit.

Separating Units

At initial issuance, the purchase contracts and amortizing notes may be purchased and transferred only as Units and will trade under the CUSIP number for the Units.

On any business day during the period beginning on, and including, the business day immediately following the date of initial issuance of the Units to, but excluding, the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014 or any “early mandatory settlement date” (as defined below), you will have the right to separate your Unit into its constituent purchase contract and amortizing note (which we refer to as a “separate purchase contract” and a “separate amortizing note,” respectively, and which will thereafter trade under their respective CUSIP numbers), in which case that Unit will cease to exist.

“Business day” means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday or any day on which banking institutions in New York, New York are authorized or obligated by applicable law or executive order to close or be closed.

Your Unit, purchase contract and amortizing note will be represented by global securities registered in the name of a nominee of The Depository Trust Company (“DTC”). You will not be entitled to receive a definitive physical certificate for your Units, purchase contracts or amortizing notes, except under the limited circumstances described under “Book-Entry Procedures and Settlement.” Beneficial interests in a Unit and, after separation, the separate purchase contract and separate amortizing note will be shown on and transfers will be effected through direct or indirect participants in DTC. In order to separate your Unit into its component parts, you must deliver written instructions to the broker or other direct or indirect participant through which you hold an interest in your Unit (your “participant”) to notify DTC through DTC’s Deposit/ Withdrawal at Custodian (“DWAC”) System of your election to separate the Unit.

Separate purchase contracts and separate amortizing notes will be transferable independently from each other.

Recreating Units

If you beneficially own a separate purchase contract and a separate amortizing note, you may combine the two components to recreate a Unit by delivering written instructions to your participant to notify DTC through its

 

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DWAC System of your desire to recreate the Unit on any business day during the period beginning on, and including, the business day immediately following the date of initial issuance of the Units to, but excluding, the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014 or any early mandatory settlement date.

Listing of Securities

We have applied to list the Units and our common stock being offered concurrently with this offering on the New York Stock Exchange, subject to satisfaction of its minimum listing standards with respect to the Units and our common stock. However, we can give no assurance that the Units will be so listed. If the Units are approved for listing, we expect that the Units will begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange within 30 calendar days after the Units are first issued. In addition, the underwriters have advised us that they intend to make a market in the Units. Listing on the New York Stock Exchange does not guarantee that a trading market will develop, and the underwriters may discontinue market making at any time in their sole discretion without notice. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that a liquid trading market will develop for the Units (or, if developed, that a liquid trading market will be maintained), that you will be able to sell Units or our common stock issued upon settlement of the purchase contracts at a particular time or that the prices you receive when you sell will be favorable.

We do not intend to apply to list the separate purchase contracts or the separate amortizing notes on any securities exchange or automated inter-dealer quotation system.

If our common stock is approved for listing on the New York Stock Exchange, we will also apply to have the shares of our common stock deliverable upon settlement of the purchase contracts approved for listing on such exchange.

Title

We and the purchase contract agent will treat the registered owner of any Unit or separate purchase contract or separate amortizing note as the absolute owner of the Unit or separate purchase contract or separate amortizing note for all purposes.

Replacement of Unit Certificates

In the event that physical certificates evidencing the Units have been issued, any mutilated Unit certificate will be replaced by us at the expense of the holder upon surrender of the certificate to the purchase contract agent. Unit certificates that become destroyed, lost or stolen will be replaced by us at the expense of the holder upon delivery to us and the purchase contract agent of evidence of their destruction, loss or theft satisfactory to us and the purchase contract agent. In the case of a destroyed, lost or stolen Unit certificate, an indemnity satisfactory to us and the purchase contract agent may be required at the expense of the registered holder of the Units before a replacement will be issued.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, we will not be obligated to replace any Unit certificates on or after the business day immediately preceding the earliest of                     , 2014, any early settlement date, any early mandatory settlement date and any fundamental change early settlement date with respect to such Unit. In those circumstances, the purchase contract agreement will provide that, in lieu of the delivery of a replacement Unit certificate, the purchase contract agent, upon delivery of the evidence and indemnity described above, will deliver or arrange for delivery of the shares of common stock issuable pursuant to the purchase contracts included in the Units evidenced by the certificate.

Miscellaneous

The purchase contract agreement will provide that we will pay all fees and expenses related to the enforcement by the purchase contract agent of the rights of the holders of the Units or the separate purchase contracts.

Should you elect to separate or recreate Units, you will be responsible for any fees or expenses payable in connection with that separation or recreation, and we will have no liability therefor.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF THE PURCHASE CONTRACTS

Each purchase contract, which initially forms a part of a Unit and which, at the holder’s option after the date of initial issuance of the Units, can be separated and transferred separately from the amortizing note also forming a part of a Unit, will be issued pursuant to the terms and provisions of the purchase contract agreement.

The following summary of the terms of the purchase contracts contains a description of all of the material terms of the purchase contracts but is not complete and is subject to, and is qualified in its entirety reference to, all of the provisions of the purchase contract agreement, including the definitions in the purchase contract agreement of certain terms. We refer you to the form of purchase contract agreement to be filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part.

As used in this section, each of the terms “we,” “us,” “our” and “Ally” means Ally Financial Inc. and does not include any subsidiary of Ally Financial Inc.

Delivery of Common Stock

Unless previously settled early at your or our option, for each purchase contract we will deliver to you on             , 2014 (subject to postponement in certain limited circumstances described below, the “mandatory settlement date”) a number of shares of our common stock. The settlement of the purchase contracts on the mandatory settlement date is not deferrable. The number of shares of our common stock issuable upon settlement of each purchase contract on the mandatory settlement date (the “settlement rate”) will be determined as follows:

 

   

if the applicable market value of our common stock is equal to or greater than the threshold appreciation price, then you will receive              shares of our common stock for each purchase contract (the “minimum settlement rate”);

 

   

if the applicable market value of our common stock is greater than $             (the “reference price”) but less than the threshold appreciation price, then you will receive a number of shares of our common stock for each purchase contract equal to the Unit stated amount of $            , divided by the applicable market value; and

 

   

if the applicable market value of our common stock is less than or equal to the reference price of $            , then you will receive              shares of our common stock for each purchase contract (the “maximum settlement rate”).

The maximum settlement rate and the minimum settlement rate are each subject to adjustment as described under “—Adjustments to the Fixed Settlement Rates” below. Each of the minimum settlement rate and the maximum settlement rate is referred to as a “fixed settlement rate.”

Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for our purchase contracts. Consequently, the reference price will be the initial public offering price of our common stock in the concurrent common stock offering, which was determined by negotiations among us, Treasury and the representatives. Among the factors considered in determining the initial public offering price of our common stock in the concurrent offering were our results of operations, our current financial condition, our future prospects, our markets, the economic conditions in and future prospects for the industry in which we compete, our management, and currently prevailing general conditions in the equity securities markets, including current market valuations of publicly traded companies considered comparable to our company. We cannot assure you, however, that the price at which the Units will sell in the public market will not be lower than their initial public offering price or that an active trading market in the Units will develop and continue after this offering.

The threshold appreciation price will be equal to $            , divided by the minimum settlement rate (rounded to the nearest $0.01). The threshold appreciation price, which is initially $            , represents an appreciation of approximately     % over the reference price.

 

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For illustrative purposes only, the following table shows the number of shares of common stock issuable upon settlement of a purchase contract at the assumed applicable market values, based on a reference price of $             and a threshold appreciation price of $            . The table assumes that there will be no adjustments to the fixed settlement rates described as under “—Adjustments to the Fixed Settlement Rates” below and that neither we nor holders elect to settle early as described under “—Early Settlement,” “—Early Settlement Upon a Fundamental Change” or “—Early Settlement at Our Election” below. We cannot assure you that the actual applicable market value will be within the assumed range set forth below.

A holder of a Unit or a separate purchase contract, as applicable, will receive on the mandatory settlement date the following number of shares of common stock at the following assumed applicable market values:

 

Assumed Applicable Market Value

   Number of Shares of
Our Common Stock
 

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

As the above table illustrates, if, on the mandatory settlement date, the applicable market value is greater than or equal to the threshold appreciation price, we would be obligated to deliver              shares of our common stock for each purchase contract. As a result, you would receive only approximately     % of the appreciation in market value of the shares of our common stock that you would have received had you purchased $             worth of shares of our common stock at the public offering price in the concurrent common stock offering.

If, on the mandatory settlement date, the applicable market value is less than the threshold appreciation price but greater than the reference price of $            , we would be obligated to deliver a number of shares of our common stock on the mandatory settlement date equal to $            , divided by the applicable market value. As a result, we would retain all appreciation in the market value of our common stock underlying each purchase contract between the reference price and the threshold appreciation price.

If, on the mandatory settlement date, the applicable market value is less than or equal to the reference price of $            , we would be obligated to deliver upon settlement of the purchase contract              shares of our common stock for each purchase contract, regardless of the market price of our common stock. As a result, the holder would realize the entire loss on the decline in market value of the common stock underlying each purchase contract since the initial issuance date of the Units.

Because the applicable market value of the common stock is determined over the 20 “trading days” (as defined below) beginning on, and including, the 23rd scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014, the number of shares of common stock delivered for each purchase contract may be greater than or less than the number that would have been delivered based on the daily VWAP of our common stock on the last trading day in such 20 trading day period. In addition, you will bear the risk of fluctuations in the market price of the shares of our common stock deliverable upon settlement of the purchase contracts between the end of such 20 trading day period and the date such shares are delivered.

The term “applicable market value” means the average of the daily VWAPs of our common stock on each of the 20 consecutive trading days beginning on, and including, the 23rd scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014.

 

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The “daily VWAP” of our common stock (or any other security for which a daily VWAP must be determined) means, on any trading day, the per share volume-weighted average price as displayed under the heading Bloomberg VWAP on Bloomberg page      US <equity> AQR (or, if applicable, the relevant Bloomberg page for such other security) (or, in either case, its equivalent successor if such page is not available) in respect of the period from the scheduled open of trading on such trading day until the scheduled close of trading on such trading day, or, if such volume-weighted average price is unavailable, the market price of one share of our common stock (or, if applicable, such other security) on such trading day determined, using a volume-weighted average method, by a nationally recognized independent investment banking firm retained by us for this purpose.

A “trading day” is a day on which shares of our common stock (or, in the case of any other security for which a daily VWAP must be determined, shares of such other security):

 

   

are not suspended from trading on any U.S. national or regional securities exchange or association or over-the-counter market at the close of business; and

 

   

have traded at least once on the U.S. national or regional securities exchange or association or over-the-counter market that is the primary market for the trading of our common stock (or, if applicable, such other security).

If our common stock (or, if applicable, such other security) is not listed or admitted for trading on any U.S. national or regional securities exchange or association or over-the-counter market, “trading day” means a business day.

A “scheduled trading day” is a day that is scheduled to be a trading day on the U.S. national or regional securities exchange or association or over-the-counter market on which our common stock (or, if applicable, such other security) is listed or admitted for trading. If our common stock (or, if applicable, such other security) is not so listed or admitted for trading, “scheduled trading day” means a business day.

On the mandatory settlement date, our common stock will be issued and delivered to you or your designee, upon (i) surrender of certificates representing the purchase contracts, if such purchase contracts are held in certificated form, and (ii) payment by you of any transfer or similar taxes payable in connection with the issuance of our common stock to any person other than you. As long as the purchase contracts are evidenced by one or more global purchase contract certificates deposited with DTC, the procedures for settlement will be governed by standing arrangements between DTC and the purchase contract agent.

If one or more of the 20 scheduled trading days beginning on, and including, the 23rd scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014 is not a trading day, the mandatory settlement date will be postponed until the third scheduled trading day immediately following the last trading day of the 20 trading day period during which the applicable market value is determined.

Prior to the close of business on the last trading day of the 20 trading day period during which the applicable market value is determined, the shares of our common stock underlying each purchase contract will not be outstanding, and the holder of such purchase contract will not have any voting rights, rights to dividends or other distributions or other rights of a holder of our common stock by virtue of holding such purchase contract. The person in whose name any shares of our common stock to be issued upon settlement of the purchase contract on the mandatory settlement date will become the holder of record of such shares as of the close of business on the last trading day of the 20 trading day period during which the applicable market value is determined.

We will pay any documentary, stamp or similar issue or transfer taxes due on the issue of any shares of our common stock upon settlement of the purchase contracts, unless the tax is due because the holder requests any shares to be issued in a name other than the holder’s name, in which case the holder will pay that tax.

 

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Early Settlement

On any trading day prior to the close of business on the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014, you, as a holder of Units or a holder of a separate purchase contract, may elect to settle your purchase contracts early, in whole or in part, and receive shares of common stock at the “early settlement rate.” The early settlement rate is equal to the minimum settlement rate, subject to adjustment as described below under “—Adjustments to the Fixed Settlement Rates,” unless you elect to settle your purchase contracts early in connection with a fundamental change, in which case you will receive upon settlement of your purchase contracts a number of shares of our common stock based on the “fundamental change early settlement rate” as described under “—Early Settlement Upon a Fundamental Change.”

Your right to receive common stock upon early settlement of your purchase contract is subject to (i) delivery of a written and signed notice of election (an “early settlement notice”) to the purchase contract agent electing early settlement of your purchase contract, (ii) if such purchase contract or the Unit that includes such purchase contract is held in certificated form, surrendering the certificates representing the purchase contract and (iii) payment by you of any transfer or similar taxes payable in connection with the issuance of our common stock to any person other than you. As long as the purchase contracts or the Units are evidenced by one or more global certificates deposited with DTC, the procedures for early settlement will be governed by standing arrangements between DTC and the purchase contract agent.

Upon surrender of the purchase contract or the related Unit and payment of any applicable transfer or similar taxes due because of any issuance of the underlying shares in a name of a person other than the holder, you will receive the applicable number of shares of common stock (and a cash payment for any fractional share) as promptly as practicable, but no later than the third business day, following the “early settlement date” (as defined below).

If you comply with the requirements for effecting early settlement of your purchase contracts earlier than the close of business on any business day, then that day will be considered the “early settlement date.” If you comply with such requirements at or after the close of business on any business day or at any time on a day that is not a business day, then the next business day will be considered the “early settlement date.” The person in whose name any shares of our common stock to be issued upon such early settlement of the purchase contract will become the holder of record of such shares as of the close of business on the relevant early settlement date.

Upon early settlement of the purchase contract component of a Unit, the corresponding amortizing note will remain outstanding and registered in the name of the holder who elected to settle the related purchase contract early.

Early Settlement Upon A Fundamental Change

If a “fundamental change” occurs and you elect to settle your purchase contracts early in connection with such fundamental change in accordance with the procedures described under “—Early Settlement” above, you will receive a number of shares of our common stock based on the “fundamental change early settlement rate,” as described below. An early settlement will be deemed for these purposes to be “in connection with” such fundamental change if you deliver your early settlement notice to the purchase contract agent, and otherwise satisfy the requirements for effecting early settlement of your purchase contracts, during the period beginning on, and including, the effective date of the fundamental change and ending at the close of business on the 30th business day thereafter (or, if earlier, the third scheduled trading day immediately preceding                     , 2014) (the “fundamental change early settlement period”). We refer to this right as the “fundamental change early settlement right.”

If you comply with the requirements for effecting early settlement upon a fundamental change earlier than the close of business on any business day during the fundamental change early settlement period, then that day will be considered the “fundamental change early settlement date.” If you comply with such requirements at or

 

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after the close of business on any business day during the fundamental change early settlement period or at any time on a day during the fundamental change early settlement period that is not a business day, then the next business day will be considered the “fundamental change early settlement date” if such business day is during the fundamental change early settlement period.

We will provide the purchase contract agent and the holders of Units and separate purchase contracts with a notice of a fundamental change within five business days after its occurrence, issue a press release announcing the effective date and post such press release on our website. The notice will also set forth, among other things, (i) the applicable fundamental change early settlement rate, (ii) if not our common stock, the kind and amount of cash, securities and other property receivable by the holder upon settlement and (iii) the deadline by which each holder’s fundamental change early settlement right must be exercised.

A “fundamental change” will be deemed to have occurred upon the occurrence of any of the following:

 

  (a) a “person” or “group” within the meaning of Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act, other than us, our subsidiaries, our and our subsidiaries’ employee benefit plans and “permitted holders” (as defined below), has become the direct or indirect “beneficial owner,” as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, of our common equity representing more than 50% of the voting power of our common equity;

 

  (b) any permitted holder has, or any permitted holders have, become the direct or indirect beneficial owners of our common equity representing more than             %, in the aggregate, of the voting power of our common equity; or

 

  (c) consummation of any consolidation or merger of us or similar transaction or any sale, lease or other transfer in one transaction or a series of transactions of all or substantially all of the property and assets of us to any person other than one of our subsidiaries, in each case pursuant to which our common stock will be converted into cash, securities or other property;

provided, however, that a fundamental change will not be deemed to have occurred if at least 90% of the consideration received by holders of our common stock in the transaction or transactions consists of shares of common stock or depositary receipts in respect of common stock that are traded on a U.S. national securities exchange or that will be so traded when issued or exchanged in connection with such transaction or transactions.

A “permitted holder” means the United States Department of the Treasury or any other agent or instrumentality of the United States.

The “fundamental change early settlement rate” will be determined by us by reference to the table below, based on the date on which the fundamental change occurs or becomes effective (the “effective date”) and the “stock price” in the fundamental change, which will be:

 

   

in the case of a fundamental change described in clause (c) of the definition of “fundamental change” in which holders of shares of our common stock receive only cash in the fundamental change, the stock price will be the cash amount paid per share of our common stock; and

 

   

in all other cases, the stock price will be the average of the daily VWAPs of our common stock over the 10 consecutive trading day period ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the effective date.

