ptp10q_jun09.htm
 


 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

  x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2009
   
 
OR
   
  o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the transition period from __________ to __________

Commission File Number: 001-31341

Platinum Underwriters Holdings, Ltd.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Bermuda
 
98-0416483
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

The Belvedere Building
69 Pitts Bay Road
Pembroke, Bermuda
 
HM 08
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)

(441) 295-7195
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes X   No ___

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes ___ No ___

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
     Yes ___     No  

As of July 15, 2009, there were outstanding 49,778,459 common shares, par value $0.01 per share, of the registrant.


 
 

 


PLATINUM UNDERWRITERS HOLDINGS, LTD.
QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q FOR THE QUARTER ENDED JUNE 30, 2009

TABLE OF CONTENTS
   
Page
     
PART I  –  FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
     
Item 1.
Financial Statements
 
     
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2009 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2008
1
 
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 (Unaudited)
2
 
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 (Unaudited)
3
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 (Unaudited)
4
 
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 (Unaudited)
5
     
Item 2.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
20
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
37
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
39
     
PART II  –  OTHER INFORMATION
 
     
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
39
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
40
Item 4.
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
40
Item 6.
Exhibits
40
     
SIGNATURES
41


 
 

 
 
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
 
 ITEM 1.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
Platinum Underwriters Holdings, Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
($ in thousands, except share data)
 
    (Unaudited)        
   
June 30, 2009
   
December 31, 2008
 
ASSETS
           
Investments:
           
Fixed maturity available-for-sale securities at fair value (amortized cost – $3,948,976 and $3,267,571, respectively)
  $ 3,795,396     $ 3,063,804  
Fixed maturity trading securities at fair value (amortized cost – $239,542 and $296,837, respectively)
    250,525       305,237  
Preferred stocks (cost – $1,879 and $3,087, respectively)
    3,551       2,845  
Short-term investments
    13,849       75,036  
Total investments
    4,063,321       3,446,922  
Cash and cash equivalents
    335,937       813,017  
Accrued investment income
    33,813       29,041  
Reinsurance premiums receivable
    261,817       307,539  
Reinsurance recoverable on ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses
    16,452       12,413  
Prepaid reinsurance premiums
    8,263       10,897  
Funds held by ceding companies
    120,232       136,278  
Deferred acquisition costs
    43,720       50,719  
Income tax recoverable
    7,156       11,973  
Deferred tax assets
    63,804       71,444  
Other assets
    13,623       36,920  
Total assets
  $ 4,968,138     $ 4,927,163  
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Liabilities
               
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $ 2,394,330     $ 2,463,506  
Unearned premiums
    190,757       218,890  
Debt obligations
    250,000       250,000  
Ceded premiums payable
    6,675       2,918  
Commissions payable
    121,780       125,551  
Other liabilities
    51,892       56,901  
Total liabilities
    3,015,434       3,117,766  
                 
Shareholders’ Equity
               
Preferred shares, $.01 par value, 25,000,000 shares authorized, none and 5,750,000 shares issued and outstanding, respectively
          57  
Common shares, $.01 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 49,778,459 and 47,482,161 shares issued and outstanding, respectively
    498       475  
Additional paid-in capital
    1,020,631       1,114,135  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (139,849 )     (188,987 )
Retained earnings
    1,071,424       883,717  
Total shareholders' equity
    1,952,704       1,809,397  
                 
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
  $ 4,968,138     $ 4,927,163  

 
See accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
- 1 -

 
 
Platinum Underwriters Holdings, Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) and
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)
For the Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008
($ in thousands, except per share data)

 
   
Three Months Ended June 30,
   
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                         
Revenue:
                       
Net premiums earned
  $ 232,462       257,982       480,214     $ 559,833  
Net investment income
    44,077       46,932       78,323       95,994  
Net realized gains (losses) on investments
    10,794       (6,168 )     31,364       (3,196 )
Other income
    5,212       716       5,444       620  
Total revenue
    292,545       299,462       595,345       653,251  
                                 
Expenses:
                               
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
    124,945       93,392       269,109       253,595  
Net acquisition expenses
    38,338       66,137       78,494       126,679  
Net changes in fair value of derivatives
    106       959       2,523       1,769  
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses
    10,194             13,654        
Portion of impairment losses recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (6,938 )           (6,990 )      
Net impairment losses
    3,256             6,664        
Operating expenses
    22,906       25,100       43,774       46,790  
Net foreign currency exchange (gains) losses
    ( 537 )     1,998       459       (2,871 )
Interest expense
    4,756       4,751       9,511       9,501  
Total expenses
    193,770       192,337       410,534       435,463  
                                 
Income before income tax expense
    98,775       107,125       184,811       217,788  
Income tax expense
    645       4,768       1,759       10,260  
                                 
Net income
    98,130       102,357       183,052       207,528  
Preferred dividends
          2,602       1,301       5,204  
                                 
Net income attributable to common shareholders
  $ 98,130       99,755       181,751     $ 202,324  
                                 
Earnings per share:
                               
Basic earnings per share
  $ 1.94       2.06       3.63     $ 4.02  
Diluted earnings per share
  $ 1.90       1.82       3.47     $ 3.58  
                                 
Comprehensive income:
                               
Net income
  $ 98,130       102,357       183,052     $ 207,528  
Other comprehensive income (loss) – net change in unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, net of deferred taxes
    64,958       (38,876 )     63,382       (42,997 )
Comprehensive income
  $ 163,088       63,481       246,434     $ 164,531  
                                 
Shareholder dividends:
                               
Preferred shareholder dividends declared
  $       2,602       2,602     $ 5,204  
Dividends declared per preferred share
          0.45       0.45       0.91  
Common shareholder dividends declared
    4,026       3,976       8,288       8,130  
Dividends declared per common share
  $ 0.08       0.08       0.16     $ 0.16  

 
See accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
- 2 -

 
 
Platinum Underwriters Holdings, Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (Unaudited)
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008
($ in thousands)


   
2009
   
2008
 
             
Preferred shares:
           
Balances at beginning of period
  $ 57     $ 57  
Conversion of preferred shares
    (57 )      
Balances at end of period
          57  
                 
Common shares:
               
Balances at beginning of period
    475       538  
Issuance of common shares
          1  
Purchase of common shares
    (37 )     (63 )
Settlement of equity awards
    2        
Conversion of preferred shares
    57        
Exercise of common share options
    1       11  
Balances at end of period
    498       487  
                 
Additional paid-in capital:
               
Balances at beginning of period
    1,114,135       1,338,466  
Issuance of common shares
    246       1,647  
Purchase of common shares
    (101,346 )     (213,877 )
Share based compensation
    7,091       7,711  
Settlement of equity awards
    (1,070 )     (925 )
Exercise of common share options
    1,575       24,444  
Tax benefit of share options
          69  
Balances at end of period
    1,020,631       1,157,535  
                 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss:
               
Balances at beginning of period
    (188,987 )     (24,339 )
Cumulative effect of accounting change, net of deferred tax
    (14,244 )      
Noncredit component of impairment losses on available-for-sale securities, net of deferred tax
    (6,140 )      
Net change in unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, net of deferred tax
    69,522       (42,997 )
Balances at end of period
    (139,849 )     (67,336 )
                 
Retained earnings:
               
Balances at beginning of period
    883,717       683,655  
Cumulative effect of accounting change, net of deferred tax
    14,244        
Net income
    183,052       207,528  
Preferred share dividends
    (1,301 )     (5,204 )
Common share dividends
    (8,288 )     (8,130 )
Balances at end of period
    1,071,424       877,849  
                 
Total shareholders’ equity
  $ 1,952,704     $ 1,968,592  

 
See accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
- 3 -

 
 
Platinum Underwriters Holdings, Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008
($ in thousands)
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
             
Operating Activities:
           
Net income
  $ 183,052     $ 207,528  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash used in operations:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    10,398       3,955  
Net realized investment (gains) losses
    (31,364 )     3,196  
Net impairment losses
    6,664        
Net foreign currency exchange (gains) losses
    459       (2,871 )
Share based compensation
    7,091       7,711  
Deferred income tax benefit (expense)
    3,818       (2,736 )
Trading securities activities, net
    199,030       38,575  
Changes in assets and liabilities:
               
(Increase) decrease in accrued investment income
    (4,419 )     267  
Decrease (increase) in reinsurance premiums receivable
    44,942       (15,387 )
Decrease in funds held by ceding companies
    15,885       8,001  
Decrease in deferred acquisition costs
    7,106       8,271  
Decrease in net current income tax accounts
    3,301        
Decrease in net unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
    (83,580 )     (4,742 )
Decrease in net unearned premiums
    (26,827 )     (37,722 )
Increase (decrease) in ceded premiums payable
    3,782       (1,562 )
(Decrease) increase in commissions payable
    (3,899 )     10,142  
Changes in other assets and liabilities
    (11,565 )     (14,773 )
Other net
    12       (316 )
Net cash provided by operating activities
    323,886       207,537  
                 
Investing Activities:
               
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities
    368,546       7,691  
Proceeds from maturity or paydown of available-for-sale securities
    296,086       668,560  
Acquisition of available-for-sale securities
    (1,301,166 )     (820,720 )
Acquisition of trading securities
    (119,911 )      
Net change in short-term investments
    61,485       (113,019 )
Net cash used in investing activities
    (694,960 )     (257,488 )
                 
Financing Activities:
               
Dividends paid to preferred shareholders
    (2,602 )     (5,204 )
Dividends paid to common shareholders
    (8,288 )     (8,130 )
Purchase of common shares
    (101,384 )     (213,940 )
Proceeds from exercise of share options
    1,576       24,446  
Net cash used in financing activities
    (110,698 )     (202,828 )
                 
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash
    4,692       1,608  
                 
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
    (477,080 )     (251,171 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    813,017       1,076,279  
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 335,937     $ 825,108  
                 
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
               
Income taxes paid (refunded)
  $ (5,610 )   $ 11,213  
Interest paid
  $ 9,375     $ 9,375  

 
See accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
- 4 -

 
 
Platinum Underwriters Holdings, Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
For the Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008
 
1.
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies
 
Basis of Presentation and Consolidation
 
Platinum Underwriters Holdings, Ltd. (“Platinum Holdings”) is a Bermuda holding company organized in 2002.  Platinum Holdings and its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”) operate through two licensed reinsurance subsidiaries:  Platinum Underwriters Bermuda, Ltd. (“Platinum Bermuda”) and Platinum Underwriters Reinsurance, Inc. (“Platinum US”).  The terms “we,” “us,” and “our” also refer to Platinum Holdings and its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise indicates.  We provide property and marine, casualty and finite risk reinsurance coverages, through reinsurance intermediaries, to a diverse clientele of insurers and select reinsurers on a worldwide basis.
 
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) and include the accounts of Platinum Holdings and its consolidated subsidiaries, including Platinum Bermuda, Platinum US, Platinum Re (UK) Limited (“Platinum UK”), Platinum Underwriters Finance, Inc. (“Platinum Finance”), Platinum Regency Holdings (“Platinum Regency”), Platinum Administrative Services, Inc. and Platinum UK Services Company Limited.  In 2007, Platinum UK ceased underwriting reinsurance business.  All material inter-company transactions have been eliminated in preparing these consolidated financial statements.  The consolidated financial statements included in this report as of and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 are unaudited and include adjustments consisting of normal recurring items that management considers necessary for a fair presentation under U.S. GAAP.  These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.
 
The preparation of financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could materially differ from these estimates.  The results of operations for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of results for the full year.
 
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
 
In April 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments” (“FSP 115-2”).  FSP 115-2 amends previous guidance with respect to other-than-temporary impairment for debt securities.  The objective of the FASB was to make the guidance more operational and to improve presentation and disclosure of other-than-temporary impairments.  Under FSP 115-2, if we intend to sell a debt security or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the debt security before its anticipated recovery, we recognize an other-than-temporary impairment in the consolidated statement of operations equal to the entire difference between the investment’s amortized cost basis and its fair value at the balance sheet date.  For debt securities, we must also determine that the present value of expected future cash flows from a debt security is greater than the amortized cost of the security; otherwise a credit loss has occurred.  If a credit loss exists, the impairment is separated into the portion related to credit loss and the portion related to all other factors.  FSP 115-2 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009.  We adopted FSP 115-2 as of March 31, 2009.
 
Under FSP 115-2, for debt securities held at the time of adoption that we did not intend to sell and for which it was more likely than not that we would not have been required to sell before recovery of their amortized cost, we recognized the cumulative effect of initially applying FSP 115-2 as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings with a corresponding adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income, net of deferred tax.  Upon adoption of FSP 115-2, we recorded a cumulative effect adjustment of $14,244,000, net of deferred tax, which decreased accumulated other comprehensive income and increased retained earnings as of January 1, 2009.  The cumulative effect adjustment included an increase in the amortized cost of certain available-for-sale securities of $15,103,000 and a decrease of deferred tax assets of $859,000.  The adjustment to the amortized cost of these securities represents other-than-temporary impairments not related to the credit loss that were recognized in earnings prior to the adoption of FSP 115-2.  The adoption did not have any impact on our shareholders’ equity and comprehensive income.  The effect of FSP 115-2 in 2009 was to increase net income by recognizing the portion of the other-than-temporary impairment not related to the credit loss in other comprehensive income.
 
In April 2009, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157-4, “Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly” (“FSP 157-4”), which provides additional guidance for estimating fair value when the volume and level of activity for an asset or liability has significantly decreased and emphasizes that the fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction (that is, not a forced liquidation or distressed sale) between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions.  FSP 157-4 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009 and not later than the adoption of FSP 115-2.  We adopted FSP 157-4 effective for the interim period ending March 31, 2009.
 
 
- 5 -

 
 
In April 2009, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 107-1 and Accounting Principles Board Opinion 28-1, “Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments” (“FSP 107-1”).  FSP 107-1 increases the frequency of the disclosures about fair value with the objective of improving the transparency of financial reporting.  FSP 107-1 is effective for interim reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009.  We adopted FSP 107-1 effective for the interim period ending March 31, 2009.
 
In March 2008, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 161, “Disclosure about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (“SFAS 161”).  SFAS 161 amends and expands the disclosure requirements in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” relating to an entity’s derivative and hedging activities and how these activities affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows, with the objective of improving the transparency of financial reporting.  SFAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008.  The adoption of SFAS 161 did not have any material impact on the presentation of our consolidated financial statements.
 
Significant Accounting Policies
 
In accordance with FSP 115-2, if an available-for-sale security is determined to have a credit loss, the impairment is separated into:  (a) the portion of the total other-than-temporary impairment related to the credit loss, which is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations and (b) the portion of the impairment related to all other factors, which is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of deferred tax.  The changes in fair value related to securities with a net impairment loss recognized during the period are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income.
 
2.
Investments
 
Available-for-sale Securities
 
The following table sets forth our fixed maturity available-for-sale securities and preferred stocks as of June 30, 2009 ($ in thousands):

               
Gross Unrealized Losses
       
   
Amortized Cost
   
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   
Non-OTTI
   
Non-credit portion of OTTI
   
Fair Value
 
                               
U.S. Government
  $ 4,096       283                 $ 4,379  
U.S. Government agencies
    666,390       19,187       84             685,493  
Corporate bonds
    714,486       16,814       23,925             707,375  
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
    472,462       929       76,191       241       396,959  
Residential mortgage-backed securities
    1,059,870       10,846       60,618       15,254       994,844  
Asset-backed securities
    91,053       105       27,350       5,441       58,367  
Municipal bonds
    647,132       11,194       8,739             649,587  
Non-U.S. governments
    293,487       5,189       284             298,392  
Total fixed maturity available-for-sale securities
    3,948,976       64,547       197,191       20,936       3,795,396  
Preferred stocks
    1,879       1,672                   3,551  
Total available-for-sale securities
  $ 3,950,855       66,219       197,191       20,936     $ 3,798,947  
 
U.S. Government agencies consist primarily of securities issued by financial institutions under the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
 
 
- 6 -

 
 
Unrealized Gains and Losses
 
The following table sets forth the net changes in unrealized investment gains and losses on our available-for-sale securities for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 ($ in thousands):
             
   
Three Months Ended June 30, 2009
   
Six Months Ended June 30, 2009
 
             
Available-for-sale securities
  $ 69,109     $ 52,101  
Less deferred tax
    (4,151 )     (2,963 )
Cumulative effect of accounting change, net of deferred tax
          14,244  
Net change in unrealized gains and losses
  $ 64,958     $ 63,382  
 
The following table sets forth our unrealized losses on securities classified as available-for-sale aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position as of June 30, 2009 ($ in thousands):

   
Fair Value
   
Unrealized
Loss
 
             
Less than twelve months:
           
U.S. government agencies
  $ 10,216     $ 84  
Corporate bonds
    46,043       3,390  
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
    177,193       25,312  
Residential mortgage-backed securities
    610,146       26,435  
Asset-backed securities
    17,094       3,296  
Municipal bonds
    237,572       8,011  
Non-U.S. governments
    9,603       95  
Total
  $ 1,107,867     $ 66,623  
                 
Twelve months or more:
               
U.S. government agencies
  $     $  
Corporate bonds
    143,015       20,535  
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
    202,349       51,120  
Residential mortgage-backed securities
    52,017       49,437  
Asset-backed securities
    12,093       29,495  
Municipal bonds
    17,060       728  
Non-U.S. governments
    8,777       189  
Total
  $ 435,311     $ 151,504  
                 
Total unrealized losses:
               
U.S. government agencies
  $ 10,216     $ 84  
Corporate bonds
    189,058       23,925  
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
    379,542       76,432  
Residential mortgage-backed securities
    662,163       75,872  
Asset-backed securities
    29,187       32,791  
Municipal bonds
    254,632       8,739  
Non-U.S. governments
    18,380       284  
Total
  $ 1,543,178     $ 218,127  
 
 
- 7 -

 
 
We routinely review our available-for-sale investments to determine whether unrealized losses represent temporary changes in fair value or were the result of “other-than-temporary impairments.”  The process of determining whether a security is other-than-temporarily impaired requires judgment and involves analyzing many factors.  These factors include, but are not limited to, the overall financial condition of the issuer, the length and magnitude of an unrealized loss, specific credit events, the collateral structure and the credit support that may be applicable.  If the present value of expected future cash flows of a debt security is less than the amortized cost of the security, then we estimate the amount of the credit loss.  If a credit loss exists, the impairment is separated into the portion related to credit loss and the portion related to all other factors, which is calculated as amortized cost less fair value plus the credit loss.
 