The stock prices set forth in the first column of the table below will be adjusted as of any date on which any fixed settlement rate is otherwise adjusted. The adjusted stock prices will equal the stock prices applicable immediately prior to such adjustment, multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which is the maximum settlement rate immediately prior to the adjustment giving rise to the stock price adjustment and the denominator of which is the maximum settlement rate as so adjusted. The number of shares in the table below will be adjusted in the same manner as the fixed settlement rates as set forth under “—Adjustments to the Fixed Settlement Rates.”

 

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The following table sets forth the fundamental change early settlement rate per purchase contract for each stock price and effective date set forth below:

 

     Effective Date  

Stock Price

                           

$            

           

$            

           

$            

           

$            

           

$            

           

$            

           

$            

           

The exact stock prices and effective dates may not be set forth in the table above, in which case:

 

   

if the stock price is between two stock prices in the table or the effective date is between two effective dates in the table, the fundamental change early settlement rate will be determined by straight line interpolation between the fundamental change early settlement rates set forth for the higher and lower stock prices and the earlier and later effective dates, as applicable, based on a 365-day year;

 

   

if the stock price is greater than $             per share (subject to adjustment in the same manner as the stock prices set forth in the column headings of the table above), then the fundamental change early settlement rate will be the minimum settlement rate; or

 

   

if the stock price is less than $             per share (subject to adjustment in the same manner as the stock prices set forth in the column headings of the table above, the “minimum stock price”), the fundamental change early settlement rate will be determined as if the stock price equaled the minimum stock price, and using straight line interpolation, as described in the first bullet of this paragraph, if the effective date is between two effective dates in the table.

The maximum number of shares of our common stock deliverable under a purchase contract is              , subject to adjustment in the same manner as the fixed settlement rates as set forth under “—Adjustments to the Fixed Settlement Rates.”

Upon early settlement of the purchase contract component of a Unit upon a fundamental change, the corresponding amortizing note will remain outstanding and registered in the name of the holder who elected to settle the related purchase contract early upon the fundamental change.

If you do not elect to exercise your fundamental change early settlement right, your purchase contracts will remain outstanding and will be subject to normal settlement on any subsequent early settlement date, any early mandatory settlement date, fundamental change early settlement date or the mandatory settlement date, including, if applicable, the provisions set forth under “—Adjustments to the Fixed Settlement Rates.”

Early Mandatory Settlement at Our Election

We have the right to settle the purchase contracts early, in whole but not in part, on a date fixed by us as described below at the “early mandatory settlement rate” described below. We refer to this right as our “early mandatory settlement right.”

The “early mandatory settlement rate” will be the maximum settlement rate on the notice date (as defined below), unless the daily VWAP of our common stock for 20 or more trading days in a period of 30 consecutive

 

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trading days ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the “notice date” (as defined below) exceeds 130% of the threshold appreciation price in effect on each such trading day, in which case the “early mandatory settlement rate” will be the fundamental change early settlement rate with the “effective date” for this purpose being deemed to be the early mandatory settlement date specified in the early mandatory settlement notice and the “stock price” for this purpose being deemed to be the average of the daily VWAPs of our common stock over the 10 consecutive trading day period ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the early mandatory settlement date.

If we elect to settle the purchase contracts early, you will have the right to require us to repurchase your amortizing notes, except in the circumstances, and subject to the conditions, described under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Repurchase of Amortizing Notes at the Option of the Holder.”

If we elect to exercise our early mandatory settlement right, we will provide the purchase contract agent and the holders of Units, separate purchase contracts and separate amortizing notes with a notice of our election (the “early mandatory settlement notice”), issue a press release announcing our election and post such press release on our website. The early mandatory settlement notice will specify, among other things:

 

   

the early mandatory settlement rate;

 

   

the date on which we will deliver shares of our common stock following exercise of our early mandatory settlement right (the “early mandatory settlement date”), which will be at least 10 but not more than 30 business days following the date of our notice (the “notice date”);

 

   

that holders of Units and separate amortizing notes will have the right to require us to repurchase their amortizing notes that are a component of the Units or their separate amortizing notes, as the case may be (subject to certain exceptions described under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Repurchase of Amortizing Notes at the Option of the Holder”);

 

   

if applicable, the “repurchase price” and “repurchase date” (each as defined below under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Repurchase of Amortizing Notes at the Option of the Holder”);

 

   

if applicable, the last date on which holders may exercise their repurchase right; and

 

   

if applicable, the procedures that holders must follow to require us to repurchase their amortizing notes.

We will deliver the shares of our common stock and any cash payable for fractional shares to you on the early mandatory settlement date. The person in whose name any shares of our common stock to be issued following exercise of our early mandatory settlement right will become the holder of record of such shares as of the close of business on the notice date.

Adjustments to the Fixed Settlement Rates

Each fixed settlement rate will be adjusted as described below, except that no adjustment to the fixed settlement rates will be made if holders of Units or any separate purchase contracts may participate in the transaction (at a level based on the maximum settlement rate) that would otherwise give rise to such adjustment at the same time and on the same terms as holders of our common stock without having to settle such holders’ purchase contracts.

 

(1) If we exclusively issue shares of our common stock as a dividend or distribution on shares of our common stock, or if we effect a share split or share combination, each fixed settlement rate will be adjusted based on the following formula:

 

 

SR1 = SR0 x

 

     OS1      
       OS0      

 

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where,

 

SR0 =

the fixed settlement rate in effect immediately prior to the close of business on the record date of such dividend or distribution, or immediately prior to the open of business on the effective date of such share split or combination, as applicable;

 

SR1 =

the fixed settlement rate in effect immediately after the close of business on such record date or immediately after the open of business on such effective date;

 

OS0 =

the number of shares of our common stock outstanding immediately prior to the close of business on such record date or immediately prior to the open of business on such effective date; and

 

OS1 =

the number of shares of our common stock outstanding immediately after giving effect to such dividend, distribution, share split or share combination.

Any adjustment made under this clause (1) shall become effective immediately after the close of business on the record date for such dividend or distribution, or immediately after the open of business on the effective date for such share split or share combination, as applicable. If any dividend or distribution of the type described in this clause (1) is declared but not so paid or made, each fixed settlement rate shall be immediately readjusted, effective as of the date our board of directors or a committee thereof determines not to pay such dividend or distribution, to the fixed settlement rates that would then be in effect if such dividend or distribution had not been declared.

 

(2) If we issue to all or substantially all holders of our common stock any rights, options or warrants entitling them, for a period of not more than 60 calendar days after the announcement date of such issuance, to subscribe for or purchase shares of our common stock at a price per share that is less than the average of the daily VWAPs of our common stock for the 10 consecutive trading day period ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date of announcement of such issuance, each fixed settlement rate will be increased based on the following formula:

 

 

SR1 = SR0 x

 

   OS0  + X   
     OS0 + Y   

where,

 

SR0 =

the fixed settlement rate in effect immediately prior to the close of business on the record date for such issuance;

 

SR1 =

the fixed settlement rate in effect immediately after the close of business on such record date;

 

OS0 =

the number of shares of our common stock outstanding immediately prior to the close of business on such record date;

 

X = the total number of shares of our common stock issuable pursuant to such rights, options or warrants; and

 

Y = the number of shares of our common stock equal to the aggregate price payable to exercise such rights, options or warrants, divided by the average of the daily VWAPs of our common stock over the 10 consecutive trading day period ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date of announcement of the issuance of such rights, options or warrants.

Any increase made under this clause (2) will be made successively whenever any such rights, options or warrants are issued and shall become effective immediately after the close of business on the record date for such

 

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issuance. To the extent that shares of common stock are not delivered after the expiration of such rights, options or warrants, each fixed settlement rate shall be decreased to the fixed settlement rate that would then be in effect had the increase with respect to the issuance of such rights, options or warrants been made on the basis of delivery of only the number of shares of common stock actually delivered. If such rights, options or warrants are not so issued, each fixed settlement rate shall be decreased to the fixed settlement rate that would then be in effect if the record date for such issuance had not occurred.

For the purpose of this clause (2), in determining whether any rights, options or warrants entitle the holders to subscribe for or purchase shares of our common stock at a price per share that is less than such average of the daily VWAPs for the 10 consecutive trading day period ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date of announcement of such issuance, and in determining the aggregate offering price of such shares of common stock, there shall be taken into account any consideration received by us for such rights, options or warrants and any amount payable on exercise thereof, the value of such consideration, if other than cash, to be determined by our board of directors or a committee thereof.

 

(3) If we distribute shares of our capital stock, evidences of our indebtedness, other assets or property of ours or rights, options or warrants to acquire our capital stock or other securities, to all or substantially all holders of our common stock, excluding:

 

   

dividends, distributions or issuances as to which an adjustment was effected pursuant to clause (1) or (2) above;

 

   

dividends or distributions paid exclusively in cash as to which an adjustment was effected pursuant to clause (4) below; and

 

   

spin-offs as to which the provisions set forth below in this clause (3) shall apply;

then each fixed settlement rate will be increased based on the following formula:

 

 

SR1 = SR0 x  

 

   SP0   
     SP0 - FMV   

where,

 

SR0 =

the fixed settlement rate in effect immediately prior to the close of business on the record date for such distribution;

 

SR1 =

the fixed settlement rate in effect immediately after the close of business on such record date;

 

SP0 =

the average of the daily VWAPs of our common stock over the 10 consecutive trading day period ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the ex-dividend date for such distribution; and

 

FMV = the fair market value (as determined by our board of directors or a committee thereof) of the shares of capital stock, evidences of indebtedness, assets, property, rights, options or warrants distributed with respect to each outstanding share of our common stock on the ex-dividend date for such distribution.

Any increase made under the portion of this clause (3) above will become effective immediately after the close of business on the record date for such distribution. If such distribution is not so paid or made, each fixed settlement rate shall be decreased to be the fixed settlement rate that would then be in effect if such dividend or distribution had not been declared. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if “FMV” (as defined above) is equal to or greater than “SP0” (as defined above), in lieu of the foregoing increase, each holder shall receive, in respect of each Unit or separate purchase contract, at the same time and upon the same terms as holders of our common stock receive the shares of capital stock, evidences of indebtedness, assets, property, rights, options or warrants

 

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distributed with respect to each outstanding share of our common stock, the amount of shares of capital stock, evidences of indebtedness, assets, property, rights, options or warrants distributed with respect to each outstanding share of our common stock such holder would have received if such holder owned a number of shares of our common stock equal to the maximum settlement rate in effect on the ex-dividend date for such distribution.

With respect to an adjustment pursuant to this clause (3) where there has been a payment of a dividend or other distribution on our common stock of shares of capital stock of any class or series, or similar equity interest, of or relating to a subsidiary or other business unit, that are, or, when issued, will be, listed or admitted for trading on a U.S. national securities exchange, which we refer to as a “spin-off,” each fixed settlement rate will be increased based on the following formula:

 

 

SR1 = SR0 x  

 

   FMV0 + MP0   
     MP0   

where,

 

SR0 =

the fixed settlement rate in effect immediately prior to the end of the valuation period (as defined below);

 

SR1 =

the fixed settlement rate in effect immediately after the end of the valuation period;

 

FMV0 =

the average of the daily VWAPs of the capital stock or similar equity interest distributed to holders of our common stock applicable to one share of our common stock over the first 10 consecutive trading days commencing on, and including, the third trading day after the date on which “ex-distribution trading” commences for such dividend or distribution on the New York Stock Exchange or such other U.S. national securities exchange on which such capital stock or similar equity interest is then listed or quoted (the “valuation period”); and

 

MP0 =

the average of the daily VWAPs of our common stock over the valuation period.

The adjustment to the fixed settlement rates under the preceding paragraph will occur on the last trading day of the valuation period; provided that if any date for determining the number of shares of our common stock issuable to a holder occurs during the valuation period, references in the preceding paragraph with respect to 10 trading days shall be deemed to be replaced with such lesser number of trading days as have elapsed between the ex-dividend date of such spin-off and such determination date for purposes of determining the fixed settlement rates.

 

(4) If a dividend or distribution consisting exclusively of cash is made to all or substantially all holders of our common stock, each fixed settlement rate will be adjusted based on the following formula:

 

 

SR1 = SR0 x  

   SP0   
     SP0 - C   

where,

 

SR=

the fixed settlement rate in effect immediately prior to the close of business on the record date for such dividend or distribution;

 

SR1 =

the fixed settlement rate in effect immediately after the close of business on the record date for such dividend or distribution;

 

SP0 =

the daily VWAP of our common stock on the trading day immediately preceding the ex-dividend date for such dividend or distribution; and

 

C = the amount in cash per share we distribute to all or substantially all holders of our common stock.

 

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Any increase made under this clause (4) shall become effective immediately after the close of business on the record date for such dividend or distribution. If such dividend or distribution is not so paid, each fixed settlement rate shall be decreased, effective as of the date our board of directors or a committee thereof determines not to make or pay such dividend or distribution, to the fixed settlement rate that would then be in effect if such dividend or distribution had not been declared. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if “C” (as defined above) is equal to or greater than “SP0” (as defined above), in lieu of the foregoing increase, each holder shall receive, in respect of each Unit or separate purchase contract, at the same time and upon the same terms as holders of our common stock receive such dividend or distribution, the amount of such dividend or distribution such holder would have received if such holder owned a number of shares of our common stock equal to the maximum settlement rate in effect on the ex-dividend date for such dividend or distribution.

 

(5) If we make or any of our subsidiaries makes a payment in respect of a tender or exchange offer for our common stock, to the extent that the cash and value of any other consideration included in the payment per share of common stock exceeds the average of the daily VWAP per share of our common stock on the trading day next succeeding the date (the “expiration date”) such tender or exchange offer expires, each fixed settlement rate will be increased based on the following formula:

 

 

SR1 = SR0 x

   AC + (SP1 x OS1)   
     OS0 x  SP1   

where,

 

SR0 =

the fixed settlement rate in effect immediately prior to the close of business on the expiration date;

 

SR1 =

the fixed settlement rate in effect immediately after the close of business on the expiration date;

 

AC = the aggregate value of all cash and any other consideration (as determined by our board of directors or a committee thereof) paid or payable for shares purchased in such tender or exchange offer;

 

OS0 =

the number of shares of our common stock outstanding immediately prior to the date such tender or exchange offer expires (prior to giving effect to the purchase of all shares accepted for purchase or exchange in such tender or exchange offer);

 

OS1 =

the number of shares of our common stock outstanding immediately after the date such tender or exchange offer expires (after giving effect to the purchase of all shares accepted for purchase or exchange in such tender or exchange offer); and

 

SP1 =

the average of the daily VWAPs of our common stock over the 10 consecutive trading day period commencing on, and including, the trading day next succeeding the expiration date.

The adjustment to each fixed settlement rate under the immediately preceding paragraph will occur at the close of business on the 10th trading day immediately following, and including, the trading day next succeeding the expiration date; provided that if any date for determining the number of shares of our common stock issuable to a holder occurs during the 10 trading days immediately following, and including, the trading day next succeeding the expiration date, references in the preceding paragraph with respect to 10 trading days shall be deemed to be replaced with such lesser number of trading days as have elapsed between the trading day next succeeding the expiration date and such determination date for purposes of determining the fixed settlement rates.

As used in this section, “ex-dividend date” means the first date on which the shares of our common stock trade on the applicable exchange or in the applicable market, regular way, without the right to receive the issuance, dividend or distribution in question, from us or, if applicable, from the seller of our common stock on such exchange or market (in the form of due bills or otherwise) as determined by such exchange or market.

 

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As used in this section, “record date” means, with respect to any dividend, distribution or other transaction or event in which the holders of our common stock have the right to receive any cash, securities or other property or in which common stock (or other applicable security) is exchanged for or converted into any combination of cash, securities or other property, the date fixed for determination of holders of our common stock entitled to receive such cash, securities or other property (whether such date is fixed by our board of directors or a duly authorized committee thereof, statute, contract or otherwise).

We are permitted to increase the fixed settlement rates by any amount for a period of at least 20 business days if our board of directors or a committee thereof determines that such increase would be in our best interest. We may also (but are not required to) increase each fixed settlement rate to avoid or diminish income tax to holders of our common stock or rights to purchase shares of our common stock in connection with a dividend or distribution of shares (or rights to acquire shares) or similar event. In either case, we may make such an adjustment only so long as we make the same proportionate adjustment to each fixed settlement rate.

To the extent that we have a rights plan in effect upon settlement of a purchase contract, you will receive, in addition to the shares of our common stock, the rights under the rights plan, unless prior to settlement of such purchase contract, the rights have separated from the common stock, in which case, and only in such case, each fixed settlement rate will be adjusted at the time of separation as if we distributed to all holders of our common stock shares of our capital stock, evidences of indebtedness, assets, property, rights, options or warrants as described in clause (3) above, subject to readjustment in the event of the expiration, termination or redemption of such rights.

In the event of a taxable distribution of cash or property to stockholders of Ally or any other event that results in an increase in each fixed settlement rate, you may, in certain circumstances, be deemed to have received a distribution subject to U.S. federal income tax as a dividend. In addition, if you are a Non-U.S. Holder (as defined below under “Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations”) this distribution may be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax.

Adjustments to each fixed settlement rate will be calculated to the nearest 1/10,000th of a share (or if there is not a nearest 1/10,000th of a share, to the next lower 1/10,000th of a share). No adjustment in the fixed settlement rates will be required unless the adjustment would require an increase or decrease of at least one percent. If any adjustment is not required to be made because it would not change the fixed settlement rates by at least one percent, then the adjustment will be carried forward and taken into account in any subsequent adjustment; provided that, on any date for determining the number of shares of our common stock issuable to a holder, adjustments to the fixed settlement rates will be made with respect to any such adjustment carried forward and which has not been taken into account before such determination date.

The fixed settlement rates will only be adjusted as set forth above and will not be adjusted:

 

   

upon the issuance of any common stock pursuant to any present or future plan providing for the reinvestment of dividends or interest payable on our securities and the investment of additional optional amounts in common stock under any plan;

 

   

upon the issuance of any common stock or rights, options or warrants to purchase our common stock pursuant to any present or future employee, director or consultant benefit plan or program of or assumed by us or any of our subsidiaries;

 

   

upon the issuance of any common stock pursuant to any option, warrant, right or exercisable, exchangeable or convertible security outstanding as of the date the Units were first issued; or

 

   

solely for a change in the par value or no par value of our common stock.