Investment holdings within our corporate bond portfolio were diversified across approximately 30 industry sectors and across many individual issuers and issues within each sector.  As of June 30, 2009, the single largest unrealized loss within our corporate bond portfolio was $2,400,000 related to a security with an amortized cost of $7,395,000.  We evaluate the credit worthiness of our corporate bond portfolio by reviewing various metrics of the issuer including, but not limited to, financial condition and credit ratings of the issuer as well as other public information.
 
Our commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) are evaluated on a periodic basis using analytical techniques and various metrics including, but not limited to, the level of subordination, debt-service-coverage ratios, loan-to-value ratios, delinquencies, defaults and foreclosures.  We recorded credit impairment losses related to CMBS of $345,000 and $980,000, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively.
 
Our residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”) include U.S. Government agency backed RMBS and non-agency backed RMBS.  Our securities with underlying sub-prime mortgages as collateral are included in asset-backed securities.  As of June 30, 2009, the single largest unrealized loss was a sub-prime asset-backed security with an amortized cost of $10,088,000 and an unrealized loss of $9,020,000.  We analyze our RMBS and sub-prime asset-backed securities on a periodic basis using default loss models based on the performance of the underlying loans.  Performance metrics include delinquencies, defaults, foreclosures, prepayment speeds and cumulative losses incurred.  The expected losses for a mortgage pool are compared to the break-even loss, which represents the point at which our tranche would experience losses.  We evaluate projected cash flows as well as other factors in order to determine if credit impairment has occurred.  We recorded credit impairment losses related to non-agency RMBS of $2,334,000 and $3,759,000, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively.  We also recorded credit impairment losses related to sub-prime asset-backed securities of $577,000 and $717,000, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively.
 
The following table sets forth a summary of the credit losses recognized on our available-for-sale debt securities ($ in thousands):
       
Beginning balance at January 1, 2009
  $  
Cumulative effect of accounting change
    2,300  
Credit losses on securities not previously impaired
    2,728  
Additional credit losses on securities previously impaired
    2,728  
Ending balance at June 30, 2009
  $ 7,756  
 
In evaluating the potential for other-than-temporary impairment, we consider our intent to sell a security and the likelihood that we may be required to sell a security before the unrealized loss is recovered.  Our intent to sell a security is based, in part, on adverse changes in the credit worthiness of a debt issuer, pricing and other market conditions, and our anticipated net cash flows.  If we determine that we intend to sell a security that is in an unrealized loss position, then the unrealized loss related to such security, representing the difference between the security’s amortized cost and its fair value, is recognized as a realized loss in our consolidated statement of operations at the time we determine our intent is to sell.
 
We evaluate the unrealized losses of our perpetual preferred stocks by individual issuer and determine if we can forecast a reasonable period of time by which the fair value of the securities will increase and we will recover our cost.  If we are unable to forecast a reasonable period of time in which we will recover the cost of our perpetual preferred stocks, we record an impairment charge in our consolidated statement of operations for the entire unrealized loss.  We recorded other-than-temporary impairment losses related to our perpetual preferred stocks of $1,208,000, for the six months ended June 30, 2009.  We did not determine that any perpetual preferred stocks required an other-than-temporary impairment loss for the six months ended June 30, 2008.
 
Overall, we believe that the gross unrealized loss in our available-for-sale portfolio represents temporary declines in fair value, is not necessarily predictive of ultimate performance and that the provisions we have made for net impairment losses are adequate.  However, economic conditions may deteriorate more than expected and may adversely affect the expected cash flows of our securities, which in turn may lead to impairment losses recorded in future periods.
 
 
- 8 -

 
 
Trading Securities
 
The following table sets forth the fair value of our fixed maturity trading securities as of June 30, 2009 ($ in thousands):
       
U.S. Government
  $ 104,734  
Insurance-linked securities
    19,531  
Corporate bonds
    2,321  
Non-U.S. governments
    123,939  
Total trading securities
  $ 250,525  
 
We elected to apply the fair value measurement attributes of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities - Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115” (“SFAS 159”), to our investments in U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (“TIPS”) and insurance-linked securities.  We believe that recognizing changes in the fair value of the TIPS in net realized investment gains (losses) in our consolidated statement of operations is a better presentation of the total return on these securities.  Insurance-linked securities have exposure to catastrophe loss, which we actively manage.  We believe that the various risk elements of insurance-linked securities are more appropriately accounted for in accordance with the fair value measurement attributes of SFAS 159.  We have included TIPS and insurance-linked securities at a fair value of $124,265,000 in our fixed maturity trading securities on our consolidated balance sheets, and have recorded net favorable changes in the fair value of $4,067,000 and $2,815,000 in net realized investment gains related to these securities in our consolidated statements of operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively.  Purchases and sales of these securities are included in investing activities in our consolidated statements of cash flows.
 
Net Investment Income
 
The following table sets forth our net investment income for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 ($ in thousands):
             
   
Three Months Ended June 30, 2009
   
Six Months Ended June 30, 2009
 
             
Fixed maturity securities
  $ 44,158     $ 77,724  
Short-term investments and cash and cash equivalents
    321       1,297  
Funds held
    837       1,709  
Subtotal
    45,316       80,730  
Less investment expenses
    1,239       2,407  
Net investment income
  $ 44,077     $ 78,323  
 
Net Realized Investment Gains and Losses
 
The following table sets forth our net realized investment gains and losses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 ($ in thousands):
             
   
Three Months Ended June 30, 2009
   
Six Months Ended June 30, 2009
 
             
Net gains (losses) on the sale of investments:
           
Gross realized gains
  $ 8,155     $ 30,317  
Gross realized losses
    (156 )     (549 )
Subtotal
    7,999       29,768  
Mark-to-market adjustments on trading securities
    2,795       1,596  
Net realized investment gains
  $ 10,794     $ 31,364  
 
 
- 9 -

 
 
Maturities
 
Actual maturities of our fixed maturity available-for-sale and trading securities could differ from stated maturities due to call or prepayment provisions.  The following table sets forth the amortized cost and fair value of our fixed maturity available-for-sale and trading securities by stated maturity as of June 30, 2009 ($ in thousands):
             
   
Amortized
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
             
Due in one year or less
  $ 165,883     $ 167,450  
Due from one to five years
    1,467,763       1,506,254  
Due from five to ten years
    523,206       525,331  
Due in ten or more years
    408,281       396,716  
Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities
    1,623,385       1,450,170  
Total
  $ 4,188,518     $ 4,045,921  
 
3.
Fair Value Measurements
 
We classify our assets and liabilities in the fair value hierarchy based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.  This classification requires judgment in assessing the market and pricing methodologies for a particular security.  We obtain prices for all of our fixed maturity securities, preferred stocks and short-term investments from pricing services, which include index providers, pricing vendors and broker-dealers.  Quoted prices we receive from pricing services are classified as Level 1 as defined by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”).
 
 
We consider prices for actively traded government securities and exchange traded preferred stocks to be based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1 as defined by SFAS 157).  The fair values of our other fixed maturity securities, which generally include mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, corporate bonds, municipal bonds, and bonds issued or guaranteed by governmental entities, are based on prices obtained from independent pricing vendors, index providers, or broker-dealers using observable inputs (Level 2 as defined by SFAS 157).  The inputs used in index pricing may include, but are not limited to, benchmark yields, transactional data, broker-dealer quotes, security cash flows and structures, credit ratings, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates.  Standard inputs used by pricing vendors may include, but are not limited to, benchmark yields, reported trades, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads, bids, offers and industry and economic events.  Broker-dealers value securities through trading desks primarily based on observable inputs.  The fair values of our derivative instruments, which are included in other liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets, are determined by management primarily using unobservable inputs through the application of our own assumptions and internal valuation pricing models (Level 3 as defined by SFAS 157).
 
 
The following table presents the fair value measurement levels for all assets and liabilities which the Company has recorded at fair value as of June 30, 2009 ($ in thousands):
 
         
Fair Value Measurement Using:
 
   
Total
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
 
                         
Financial assets:
                       
U.S. Government
  $ 109,113       109,113           $  
U.S. Government agencies
    685,493             685,493        
Corporate
    709,696       20,433       689,263        
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
    396,959             396,959        
Residential mortgage-backed securities
    994,844             994,844        
Asset-backed securities
    58,367             58,367        
Municipal bonds
    649,587             649,587        
Non-U.S. governments
    422,331       36,556       385,775        
Insurance-linked securities
    19,531             19,531        
Preferred stocks
    3,551       3,551              
Short-term investments
    13,849             13,849        
Total
  $ 4,063,321       169,653       3,893,668     $  
                                 
Financial liabilities:
                               
Derivative instruments
    2,447                   2,447  
Total
  $ 2,447                 $ 2,447  
 
 
- 10 -

 
 
The following table presents the reconciliation of the beginning and ending fair value measurements of our Level 3 liabilities, consisting of derivative instruments, measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs for the six months ended June 30, 2009 ($ in thousands):
       
Beginning balance at January 1, 2009
  $ (4,753 )
Purchases, issuances, and settlements
    4,829  
Total unrealized and realized losses included in earnings
    (2,523 )
Ending balance at June 30, 2009
  $ (2,447 )
Losses for the period attributable to the net change in unrealized losses relating to liabilities outstanding
  $ (2,523 )
 
The net change in unrealized losses for the six months ended June 30, 2009 of $2,523,000 relating to derivative instruments outstanding was included in the net changes in fair value of derivatives in our consolidated statement of operations.  We settled balances of $4,829,000 on derivatives in the six months ended June 30, 2009 and such payments were also included in the net changes in fair value of derivatives in our consolidated statement of operations.
 
4.
Derivative Instruments
 
In August 2008, we entered into a derivative agreement with Topiary Capital Limited (“Topiary”), a Cayman Islands special purpose vehicle, that provides us with the ability to recover up to $200,000,000 should two catastrophic events involving U.S. wind, U.S. earthquake, European wind or Japanese earthquake occur that meet specified loss criteria during any of three annual periods commencing August 1, 2008.  Any recovery we make under this contract is based on insured property industry loss estimates for the U.S. perils and European wind and a parametric index for Japanese earthquake events.  Recovery is based on both a physical and a financial variable and is not based on actual losses we may incur.  Consequently, the transaction is accounted for as a derivative and carried at the estimated net fair value.
 
Under the terms of the agreement, we pay Topiary approximately $9,650,000 during each of the three annual periods.  The net derivative liability at June 30, 2009 of $2,447,000 was included in other liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet.  The net change in fair value for the six months ended June 30, 2009 of $2,523,000 was included in the change in fair value of derivatives on our consolidated statement of operations.
 
Topiary’s limit of loss is collateralized with high quality investment grade securities in a secured collateral account.  The performance of the securities in the collateral account is guaranteed under a total return swap agreement with Goldman Sachs International whose obligations under the swap agreement are guaranteed by Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.
 
5.
Earnings per Share
 
The following is a calculation of the basic and diluted earnings per common share for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 ($ in thousands, except per share data):

   
Net
Income
   
Weighted
Average Shares
Outstanding
   
Earnings
per
Share
 
                   
Three Months Ended June 30, 2009:
                 
Basic earnings per share:
                 
Net income attributable to common shareholders
  $ 98,130       50,580     $ 1.94  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
Common share options, restricted common shares and common share units
          1,014          
Adjusted net income for diluted earnings per share
  $ 98,130       51,594     $ 1.90  
 
 
- 11 -

 
 
 
    Net
Income
     Weighted
Average Shares
Outstanding
    Earnings
per
Share
 
                   
Three Months Ended June 30, 2008:
                 
Basic earnings per share:
                 
Net income attributable to common shareholders
  $ 99,755       48,468     $ 2.06  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
Common share options, restricted common shares and common share units
          2,676          
Conversion of preferred shares
          4,953          
Preferred share dividends
    2,602                
Adjusted net income for diluted earnings per share
  $ 102,357       56,097     $ 1.82  
                         
Six Months Ended June 30, 2009:
                       
Basic earnings per share:
                       
Net income attributable to common shareholders
  $ 181,751       50,105     $ 3.63  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
Common share options, restricted common shares and common share units
          1,114          
Conversion of preferred shares
          1,525          
Preferred share dividends
    1,301                
Adjusted net income for diluted earnings per share
  $ 183,052       52,744     $ 3.47  
                         
Six Months Ended June 30, 2008:
                       
Basic earnings per share:
                       
Net income attributable to common shareholders
  $ 202,324       50,286     $ 4.02  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
Common share options, restricted common shares and common share units
          2,707          
Conversion of preferred shares
          5,028          
Preferred share dividends
    5,204                
Adjusted net income for diluted earnings per share
  $ 207,528       58,021     $ 3.58  
 
6.
Operating Segment Information
 
We conduct our worldwide reinsurance business through three operating segments: Property and Marine, Casualty and Finite Risk.  The Property and Marine operating segment includes property reinsurance, crop reinsurance and marine and aviation reinsurance.  This operating segment includes reinsurance contracts that are either catastrophe excess-of-loss, per-risk excess-of-loss or proportional contracts.  The Casualty operating segment includes principally reinsurance contracts that cover umbrella liability, general and product liability, professional liability, workers' compensation, casualty clash, automobile liability, surety, trade credit, political risk and accident and health.  We generally seek to write casualty reinsurance on an excess-of-loss basis.  We write proportional casualty reinsurance contracts on an opportunistic basis.  The Finite Risk operating segment includes principally structured reinsurance contracts with ceding companies whose needs may not be met efficiently through traditional reinsurance products.  The finite risk contracts that we underwrite generally provide prospective protection, meaning coverage is provided for losses that are incurred after inception of the contract, as contrasted with retrospective coverage, which covers losses that are incurred prior to inception of the contract.
 
 
- 12 -

 
 
In managing our operating segments, we use measures such as underwriting income and underwriting ratios to evaluate segment performance.  We do not allocate assets or certain income and expenses such as investment income, interest expense and certain corporate expenses to segments.  The measures we use in evaluating our operating segments should not be used as a substitute for measures determined under U.S. GAAP.  The following table summarizes underwriting activity and ratios for the three operating segments, together with a reconciliation of underwriting income to income before income tax expense for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 ($ in thousands):

   
Property
and Marine
   
Casualty
   
Finite Risk
   
Total
 
                         
Three Months Ended June 30, 2009:
                       
Net premiums written
  $ 113,405       87,459       7,253     $ 208,117  
                                 
Net premiums earned
    128,316       99,161       4,985       232,462  
Net losses and LAE
    62,807       61,042       1,096       124,945  
Net acquisition expenses
    13,526       20,406       4,406       38,338  
Other underwriting expenses
    9,123       6,130       400       15,653  
Segment underwriting income (loss)
  $ 42,860       11,583       (917 )     53,526  
                                 
Net investment income
      44,077  
Net realized investment gains
      10,794  
Net impairment losses
      (3,256 )
Net changes in fair value of derivatives
      (106 )
Net foreign currency exchange gains
      537  
Other income
      5,212  
Corporate expenses not allocated to segments
      (7,253 )
Interest expense
      (4,756 )
Income before income tax expense
    $ 98,775  
                                 
Ratios:
                               
Net loss and LAE
    48.9 %     61.6 %     22.0 %     53.7 %
Net acquisition expense
    10.5 %     20.6 %     88.4 %     16.5 %
Other underwriting expense
    7.1 %     6.2 %     8.0 %     6.7 %
Combined
    66.5 %     88.4 %     118.4 %     76.9 %
                                 
Three Months Ended June 30, 2008:
                               
Net premiums written
  $ 118,588       102,893       3,379     $ 224,860  
                                 
Net premiums earned
    141,716       113,245       3,021       257,982  
Net losses and LAE
    33,367       66,783       (6,758 )     93,392  
Net acquisition expenses
    24,774       32,214       9,149       66,137  
Other underwriting expenses
    9,635       6,991       365       16,991  
Segment underwriting income
  $ 73,940       7,257       265       81,462  
                                 
Net investment income
      46,932  
Net realized investment losses
      (6,168 )
Net changes in fair value of derivatives
      (959 )
Net foreign currency exchange losses
      (1,998 )
Other income
      716  
Corporate expenses not allocated to segments
      (8,109 )
Interest expense
      (4,751 )
Income before income tax expense
    $ 107,125  
                                 
Ratios:
                               
Net loss and LAE
    23.5 %     59.0 %     (223.7 %)     36.2 %
Net acquisition expense
    17.5 %     28.4 %     302.8 %     25.6 %
Other underwriting expense
    6.8 %     6.2 %     12.1 %     6.6 %
Combined
    47.8 %     93.6 %     91.2 %     68.4 %
                                 
 
 
- 13 -

 
 
     Property
and Marine
     
Casualty
     
Finite Risk
     
Total
 
                         
Six Months Ended June 30, 2009:
                       
Net premiums written
  $ 255,140       185,473       12,776     $ 453,389  
                                 
Net premiums earned
    261,987       209,121       9,106       480,214  
Net losses and LAE
    140,258       120,183       8,668       269,109  
Net acquisition expenses
    30,890       46,627       977       78,494  
Other underwriting expenses
    17,282       11,799       700       29,781  
Segment underwriting income (loss)
  $ 73,557       30,512       (1,239 )     102,830  
                                 