Whenever the fixed settlement rates are adjusted, we will deliver to the purchase contract agent a certificate setting forth in reasonable detail the method by which the adjustment to each fixed settlement rate was determined and setting forth each revised fixed settlement rate. In addition, we will, within five business days of

 

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any event requiring such adjustment, provide or cause to be provided written notice of the adjustment to the holders of the Units and separate purchase contracts and describe in reasonable detail the method by which each fixed settlement rate was adjusted.

Each adjustment to each fixed settlement rate will result in a corresponding adjustment to the early settlement rate and the early mandatory settlement rate. If an adjustment is made to the fixed settlement rates, an inversely proportional adjustment will also be made to the reference price solely for the purposes of determining which clauses of the definition of settlement rate will apply on the mandatory settlement date. For the avoidance of doubt, no separate inversely proportional adjustment will be made to the threshold appreciation price because it is equal to $            , divided by the minimum settlement rate (rounded to the nearest $0.01) as adjusted in the manner described herein. Because (a) the applicable market value is an average of the daily VWAPs of our common stock over a 20 consecutive trading day period and (b) the fundamental change early settlement rate is generally calculated based on an average of the daily VWAPs over a 10 trading day period, we will make appropriate adjustments to the daily VWAPs prior to the relevant issuance date, record date, ex-dividend date, effective date or expiration date, as the case may be, used to calculate the applicable market value to account for any adjustments to the fixed settlement rates that become effective during the period in which the applicable market value or the stock price, as the case may be, is being calculated.

Our board of directors or a committee thereof will have the power to resolve any ambiguity or, subject to applicable law, correct any error in this section, and its action in so doing will be final and conclusive.

Recapitalizations, Reclassifications and Changes of Our Common Stock

In the event of:

 

   

any consolidation or merger of us with or into another person (other than a merger or consolidation in which we are the continuing or surviving corporation and in which the shares of our common stock outstanding immediately prior to the merger or consolidation are not exchanged for cash, securities or other property of us or another person);

 

   

any sale, transfer, lease or conveyance to another person of all or substantially all of our property and assets;

 

   

any reclassification of our common stock into securities including securities other than our common stock; or

 

   

any statutory exchange of our securities with another person (other than in connection with a merger or acquisition);

in each case, as a result of which our common stock would be converted into, or exchanged for, securities, cash or property (each, a “reorganization event”), each purchase contract outstanding immediately prior to such reorganization event will, without the consent of the holders of the purchase contracts, become a contract to purchase the kind of securities, cash and other property that such holder would have been entitled to receive if such holder had settled its purchase contracts immediately prior to such reorganization event (such securities, cash and other property, the “exchange property,” with each “unit of exchange property” meaning the kind and amount of exchange property that a holder of one share of common stock would have been entitled to receive). For purposes of the foregoing, the type and amount of exchange property in the case of any reorganization event that causes our common stock to be converted into the right to receive more than a single type of consideration (determined based in part upon any form of shareholder election) will be deemed to be the weighted average of the types and amounts of consideration received by the holders of our common stock that affirmatively make such an election (or of all holders of our common stock if none makes an election). We will notify holders of the Units and separate purchase contracts of the weighted average as soon as practicable after such determination is

 

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made. The number of units of exchange property for each purchase contract settled following the effective date of such reorganization event will be determined by the fixed settlement rates then in effect on the applicable settlement date (without interest thereon and without any right to dividends or distributions thereon that have a record date prior to the date such purchase contracts are actually settled). For the purpose of determining which bullet of the definition of settlement rate will apply upon mandatory settlement, and for the purpose of calculating the settlement rate if the second bullet is applicable, the value of a unit of exchange property will be determined in good faith by our board of directors or a committee thereof, except that if a unit of exchange property includes common stock or ADRs that are traded on a U.S. national securities exchange, the value of such common stock or ADRs will be the average during the 20 consecutive trading day period ending on, and including, the third trading day immediately preceding the mandatory settlement date of the volume weighted average prices for such common stock or ADRs, as displayed on the applicable Bloomberg screen (as determined in good faith by our board of directors or a committee thereof); or, if such price is not available, the average market value per share of such common stock or ADRs over such period as determined, using a volume-weighted average method, by a nationally recognized independent investment banking firm retained by us for this purpose. We (or any successor to us) will, as soon as reasonably practicable (but in any event within 20 calendar days) after the occurrence of any reorganization event, provide written notice to the holders of Units and separate purchase contracts of such occurrence and of the kind and amount of cash, securities or other property that constitute the exchange property. Failure to deliver such notice will not affect the operation of the provisions described in this section.

Fractional Shares

No fractional shares of our common stock will be issued or delivered to holders upon settlement of the purchase contracts. In lieu of fractional shares otherwise issuable, holders will be entitled to receive an amount in cash equal to the fraction of a share of our common stock, calculated on an aggregate basis in respect of the purchase contracts being settled, multiplied by the daily VWAP of our common stock on the trading day immediately preceding the mandatory settlement date, early settlement date, fundamental change early settlement date or early mandatory settlement date, as the case may be.

Consequences of Bankruptcy

Pursuant to the terms of the purchase contract agreement, the mandatory settlement date for each purchase contract, whether held separately or as part of a Unit, will automatically accelerate upon the occurrence of specified events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization with respect to Ally. Pursuant to the terms of the purchase contract agreement, upon acceleration, holders will be entitled under the terms of the purchase contracts to receive a number of shares of our common stock per purchase contract equal to the maximum settlement rate in effect immediately prior to such acceleration (regardless of the applicable market value of our common stock at that time). However, a bankruptcy court may prevent us from delivering our common stock in settlement of the accelerated purchase contracts. In such event, a holder would have a damage claim against us for the value of the common stock that we would have otherwise been required to deliver upon settlement of the purchase contracts. We expect that this claim for damages will rank equally with the claims by holders of our common stock in the bankruptcy proceeding, in which case you will be able to recover damages only to the extent holders of our common stock receive any recovery.

Modification

The purchase contract agreement will contain provisions permitting us and the purchase contract agent to modify the purchase contract agreement without the consent of the holders of purchase contracts (whether held separately or as a component of Units) for any of the following purposes:

 

   

to evidence the succession of another person to Ally, and the assumption by any such successor of the covenants and obligations of Ally in the purchase contract agreement and the Units and separate purchase contracts, if any;

 

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to add to the covenants for the benefit of holders of purchase contracts or to surrender any of our rights or powers under the agreement;

 

   

to evidence and provide for the acceptance of appointment of a successor purchase contract agent;

 

   

to make provision with respect to the rights of holders of purchase contracts pursuant to adjustments in the settlement rate due to consolidations, mergers or other reorganization events;

 

   

to conform the provisions of the purchase contract agreement to the “Description of the Purchase Contracts” and “Description of the Units” sections in this prospectus, as supplemented by the related pricing term sheet;

 

   

to cure any ambiguity or manifest error, to correct or supplement any provisions that may be inconsistent, so long as such action does not materially adversely affect the interest of the holders; or

 

   

to make any other provisions with respect to such matters or questions, so long as such action does not materially adversely affect the interest of the holders.

The purchase contract agreement will contain provisions permitting us and the purchase contract agent, with the consent of the holders of not less than a majority of the purchase contracts at the time outstanding, to modify the terms of the purchase contracts or the purchase contract agreement. However, no such modification may, without the consent of the holder of each outstanding purchase contract affected by the modification,

 

   

reduce the number of shares of common stock deliverable upon settlement of the purchase contract (except to the extent expressly provided in the anti-dilution adjustments);

 

   

change the mandatory settlement date, your right to settle purchase contracts early or the fundamental change early settlement right;

 

   

reduce the above-stated percentage of outstanding purchase contracts the consent of the holders of which is required for the modification or amendment of the provisions of the purchase contracts or the purchase contract agreement; or

 

   

impair the right to institute suit for the enforcement of the purchase contracts.

In executing any modification, the purchase contract agent shall be entitled to receive an opinion of counsel stating that such modification is authorized or permitted under the terms of the purchase contract agreement.

Limitations on Mergers, Consolidations and Sales of Assets

The purchase contract agreement provides that we will not consolidate with or merge into another corporation or convey, transfer or lease our assets substantially as an entirety to any person unless:

 

   

Ally or the successor entity, as the case may be, is not, immediately after such consolidation, merger, conveyance, transfer or lease, in default of its obligations under the purchase contracts or the purchase contract agreement; and

 

   

the successor is a corporation organized in the United States and expressly assumes the due and punctual performance of all of our obligations under the purchase contracts and the purchase contract agreement.

Upon any such consolidation, merger, conveyance or transfer, the successor corporation shall succeed to and be substituted for Ally under the purchase contract agreement. Thereafter, except in the case of a lease, we shall be relieved of all obligations and covenants under the purchase contract agreement and the purchase contracts.

 

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Reservation of Common Stock

We will at all times reserve and keep available out of our authorized and unissued common stock, solely for issuance upon settlement of the purchase contracts, that number of shares of common stock as shall from time to time be issuable upon the settlement of all purchase contracts then outstanding, assuming settlement at the maximum settlement rate.

Governing Law

The purchase contract agreement, the purchase contracts and any claim, controversy or dispute arising under or related to the purchase contract agreement or the purchase contracts will be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.

Information Concerning the Purchase Contract Agent

The Bank of New York Mellon will be the purchase contract agent. The purchase contract agent will act as the agent for the holders of Units and separate purchase contracts from time to time. The purchase contract agreement will not obligate the purchase contract agent to exercise any discretionary actions in connection with a default under the terms of the purchase contracts or the purchase contract agreement.

The purchase contract agreement will contain provisions limiting the liability of the purchase contract agent. The purchase contract agreement will contain provisions under which the purchase contract agent may resign or be replaced. This resignation or replacement would be effective upon the acceptance of appointment by a successor.

Calculations in Respect of Purchase Contracts

We will be responsible for making all calculations called for under the Units and any separate purchase contracts. The purchase contract agent will have no obligation to make any such calculations. All such calculations made by us will be made in good faith and, absent manifest error, will be final and binding on the purchase contract agent and the holders of the Units and any separate purchase contracts. We will provide a schedule of such calculations to the purchase contract agent and the purchase contract agent will be entitled to conclusively rely upon the accuracy of such calculations without independent verification.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF THE AMORTIZING NOTES

We will issue the amortizing notes under the amended and restated junior subordinated debt indenture (the “indenture”), dated as of March 1, 2011 (the “base indenture”), and a related supplemental indenture for such amortizing notes to be dated the date of first issuance of the amortizing notes (the “supplemental indenture” and, together with the base indenture, the “indenture”), between us, as issuer, and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee.

The following summary of the terms of the amortizing notes contains a description of all of the material terms of the amortizing notes but is not complete and is subject to, and is qualified in its entirety reference to, all of the provisions of the indenture, including the definitions in the indenture of certain terms. We refer you to the base indenture, which has been filed, and the supplemental indenture, which will be filed, as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part.

As used in this section, each of the terms “we,” “us,” “our” and “Ally” means Ally Financial Inc. and does not include any subsidiary of Ally Financial Inc.

General

The amortizing notes will be issued as a separate series of junior subordinated debt securities under the indenture in an initial aggregate principal amount of $             (or $             initial aggregate principal amount if the underwriters exercise their over-allotment option in full). The final scheduled installment payment date will be                     , 2014. We may not redeem the amortizing notes.

Amortizing notes may only be issued in certificated form in exchange for a global security under the circumstances described below under “Book-Entry Procedures and Settlement.” In the event that amortizing notes are issued in certificated form, such amortizing notes may be transferred or exchanged at the offices described below. Payments on amortizing notes issued as a global security will be made to DTC, to a successor depositary or, in the event that no depositary is used, to a paying agent for the amortizing notes. In the event amortizing notes are issued in certificated form, installments will be payable, the transfer of the amortizing notes will be registrable and amortizing notes will be exchangeable for amortizing notes of other denominations of a like aggregate principal amount at the corporate trust office of the trustee in New York, NY. Installment payments on certificated amortizing notes may be made at our option by check mailed to the address of the persons entitled thereto. See “Book-Entry Procedures and Settlement.”

There are no covenants or provisions in the indenture that would afford the holders of the amortizing notes protection in the event of a highly leveraged transaction, reorganization, restructuring, merger or similar transaction involving us that may adversely affect such holders.

Subordination

The indenture provides that the amortizing notes are subordinated and junior, both in liquidation and in priority of payment, to the extent specified in the indenture, to all Senior Indebtedness (as defined below) of Ally. This means that Ally may not acquire any amortizing notes and may not pay any installment payments on the amortizing notes:

 

   

in the event and during the continuation of a default by Ally in the payment of principal, premium, interest or any other payment due on any Senior Indebtedness of Ally; or

 

   

if the maturity of any Senior Indebtedness of Ally has been accelerated because of a default.

Upon any payment by Ally or distribution of assets of Ally to creditors upon any dissolution, winding-up, liquidation or reorganization, whether voluntary or involuntary, or in bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or other proceedings, all principal, premium, if any, and interest due or to become due on all Senior Indebtedness of

 

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Ally must be paid in full before the holders of amortizing notes are entitled to receive or retain any payment. Upon satisfaction of all claims related to all Senior Indebtedness of Ally then outstanding, the rights of the holders of the amortizing notes will be subrogated to the rights of the holders of Senior Indebtedness of Ally to receive payments or distributions applicable to Senior Indebtedness until all amounts owing on the amortizing notes are paid in full.

The term “Senior Indebtedness” means, with respect to Ally, the principal, premium, if any, and interest (including interest accruing on or after the filing of any petition in bankruptcy or for reorganization relating to Ally, whether or not such claim for post-petition interest is allowed in such proceeding) on and of all indebtedness and obligations in respect of:

(i) (a) indebtedness for money borrowed and (b) indebtedness evidenced by securities, notes, debentures, bonds or other similar instruments issued by Ally including all indebtedness (whether now or hereafter outstanding) issued under the subordinated debt indenture, dated as of December 31, 2008, between Ally and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee, as the same may be amended, modified or supplemented from time to time;

(ii) all capital lease obligations of Ally;

(iii) all obligations of Ally issued or assumed as the deferred purchase price of property, all conditional sale obligations of Ally and all obligations of Ally under any conditional sale or title retention agreement;

(iv) all obligations, contingent or otherwise, of Ally in respect of any letters of credit, banker’s acceptance, security purchase facilities and similar credit transactions;

(v) all obligations of Ally in respect of interest rate swap, cap or other agreements, interest rate future or option contracts, currency swap agreements, currency future or options contracts and other similar agreements;

(vi) all obligations of the type referred to in clauses (i) through (v) above of other persons for the payment of which Ally is responsible or liable as obligor, guarantor or otherwise; and

(vii) all obligations of the type referred to in clauses (i) through (vi) above of other persons secured by any lien on any property or asset of Ally, whether or not such obligation is assumed by Ally;

except that Senior Indebtedness does not include:

(i) any indebtedness issued under the indenture;

(ii) any guarantee entered into by Ally in respect of any preferred securities, capital securities or preference stock of the GMAC Capital Trust I, a Delaware statutory trust, or any similar trust created for the purpose of issuing trust preferred securities in connection with the issuance of additional securities under the indenture;

(iii) any accounts payable or other liabilities to trade creditors (including guarantees thereof or instruments evidencing such liabilities); or

(iv) any indebtedness or any guarantee that is by its terms subordinated to, or ranks equally with, the amortizing notes and the issuance of which, in the case of this clause (iv) only, (x) has received the concurrence or approval of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and/or the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago (the “Federal Reserve”) or its staff or (y) does not at the time of issuance prevent the amortizing notes from qualifying for tier 1 capital treatment (irrespective of any limits on the amount of Ally’s tier 1 capital) under applicable capital adequacy guidelines, regulations, policies, published interpretations, or any applicable concurrence or approval of the Federal Reserve or its staff.

 

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The amortizing notes rank senior to all of Ally’s equity securities, including preferred stock.

The indenture does not limit the aggregate amount of Senior Indebtedness that may be issued by Ally.

Notwithstanding the above and anything to the contrary in this prospectus, holders of Senior Indebtedness do not have any rights under the indenture to enforce any of the covenants in the indenture.

Installment Payments

Each amortizing note will have an initial principal amount of $            . On             ,             ,              and              of each year, commencing on                     , 2011 (each, an “installment payment date”), we will pay, in cash, equal quarterly installments of $             on each amortizing note (except for the                     , 2011 installment payment, which will be $             per amortizing note). Each installment payment will constitute a payment of interest (at a rate of     % per annum) and a partial repayment of principal on the amortizing note, allocated as set forth on the amortization schedule set forth under “—Amortization Schedule.” We will have the right to defer installment payments at any time and from time to time under the circumstances, and subject to the conditions, described under “—Option to Extend Installment Payment Period” so long as such deferral period does not extend beyond                     , 2017. Installments will be paid to the person in whose name an amortizing note is registered, with limited exceptions, as of the close of business on the business day immediately preceding the related installment payment date. If the amortizing notes do not continue to remain in book-entry only form, we will have the right to select regular record dates, which will be more than 14 days but less than 60 days before the relevant installment payment date.

Each installment payment for any period will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months. The installment payable for any period shorter than a full installment payment period will be computed on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed per 30-day month. In the event that any date on which an installment is payable is not a business day, then payment of the installment on such date will be made on the next succeeding day that is a business day, and without any interest or other payment in respect of any such delay. However, if such business day is in the next succeeding calendar year, then such installment payment will be made on the immediately preceding business day, in each case with the same force and effect as if made on the scheduled installment payment date.