Net investment income
      78,323  
Net realized investment gains
      31,364  
Net impairment losses
      (6,664 )
Net changes in fair value of derivatives
      (2,523 )
Net foreign currency exchange losses
      (459 )
Other income
      5,444  
Corporate expenses not allocated to segments
      (13,993 )
Interest expense
      (9,511 )
Income before income tax expense
    $ 184,811  
                                 
Ratios:
                               
Net loss and LAE
    53.5 %     57.5 %     95.2 %     56.0 %
Net acquisition expense
    11.8 %     22.3 %     10.7 %     16.3 %
Other underwriting expense
    6.6 %     5.6 %     7.7 %     6.2 %
Combined
    71.9 %     85.4 %     113.6 %     78.5 %
                                 
Six Months Ended June 30, 2008:
                               
Net premiums written
  $ 287,405       228,469       5,257     $ 521,131  
                                 
Net premiums earned
    295,106       260,740       3,987       559,833  
Net losses and LAE
    95,406       166,176       (7,987 )     253,595  
Net acquisition expenses
    45,428       69,702       11,549       126,679  
Other underwriting expenses
    18,231       13,786       675       32,692  
Segment underwriting income (loss)
  $ 136,041       11,076       (250 )     146,867  
                                 
Net investment income
      95,994  
Net realized investment losses
      (3,196 )
Net changes in fair value of derivatives
      (1,769 )
Net foreign currency exchange gains
      2,871  
Other income
      620  
Corporate expenses not allocated to segments
      (14,098 )
Interest expense
      (9,501 )
Income before income tax expense
    $ 217,788  
                                 
Ratios:
                               
Net loss and LAE
    32.3 %     63.7 %     (200.3 %)     45.3 %
Net acquisition expense
    15.4 %     26.7 %     289.7 %     22.6 %
Other underwriting expense
    6.2 %     5.3 %     16.9 %     5.8 %
Combined
    53.9 %     95.7 %     106.3 %     73.7 %
 
 
- 14 -

 
 
7.
Income Taxes
 
We provide for income tax expense or benefit based upon income reported in the consolidated financial statements and the provisions of currently enacted tax laws.  Platinum Holdings and Platinum Bermuda are incorporated in Bermuda.  Under current Bermuda law, they are not taxed on any Bermuda income or capital gains and they have received an assurance that if any legislation is enacted in Bermuda that would impose tax computed on profits or income, or computed on any capital asset, gain or appreciation, or any tax in the nature of estate duty or inheritance tax, then the imposition of any such tax will not be applicable to Platinum Holdings or Platinum Bermuda or any of their respective operations, shares, debentures or other obligations until March 28, 2016.  We also have subsidiaries in the United States, the United Kingdom and Ireland that are subject to the tax laws thereof.  The income tax returns of our U.S. based subsidiaries that remain open to examination are for calendar years 2003 and forward.  The income tax returns of 2003 and 2004 are currently under examination.
 
8.
Condensed Consolidating Financial Information
 
Platinum Finance is a U.S. based intermediate holding company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Platinum Regency.  The outstanding Series B 7.5% Notes issued by Platinum Finance, due June 1, 2017, are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Platinum Holdings.
 
The payment of dividends from our regulated reinsurance subsidiaries is limited by applicable laws and statutory requirements of the jurisdictions in which the subsidiaries operate, including Bermuda, the United States, the United Kingdom and Ireland.  Based on the regulatory restrictions of the applicable jurisdictions, the maximum amount available for payment of dividends or other distributions by Platinum US to Platinum Finance in 2009 without prior regulatory approval is estimated to be approximately $57,407,000.  The maximum amount available for payment of dividends or other distributions by the reinsurance subsidiaries of Platinum Holdings in 2009, including Platinum US, without prior regulatory approval is estimated to be approximately $386,380,000.  During the six months ended June 30, 2009, dividends of $65,000,000 were paid by Platinum Bermuda to Platinum Holdings, and dividends of $20,000,000 were paid by Platinum US to Platinum Finance.  Subsequent to June 30, 2009, a dividend of $40,000,000 was paid by Platinum Bermuda to Platinum Holdings.
 
The tables below present condensed consolidating financial information of Platinum Holdings, Platinum Finance and the non-guarantor subsidiaries of Platinum Holdings as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 ($ in thousands):

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet June 30, 2009
 
Platinum Holdings
   
Platinum Finance
   
Non-guarantor Subsidiaries
   
Consolidating Adjustments
   
Consolidated
 
                               
ASSETS
                             
Total investments
  $       1,530       4,061,791           $ 4,063,321  
Investment in subsidiaries
    1,930,225       516,867       318,004       (2,765,096 )      
Cash and cash equivalents
    13,760       40,056       282,121             335,937  
Reinsurance assets
                450,484             450,484  
Other assets
    14,369       2,279       101,748             118,396  
Total assets
  $ 1,958,354       560,732       5,214,148       (2,765,096 )   $ 4,968,138  
                                         
LIABILITIES AND
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                                       
Liabilities
                                       
Reinsurance liabilities
  $             2,713,542           $ 2,713,542  
Debt obligations
          250,000                   250,000  
Other liabilities
    5,650       (932 )     47,174             51,892  
Total liabilities
    5,650       249,068       2,760,716             3,015,434  
                                         
Shareholders’ Equity
                                       
Common shares
    498             6,250       (6,250 )     498  
Additional paid-in capital
    1,020,631       212,592       1,883,124       (2,095,716 )     1,020,631  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (139,849 )     (22,394 )     (162,269 )     184,663       (139,849 )
Retained earnings
    1,071,424       121,466       726,327       (847,793 )     1,071,424  
Total shareholders’ equity
    1,952,704       311,664       2,453,432       (2,765,096 )     1,952,704  
                                         
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  $ 1,958,354       560,732       5,214,148       (2,765,096 )   $ 4,968,138  

 
- 15 -

 

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet December 31, 2008
 
Platinum Holdings
   
Platinum Finance
   
Non-guarantor Subsidiaries
   
Consolidating Adjustments
   
Consolidated
 
                               
ASSETS
                             
Total investments
  $       2,140       3,444,782           $ 3,446,922  
Investment in subsidiaries
    1,736,321       518,682       302,500       (2,557,503 )      
Cash and cash equivalents
    66,325       10,468       736,224             813,017  
Reinsurance assets
                517,846             517,846  
Other assets
    14,158       2,652       132,568             149,378  
Total assets
  $ 1,816,804       533,942       5,133,920       (2,557,503 )   $ 4,927,163  
                                         
LIABILITIES AND
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                                       
Liabilities
                                       
Reinsurance liabilities
  $             2,810,865           $ 2,810,865  
Debt obligations
          250,000                   250,000  
Other liabilities
    7,407       2,412       47,082             56,901  
Total liabilities
    7,407       252,412       2,857,947             3,117,766  
                                         
Shareholders’ Equity
                                       
Preferred shares
    57                         57  
Common shares
    475             6,250       (6,250 )     475  
Additional paid-in capital
    1,114,135       194,264       1,898,582       (2,092,846 )     1,114,135  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (188,987 )     (27,899 )     (216,870 )     244,769       (188,987 )
Retained earnings
    883,717       115,165       588,011       (703,176 )     883,717  
Total shareholders' equity
    1,809,397       281,530       2,275,973       (2,557,503 )     1,809,397  
                                         
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  $ 1,816,804       533,942       5,133,920       (2,557,503 )   $ 4,927,163  


Consolidating Statement of Operations For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2009
 
Platinum Holdings
   
Platinum Finance
   
Non-guarantor Subsidiaries
   
Consolidating Adjustments
   
Consolidated
 
                               
Revenue:
                             
Net premiums earned
  $             232,462           $ 232,462  
Net investment income
    14       41       44,022             44,077  
Net realized investment gains
                10,794             10,794  
Other income
    448             4,764             5,212  
Total revenue
    462       41       292,042             292,545  
Expenses:
                                       
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
                124,945             124,945  
Net acquisition expenses
                38,338             38,338  
Net changes in fair value of derivatives
                106             106  
Net impairment losses
                3,256             3,256  
Operating expenses
    6,616       111       16,179             22,906  
Net foreign currency exchange gains
                ( 537 )           ( 537 )
Interest expense
          4,756                   4,756  
Total expenses
    6,616       4,867       182,287             193,770  
 
                                       
Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit)
    (6,154 )     (4,826 )     109,755             98,775  
Income tax expense (benefit)
    150       (1,515 )     2,010             645  
                                         
Income (loss) before equity in earnings of subsidiaries
    (6,304 )     (3,311 )     107,745             98,130  
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries
    104,434       7,414       5,083       (116,931 )      
                                         
Net income
  $ 98,130       4,103       112,828       (116,931 )   $ 98,130  

 
- 16 -

 
 
Consolidating Statement of Operations For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2008
 