Amortization Schedule

The total installments of principal and interest on the amortizing notes for each scheduled installment payment date are set forth below:

 

Scheduled Installment Payment Date

   Amount of Principal      Amount of Interest  

                    , 2011

     

                    , 2011

     

                    , 2011

     

                    , 2012

     

                    , 2012

     

                    , 2012

     

                    , 2012

     

                    , 2013

     

                    , 2013

     

                    , 2013

     

                    , 2013

     

                    , 2014

     

 

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Option to Extend Installment Payment Period

So long as no event of default has occurred and is continuing, we have the right, at any time and from time to time, to defer installment payments by extending the installment payment period, so long as such period of time does not extend beyond                     , 2017 (the “extension period”). We may end an extension period on any installment payment date occurring on or before                     , 2014 or, in the case of an extension period that extends beyond                     , 2014, on any business day thereafter that is on or before                     , 2017.

At the end of any extension period, we will pay all installment payments for which the related installment payment date occurred during such extension period, together with interest on the full amount of such installment payments compounded quarterly at the rate specified for the interest component of the amortizing notes to the extent permitted by applicable law. We will give the holders of Units and separate amortizing notes at least 10 business days’ notice of the end of an extension period.

Prior to the termination of any extension period, we may further defer installment payments by extending such extension period. Such extension period, including all such previous and further extensions, may not extend beyond                     , 2017. Upon the termination of any extension period and the payment of all amounts then due, we may commence a new extension period, if consistent with the terms set forth in this section. No installment payment (or interest thereon) during an extension period, except at the end of such period, shall be due and payable.

We have no present intention of exercising our right to defer installment payments by extending the installment payment period on the amortizing notes.

We will give the holders of Units and separate amortizing notes notice of our election of an extension period (or any extension thereof) at least 10 business days prior to the earlier of:

 

   

the next succeeding installment payment date; or

 

   

the date we are required to give notice of the record or payment date of such installment payment to the New York Stock Exchange or other applicable self-regulatory organization or to holders of the Units and separate amortizing notes.

Restrictions Applicable During an Extension Period and Certain Other Circumstances

If:

 

   

we exercise our right to defer installment payments as described above, or

 

   

there shall have occurred and be continuing any default under the indenture,

then:

 

   

we and any subsidiary of us (other than a subsidiary that is a depository institution, or a subsidiary thereof) shall not declare or pay any dividend on, make any distributions with respect to, or redeem, purchase, acquire or make a liquidation payment with respect to, any of our capital stock or make any guarantee payment with respect thereto, other than:

 

   

redemptions, purchases or other acquisitions of shares of our capital stock in connection with the administration of any employee benefit plan in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past practice,

 

   

the acquisition by us or any of our subsidiaries of record ownership in our capital stock for the beneficial ownership of any other persons (other than us or any of our subsidiaries), including trustees or custodians,

 

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as a result of an exchange or conversion of any class or series of our capital stock for any other class or series of our capital stock or as a result of early settlement of any purchase contracts as described under “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Early Settlement,” “—Early Settlement Upon a Fundamental Change” or “—Early Mandatory Settlement at Our Election,”

 

   

distributions by or among any wholly-owned subsidiary of us,

 

   

redemptions of securities held by us or any wholly-owned subsidiary of us, and

 

   

unpaid tax distributions to holders of membership interests of GMAC LLC pursuant to its Plan of Conversion, dated June 30, 2009, and

 

   

we and any subsidiary of us (other than a subsidiary that is a depository institution, or a subsidiary thereof) shall not make any payment of interest on or principal of (or premium, if any, on), or repay, repurchase or redeem, any debt securities or guarantees issued by the Company which rank pari passu with or junior to the amortizing notes (“junior subordinated indebtedness”), other than:

 

   

redemptions, purchases or other acquisitions of junior subordinated indebtedness in connection with the administration of any employee benefit plan in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past practice,

 

   

the acquisition by us or any of our subsidiaries of record ownership in junior subordinated indebtedness for the beneficial ownership of any other persons (other than us or any of our subsidiaries), including trustees or custodians,

 

   

as a result of an exchange or conversion of any class or series of junior subordinated indebtedness for any other class or series of junior subordinated indebtedness or for any class or series of our capital stock,

 

   

redemptions of securities held by us or any wholly-owned subsidiary of us, and

 

   

any payment of interest on junior subordinated indebtedness paid pro rata with interest paid on the amortizing notes such that the respective amounts of such payments made shall bear the same ratio to each other as all accrued but unpaid interest per like-amount of such amortizing notes and all junior subordinated indebtedness bear to each other,

provided, however, the foregoing restrictions will not apply to (i) any stock dividends paid by us where the dividend stock is the same stock as that on which the dividend is being paid or (ii) dividends or distributions by or other transactions solely among us and any wholly-owned subsidiary of us or solely among wholly-owned subsidiaries of us.

Repurchase of Amortizing Notes at the Option of the Holder

If:

 

   

we elect to exercise our early mandatory settlement right with respect to the purchase contracts and

 

   

at the time of such election there is not an extension period in effect and we have not given notice as contemplated by the final paragraph under “—Option to Extend Installment Payment Period” that we intend to defer future scheduled installment payments,

then holders of the amortizing notes (whether as components of Units or separate amortizing notes) will have the right (the “repurchase right”) to require us to repurchase some or all of their amortizing notes for cash at the repurchase price per amortizing note to be repurchased on the repurchase date, as described below. Holders may

 

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not require us to repurchase a portion of an amortizing note. Holders will not have the right to require us to repurchase any or all of such holder’s amortizing notes in connection with any early settlement of such holder’s purchase contracts at the holder’s option, as described above under “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Early Settlement” and “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Early Settlement Upon a Fundamental Change.”

Notwithstanding the foregoing, holders may exercise the repurchase right if an extension period is in effect or we have given notice that we intend to defer future scheduled installment payments, if, at the time we elect to exercise our early mandatory settlement right, we have received any required regulatory approval or consent from the Federal Reserve or any successor primary federal regulator or its staff to extend the repurchase right to holders.

The “repurchase date” will be a date specified by us in the early mandatory settlement notice, which will be at least 20 but not more than 45 business days following the date of our early mandatory settlement notice as described under “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Early Settlement at Our Option” (and which may or may not fall on the early mandatory settlement date).

The “repurchase price” per amortizing note to be repurchased will be equal to the principal amount of such amortizing note as of the repurchase date, plus (i) accrued and unpaid interest on such principal amount from, and including, the immediately preceding installment payment date to, but not including, the repurchase date, calculated at a rate of         % per annum and (ii) if at the time we extend the repurchase right to holders there is an extension period in effect, the aggregate amount of deferred installment payments and interest thereon, determined as set forth above under “—Option to Extend Installment Payment Period.” However, if the amortizing notes are in certificated form and the repurchase date falls after a regular record date and on or prior to the immediately succeeding installment payment date, the installment payment payable on such installment payment date will be paid on such installment payment date to the holder as of the close of business on such regular record date and will not be included in the repurchase price per amortizing note.

To exercise your repurchase right, you must deliver, on or before the close of business on the second business day immediately preceding the repurchase date, the amortizing notes to be repurchased (or the Units including such amortizing notes if the early mandatory settlement date falls on or after the repurchase date and you have not separated your Units into their constituent components), together with a duly completed written repurchase notice in the form entitled “Form of Repurchase Notice” on the reverse side of the amortizing notes (a “repurchase notice”), in each case in accordance with appropriate DTC procedures, unless you hold certificated amortizing notes (or Units), in which case you must deliver the amortizing notes to be repurchased (or Units), duly endorsed for transfer, together with a repurchase notice, to the paying agent. Your repurchase notice must state:

 

   

if certificated amortizing notes (or Units) have been issued, the certificate numbers of the amortizing notes (or Units), or if not certificated, your repurchase notice must comply with appropriate DTC procedures;

 

   

the number of amortizing notes to be repurchased; and

 

   

that the amortizing notes are to be repurchased by us pursuant to the applicable provisions of the amortizing notes and the indenture.

You may withdraw any repurchase notice (in whole or in part) by a written, irrevocable notice of withdrawal delivered to the trustee, prior to the close of business on the second business day immediately preceding the repurchase date. The notice of withdrawal must state:

 

   

the number of the withdrawn amortizing notes;

 

   

if certificated amortizing notes (or Units) have been issued, the certificate numbers of the withdrawn amortizing notes (or Units), or if not certificated, your notice must comply with appropriate DTC procedures; and

 

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the number of amortizing notes, if any, that remain subject to the repurchase notice.

We will be required to repurchase the amortizing notes to be repurchased on the repurchase date. You will receive payment of the repurchase price on the later of (i) the repurchase date and (ii) the time of book-entry transfer or the delivery of the amortizing notes (or Units). If the trustee holds money sufficient to pay the repurchase price of the amortizing notes to be repurchased on the repurchase date, then:

 

   

such amortizing notes will cease to be outstanding and interest will cease to accrue (whether or not book-entry transfer of the amortizing notes (or Units) is made or whether or not the amortizing notes (or Units) are delivered to the trustee); and

 

   

all other rights of the holder will terminate (other than the right to receive the repurchase price).

In connection with any repurchase offer pursuant to an early mandatory settlement notice, we will, if required:

 

   

comply with the provisions of Rule 13e-4, Rule 14e-1 and any other tender offer rules under the Exchange Act that may then be applicable; and

 

   

file a Schedule TO or any other required schedule under the Exchange Act,

in each case, so as to permit the rights and obligations under this “—Repurchase of Amortizing Notes at the Option of the Holder” to be exercised in the time and in the manner specified in the indenture.

No amortizing notes may be repurchased at the option of holders if the principal amount thereof has been accelerated, and such acceleration has not been rescinded, on or prior to the repurchase date (except in the case of an acceleration resulting from a default by us of the payment of the repurchase price with respect to such amortizing notes).

Events of Default and Acceleration

The indenture provides that the following are “events of default” relating to the amortizing notes:

 

   

failure to pay in full all deferred installment payments on the amortizing notes on or by                     , 2017 and continuance of such failure to pay for a period of 30 days; or

 

   

specified events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization, or court appointment of a receiver, liquidator or trustee of Ally.

If any event of default shall occur and be continuing, the trustee or the holders of 25% or more in principal amount of the amortizing notes (which may be held either as a component of Units or separate amortizing notes) will have the right to declare the principal of all the amortizing notes then outstanding to be immediately due and payable, upon which the principal and the interest on the amortizing notes, including any compound interest, and any other amounts payable under the indenture to be immediately due and payable.

Defaults

The indenture provides that the following are “defaults” relating to the amortizing notes:

 

   

an event of default (as set forth above under “—Events of Default and Acceleration”);

 

   

a default for 30 days in the payment of any installment payment on any amortizing note when such is due (taking into account any extension period);

 

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failure to give notice of a fundamental change as described under “Description of the Purchase Contracts—Early Settlement Upon a Fundamental Change” when due;

 

   

failure to pay the repurchase price in connection with any holder’s exercise of its repurchase right as described under “Description of the Amortizing Notes—Repurchase of Amortizing Notes at the Option of the Holder”; and

 

   

a default for 90 days after written notice in the performance of any other covenant in respect of the amortizing notes.

There is no right of acceleration with respect to defaults, except for defaults that are events of default.

Any deferral of installment payments on the amortizing notes made in accordance with the provisions described above in “—Option to Extend Installment Payment Period” will not constitute a default under the indenture.

The trustee may withhold notice to the holders of the amortizing notes of any default with respect thereto, except in the failure to make an installment payment, or the payment of the repurchase price, if it considers such withholding to be in the interests of such holders.

Modifications and Amendments

Modifications and amendments to the indenture through a supplemental indenture may be made by us and the trustee with the consent of the holders of a majority in principal amount of the amortizing notes at the time outstanding (or, with respect to certain actions, without such consent). However, no such modification or amendment may, without the consent of the holder of each amortizing note affected thereby:

 

  (1) modify the installment payment terms of such amortizing notes; or

 

  (2) reduce the percentage of holders of amortizing notes necessary to modify or amend the indenture or waive compliance by us with any covenant or past default.

Discharge and Defeasance of Indenture

We may discharge most of our obligations under the indenture to holders of the amortizing notes if such amortizing notes have not already been delivered to the trustee for cancellation and either have become due and payable or are by their terms due and payable within one year. We discharge our obligations by depositing with the trustee an amount certified to be sufficient to pay when due all the remaining installment payments on all outstanding amortizing notes.

We, at our option:

 

  (1) will be released from any and all obligations in respect of the amortizing notes, which is known as “defeasance and discharge”; or

 

  (2) need not comply with certain covenants specified herein regarding the amortizing notes, which is known as “covenant defeasance.”

If we exercise our covenant defeasance option, the failure to comply with any defeased covenant and any default in the indenture with respect to such defeased covenant will no longer be a default under the indenture.

 

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To exercise either our defeasance and discharge or covenant defeasance option, we must

 

  (1) deposit with the trustee, in trust, cash or U.S. government obligations in an amount sufficient to pay all the remaining installments on the amortizing notes when such payments are due; and

 

  (2) deliver an opinion of counsel (that, in the case of a defeasance and discharge, must be based upon a ruling or administrative pronouncement of the IRS, or a change in applicable U.S. federal income tax law) to the effect that the holders of the amortizing notes will not recognize income, gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit or defeasance and will be required to pay U.S. federal income tax in the same manner as if such defeasance had not occurred.

When there is a defeasance and discharge, the indenture will no longer govern the amortizing notes, we will no longer be liable for payment, and the holders of such amortizing notes will be entitled only to the deposited funds. When there is a covenant defeasance, however, we will continue to be obligated for installment payments when due if the deposited funds are not sufficient to pay the holders.

The obligations under the indenture to register the transfer or exchange of amortizing notes, to replace mutilated, defaced, destroyed, lost or stolen amortizing notes, and to maintain paying agents and hold monies for payment in trust will continue even if we exercise our defeasance and discharge or covenant defeasance option.

Limitations on Mergers, Consolidations and Sales of Assets

The indenture provides that we will not consolidate with or merge into another corporation or convey, transfer or lease our assets substantially as an entirety unless:

 

   

the successor is a corporation organized in the United States and expressly assumes the due and punctual payment of the installment payments on all amortizing notes issued thereunder and the performance of every other covenant of the indenture on our part; and

 

   

immediately thereafter no default and no event that, after notice or lapse of time, or both, would become a default, shall have happened and be continuing.

Upon any such consolidation, merger, conveyance or transfer, the successor corporation shall succeed to and be substituted for Ally under the indenture. Thereafter, except in the case of a lease, we shall be relieved of all obligations and covenants under the indenture and the amortizing notes.

Governing Law

The indenture and the amortizing notes will be governed by, and construed and interpreted in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York, and all rights and remedies will be governed by such laws without regard for the principles of its conflict of laws.

Unclaimed Funds

Any monies deposited with the trustee or any paying agent or then held by Ally in trust for the payment of installment payments on the amortizing notes that remain unclaimed for two years after the date the payments became due and payable, shall, at Ally’s request, be repaid to Ally or released from trust, as applicable, and the holder of the amortizing note shall thereafter look, as a general unsecured creditor, only to Ally for payment thereof.

 

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BOOK-ENTRY PROCEDURES AND SETTLEMENT

The Units, the separate purchase contracts and the separate amortizing notes will initially be issued under a book-entry system in the form of global securities. We will register the global securities in the name of The Depository Trust Company, New York, New York, or DTC, or its nominee and will deposit the global securities with that depositary.

Following the issuance of a global security in registered form, the depositary will credit the accounts of its participants with the Units, the separate purchase contracts and the separate amortizing notes, as the case may be, upon our instructions. Only persons who hold directly or indirectly through financial institutions that are participants in the depositary can hold beneficial interests in the global securities. Because the laws of some jurisdictions require certain types of purchasers to take physical delivery of such securities in definitive form, you may encounter difficulties in your ability to own, transfer or pledge beneficial interests in a global security.

So long as the depositary or its nominee is the registered owner of a global security, we and the trustee will treat the depositary as the sole owner or holder of the Units, the separate purchase contracts and the separate amortizing notes, as the case may be. Therefore, except as set forth below, you will not be entitled to have Units, separate purchase contracts or separate amortizing notes registered in your name or to receive physical delivery of certificates representing the Units, the separate purchase contracts or the separate amortizing notes. Accordingly, you will have to rely on the procedures of the depositary and the participant in the depositary through whom you hold your beneficial interest in order to exercise any rights of a holder under the indenture or the purchase contract agreement, as the case may be. We understand that under existing practices, the depositary would act upon the instructions of a participant or authorize that participant to take any action that a holder is entitled to take.

You may elect to hold interests in the global securities either in the United States through DTC or outside the United States through Clearstream Banking, société anonyme (“Clearstream”) or Euroclear Bank, S.A./ N.V., or its successor, as operator of the Euroclear System, (“Euroclear”) if you are a participant of such system, or indirectly through organizations that are participants in such systems. Interests held through Clearstream and Euroclear will be recorded on DTC’s books as being held by the U.S. depositary for each of Clearstream and Euroclear, which U.S. depositaries will in turn hold interests on behalf of their participants’ customers’ securities accounts.

As long as the separate amortizing notes are represented by the global securities, we will pay installments on those separate amortizing notes to or as directed by DTC as the registered holder of the global securities. Payments to DTC will be in immediately available funds by wire transfer. DTC, Clearstream or Euroclear, as applicable, will credit the relevant accounts of its participants in accordance with its customary procedures.

Neither Ally, Treasury nor the trustee will be responsible for making any payments to participants or customers of participants or for maintaining any records relating to the holdings of participants and their customers, and you will have to rely on the procedures of the depositary and its participants.

Settlement

Secondary market trading between DTC participants will occur in the ordinary way in accordance with DTC rules and will be settled in immediately available funds using DTC’s Same-Day Funds Settlement System. Secondary market trading between Clearstream customers and/or Euroclear participants will occur in the ordinary way in accordance with the applicable rules and operating procedures of Clearstream and Euroclear and will be settled using the procedures applicable to conventional eurobonds in immediately available funds.