Platinum Holdings
   
Platinum Finance
   
Non-guarantor Subsidiaries
   
Consolidating Adjustments
   
Consolidated
 
                               
Revenue:
                             
Net premiums earned
  $             257,982           $ 257,982  
Net investment income
    255       175       46,502             46,932  
Net realized gains (losses) on investments
          1       (6,169 )           (6,168 )
Other income
    635             81             716  
Total revenue
    890       176       298,396             299,462  
Expenses:
                                       
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
                93,392             93,392  
Net acquisition expenses
                66,137             66,137  
Net changes in fair value of derivatives
                959             959  
Operating expenses
    7,967       80       17,053             25,100  
Net foreign currency exchange losses
                1,998             1,998  
Interest expense
          4,751                   4,751  
Total expenses
    7,967       4,831       179,539             192,337  
                                         
Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit)
    (7,077 )     (4,655 )     118,857             107,125  
Income tax expense (benefit)
    300       (797 )     5,265             4,768  
                                         
Income (loss) before equity in earnings of subsidiaries
    (7,377 )     (3,858 )     113,592             102,357  
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries
    109,734       11,961       8,329       (130,024 )      
                                         
Net income
    102,357       8,103       121,921       (130,024 )     102,357  
Preferred dividends
    2,602                         2,602  
                                         
Net income attributable to common shareholders
  $ 99,755       8,103       121,921       (130,024 )   $ 99,755  


Consolidating Statement of Operations For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2009
 
Platinum Holdings
   
Platinum Finance
   
Non-guarantor Subsidiaries
   
Consolidating Adjustments
   
Consolidated
 
                               
Revenue:
                             
Net premiums earned
  $             480,214           $ 480,214  
Net investment income
    44       61       78,218             78,323  
Net realized investment gains
                31,364             31,364  
Other income
    902             4,542             5,444  
Total revenue
    946       61       594,338             595,345  
Expenses:
                                       
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
                269,109             269,109  
Net acquisition expenses
                78,494             78,494  
Net changes in fair value of derivatives
                2,523             2,523  
Net impairment losses
                6,664             6,664  
Operating expenses
    13,159       219       30,396             43,774  
Net foreign currency exchange losses
                459             459  
Interest expense
          9,511                   9,511  
Total expenses
    13,159       9,730       387,645             410,534  
                                         
Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit)
    (12,213 )     (9,669 )     206,693             184,811  
Income tax expense (benefit)
    300       (3,210 )     4,669             1,759  
                                         
Income (loss) before equity in earnings of subsidiaries
    (12,513 )     (6,459 )     202,024             183,052  
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries
    195,565       11,165       5,454       (212,184 )      
                                         
Net income
    183,052       4,706       207,478       (212,184 )     183,052  
Preferred dividends
    1,301                         1,301  
                                         
Net income attributable to common shareholders
  $ 181,751       4,706       207,478       (212,184 )   $ 181,751  
 
 
- 17 -

 

Consolidating Statement of Operations For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2008
 
Platinum Holdings
   
Platinum Finance
   
Non-guarantor Subsidiaries
   
Consolidating Adjustments
   
Consolidated
 
                               
Revenue:
                             
Net premiums earned
  $             559,833           $ 559,833  
Net investment income
    855       400       94,739             95,994  
Net realized gains (losses) on investments
          4       (3,200 )           (3,196 )
Other income (expense)
    1,084             (464 )           620  
Total revenue
    1,939       404       650,908             653,251  
Expenses:
                                       
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses
                253,595             253,595  
Net acquisition expenses
                126,679             126,679  
Net changes in fair value of derivatives
                1,769             1,769  
Operating expenses
    13,816       180       32,794             46,790  
Net foreign currency exchange gains
                (2,871 )           (2,871 )
Interest expense
          9,501                   9,501  
Total expenses
    13,816       9,681       411,966             435,463  
                                         
Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit)
    (11,877 )     (9,277 )     238,942             217,788  
Income tax expense (benefit)
    300       (2,305 )     12,265             10,260  
                                         
Income (loss) before equity in earnings of subsidiaries
    (12,177 )     (6,972 )     226,677             207,528  
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries
    219,705       25,426       19,336       (264,467 )      
                                         
Net income
    207,528       18,454       246,013       (264,467 )     207,528  
Preferred dividends
    5,204                         5,204  
                                         
Net income attributable to common shareholders
  $ 202,324       18,454       246,013       (264,467 )   $ 202,324  


Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2009
 
Platinum
Holdings
   
Platinum Finance
   
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
   
Consolidating Adjustments
   
Consolidated
 
                               
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
  $ (6,866 )     (9,448 )     340,200           $ 323,886  
                                         
Investing Activities:
                                       
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities
                368,546             368,546  
Purchase of subsidiary shares
                (18,367 )     18,367        
Proceeds from maturity or paydown of available-for-sale securities
          668       295,418             296,086  
Acquisition of available-for-sale securities
                (1,301,166 )           (1,301,166 )
Acquisition of trading securities
                (119,911 )           (119,911 )
Increase in short-term investments
                61,485             61,485  
Dividends from subsidiaries
    65,000       20,000             (85,000 )      
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    65,000       20,668       (713,995 )     (66,633 )     (694,960 )
                                         
Financing Activities:
                                       
Dividends paid to preferred shareholders
    (2,602 )                       (2,602 )
Dividends paid to common shareholders
    (8,288 )           (85,000 )     85,000       (8,288 )
Proceeds from exercise of share options
    1,576                         1,576  
Purchase of common shares
    (101,384 )                       (101,384 )
Proceeds from common share issuance
          18,367             (18,367 )      
Net cash provided by  (used in) financing activities
    (110,698 )     18,367       (85,000 )     66,633       (110,698 )
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash
                4,692             4,692  
                                         
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    (52,564 )     29,587       (454,103 )           (477,080 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    66,325       10,468       736,224             813,017  
                                         
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 13,761       40,055       282,121           $ 335,937  

 
- 18 -

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2008
 
Platinum
Holdings
   
Platinum Finance
   
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
   
Consolidating Adjustments
   
Consolidated
 
                               
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
  $ (6,712 )     (7,666 )     221,915           $ 207,537  
                                         
Investing Activities:
                                       
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities
                7,691             7,691  
Proceeds from maturity or paydown of available-for-sale securities
          542       668,018             668,560  
Acquisition of available-for-sale securities
                (820,720 )           (820,720 )
Increase in short-term investments
                (113,019 )           (113,019 )
Dividends from subsidiaries
    185,000                   (185,000 )      
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    185,000       542       (258,030 )     (185,000 )     (257,488 )
                                         
Financing Activities:
                                       
Dividends paid to preferred shareholders
    (5,204 )                       (5,204 )
Dividends paid to common shareholders
    (8,130 )           (185,000 )     185,000       (8,130 )
Proceeds from exercise of share options
    24,446                         24,446  
Purchase of common shares
    (213,940 )                       (213,940 )
Net cash used in financing activities
    (202,828 )           (185,000 )     185,000       (202,828 )
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash
                1,608             1,608  
                                         
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    (24,540 )     (7,124 )     (219,507 )           (251,171 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    39,592       18,349       1,018,338             1,076,279  
                                         
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 15,052       11,225       798,831           $ 825,108  
 
9.
Company Share Repurchases
 
Our board of directors has authorized the repurchase of up to $250,000,000 of our common shares through a share repurchase program.  Since the program was established, our board has monitored the level of share repurchase activity and periodically restored the repurchase authority under the program to $250,000,000, most recently on July 23, 2009.  During the six months ended June 30, 2009, we repurchased 3,735,288 of our common shares in the open market at an aggregate cost, including commissions, of $101,384,000 and a weighted average cost, including commissions, of $27.14 per share.  All of the common shares we repurchased were canceled.
 
 
- 19 -

 
 
ITEM 2.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto and management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 and the “Note on Forward-Looking Statements” on pages 36-37 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2009 (this “Form 10-Q”).  Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).
 
 Overview
 
Platinum Underwriters Holdings, Ltd. (“Platinum Holdings”) was organized in 2002 as a Bermuda holding company and had $2.2 billion in capital as of June 30, 2009.  We operate through our two licensed reinsurance subsidiaries, Platinum Underwriters Bermuda, Ltd. (“Platinum Bermuda”) and Platinum Underwriters Reinsurance, Inc. (“Platinum US”).  We provide property and marine, casualty and finite risk reinsurance coverages, through reinsurance intermediaries, to a diverse clientele of insurers and select reinsurers on a worldwide basis.
 
 Economic Conditions
 
Periods of moderate economic growth or recession tend not to adversely affect our operations.  Periods of moderate inflation or deflation also tend not to adversely affect our operations.  However, periods of severe inflation or deflation or prolonged periods of recession may adversely impact our results of operations or financial condition.  Management considers the potential impact of economic trends in the estimation process for establishing unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses (“LAE”) and in determining our underwriting and investment strategies.
 