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DTC in accordance with DTC rules on behalf of the relevant European international clearing system by its U.S. depositary; however, such cross-market transactions will require delivery of instructions to the relevant European international clearing system by the counterparty in such system in accordance with its rules and procedures and within its established deadlines (based on European time). The relevant European international clearing system will, if the transaction meets its settlement requirements, deliver instructions to the U.S. depositary to take action to effect final settlement on its behalf by delivering or receiving securities in DTC, and making or receiving payment in accordance with normal procedures for same-day funds settlement applicable to DTC. Clearstream customers and Euroclear participants may not deliver instructions directly to their respective U.S. depositaries.

Because of time-zone differences, credits of securities received in Clearstream or Euroclear as a result of a transaction with a DTC participant will be made during subsequent securities settlement processing and dated the business day following the DTC settlement date. Such credits or any transactions in Units, separate purchase contracts or separate amortizing notes, as the case may be, that are settled during such processing will be reported to the relevant Clearstream customers or Euroclear participants on such business day. Cash received in Clearstream or Euroclear as a result of sales of Units, separate purchase contracts or separate amortizing notes, as the case may be, by or through a Clearstream customer or a Euroclear participant to a DTC participant will be received with value on the DTC settlement date but will be available in the relevant Clearstream or Euroclear cash account only as of the business day following settlement in DTC.

Although DTC, Clearstream and Euroclear have agreed to the foregoing procedures in order to facilitate transfers of Units, separate purchase contracts and separate amortizing notes, as the case may be, among participants of DTC, Clearstream and Euroclear, they are under no obligation to perform or continue to perform such procedures and such procedures may be discontinued at any time.

Definitive Securities and Paying Agents

A beneficial owner of book-entry securities represented by a global security may exchange the securities for definitive securities only if:

(a) the depositary is unwilling or unable to continue as depositary for such global security and we are unable to find a qualified replacement for the depositary within 90 days;

(b) at any time the depositary ceases to be a clearing agency registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; or

(c) an event of default with respect to the amortizing notes, or any failure on the part of us to observe or perform any covenant or agreement in the purchase contracts, has occurred and is continuing and such beneficial owner requests that its amortizing notes and/or purchase contracts, as the case may be, be issued in definitive, certificated form.

The global security will be exchangeable in whole for definitive securities in registered form, with the same terms and of an equal aggregate principal amount. Definitive Units, separate purchase contracts or separate amortizing notes, as the case may be, will be registered in the name or names of the person or persons specified by the depositary in a written instruction to the registrar of the securities. The depositary may base its written instruction upon directions it receives from its participants.

If any of the events described above occurs, then the beneficial owners will be notified through the chain of intermediaries that definitive securities are available and notice will be published as described below under “— Notices.” Beneficial owners of book-entry Units, separate purchase contracts or separate amortizing notes, as the case may be, will then be entitled (1) to receive physical delivery in certificated form of definitive Units, separate purchase contracts or separate amortizing notes, as the case may be, equal in aggregate amount of Units, separate purchase contracts or separate amortizing notes, as the case may be, to their beneficial interest and (2) to have the

 

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definitive securities registered in their names. Thereafter, the holders of the definitive Units, separate purchase contracts and separate amortizing notes, as the case may be, will be recognized as the “holders” of the Units, separate amortizing notes and separate purchase contracts for purposes of the purchase contract agreement and indenture, respectively.

Each of the purchase contract agreement and indenture provides for the replacement of a mutilated, lost, stolen or destroyed definitive security, so long as the applicant furnishes to us and the trustee or purchase contract agent such security or indemnity and such evidence of ownership as they may require.

In the event definitive separate amortizing notes are issued, the holders thereof will be able to receive installment payments at the office of Ally’s paying agent. The final installment payment of a definitive separate amortizing note may be made only against surrender of the separate amortizing note to one of Ally’s paying agents. Ally also has the option of making installment payments by mailing checks to the registered holders of the separate certificated amortizing notes. Ally’s paying agent is the corporate trust office of The Bank of New York Mellon.

In the event definitive Units, separate purchase contracts or separate amortizing notes are issued, the holders thereof will be able to transfer their securities, in whole or in part, by surrendering such securities for registration of transfer at the office of The Bank of New York Mellon listed above. A form of such instrument of transfer will be obtainable at the relevant office of The Bank of New York Mellon. Upon surrender, we will execute, and the purchase contract agent and the trustee will authenticate and deliver, new Units, separate purchase contracts or separate amortizing notes, as the case may be, to the designated transferee in the amount being transferred, and a new security for any amount not being transferred will be issued to the transferor. Such new securities will be delivered free of charge at the relevant office of The Bank of New York Mellon, as requested by the owner of such new Units, separate purchase contracts or separate amortizing notes. We will not charge any fee for the registration of transfer or exchange, except that we may require the payment of a sum sufficient to cover any applicable tax or other governmental charge payable in connection with the transfer.

Notices

So long as the global securities are held on behalf of DTC or any other clearing system, notices to holders of securities represented by a beneficial interest in the global securities may be given by delivery of the relevant notice to DTC or the alternative clearing system, as the case may be. Any published notice will be deemed to have been given on the date of publication or, if published more than once, on the date of the first publication.

 

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CONCURRENT TRANSACTIONS

Conversion and Exchange of Series F-2 Preferred Stock

Treasury currently holds 118,750,000 shares of our Series F-2 preferred stock, having an aggregate liquidation amount of $5,937,500,000. In connection with this offering and the concurrent common stock offering, Treasury intends (i) to convert 58,750,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock into shares of our common stock based on a conversion price equal to the common stock public offering price, and (ii) to exchange the remaining 60,000,000 shares of Series F-2 preferred stock having an aggregate liquidation amount of $3 billion, for a number of our Units having an aggregate stated amount of $3 billion.

The number of shares of common stock we will issue to Treasury in connection with the conversion will depend upon the common stock public offering price. The higher the common stock public offering price is, the fewer the number of shares of common stock Treasury will receive and the lower the common stock public offering price is, the greater the number of shares of common stock Treasury will receive. The following table sets forth the number of shares we will issue to Treasury in connection with the conversion for each common stock public offering price set forth below:

 

Public Offering Price

   Number of Shares Issued
to Treasury
 

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

$            

  

In addition, we and Treasury intend to modify certain terms of the Series F-2 preferred stock so that Treasury will receive             additional shares of our common stock in connection with the offering.

The closing of each of this offering, the concurrent common stock offering, the conversion and the exchange is conditioned upon the closing of each such other transaction.

Concurrent Common Stock Offering

Concurrently with this offering, Treasury is also making a public offering of                      shares of our common stock. Treasury has granted the underwriters of that offering the right to purchase up to                      additional shares of our common stock to cover over-allotments, if any, at the common stock public offering price, less the underwriters’ discount for the concurrent common stock offering, within 30 days from the date of the prospectus for the concurrent common stock offering.

 

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CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS

Based on an opinion of Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP which has been filed with the registration statement that this prospectus is a part of, the following are the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of the Units, the purchase contracts and the amortizing notes that are components of the Units and shares of our common stock acquired under a purchase contract. This discussion applies to you only if you acquire the Units in this offering at the initial offering price for the Units, and you hold the Units, the components of the Units and shares of our common stock as capital assets.

This discussion does not describe all of the tax consequences that may be relevant to you in light of your particular circumstances or if you are a person subject to special rules, such as:

 

   

a financial institution;

 

   

an insurance company;

 

   

a dealer or trader subject to a mark-to-market method of tax accounting with respect to Units, purchase contracts, amortizing notes or shares of our common stock;

 

   

a person holding Units, purchase contracts, amortizing notes or shares of our common stock as part of a hedge, “straddle,” integrated transaction or similar transaction;

 

   

a U.S. Holder (as defined below) whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar;

 

   

a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes;

 

   

a U.S. expatriate;

 

   

a tax-exempt entity; or

 

   

a person subject to the alternative minimum tax.

If you are a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes that holds Units, purchase contracts, amortizing notes or common stock, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of your partners will generally depend on the status of the partners and on your activities. If you are a partnership considering the purchase of Units or a partner in such a partnership, you should consult your tax adviser as to the particular U.S. federal income tax consequences of holding and disposing of Units, purchase contracts, amortizing notes or common stock.

This summary does not address any U.S. federal tax consequences other than U.S. federal income tax consequences (such as estate and gift tax or the recently enacted Medicare tax on certain investment income or any state, local or foreign tax consequences). This summary is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), administrative pronouncements, judicial decisions and final, temporary and proposed Treasury Regulations, changes to any of which subsequent to the date of this prospectus may affect the tax consequences described herein (possibly with retroactive effect). If you are considering the purchase of Units, purchase contracts, amortizing notes and shares of our common stock, you are urged to consult your tax adviser with regard to the application of the U.S. federal income tax laws to your particular situation as well as any tax consequences arising under other federal tax laws or the laws of any state, local or foreign taxing jurisdiction.

Characterization of Units and Amortizing Notes

In the opinion of Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP, although there is no authority directly on point and therefore the issue is not entirely free from doubt, each Unit will be treated in accordance with its form as an investment unit composed of two separate instruments, the amortizing notes will be treated as indebtedness, and the purchase contracts will be treated as contracts to acquire our stock, in each case for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Under this treatment, you will be treated as if you acquired each component of a Unit for U.S. federal income tax purposes. By acquiring a Unit, you will agree to treat (i) a Unit as an investment unit composed of two separate instruments in accordance with its form and (ii) the amortizing notes as indebtedness, in each case for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

 

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If the components of a Unit were treated as a single instrument, the U.S. federal income tax consequences could differ materially from the consequences described below. Specifically, if you are a U.S. Holder, as defined below, you could be required to recognize as income the entire amount of each installment payment on the amortizing notes, rather than merely the portion of such payment denominated as interest. If you are a Non-U.S. Holder, as defined below, payments of principal and stated interest made to you on the amortizing notes could be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax as dividend income. Even if the components of a Unit are respected as separate instruments for U.S. federal income tax purposes, (i) the amortizing notes could be recharacterized as equity for U.S. federal income tax purposes, in which case payments of principal and stated interest to you, if you are a Non-U.S. Holder, on the amortizing notes could be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax and (ii) the purchase contracts could be treated as our stock, in which case the tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition thereof would be substantially the same as the tax consequences described herein.

No ruling has been or will be sought from the IRS with respect to the characterization of the Units (or the components thereof) for U.S. federal income tax purposes or any of the U.S. federal income tax consequences discussed below, and no assurance can be given that the IRS would not assert, or that a court would not sustain, a position contrary to any of those described above. Unless stated otherwise, the remainder of this discussion is based on counsel’s opinion that the characterization of the Units as two separate instruments, the characterization of the amortizing notes as indebtedness, and the characterization of the purchase contracts as contracts to acquire our common stock will be respected for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders

You are a “U.S. Holder” if you are, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, a beneficial owner of a Unit, purchase contract, amortizing note or share of our common stock acquired under a purchase contract that is:

 

   

an individual citizen or resident of the United States;

 

   

a corporation, or other entity taxable as a corporation, created or organized in or under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia; or

 

   

an estate or trust the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source.

Allocation of the Issue Price

We have determined that the issue price of a Units is $            . We have determined that the portion of the issue price of a Unit allocated to each of the purchase contract and amortizing note that constitute the Unit is $             and $            , respectively. That allocation will be binding on you (but not on the IRS) unless you explicitly disclose a contrary position on a statement attached to your timely filed U.S. federal income tax return for the taxable year in which you acquire Units. The remainder of this discussion assumes that this allocation of issue price to each purchase contract and amortizing note will be respected for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Payments of Stated Interest and Original Issue Discount

Under applicable Treasury regulations, a “remote” possibility that stated interest will not be timely paid will be ignored in determining whether a debt instrument is issued with original issue discount (“OID”). Ally believes, and thus this summary assumes, that the likelihood of it exercising its option to defer payments is remote within the meaning of the Treasury regulations. Based on the foregoing, Ally believes that the amortizing notes will not be considered to be issued with OID at the time of their original issuance and, accordingly, that payments of stated interest on the amortizing notes will generally be taxable as ordinary interest income at the time they accrue or are received by you in accordance with your regular method of accounting for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

 

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Under the Treasury regulations, if the exercise by Ally of its option to defer any payment of interest was determined not to be “remote,” or if Ally actually exercised its option to defer any payment of interest, the amortizing notes would be treated as issued with OID at the time of issuance or at the time of the exercise, as the case may be. All stated interest on the amortizing notes would thereafter be treated as OID as long as the amortizing notes remained outstanding. In this event, all of your taxable interest income relating to the amortizing notes would constitute OID that would have to be included in income on an economic accrual basis before the receipt of the cash attributable to the interest, regardless of your regular method of tax accounting, and payments of stated interest would not be separately includible in your taxable income. You would be required to include OID in gross income (as ordinary income) even if Ally exercised its option to defer one or more payments of interest during an extension period.

In addition, this disclosure assumes that the issue price of the amortizing notes is equal to their initial principal amount. If the difference between the issue price and the initial principal amount of the amortizing notes (or the sum of all payments on the amortizing notes, if the exercise by Ally of its option to defer any payment of interest was determined not to be “remote,” or if Ally actually exercised that option) was greater than a certain de minimis amount, the difference would be OID, which would be includible in income by you as described above.

No rulings or other interpretations have been issued by the IRS that have addressed the meaning of the term “remote” as used in the applicable Treasury regulations as they may be applied to an instrument such as the amortizing notes, and it is possible that the IRS could take a position contrary to the interpretation in this prospectus.

Settlement of a Purchase Contract

You will not recognize gain or loss on the acquisition of our common stock upon the mandatory or early settlement of a purchase contract except with respect to cash paid in lieu of a fractional share of our common stock. Your tax basis in the common stock received under a purchase contract will equal your tax basis in the purchase contract less the portion of that tax basis allocable to any fractional share. Your holding period for the common stock received under a purchase contract will begin the day after that stock is received.

Deemed Distributions

The settlement rate of the purchase contracts will be adjusted in certain circumstances. Under the Code and applicable Treasury Regulations, adjustments that have the effect of increasing your interest in our assets or earnings and profits may, in some circumstances, result in a deemed distribution to you.

If we were to make a distribution of cash or property (for example, evidences of indebtedness or assets) to our stockholders and each fixed settlement rate of the purchase contracts were increased pursuant to the applicable adjustment provisions, that increase would be deemed to be a distribution to you. In addition, any other increase in each fixed settlement rate of the purchase contracts (including an adjustment to each fixed settlement rate in connection with a fundamental change) may, depending on the circumstances, be deemed to be a distribution to you.

In certain circumstances, the failure to make an adjustment of each fixed settlement rate may result in a taxable distribution to you, if as a result of that failure your proportionate interest in our assets or earnings and profits is increased.

Any deemed distribution will generally be taxed in the same manner as an actual distribution. See “—Taxation of Distributions on Common Stock Acquired under the Purchase Contracts” below. You should consult your tax adviser as to the tax consequences of receiving deemed distributions.

 

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Taxation of Distributions on Common Stock Acquired under the Purchase Contracts

As discussed under “Dividend Policy” above, we do not currently expect to pay dividends. In the event we make distributions on shares of common stock, other than certain pro rata distributions of shares of common stock, the distributions will be treated as dividends to the extent paid out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits and will be includible in income by you as ordinary income when received. If a distribution exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits, the excess will be first treated as a tax-free return of your investment, up to your tax basis in the common stock. Any remaining excess (determined on a share-by-share basis) will be treated as a capital gain. If you are a non-corporate U.S. Holder, dividends received by you in tax years beginning prior to 2013 will be eligible to be taxed at reduced rates if you meet certain holding period and other applicable requirements. If you are a corporate U.S. Holder, dividends received by you will be eligible for the dividends-received deduction if you meet certain holding period and other applicable requirements.

Sale or Disposition of Units, Purchase Contracts, Amortizing Notes or Shares of Common Stock

Upon the sale, exchange or retirement of a purchase contract, amortizing note or share of our common stock, you generally will recognize taxable gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount realized on the sale, exchange or retirement and your adjusted tax basis in the purchase contract, amortizing note or share of stock, as the case may be. For purposes of determining gain or loss, your proceeds will not include any amount attributable to accrued and unpaid stated interest not treated as OID, which amount will be treated as discussed above under “—Payments of Stated Interest.”

Gain or loss realized on the sale, exchange or retirement of a purchase contract, amortizing note or share of common stock will generally be capital gain or loss and will be long-term capital gain or loss if at the time of sale, exchange or retirement you have held the purchase contract, amortizing note or share of stock, as the case may be, for more than one year. If you are a non-corporate U.S. Holder, long-term capital gains generally will be subject to reduced tax rates. The deductibility of capital losses may be subject to limitations.

Upon the sale, exchange or other disposition of a Unit, you will be treated as having sold or disposed of the purchase contract and amortizing note that constitute the Unit. The proceeds realized on a disposition of a Unit will be allocated between the purchase contract and amortizing note in proportion to their relative fair market values on the date of sale or disposition. As a result, you will calculate gain or loss on the purchase contract separately from the gain or loss on the amortizing note. It is thus possible that you could recognize a capital gain on one component of a Unit but a capital loss on the other component of the Unit.

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

Information returns will be filed with the IRS in connection with payments on the amortizing notes, dividends on the common stock and the proceeds from a sale or other disposition of Units, purchase contracts, amortizing notes or shares of our common stock. You will be subject to U.S. backup withholding on these payments if you fail to provide your taxpayer identification number to the paying agent and comply with certain certification procedures or otherwise establish an exemption from backup withholding. The amount of any backup withholding from a payment to you will be allowed as a credit against your U.S. federal income tax liability and may entitle you to a refund, provided that the required information is timely furnished to the IRS.

Tax Consequences to Non-U.S. Holders

You are a “Non-U.S. Holder” if, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, you are a beneficial owner of a Unit, purchase contract, amortizing note or share of common stock acquired under a purchase contract that is:

 

   

a nonresident alien individual;

 

   

a foreign corporation; or

 

   

a foreign estate or trust.

 

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You are not a “Non-U.S. Holder” if you are a non-resident alien individual present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of disposition of the Units, purchase contracts, amortizing notes or common stock, in which case you should consult your own tax adviser regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the sale, exchange or other disposition of Units, purchase contracts, amortizing notes or common stock.

Principal and Interest Payments on the Amortizing Notes

Subject to the discussion below concerning backup withholding, under the characterization of each Unit as an investment unit consisting of an amortizing note and a purchase contract for U.S. federal income tax purposes (as described above), payments of principal and interest on the amortizing notes to you (including OID, if any) will generally not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax (if you are a Non-U.S. Holder with effectively connected income, see “—Effectively Connected Income”), provided that, in the case of interest:

 

   

you do not own, actually or constructively, 10% or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of our stock entitled to vote and are not a controlled foreign corporation related, directly or indirectly, to us through stock ownership; and

 

   

you have satisfied the certification requirement described below.

Interest on an amortizing note will not be exempt from withholding tax unless you certify on a properly executed IRS Form W-8BEN, under penalties of perjury, that you are not a United States person.

However, if, as described above under “—Characterization of Units and Amortizing Notes,” the components of a Unit were recharacterized and treated as a single instrument for U.S. federal income tax purposes, payments of principal and stated interest made to you could be subject to U.S. federal withholding at a rate of 30%, unless you are entitled to claim a lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty. Even if the components of a Unit are respected as separate instruments for U.S. federal income tax purposes, if the amortizing notes were recharacterized as equity for U.S. federal income tax purposes, payments of principal and stated interest to you on the amortizing notes could be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax. Under recent legislation, if the Units were recharacterized as a single instrument and treated as equity, or the amortizing notes were recharacterized as equity, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, a withholding tax of 30% could be imposed on payments to certain foreign entities, after December 31, 2012, on the Units or amortizing notes, as the case may be, and the gross proceeds from dispositions of the Units or amortizing notes, as the case may be. We are not required to pay a “gross up” for these or any other taxes imposed or withheld in respect of payments made on or with respect to the Units, the purchase contracts, the amortizing notes or common stock.

Settlement of a Purchase Contract

You will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax upon the mandatory or early settlement of a purchase contract.

Deemed Distributions

An adjustment to each fixed settlement rate of a purchase contract might result in a taxable deemed distribution, as described above under the caption “Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders—Deemed Distributions.” Any taxable deemed distribution resulting from an adjustment to (or failure to adjust, in some cases) each fixed settlement rate will be treated in the same manner as an actual distribution on our common stock, as described below under “—Dividends.”

 

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Sale, Exchange or Other Disposition of Units, Purchase Contracts, Amortizing Notes or Shares of Common Stock

Subject to the discussion below concerning backup withholding, you generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on gain recognized on a sale or other disposition of Units, purchase contracts, amortizing notes or shares of our common stock, unless:

 

   

the gain is effectively connected with your conduct of a trade or business in the United States, subject to an applicable income tax treaty providing otherwise, or

 

   

in the case of a sale or other disposition of Units, purchase contracts or common stock, we are or have been a “United States real property holding corporation,” as defined in the Code, at any time within the five-year period preceding the disposition or your holding period, whichever is shorter.

We believe that we are not, and do not anticipate becoming, a United States real property holding corporation.

As discussed in more detail under “Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders—Sale or Disposition of Units, Purchase Contracts, Amortizing Notes or Shares of Common Stock,” the proceeds realized on a disposition of a Unit will be allocated between the purchase contract and amortizing note in proportion to their relative fair market values on the date of sale or disposition.

Dividends

In the event that we pay dividends (including deemed dividends on the Units or purchase contracts described above under “Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders—Deemed Distributions”), the dividends generally will be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax at a 30% rate or a reduced rate specified by an applicable income tax treaty. In order to obtain a reduced rate of withholding under an applicable treaty, you will be required to provide a properly executed IRS Form W-8BEN certifying your entitlement to benefits under that treaty.

In the case of any deemed distribution, it is possible that the U.S. federal tax on the deemed distribution will be withheld from shares of common stock or sales proceeds subsequently paid or credited to you.

Effectively Connected Income

If you are engaged in a trade or business in the United States, you will generally be taxed in the same manner as a U.S. Holder (see “Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders” above) with respect to income or gain on the amortizing notes, the purchase contracts, the Units and the common stock that is effectively connected with the conduct of that trade or business, subject to an applicable income tax treaty providing otherwise. In order for payments on the amortizing notes and dividends on the common stock to be exempt from the withholding described in “—Principal and Interest Payments on the Amortizing Notes” and “—Dividends” above, you will generally be required to provide a properly executed IRS Form W-8ECI or, under certain circumstances, W-8BEN.

If you are a Non-U.S. Holder with effectively connected income, you should consult your tax adviser with respect to other U.S. federal income tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of Units, purchase contracts, amortizing notes and common stock, including, if you are a corporation, the possible imposition of a branch profits tax at a rate of 30% (or a lower treaty rate).

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

Information returns will be filed with the IRS in connection with interest payments on the amortizing notes and dividends on the common stock. Unless you comply with certification procedures to establish that you are not a United States person, information returns may also be filed with the IRS in connection with the proceeds

 

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from a sale or other disposition of the Units, purchase contracts, amortizing notes or common stock, and you may be subject to U.S. backup withholding on interest payments on the amortizing notes and dividends on the common stock or on the proceeds from a sale or other disposition of the Units, purchase contracts, amortizing notes or common stock. The certification procedures required to claim the exemption from withholding tax described above under “—Principal and Interest Payments on the Amortizing Notes” will satisfy the certification requirements necessary to avoid backup withholding as well. The amount of any backup withholding from a payment to you will be allowed as a credit against your U.S. federal income tax liability and may entitle you to a refund, provided that the required information is timely furnished to the IRS.

Recent Legislation

Recent legislation generally imposes withholding at a rate of 30% on payments to certain foreign entities, after December 31, 2012, of dividends on, and the gross proceeds of dispositions of, common stock of U.S. issuers, unless various U.S. information reporting and due diligence requirements (generally relating to ownership by U.S. persons of interests in or accounts with those entities) have been satisfied. Non-U.S. Holders should consult their tax advisers regarding the possible implications of this legislation on their purchase and ownership with respect to our common stock.

 

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UNDERWRITING

Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC are acting as joint global coordinators and as representatives of the underwriters named below. Subject to the terms and conditions stated in the underwriting agreement dated the date of this prospectus, each underwriter named below has severally agreed to purchase, and the selling stockholder has agreed to sell to that underwriter, the number of Units set forth opposite the underwriter’s name.

 

Underwriter

   Number of Units  

Citigroup Global Markets Inc. .

  

Goldman, Sachs & Co .

  

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

  

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC

  

Barclays Capital Inc.

  

Deutsche Bank Securities Inc.

  

Total

  
        

We may add additional underwriters to the table above. Any such underwriters would be selected by us taking into account various criteria, including among other things their marketing and distribution capability, ownership and management diversity, and automotive finance industry expertise.

The underwriting agreement provides that the obligations of the underwriters to purchase the Units included in this offering are subject to approval of legal matters by counsel and to other conditions. The underwriters are obligated to purchase all the Units (other than those covered by the over-allotment option described below) if they purchase any of the Units. The completion of this offering is contingent on the completion of the concurrent common stock offering.

Units sold by the underwriters to the public will initially be offered at the initial public offering price set forth on the cover of this prospectus. Any Units sold by the underwriters to securities dealers may be sold at a discount from the initial public offering price not to exceed $             per Unit. If all the Units are not sold at the initial offering price, the underwriters may change the offering price and the other selling terms.

If the underwriters sell more Units than the total number set forth in the table above, the selling stockholder has granted to the underwriters an option, exercisable for 30 days from the date of this prospectus, to purchase up to              additional Units at the public offering price less the underwriting discount. The underwriters may exercise the option solely for the purpose of covering over-allotments, if any, in connection with this offering. To the extent the option is exercised, each underwriter must purchase a number of additional Units approximately proportionate to that underwriter’s initial purchase commitment in such Units. Any Units issued or sold under the option will be issued and sold on the same terms and conditions as the other Units that are the subject of this offering.

We, our officers and directors, certain of our employees and the selling stockholder and our other stockholders have agreed that, subject to limited exceptions, for a period of      days from the date of this prospectus, we and they will not, without the prior written consent of Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, (i) offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase, or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, or file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a registration statement under the Exchange Act relating to, any shares of common stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for common stock, or (ii) enter into any swap or other agreement that transfers, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of common stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for common stock, whether any such transaction described in clause (i) or

 

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(ii) above is to be settled by delivery of common stock or such other securities, in cash or otherwise. Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC in their sole discretion may release any of the securities subject to these lock-up agreements at any time without notice. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if (1) during the last              days of the             -day restricted period, we issue an earnings release or material news or a material event relating to us occurs; or (2) prior to the expiration of the             -day restricted period, we announce that we will release earnings results during the             -day period beginning on the last day of the             -day restricted period, the restrictions described above shall continue to apply until the expiration of the             -day period beginning on the issuance of the earnings release or the occurrence of the material news or material event. In addition, certain of our shareholders are subject to lock-up provisions under our Registration Rights Agreement. See “Certain Stockholder Agreements—Registration Rights Agreement—Holdback Agreements.”

Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for our Units. Consequently, the initial public offering price for the Units was determined by negotiations among us, the selling stockholder and the representatives. Among the factors considered in determining the public offering price were our results of operations, our current financial condition, our future prospects, our markets, the economic conditions in and future prospects for the industry in which we compete, our management, and currently prevailing general conditions in the equity securities markets, including current market valuations of publicly traded companies considered comparable to our company. We cannot assure you, however, that the price at which the Units will sell in the public market after this offering will not be lower than the public offering price or that an active trading market in our shares will develop and continue after this offering.

We have applied for listing of the Units on the New York Stock Exchange, subject to satisfaction of its minimum listing standard with respect to the Units; however, no assurance can be provided that the Units will be approved for listing. The Units are a new issue of securities and there is currently no trading market for the Units. Each underwriter has advised us that it intends to make a market in the Units, but no underwriter is obligated to do so. Any underwriter may discontinue any market making in the Units at any time in its sole discretion without notice. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that a liquid market will develop for the Units, that you will be able to sell your Units at a particular time or that the prices you receive when you sell will be favorable.

The following table shows the per Unit and total public offering price and proceeds to the selling stockholder and the underwriting discounts and commissions payable to the underwriters in connection with this offering. Ally has agreed to pay all underwriting discounts and commissions, transfer taxes and transaction fees, if any, applicable to the sale of the Units and the fees and disbursement of counsel for the selling security holder incurred in connection with the sale. These amounts are shown assuming both no exercise and full exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option.

 

     Per Unit      Total  
      No Exercise      Full Exercise  

Public offering price and proceeds to selling stockholder

        

Underwriting discounts and commissions

        

We estimate that our total expenses for this offering will be approximately $             million.

In connection with the offering, the underwriters may purchase and sell Units in the open market. Purchases and sales in the open market may include short sales, purchases to cover short positions, which may include purchases pursuant to the over-allotment option, and stabilizing purchases.

 

   

Short sales involve secondary market sales by the underwriters of a greater number of Units than they are required to purchase in the offering.

 

   

“Covered” short sales are sales of Units in an amount up to the number of Units represented by the underwriters’ over-allotment option.

 

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“Naked” short sales are sales of Units in an amount in excess of the number of Units represented by the underwriters’ over-allotment option.

 

   

Covering transactions involve purchases of Units either pursuant to the over-allotment option or in the open market after the distribution has been completed in order to cover short positions.

 

   

To close a naked short position, the underwriters must purchase Units in the open market after the distribution has been completed. A naked short position is more likely to be created if the underwriters are concerned that there may be downward pressure on the price of the Units in the open market after pricing that could adversely affect investors who purchase in the offering.

 

   

To close a covered short position, the underwriters must purchase Units in the open market after the distribution has been completed or must exercise the over-allotment option. In determining the source of Units to close the covered short position, the underwriters will consider, among other things, the price of Units available for purchase in the open market as compared to the price at which they may purchase Units through the over-allotment option.

 

   

Stabilizing transactions involve bids to purchase Units so long as the stabilizing bids do not exceed a specified maximum.

Purchases to cover short positions and stabilizing purchases, as well as other purchases by the underwriters for their own accounts, may have the effect of preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of the Units. They may also cause the price of the Units to be higher than the price that would otherwise exist in the open market in the absence of these transactions. The underwriters may conduct these transactions on the NYSE, in the over-the-counter market or otherwise. If the underwriters commence any of these transactions, they may discontinue them at any time.

The underwriters and their respective affiliates are full service financial institutions engaged in various activities, which may include securities trading, commercial and investment banking, financial advisory, lending, investment management, investment research, principal investment, hedging, financing and brokerage activities. Certain of the underwriters and their respective affiliates have, from time to time, performed, currently perform, and may in the future perform, various financial advisory and investment banking services for us, for which they have received customary compensation and may provide such services and receive customary compensation in the future. Certain of the relationships involve transactions that are material to us or our affiliates and for which the underwriters and/or their respective affiliates have received significant fees. In addition, the underwriters and/or their affiliates serve as agents and lenders under certain of our existing credit facilities.

In the ordinary course of their various business activities, the underwriters and their respective affiliates may make or hold a broad array of investments and actively trade debt and equity securities (or related derivative securities) and financial instruments (including bank loans) for their own account and for the accounts of their customers and such investment and securities activities may involve securities and/or instruments of the issuer. The underwriters and their respective affiliates may also make investment recommendations and/or publish or express independent research views in respect of such securities or instruments and may at any time hold, or recommend to clients that they acquire, long and/or short positions in such securities and instruments.

We have agreed to indemnify the several underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute to payments the underwriters may be required to make because of any of those liabilities.

 

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Notice to Prospective Investors in the European Economic Area

In relation to each Member State of the European Economic Area which has implemented the Prospectus Directive (each, a “Relevant Member State”), each underwriter has represented and agreed that with effect from and including the date on which the Prospectus Directive is implemented in that Relevant Member State (the “Relevant Implementation Date”) it has not made and will not make an offer of the securities which are the subject of the offering contemplated by this prospectus to the public in that Relevant Member State other than:

 

(a) to any legal entity which is a qualified investor as defined in the Prospectus Directive;

 

(b) to fewer than 100 or, if the Relevant Member State has implemented the relevant provision of the 2010 PD Amending Directive, 150, natural or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined in the Prospectus Directive), as permitted under the Prospectus Directive; or

 

(c) in any other circumstances falling within Article 3(2) of the Prospectus Directive,

provided that no such offer of the securities shall require the issuer or any underwriter to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Directive.

For the purposes of this provision, the expression an “offer of securities to the public” in relation to any securities in any Relevant Member State means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and the securities to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe the securities, as the same may be varied in that Member State by any measure implementing the Prospectus Directive in that Member State, the expression “Prospectus Directive” means Directive 2003/71/EC (and amendments thereto, including the 2010 PD Amending Directive, to the extent implemented in the Relevant Member State), and includes any relevant implementing measure in the Relevant Member State and the expression “2010 PD Amending Directive” means Directive 2010/73/EU.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the United Kingdom

Each underwriter has also represented and agreed that:

 

(a) (i) it is a person whose ordinary activities involve it in acquiring, holding, managing or disposing of investments (as principal or agent) for the purposes of its business and (ii) it has not offered or sold and will not offer or sell the securities other than to persons whose ordinary activities involve them in acquiring, holding, managing or disposing of investments (as principal or as agent) for the purposes of their businesses or who it is reasonable to expect will acquire, hold, manage or dispose of investments (as principal or agent) for the purposes of their businesses where the issue of the securities would otherwise constitute a contravention of Section 19 of the FSMA by the issuer;

 

(b) it has only communicated or caused to be communicated and will only communicate or cause to be communicated an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of Section 21 of the FSMA) received by it in connection with the issue or sale of the securities in circumstances in which Section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply to the issuer; and

 

(c) it has complied and will comply with all applicable provisions of the FSMA with respect to anything done by it in relation to the notes in, from or otherwise involving the United Kingdom.

 

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Notice to Prospective Investors in France

Neither this prospectus nor any other offering material relating to the Units described in this prospectus has been submitted to the clearance procedures of the Autorité des Marchés Financiers or of the competent authority of another member state of the European Economic Area and notified to the Autorité des Marchés Financiers. The Units have not been offered or sold and will not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, to the public in France. Neither this prospectus nor any other offering material relating to the Units has been or will be:

 

   

released, issued, distributed or caused to be released, issued or distributed to the public in France; or

 

   

used in connection with any offer for subscription or sale of the Units to the public in France.

Such offers, sales and distributions will be made in France only:

 

   

to qualified investors (investisseurs qualifiés) and/or to a restricted circle of investors (cercle restreint d’investisseurs), in each case investing for their own account, all as defined in, and in accordance with articles L.411-2, D.411-1, D.411-2, D.734-1, D.744-1, D.754-1 and D.764-1 of the French Code monétaire et financier;

 

   

to investment services providers authorized to engage in portfolio management on behalf of third parties; or

 

   

in a transaction that, in accordance with article L.411-2-II-1°-or-2°-or 3° of the French Code monétaire et financier and article 211-2 of the General Regulations (Règlement Général) of the Autorité des Marchés Financiers, does not constitute a public offer (appel public à l’épargne).

The Units may be resold directly or indirectly, only in compliance with articles L.411-1, L.411-2, L.412-1 and L.621-8 through L.621-8-3 of the French Code monétaire et financier.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Hong Kong

The Units may not be offered or sold in Hong Kong by means of any document other than (i) in circumstances which do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 32, Laws of Hong Kong), or (ii) to “professional investors” within the meaning of the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571, Laws of Hong Kong) and any rules made thereunder, or (iii) in other circumstances which do not result in the document being a “prospectus” within the meaning of the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 32, Laws of Hong Kong) and no advertisement, invitation or document relating to the Units may be issued or may be in the possession of any person for the purpose of issue (in each case whether in Hong Kong or elsewhere), which is directed at, or the contents of which are likely to be accessed or read by, the public in Hong Kong (except if permitted to do so under the laws of Hong Kong) other than with respect to Units which are or are intended to be disposed of only to persons outside Hong Kong or only to “professional investors” within the meaning of the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571, Laws of Hong Kong) and any rules made thereunder.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Japan

The Units offered in this prospectus have not been registered under the Securities and Exchange Law of Japan. The Units have not been offered or sold and will not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to or for the account of any resident of Japan, except (i) pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities and Exchange Law and (ii) in compliance with any other applicable requirements of Japanese law.