 Reinsurance Industry Conditions and Trends
 
The reinsurance industry historically has been cyclical, characterized by periods of price competition due to excessive underwriting capacity as well as periods of favorable pricing due to shortages of underwriting capacity.  Cyclical trends in the industry and the industry's profitability can also be significantly affected by shock events, including natural and other catastrophes.  Property and casualty reinsurance rates often rise in the aftermath of significant catastrophe losses.  To the extent that actual claim liabilities are higher than anticipated, the industry's capacity to write new business diminishes.  The reinsurance industry is also affected by changes in the propensity of courts to expand insurance coverage and grant large liability awards.  Fluctuations in interest rates and other changes in the economic environment that affect the fair values of investments may also impact the industry.
 
In 2005, an unprecedented level of hurricane losses caused many reinsurers to report significant net losses, after which rating agencies imposed higher capital requirements.  Both reinsurers and their clients reassessed their catastrophe pricing parameters and procedures.  The result was an increase in catastrophe pricing, particularly for wind exposures in the United States, in 2006 and the beginning of 2007.  A number of new companies were formed to take advantage of the improved pricing.  The combination of additional capacity and a lack of major catastrophe activity in 2006 and 2007 led to a decline in pricing for catastrophe exposed reinsurance in the second half of 2007.  After initially stabilizing, the weakening of non-catastrophe pricing resumed in late 2006 and continued throughout 2007.  The pricing of reinsurance continued to decline in the first half of 2008.  During the second half of 2008 and the first quarter of 2009, the financial markets experienced significant adverse credit events and a loss of liquidity that adversely impacted the fair values of invested assets and reduced the amount of capital in the insurance industry.  The financial markets improved during the second quarter of 2009, which favorably impacted fair values of invested assets and capital.  In addition, the 2008 hurricane season resulted in substantial losses to the insurance and reinsurance industry.
 
 Current Outlook
 
We believe that the current adverse conditions in the financial markets have made debt and equity capital either unavailable or significantly more expensive to access than in the recent past.  Since reinsurance can serve primary insurers as a replacement of dedicated capital, we believe demand for reinsurance will increase.  We also believe that some reinsurers have been negatively impacted by the current adverse conditions in the financial markets and 2008 hurricane losses to such an extent that they may be reluctant to deploy their capacity without appropriate rate increases.  We believe that these factors have begun to affect reinsurance market conditions positively.  These conditions may lead to further rate strengthening during 2009, particularly with respect to property and marine business.
 
For the Property and Marine segment, catastrophe rate adequacy improved most in catastrophe exposed areas of the United States.  We seek to limit the estimated probable maximum loss to a specific level for severe catastrophic events.  We currently expect to limit the probable maximum pre-tax loss for 2009 to no more than 22.5% of total capital for a severe catastrophic event in any geographic zone that could be expected to occur once in every 250 years, although we may change this threshold at any time.  The estimated probable maximum loss for a catastrophic event in any geographic zone arising from a 1-in-250 year event was approximately $402 million and $293 million as of July 1, 2009 and January 1, 2009, respectively.  The non-renewal of various retrocessional agreements contributed $51 million to the increase.
 
For the Casualty segment, we believe the decline in rate adequacy of the past few years has slowed, and, in some cases, reinsurance terms have improved.  We believe that the market offers adequate returns on certain accounts.  We believe that financial security is a significant concern for buyers of long-tailed reinsurance protection who typically seek reinsurers with strong balance sheets, quality ratings, and a proven claims-paying record.  We believe that our rating, capitalization and reputation as a lead casualty reinsurer position us well to write profitable business as opportunities arise.
 
 
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We found relatively more attractive opportunities in our Property and Marine segment and relatively fewer attractive opportunities in our Casualty segment.  Therefore, Property and Marine business may represent a larger proportion of our overall book of business in future periods, which could increase the volatility of our results of operations.
 
In the Finite Risk segment, we expect that the relatively low level of demand will continue for the foreseeable future.
 
 Critical Accounting Estimates
 
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires us to make many estimates and valuation assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities (including unpaid losses and LAE), revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent liabilities.  Certain of these estimates and assumptions result from judgments that are necessarily subjective.  Actual results may differ materially from these estimates.  Our critical accounting estimates include premiums written and earned, unpaid losses and LAE, estimates of reinsurance recoverable, valuation of investments and evaluation of risk transfer.  For a detailed discussion of the Company’s critical accounting estimates, please refer to Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.
 
In April 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments” (“FSP 115-2”).  See discussion of recently issued accounting pronouncements and significant accounting policies in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements in this Form 10-Q.
 
 Results of Operations
 
Three Months Ended June 30, 2009 as Compared with the Three Months Ended June 30, 2008
 
Net income and diluted earnings per share for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 were as follows ($ in thousands, except earnings per share):

   
2009
   
2008
   
Increase
(decrease)
 
                   
Net income
  $ 98,130       102,357     $ (4,227 )
Average shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per share
    51,594       56,097       (4,503 )
Diluted earnings per share
  $ 1.90       1.82     $ 0.08  
 
The decrease in net income in 2009 as compared with 2008 was primarily due to a decrease in net underwriting income, partially offset by an increase in net realized investment gains.  Net underwriting income consists of net premiums earned, less net losses and LAE, net acquisition expenses and operating costs related to underwriting operations.
 
Diluted earnings per share increased primarily due to the decrease in the average shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per share.  The average shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per share decreased in 2009 as compared with 2008 as a result of share repurchases.  We repurchased 11,498,580 common shares in the period from January 1, 2008 through June 30, 2009.  The effect of these share repurchases on the average shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per share in 2009 was greater than the effect in 2008 by 5,360,652 shares and the percentage decrease in average shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per share exceeded the percentage decrease in net income.  Consequently, diluted earnings per share increased even though net income decreased.
 
Underwriting Results
 
Net underwriting income for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 was $53,526,000 and $81,462,000, respectively.  Net premiums written decreased in 2009 as compared with 2008 primarily due to decreases in premiums written across most classes in the Casualty segment and decreases in the Property and Marine segment as we reduced our exposure to catastrophe events, most significantly in the renewal of contracts effective January 1, 2009.  The decrease in net underwriting income in 2009 as compared with 2008 was due to less net favorable development in 2009 as well as a decrease in net premiums earned.  Net favorable development is the development of prior years’ unpaid losses and LAE and the related impact on premiums and commissions.  Net favorable development was $23,555,000 and $36,826,000 in 2009 and 2008, respectively.
 
The net favorable loss development in 2009 related to prior years was primarily in the Casualty segment.  Actual reported losses in certain casualty classes were significantly less than expected and gained sufficient credibility in the current period to reduce estimated ultimate losses.  We do not believe that the net favorable loss development experienced in 2009 is indicative of prospective net development of unpaid losses and LAE as of June 30, 2009 because the conditions and trends that affected the net favorable development of prior years’ unpaid losses and LAE may not necessarily exist in the future.
 
 
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We conduct our worldwide reinsurance business through three operating segments: Property and Marine, Casualty and Finite Risk.  In managing our operating segments, we use measures such as underwriting income and underwriting ratios to evaluate segment performance.  We do not allocate assets or certain income and expenses such as investment income, interest expense and certain corporate expenses to segments.  Segment underwriting income is reconciled to the U.S. GAAP measure of income before income taxes in Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements in this Form 10-Q.  The measures we used in evaluating our operating segments should not be used as a substitute for measures determined under U.S. GAAP.
 
Property and Marine
 
The Property and Marine operating segment generated 54.5% and 52.7% of our net premiums written for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  The following table summarizes underwriting activity and ratios for the Property and Marine segment for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 ($ in thousands):

   
2009
   
2008
   
Increase
(decrease)
 
                   
Gross premiums written
  $ 120,498       128,022     $ (7,524 )
Ceded premiums written
    7,093       9,434       (2,341 )
Net premiums written
    113,405       118,588       (5,183 )
                         
Net premiums earned
    128,316       141,716       (13,400 )
Net losses and LAE
    62,807       33,367       29,440  
Net acquisition expenses
    13,526       24,774       (11,248 )
Other underwriting expenses
    9,123       9,635       ( 512 )
Property and Marine segment underwriting income
  $ 42,860       73,940     $ (31,080 )
                         
Ratios:
                       
Net loss and LAE
    48.9 %     23.5 %  
25.4 points
 
Net acquisition expense
    10.5 %     17.5 %  
(7.0) points
 
Other underwriting expense
    7.1 %     6.8 %  
0.3 points
 
Combined
    66.5 %     47.8 %  
18.7 points
 
 
The decrease in underwriting income in 2009 as compared with 2008 was primarily due to the difference in the net development of prior years’ premiums and losses.  There was $6,215,000 of net favorable development in 2009 as compared with net favorable development of $22,371,000 in 2008.  The decline in underwriting income was also attributable to the decline in net premiums earned in the property catastrophe classes which have lower combined ratios in the absence of catastrophes than the remainder of the segment.
 