 

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Notice to Prospective Investors in Singapore

This prospectus has not been registered as a prospectus with the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Accordingly, this prospectus and any other document or material in connection with the offer or sale, or invitation for subscription or purchase, of the Units may not be circulated or distributed, nor may the Units be offered or sold, or be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase, whether directly or indirectly, to persons in Singapore other than (i) to an institutional investor under Section 274 of the Securities and Futures Act, Chapter 289 of Singapore (the “SFA”), (ii) to a relevant person pursuant to Section 275(1), or any person pursuant to Section 275(1A), and in accordance with the conditions specified in Section 275 of the SFA or (iii) otherwise pursuant to, and in accordance with the conditions of, any other applicable provision of the SFA, in each case subject to compliance with conditions set forth in the SFA.

Where the Units are subscribed or purchased under Section 275 of the SFA by a relevant person which is:

 

   

a corporation (which is not an accredited investor (as defined in Section 4A of the SFA)) the sole business of which is to hold investments and the entire share capital of which is owned by one or more individuals, each of whom is an accredited investor; or

 

   

a trust (where the trustee is not an accredited investor) whose sole purpose is to hold investments and each beneficiary of the trust is an individual who is an accredited investor, shares, debentures and units of shares and debentures of that corporation or the beneficiaries’ rights and interest (howsoever described) in that trust shall not be transferred within six months after that corporation or that trust has acquired the Units pursuant to an offer made under Section 275 of the SFA except:

 

   

to an institutional investor (for corporations, under Section 274 of the SFA) or to a relevant person defined in Section 275(2) of the SFA, or to any person pursuant to an offer that is made on terms that such shares, debentures and units of shares and debentures of that corporation or such rights and interest in that trust are acquired at a consideration of not less than S$200,000 (or its equivalent in a foreign currency) for each transaction, whether such amount is to be paid for in cash or by exchange of securities or other assets, and further for corporations, in accordance with the conditions specified in Section 275 of the SFA;

 

   

where no consideration is or will be given for the transfer; or

 

   

where the transfer is by operation of law.

 

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LOGO

 

        % Tangible Equity Units

 

 

 

Preliminary Prospectus

                    , 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 


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PART II

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

Item 13. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution.

 

     Amount
To Be Paid
 

SEC registration fee

   $         

FINRA filing fee

         

NYSE listing fee

         

Transfer agent’s fees

         

Trustee’s fees

         

Printing and engraving expenses

         

Legal fees and expenses

         

Accounting fees and expenses

         

Blue Sky fees and expenses

         

Miscellaneous

         
        

Total

   $         
        

 

* To be completed by amendment

Item 14. Indemnification of Directors and Officers.

Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law provides that a corporation may indemnify directors and officers as well as other employees and individuals against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with any threatened, pending or completed actions, suits or proceedings in which such person is made a party by reason of such person being or having been a director, officer, employee or agent to the Registrant. The Delaware General Corporation Law provides that Section 145 is not exclusive of other rights to which those seeking indemnification may be entitled under any bylaw, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise. The Registrant’s Certificate of Incorporation provides for indemnification by the Registrant of its directors, officers and employees to the fullest extent permitted by the Delaware General Corporation Law.

Section 102(b)(7) of the Delaware General Corporation Law permits a corporation to provide in its certificate of incorporation that a director of the corporation shall not be personally liable to the corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except for liability (i) for any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) for unlawful payments of dividends or unlawful stock repurchases, redemptions or other distributions, or (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. The Registrant’s Certificate of Incorporation provides for such limitation of liability.

The Registrant maintains standard policies of insurance under which coverage is provided (a) to its directors and officers against loss rising from claims made by reason of breach of duty or other wrongful act, and (b) to the Registrant with respect to payments which may be made by the Registrant to such officers and directors pursuant to the above indemnification provision or otherwise as a matter of law.

The proposed forms of Underwriting Agreements filed as Exhibits 1.1 and 1.2 to this Registration Statement provide for indemnification of directors and officers of the Registrant by the underwriters against certain liabilities.

 

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Item 15. Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities.

Since April 1, 2008, the Registrant has sold the following securities without registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”):

Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2

On December 30, 2010, Ally delivered to Treasury a notice of conversion relating to the conversion of 110,000,000 shares of Ally Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2 held by Treasury into common stock of Ally (the “Series F-2 Conversion”). On December 30, 2010, the Series F-2 Conversion was completed and 110,000,000 shares of Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2, all of which were owned by Treasury, were converted into 531,850 shares of common stock of Ally. Prior to the Series F-2 Conversion, Treasury held approximately 56.3% of the common stock of Ally and $11,437,500,000 aggregate liquidation preference amount of Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2. Following the Series F-2 Conversion, Treasury held approximately 73.8% of the common stock of Ally and $5,937,500,000 aggregate liquidation amount of Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2. The issuance of common stock in the Series F-2 Conversion was exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) and Section 3(a)(9) of the Securities Act.

6.250% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2017

On November 18, 2010, Ally issued $1 billion aggregate principal amount of 6.250% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2017 at an issue price of 98.602% resulting in approximately $986 million of gross proceeds. Net proceeds after offering discounts and commissions and before offering expenses payable by Ally were approximately $973.5 million. The initial purchasers for the 6.250% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2017 were Barclays Capital Inc., Citigroup Global Markets Inc., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated. The 6.250% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2017 were offered and sold to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act or to non-U.S. investors outside of the United States in compliance with Regulation S of the Securities Act.

7.500% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2020

On August 12, 2010, Ally issued $1.750 billion aggregate principal amount of 7.500% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2020 at an issue price of 99.116% resulting in approximately $1.735 billion of gross proceeds. Net proceeds after offering discounts and commissions and before offering expenses payable by Ally were approximately $1.713 billion. The initial purchasers for the 7.500% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2020 were Banc of America Securities LLC, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co. and RBS Securities Inc. The 7.500% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2020 were offered and sold to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act or to non-U.S. investors outside of the United States in compliance with Regulation S of the Securities Act.

8.000% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2020

On March 25, 2010, Ally issued $400 million aggregate principal amount of 8.000% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2020 at an issue price of 99.153%, plus accrued interest from March 15, 2010, resulting in approximately $396.6 million of gross proceeds. Net proceeds after offering discounts and commissions and before offering expenses payable by Ally were approximately $391.5 million. The initial purchaser for the 8.000% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2020 was J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. The 8.000% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2020 were offered and sold to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act or to non-U.S. investors outside of the United States in compliance with Regulation S of the Securities Act.

8.000% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2020

On March 15, 2010, Ally issued $1.5 billion aggregate principal amount of 8.000% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2020 at an issue price of 98.320% resulting in approximately $1.475 billion of gross proceeds. Net

 

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proceeds after offering discounts and commissions and before offering expenses payable by Ally were approximately $1.452 billion. The initial purchasers for the 8.000% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2020 were Banc of America Securities LLC, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated. The 8.000% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2020 were offered and sold to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act or to non-U.S. investors outside of the United States in compliance with Regulation S of the Securities Act.

8.300% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2015

On February 12, 2010, Ally issued $2.0 billion aggregate principal amount of 8.300% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2015 at an issue price of 99.199% resulting in approximately $1.984 billion of gross proceeds. Net proceeds after offering discounts and commissions and before offering expenses payable by Ally were approximately $1.954 billion. The initial purchasers for the 8.300% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2015 were Barclays Capital Inc., Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co. and J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. The 8.300% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2015 were offered and sold to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act or to non-U.S. investors outside of the United States in compliance with Regulation S of the Securities Act.

Securities Purchase and Exchange Agreement

On December 30, 2009, Ally entered into a Securities Purchase and Exchange Agreement with Treasury and GMAC Capital Trust I, a Delaware statutory trust established by Ally (the “Trust”), pursuant to which (i) Ally issued and sold to Treasury 25,000,000 shares of newly issued Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2, with an aggregate liquidation preference of $1.250 billion, (ii) Ally issued and sold to Treasury a ten-year warrant to purchase up to 127,000 trust preferred securities with an aggregate liquidation preference of $127 million, at an initial exercise price of $0.01 per security, in addition to 2,540,000 trust preferred securities sold to Treasury by the Trust on that date, (iii) Ally issued and sold to Treasury a ten-year warrant to purchase up to 1.250 million additional shares of Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2, with an aggregate liquidation amount of $62.5 million, at an initial exercise price of $0.01 per security. Treasury immediately exercised each of the ten-year warrants described in (ii) and (iii). The aggregate purchase price for the securities purchased by Treasury was $3.79 billion in cash. The issuance of Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2 pursuant to the foregoing transactions was exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

Also pursuant to the Securities Purchase and Exchange Agreement with Treasury and GMAC Capital Trust I, Ally exchanged shares of its existing preferred stock held by Treasury with an aggregate liquidation amount of $10.125 billion (consisting of (i) 5 million shares of Ally’s Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D-1, (ii) 0.25 million shares of Ally’s Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D-2, and (iii) 97.5 million shares of Ally’s Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F), for 202.5 million shares of Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2, with an aggregate liquidation amount of $10.125 billion. The issuance of common stock and Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F-2 in the foregoing exchanges were exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) and Section 3(a)(9) of the Securities Act.

In connection with the Trust’s sale pursuant to the Securities Purchase and Exchange Agreement (i) of trust preferred securities issued by the Trust to Treasury and (ii) of trust common securities issued by the Trust to Ally, Ally sold to the Trust an aggregate principal amount of $2.747 billion (equal to the sum of the liquidation amount of all of the trust preferred securities and the trust common securities of the Trust) of Ally’s 8.00% junior subordinated unsecured debentures due 2040. In addition, Ally has, pursuant to a Guarantee Agreement, fully and unconditionally guaranteed, on a subordinated basis, for the benefit of the holders of the trust preferred securities, the payment of certain amounts due on the trust preferred securities to the extent not paid by or on behalf of the

 

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Trust. The issuance of the 8.00% junior subordinated unsecured debentures due 2040 and of the guarantee pursuant to the Guarantee Agreement was exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

On December 30, 2009, 60,000,000 shares of GMAC Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F, all of which were owned by Treasury, were converted into 259,200 shares of common stock pursuant to the terms of the GMAC Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F. The issuance of common stock in this conversion was exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

7% Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G

Pursuant to the terms of a Certificate of Merger, effective October 15, 2009, Preferred Blocker Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ally, merged with and into Ally, with Ally continuing as the surviving entity. In connection with this merger, each share of outstanding 7% Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock of Preferred Blocker Inc. was converted into the right to receive an equal number of newly issued shares of 7% Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G. In the aggregate, approximately 2.577 million shares of 7% Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G were issued in connection with the merger. The 7% Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G was issued in reliance on Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

FIM Common Stock Transactions

Pursuant to certain agreements with Ally to restructure their common stock investments, FIM Coinvestors Holdings I LLC, FIM CB Holdings LLC, CB FIM LLC, CB FIM Coinvestors I, LLC and CB FIM Coinvestors, LLC exchanged, effective October 15, 2009, all of the Ally common stock previously held by such entities for new shares of Ally common stock with identical terms in an amount equal to the number of existing shares of common stock acquired from each respective entity. The common stock was issued in reliance on Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

LLC Conversion

Effective June 30, 2009, GMAC LLC, the predecessor to Ally, was converted from a Delaware limited liability company into a Delaware corporation. Each unit of each class of membership interest issued and outstanding immediately prior to this conversion was converted into shares of capital stock of Ally with substantially the same rights and preferences as such membership interests. Holders of GMAC LLC’s common membership interests received an equivalent number of shares of common stock of Ally. Holders of GMAC LLC’s GM Preferred Membership Interests received an equivalent number of shares of Ally’s Fixed Rate Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A. Holders of GMAC LLC’s Class C Membership Interests received an equivalent number of shares of Ally’s Preferred Stock, Series C-1. Holders of GMAC LLC’s Class D-1 Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Membership Interests received an equivalent number of shares of Ally’s Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D-1. Holders of GMAC LLC’s Class D-2 Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Membership Interests received an equivalent number of shares of Ally’s Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D-2. Holders of GMAC LLC’s Class E Fixed Rate Perpetual Preferred Membership Interests received an equivalent number of shares of Ally’s Fixed Rate Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series E. Holders of GMAC LLC’s Class F Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Membership Interests received an equivalent number of shares of Ally’s Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F. The issuance of common stock, Fixed Rate Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A, Preferred Stock, Series C-1, Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D-1, Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D-2, Fixed Rate Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series E and Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series F was exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) and Section 3(a)(9) of the Securities Act.

 

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Treasury Equity Investment

On May 21, 2009, Ally entered into a letter agreement with Treasury pursuant to which Ally issued and sold to Treasury (i) 150 million units of Ally’s Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Membership Interests, Series F, having a capital amount of $50 per unit and (ii) a ten-year warrant to purchase up to 7,501,500 units of Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Membership Interests, Series F, at an initial exercise price of $0.01 per unit, for an aggregate purchase price of $7.5 billion in cash. Treasury immediately exercised the warrant for a net issuance of 7,500,000 units of Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Membership Interests, Series F. The Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Membership Interests, Series F and the warrant were issued in a private placement exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

Rights Offering

On January 16, 2009, Ally completed a rights offering pursuant to the Membership Interest Subscription Agreement dated as of December 29, 2008, by and among, Ally, General Motors Corporation and FIM Holdings LLC. Pursuant to the rights offering, Ally issued (i) 79,039 Class A Membership Interests of Ally to FIM in exchange for a purchase price of approximately $366.0 million and (ii) 190,921 Class B Membership Interests to GM HoldCo in exchange for a purchase price of approximately $884.0 million. The Class A Membership Interests and the Class B Membership Interests were issued in a private placement exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

Participation in the Troubled Asset Relief Program

On December 29, 2008, as part of the Automotive Industry Financing Program created under TARP, Ally entered into a Letter Agreement with Treasury pursuant to which Ally issued and sold to Treasury (i) 5,000,000 units of Ally’s Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Membership Interests, Series D-1, having a capital amount of $1,000 per share and (ii) a ten-year warrant to purchase up to approximately 250,000 units of Ally’s Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Membership Interests, Series D-2, at an initial exercise price of $0.01 per unit, for an aggregate purchase price of $5.0 billion in cash. On December 29, 2008, Treasury exercised the warrant for 250,000 units of Ally’s Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Membership Interests, Series D-2 for an aggregate exercise price of approximately $2,500. The Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Membership Interests, Series D-1, the warrant for the purchase of Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Membership Interests, Series D-2 and the Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Membership Interests, Series D-2 were issued in a private placement exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

Exchange Agreement

On December 31, 2008, Ally closed separate private exchange offers and cash tender offers to purchase and/or exchange certain of its and its subsidiaries and Residential Capital, LLC’s then-outstanding notes. Approximately $17.5 billion in aggregate principal amount (or 59%) of the outstanding Ally notes specified in the table below were validly tendered and accepted in the Ally offers and approximately $3.7 billion in aggregate principal amount (or 39%) of the outstanding Residential Capital, LLC notes specified in the table below were validly tendered and accepted in the Residential Capital, LLC offers.

On December 31, 2008, in connection with the settlement of the Ally offers, Ally entered into a limited keep-well agreement with Preferred Blocker Inc., a newly formed Delaware corporation and subsidiary of Ally, pursuant to which Ally issued 2,576,601 units of Class E Preferred Membership Interests to Preferred Block Inc. in exchange for 2,576,601 shares of 9% Perpetual Preferred Stock of Preferred Block Inc. The issuance of Class E Preferred Membership Interests was exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

Consummation of the Ally offers resulted in the issuance of approximately $11.9 billion aggregate principal amount of new Ally senior guaranteed notes of various series specified in the table below and approximately 2.6

 

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billion shares of aggregate liquidation preference of 9% Perpetual Preferred Stock of Preferred Block Inc. The issuance of the new Ally senior guaranteed notes and the 9% Perpetual Preferred Stock of Preferred Block Inc. were exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) and Section 3(a)(9) of the Securities Act.

The table below shows, for each series of existing Ally notes, the aggregate principal amount tendered and accepted and the related aggregate principal amount of new senior guaranteed notes that were issued.

 

Series of Old Notes

   Principal amount
Tendered and Accepted
    

Title of new guaranteed notes issued in
the exchange

   Aggregate
Principal Amount
Issued
 

Euribor +1.25% Senior

Guaranteed Notes due
2009

   309,193,000      

Euribor +1.25% Senior

Guaranteed Notes due 2009

   $ 323,103,000   

4.750% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2009

   225,680,000       4.750% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2009
   $ 211,885,000   

6.500% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2009

   $ 149,677,000       6.500% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2009
   $ 126,982,000   

7.750% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2010

   $ 1,181,709,000       7.750% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2010
   $ 778,854,000   

5.750% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2010

   36,734,000       5.750% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2010
   $ 34,327,000   

5.750% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2010

   456,475,000       5.750% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2010
   $ 448,949,000   

6.625% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2010

   £ 51,833,000       6.625% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2010
   $ 48,830,000   

7.250% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2011

   $ 1,202,931,000       7.250% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2011
   $ 802,159,000   

6.000% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2011

   $ 174,284,000       6.000% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2011
   $ 122,605,000   

5.375% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2011

   594,069,000       5.375% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2011
   $ 570,441,000   

6.875% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2011

   $ 4,347,883,000       6.875% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2011
   $ 3,087,771,000   

6.000% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2011

   $ 871,998,000       6.000% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2011
   $ 562,268,000   

7.000% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2012

   $ 544,784,000       7.000% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2012
   $ 357,492,000   

6.625% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2012

   $ 613,701,000       6.625% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2012
   $ 407,348,000   

 

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Series of Old Notes

   Principal amount
Tendered and Accepted
    

Title of new guaranteed notes issued in
the exchange

   Aggregate
Principal Amount
Issued
 

6.000% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2012

   136,772,000       6.000% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2012
   $ 129,264,000   

6.875% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2012

   $ 1,198,666,000       6.875% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2012
   $ 784,677,000   

6.750% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2014

   $ 1,194,091,000       6.750% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2014
   $ 764,653,000   

Libor + 2.20% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2014

   $ 471,615,000       Libor + 2.20% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2014
   $ 294,768,000   

8.000% Senior
Guaranteed Notes due
2031

   $ 3,034,460,000       8.000% Senior Guaranteed
Notes due 2031
   $ 1,995,021,000   

Consummation of the Residential Capital, LLC exchange offer resulted in the issuance of approximately $688 million aggregate principal amount of new Ally 7.50% senior notes due 2013 and approximately $483 million aggregate principal amount of new Ally 8.00% subordinated notes due 2018. The issuance of the Ally 7.50% senior notes do 2013 and 8.00% subordinated notes due 2018 were exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.

The table below shows for each series of existing Residential Capital, LLC notes the aggregate principal amount tendered and accepted.

 

Series of Old Notes

   Principal amount
Tendered and
Accepted
 

Libor + 3.10% Floating Rate Notes due April 2009

   $ 6,225,000   

Libor + 3.83% Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due April 2009

   $ 15,000,000   

Libor + 3.10% Floating Rate Notes due May 2009

   $ 12,940,000   

8.500% Senior Secured Guaranteed Notes due 2010

   $ 830,511,000   

8.375% Notes due 2010

   $ 429,211,000   

Euribor + 3.45% Floating Rate Notes due 2010

   18,100,000   

8.000% Notes due 2011

   $ 9,372,000   

7.125% Notes due 2012

   12,295,000   

8.500% Notes due 2012

   $ 15,089,000   

8.500% Notes due 2013

   $ 401,417,000   

8.375% Notes due 2013

   £ 3,965,000   

9.875% Notes due 2014

   £ 1,000,000   

9.625% Junior Secured Guaranteed Notes due 2015

   $ 1,889,828,000   

8.875% Notes due 2015

   $ 38,728,000   

The cash elections for each of the Ally offers and the Residential Capital, LLC offers were oversubscribed. As a result, each eligible holder who made a cash election in the Ally offers had approximately 23.2% of the amount of old notes it tendered accepted for cash, and the balance of old notes each such holder tendered that was not accepted for purchase for cash was exchanged into new securities, in the amount determined pursuant to the applicable new securities exchange ratios, as if such holder had made a new securities election with respect to such balance of old notes. Furthermore, each eligible holder who made a cash election in the Residential Capital, LLC offers had approximately 47.8% of the amount of old notes it tendered accepted for cash, and the balance of old notes each such holder tendered that was not accepted for purchase for cash was exchanged into new

 

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securities, in the amount determined pursuant to the applicable new securities exchange ratios, as if such holder had made a new securities election with respect to such balance of old notes.

To determine the consideration paid, the principal amounts of old notes denominated in Euros and Sterling were converted to U.S. dollars at currency exchange rates set on December 24, 2008 of $1.3964/EUR and $1.4673/GBP.

Item 16. Exhibits, and Financial Statement Schedules.

(a) The following exhibits are filed as part of this Registration Statement:

 

Exhibit
Number

  

Description

  1.1    Form of Common Stock Underwriting Agreement**
  1.2    Form of Tangible Equity Units Underwriting Agreement**
  3.1    Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation**
  3.2    Amended and Restated By-Laws**
  4.1    Form of Common Stock Certificate**
  4.2    Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2008, by and between GMAC LLC and Banc of America Securities LLC, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co., J.P. Morgan Securities Inc., Barclays Capital Inc., Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated and Greenwich Capital Markets, Inc. (Filed as 10.8 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of January 2, 2009 (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
  4.3    Amended and Restated Indenture, dated as of March 1, 2011, between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon, Trustee (filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of March 4, 2011, (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference)
  4.4    Form of Supplemental Indenture, between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee***
  4.5    Form of Purchase Contract Agreement, between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon, as purchase contract agent***
  5    Opinion of Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP***
  8    Opinion of Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP regarding certain U.S. tax matters
10    Amended and Restated Governance Agreement, dated as of May 21, 2009, by and between GMAC Inc., FIM Holdings LLC, GM Finance Co. Holdings LLC and the United States Department of the Treasury (Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of May 22, 2009 (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.1    Letter Agreement, dated as of May 21, 2009, between GMAC Inc. and the United States Department of the Treasury (which includes the Securities Purchase Agreement—Standard Terms attached thereto, with respect to the issuance and sale of the Convertible Preferred Membership Interests and the Warrant) (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of May 22, 2009 (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.2    Securities Purchase and Exchange Agreement, dated as of December 30, 2009, between GMAC Inc., GMAC Capital Trust I, and the United States Department of the Treasury* (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of December 30, 2009, (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.3    Master Transaction Agreement, dated May 21, 2009, between GMAC Inc., Chrysler LLC, U.S. Dealer Automotive Receivables Transition LLC and the United States Department of the Treasury (Filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended June 30, 2009, on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)

 

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Exhibit
Number

  

Description

10.4    Amended and Restated United States Consumer Financing Services Agreement, dated May 22, 2009, between GMAC Inc. and General Motors Corporation* (Filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended June 30, 2009, on Form 10-Q/A (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.5    Amended and Restated Master Services Agreement, dated May 22, 2009, between GMAC Inc. and General Motors Corporation* (Filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended June 30, 2009, on Form 10-Q/A (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.6    Auto Finance Operating Agreement, entered into on August 6, 2010, between Ally Financial Inc. and Chrysler Group LLC* (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended September 30, 2010, on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.7    Intellectual Property License Agreement, dated November 30, 2006, by and between General Motors Corporation and GMAC LLC (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended March 31, 2007, on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.8    Capital and Liquidity Maintenance Agreement, entered into on October 29, 2010, between Ally Financial Inc., IB Finance Holding Company, LLC, Ally Bank and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended September 30, 2010, on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.9    Settlement agreement, dated December 23, 2010, by and between GMAC Mortgage, LLC, Residential Capital, LLC, Residential Funding Securities, LLC, Residential Asset Mortgage Products, Inc., Residential Funding Company LLC, Residential Funding Mortgage Securities I, Inc., Residential Accredit Loans, Inc., Homecomings Financial LLC, and the Federal National Mortgage Association* (Filed as Exhibit 10.9 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.10    Ally Financial Inc. Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan, as amended on October 1, 2010 (Filed as Exhibit 10.10 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.11    Ally Senior Leadership Severance Plan, Plan Document and Summary Plan Description, Effective June 1, 2008 (Filed as Exhibit 10.6 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended June 30, 2008, on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.12    Form of Award Agreement related to the issuance of Restricted Stock Units under the Ally Financial Inc. Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan (Filed as Exhibit 10.20 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2009, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.13    Form of Award Agreement related to the issuance of Long-Term Deferred Stock Units (Filed as Exhibit 10.21 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2009, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.14    Form of Award Agreement related to the issuance of Short-Term Deferred Stock Units (Filed as Exhibit 10.22 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2009, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.15    Award Agreement under the Ally Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan, dated December 16, 2010, for James Mackey (Filed as Exhibit 10.15 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.16    Award Agreement under the Ally Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan, dated December 16, 2010, for Sanjay Gupta (Filed as Exhibit 10.16 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)

 

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Exhibit
Number

  

Description

10.17    Award Agreement under the Ally Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan, dated December 16, 2010, for Jeffrey Brown (Filed as Exhibit 10.17 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.18    Award Agreement under the Ally Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan, dated December 16, 2010, for Thomas Marano (Filed as Exhibit 10.18 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.19    Award Agreement under the Ally Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan, dated December 16, 2010, for Michael A. Carpenter (Filed as Exhibit 10.19 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.20    Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Michael Carpenter, dated March 25, 2010 (Filed as Exhibit 10.20 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.21    Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for James Mackey, dated March 25, 2010 (Filed as Exhibit 10.21 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.22    Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Sanjay Gupta, dated March 25, 2010 (Filed as Exhibit 10.22 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.23    Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Jeffrey Brown, dated March 25, 2010 (Filed as Exhibit 10.23 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.24    Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Thomas Marano, dated March 25, 2010 (Filed as Exhibit 10.24 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.25    Partial Release of Liability Agreement, dated March 17, 2010, by and among Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, GMAC Mortgage, LLC and Residential Funding Company, LLC***
10.26    Form of Ally Financial Inc. 2011 Executive Performance Plan***
10.27    Form of Ally Financial Inc. 2011 Incentive Compensation Plan***
10.28    Form of Ally Financial Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan***
10.29    Form of Ally Financial Inc. 2011 Non-Employee Directors Equity Compensation Plan***
10.30    Form of Conversion and Exchange Agreement, between the Company and the United States Department of the Treasury**
12    Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Dividend Requirements***
21    Subsidiaries of the Registrant (Filed as Exhibit 21 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
23.1    Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP
23.2    Consent of Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP (included in Exhibits 5 and 8)
24.1    Power of Attorney (included on signature page)

 

* Certain confidential portions have been omitted pursuant to a confidential treatment request which has been separately filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

** To be filed by amendment.

 

*** Filed previously.

(b) The financial statement schedules are incorporated into the Registrant’s Consolidated Financial Statements or notes thereto.

 

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Item 17. Undertakings

The undersigned hereby undertakes:

(a) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the provisions referenced in Item 14 of this Registration Statement, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer, or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered hereunder, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question of whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

(b) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that:

(1) For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of this Registration Statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the Registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this Registration Statement as of the time it was declared effective.

(2) For the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall be deemed to be a new Registration Statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant has duly caused this Amendment No. 3 to the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Detroit, State of Michigan, on the 28th day of June, 2011.

 

ALLY FINANCIAL INC.

By:

 

*                                 

  Name:  Michael A. Carpenter
  Title:    Chief Executive Officer

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints David J. DeBrunner, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power to act separately and full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments (including post-effective amendments) to this registration statement and all additional registration statements pursuant to Rule 462(b) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and all other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorney-in-fact and agent full power and authority to do and perform each and every act in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorney-in-fact and agent or his substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Amendment No. 3 to the registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities, in the locations and on the dates indicated.

 

Signature

  

Title

  

Date

*

Name: Michael A. Carpenter

  

Chief Executive Officer and Director

(Principal Executive Officer)

   June 28, 2011

/S/     JEFFREY J. BROWN        

Name: Jeffrey J. Brown

  

Senior Executive Vice President of Finance and Corporate Planning

(Principal Financial Officer)

   June 28, 2011
     

/S/     DAVID J. DEBRUNNER        

Name: David J. DeBrunner

   Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Corporate Controller (Principal Accounting Officer)    June 28, 2011
     

*

Name: Robert T. Blakely

  

Director

   June 28, 2011
     

*

Name: Mayree C. Clark

  

Director

   June 28, 2011
     

*

Name: John D. Durrett

  

Director

   June 28, 2011
     

*

Name: Stephen A. Feinberg

  

Director

   June 28, 2011
     

 

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*

Name: Kim S. Fennebresque

  

Director

   June 28, 2011
     

*

Name: Franklin W. Hobbs

  

Director

   June 28, 2011
     

*

Name: Marjorie Magner

  

Director

   June 28, 2011
     

*

Name: John J. Stack

  

Director

   June 28, 2011

*By:

 

/S/    DAVID J. DEBRUNNER

Name:  David J. DeBrunner

  

Attorney-in-Fact

   June 28, 2011
       

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit
Number

  

Description

  1.1    Form of Common Stock Underwriting Agreement**
  1.2    Form of Tangible Equity Units Underwriting Agreement**
  3.1    Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation**
  3.2    Amended and Restated By-Laws**
  4.1    Form of Common Stock Certificate**
  4.2    Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2008, by and between GMAC LLC and Banc of America Securities LLC, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co., J.P. Morgan Securities Inc., Barclays Capital Inc., Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated and Greenwich Capital Markets, Inc. (Filed as 10.8 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of January 2, 2009 (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
  4.3    Amended and Restated Indenture, dated as of March 1, 2011, between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon, Trustee (filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of March 4, 2011, (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference)
  4.4    Form of Supplemental Indenture, between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee***
  4.5    Form of Purchase Contract Agreement, between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon, as purchase contract agent***
  5    Opinion of Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP***
  8    Opinion of Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP regarding certain U.S. tax matters
10    Amended and Restated Governance Agreement, dated as of May 21, 2009, by and between GMAC Inc., FIM Holdings LLC, GM Finance Co. Holdings LLC and the United States Department of the Treasury (Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of May 22, 2009 (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.1    Letter Agreement, dated as of May 21, 2009, between GMAC Inc. and the United States Department of the Treasury (which includes the Securities Purchase Agreement—Standard Terms attached thereto, with respect to the issuance and sale of the Convertible Preferred Membership Interests and the Warrant) (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of May 22, 2009 (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.2    Securities Purchase and Exchange Agreement, dated as of December 30, 2009, between GMAC Inc., GMAC Capital Trust I, and the United States Department of the Treasury* (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of December 30, 2009, (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.3    Master Transaction Agreement, dated May 21, 2009, between GMAC Inc., Chrysler LLC, U.S. Dealer Automotive Receivables Transition LLC and the United States Department of the Treasury (Filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended June 30, 2009, on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.4    Amended and Restated United States Consumer Financing Services Agreement, dated May 22, 2009, between GMAC Inc. and General Motors Corporation* (Filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended June 30, 2009, on Form 10-Q/A (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.5    Amended and Restated Master Services Agreement, dated May 22, 2009, between GMAC Inc. and General Motors Corporation* (Filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended June 30, 2009, on Form 10-Q/A (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)

 

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Exhibit
Number

  

Description

10.6    Auto Finance Operating Agreement, entered into on August 6, 2010, between Ally Financial Inc. and Chrysler Group LLC* (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended September 30, 2010, on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.7    Intellectual Property License Agreement, dated November 30, 2006, by and between General Motors Corporation and GMAC LLC (Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended March 31, 2007, on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.8    Capital and Liquidity Maintenance Agreement, entered into on October 29, 2010, between Ally Financial Inc., IB Finance Holding Company, LLC, Ally Bank and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended September 30, 2010, on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.9    Settlement agreement, dated December 23, 2010, by and between GMAC Mortgage, LLC, Residential Capital, LLC, Residential Funding Securities, LLC, Residential Asset Mortgage Products, Inc., Residential Funding Company LLC, Residential Funding Mortgage Securities I, Inc., Residential Accredit Loans, Inc., Homecomings Financial LLC, and the Federal National Mortgage Association* (Filed as Exhibit 10.9 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.10    Ally Financial Inc. Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan, as amended on October 1, 2010 (Filed as Exhibit 10.10 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.11    Ally Senior Leadership Severance Plan, Plan Document and Summary Plan Description, Effective June 1, 2008 (Filed as Exhibit 10.6 to the Company’s Quarterly Report for the period ended June 30, 2008, on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.12    Form of Award Agreement related to the issuance of Restricted Stock Units under the Ally Financial Inc. Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan (Filed as Exhibit 10.20 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2009, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.13    Form of Award Agreement related to the issuance of Long-Term Deferred Stock Units (Filed as Exhibit 10.21 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2009, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.14    Form of Award Agreement related to the issuance of Short-Term Deferred Stock Units (Filed as Exhibit 10.22 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2009, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.15    Award Agreement under the Ally Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan, dated December 16, 2010, for James Mackey (Filed as Exhibit 10.15 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.16    Award Agreement under the Ally Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan, dated December 16, 2010, for Sanjay Gupta (Filed as Exhibit 10.16 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.17    Award Agreement under the Ally Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan, dated December 16, 2010, for Jeffrey Brown (Filed as Exhibit 10.17 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)

 

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Exhibit
Number

  

Description

10.18    Award Agreement under the Ally Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan, dated December 16, 2010, for Thomas Marano (Filed as Exhibit 10.18 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.19    Award Agreement under the Ally Long-Term Equity Compensation Incentive Plan, dated December 16, 2010, for Michael A. Carpenter (Filed as Exhibit 10.19 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.20    Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Michael Carpenter, dated March 25, 2010 (Filed as Exhibit 10.20 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.21    Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for James Mackey, dated March 25, 2010 (Filed as Exhibit 10.21 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.22    Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Sanjay Gupta, dated March 25, 2010 (Filed as Exhibit 10.22 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.23    Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Jeffrey Brown, dated March 25, 2010 (Filed as Exhibit 10.23 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.24    Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Thomas Marano, dated March 25, 2010 (Filed as Exhibit 10.24 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
10.25   

Partial Release of Liability Agreement, dated March 17, 2010, by and among Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, GMAC Mortgage, LLC and Residential Funding Company, LLC***

10.26    Form of Ally Financial Inc. 2011 Executive Performance Plan***
10.27    Form of Ally Financial Inc. 2011 Incentive Compensation Plan***
10.28    Form of Ally Financial Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan***
10.29    Form of Ally Financial Inc. 2011 Non-Employee Directors Equity Compensation Plan***
10.30    Form of Conversion and Exchange Agreement, between the Company and the United States Department of the Treasury**
12    Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Dividend Requirements***
21    Subsidiaries of the Registrant (Filed as Exhibit 21 to the Company’s Annual Report for the period ended December 31, 2010, on Form 10-K (File No. 1-3754), incorporated herein by reference.)
23.1    Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP
23.2    Consent of Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP (included in Exhibits 5 and 8)
24.1    Power of Attorney (included on signature page)

 

* Certain confidential portions have been omitted pursuant to a confidential treatment request which has been separately filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

** To be filed by amendment.

 

*** Filed previously.

 

II-16