The decrease in gross premiums written in 2009 as compared with 2008 was primarily in the catastrophe excess, risk excess and ocean marine excess classes where we reduced our exposure to catastrophe events.  Net premiums earned in 2009 decreased as a result of the decrease in net premiums written.
 
The increases in net losses and LAE and the related net loss and LAE ratios in 2009 as compared with 2008 were primarily due to the difference in net loss development.  Net unfavorable loss development was $1,047,000 in 2009 as compared with net favorable loss development of $22,857,000 in 2008.  Net development in 2009 and 2008 was primarily attributable to a level of cumulative losses reported by our ceding companies that was different from expected and that, in our judgment, resulted in sufficient credibility in the loss experience to change our previously selected loss ratios.  The following table sets forth the net favorable (unfavorable) development in 2009 of prior years’ unpaid losses and LAE and the related impact on premiums and commissions by reserving class ($ in thousands):
                         
Class of Business
 
Net Losses and LAE
   
Net Acquisition Expense
   
Net Premiums
   
Total
 
                         
Property Excess-of-Loss per Risk
  $ 4,999       (23 )     318     $ 5,294  
Catastrophe Excess-of-Loss (non-major events)
    1,485       94       95       1,674  
Major Catastrophes
    (1,112 )           1,338       226  
Crop
    (4,860 )     5,200             340  
Marine, Aviation & Satellite
    (2,294 )     291       203       (1,800 )
Other
    735       (254 )           481  
Total
  $ (1,047 )     5,308       1,954     $ 6,215  
 
 
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Favorable development in Property Excess-of-Loss per Risk arose primarily from the 2006 and 2007 underwriting years.  Favorable development in the Catastrophe Excess-of-Loss (non-major events) arose primarily from the 2008 underwriting year.  In Crop, an increase in losses in the North American business was substantially all offset by a decrease in acquisition expense, while a net favorable development in International Crop resulted in the small net favorable total.  Net unfavorable development in Marine, Aviation & Satellite arose primarily from the 2005, 2007 and 2008 underwriting years in marine.
 
The following table sets forth the net favorable (unfavorable) development in 2008 of prior years’ unpaid losses and LAE and the related impact on premiums and commissions by reserving class ($ in thousands):
                         
Class of Business
 
Net Losses and LAE
   
Net Acquisition Expense
   
Net Premiums
   
Total
 
                         
Property Excess-of-Loss per Risk
  $ 1,879       726       1,303     $ 3,908  
Catastrophe Excess-of-Loss (non-major events)
    11,369       (749 )     1,050       11,670  
Major Catastrophes
    3,629             26       3,655  
Crop
    4,651       (2,616 )           2,035  
Marine, Aviation & Satellite
    1,257       (128 )     10       1,139  
Other
    72       (108 )           ( 36 )
Total
  $ 22,857       (2,875 )     2,389     $ 22,371  
 
Favorable development in Property Excess-of-Loss per Risk arose primarily from the 2006 and 2007 underwriting years.  Following a study of our historical experience and an updated exposure analysis, we decreased our initial expected loss ratio of our non-U.S. Catastrophe Excess-of-Loss (non-major events) in underwriting year 2007 which resulted in $8,600,000 of favorable loss development.  The remainder of the favorable loss development in this class in 2008 arose primarily in the 2007 underwriting year of our North American business.  Favorable development in Crop arose from the 2007 underwriting year of our North American business.  Favorable development in Marine arose from improvement in the 2005 and 2006 underwriting years where loss ratios had been increased in prior periods from initial expected loss ratios.  Favorable development from Major Catastrophes arose from the 2005 hurricanes and European floods.
 
Net loss development and premium adjustments related to the net loss development increased the net loss and LAE ratio by 0.1 points in 2009 and decreased the net loss and LAE ratio by 16.8 points in 2008.  Losses from major catastrophes in 2009 and 2008 were insignificant.  Exclusive of losses related to major catastrophes and net favorable loss development, the net loss and LAE ratio increased by approximately 9.0 points.  This increase was primarily due to a decrease in property catastrophe premium in 2009 as compared with 2008.  Also increasing the loss and LAE ratio in 2009 as compared with 2008 was an increase in crop premium, which has a higher net loss and LAE ratio than the remainder of the segment.  The net loss and LAE ratios were also affected by other changes in the mix of business.
 
The decreases in net acquisition expenses and the net acquisition expense ratio in 2009 as compared with 2008 were primarily due to adjustments to prior years’ commissions in the crop class, which were the result of increased losses.  Net acquisition expenses in 2009 included a decrease in commissions of $5,308,000, relating to prior years’ losses which, with related premiums adjustments, represented 4.4% of net premiums earned.  In 2008, commission increases relating to prior years’ losses were $2,875,000 which, with related premium adjustments, represented 1.8% of net premiums earned.  Exclusive of commissions and premium adjustments related to prior years’ losses, the net acquisition expense ratios in 2009 and 2008 were comparable.
 
 
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Casualty
 
The Casualty operating segment generated 42.0% and 45.8% of our net premiums written for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  The following table summarizes underwriting activity and ratios for the Casualty segment for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 ($ in thousands):

   
2009
   
2008
   
Increase (decrease)
 
                   
Net premiums written
  $ 87,459       102,893     $ (15,434 )
                         
Net premiums earned
    99,161       113,245       (14,084 )
Net losses and LAE
    61,042       66,783       (5,741 )
Net acquisition expenses
    20,406       32,214       (11,808 )
Other underwriting expenses
    6,130       6,991       ( 861 )
Casualty segment underwriting income
  $ 11,583       7,257     $ 4,326  
                         
Ratios:
                       
Net loss and LAE
    61.6 %     59.0 %  
2.6 points
 
Net acquisition expense
    20.6 %     28.4 %  
(7.8) points
 
Other underwriting expense
    6.2 %     6.2 %  
– points
 
Combined
    88.4 %     93.6 %  
(5.2) points
 
 
The increase in underwriting income in 2009 as compared with 2008 was primarily due to the difference in the net development of prior years’ net premiums, commissions and losses in 2009 as compared with 2008.  Net favorable development was $17,841,000 and $14,036,000 in 2009 and 2008, respectively.
 
The decrease in net premiums written in 2009 as compared with 2008 was primarily due to decreases in business underwritten in 2009 and 2008 across most North American casualty classes, with the most significant decreases in the claims made excess classes.  The decreases were the result of fewer opportunities that met our underwriting standards.  The decrease in net premiums earned was the result of the decreases in net premiums written in 2009 and 2008.  Net premiums written and earned were also affected by changes in the mix of business and the structure of the underlying reinsurance contracts.
 
The decrease in net losses and LAE in 2009 as compared with 2008 was due to a decrease in net premiums earned, partially offset by a decrease in net favorable loss development.  Net favorable loss development was $13,471,000 and $15,567,000 in 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Net favorable development in 2009 and 2008 was primarily attributable to a level of cumulative losses reported by our ceding companies that was different from expected and that, in our judgment, resulted in sufficient credibility in the loss experience to change our previously selected loss ratios.  The following table sets forth the net favorable (unfavorable) development in 2009 of prior years’ unpaid losses and LAE and the related impact on premiums and commissions by reserving class ($ in thousands):
                         
Class of Business
 
Net Losses and LAE
   
Net Acquisition Expense
   
Net Premiums
   
Total
 
                         
North American Excess-of-Loss Claims Made
  $ 8,412       545           $ 8,957  
North American Clash
    2,635       (4 )     295       2,926  
International Casualty
    2,028       (119 )     62       1,971  
North American Excess-of-Loss Occurrence
    2,467       (533 )     32       1,966  
North American Umbrella
    (2,941 )     4,176             1,235  
Other
    870       (145 )     61       786  
Total
  $ 13,471       3,920       450     $ 17,841  
 
 
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Favorable development in North American Excess-of-Loss Claims Made arose primarily from the 2003 underwriting year.  Favorable development in North American Clash arose primarily from a specific loss resulting from an explosion in 2005.  Favorable development in International Casualty resulted from favorable loss experience on motor excess-of-loss contracts in the 2002 through 2005 underwriting years.  Favorable development in North American Excess-of-Loss Occurrence arose from improved loss experience in the 2003 and 2004 underwriting years where loss ratios had been increased from initial expected loss ratios in prior periods.  The favorable development in North American Umbrella arose from the 2003 underwriting year and also included offsetting adjustments to both net losses and LAE and net acquisition costs in other underwriting years.
 
The following table sets forth the net favorable (unfavorable) development in 2008 of prior years’ unpaid losses and LAE and the related impact on premiums and commissions by reserving class ($ in thousands):
                         
Class of Business
 
Net Losses and LAE
   
Net Acquisition Expense
   
Net Premiums
   
Total
 
                         
North American Excess-of-Loss Claims Made
  $ 9,436       (2,652 )         $ 6,784  
North American Excess-of-Loss Occurrence
    1,647       415       79       2,141  
International Casualty
    3,330       9             3,339  
Financial Lines
    1,559       229       292       2,080  
Other
    (405 )     5       92       ( 308 )
Totals
  $ 15,567       (1,994 )     463     $ 14,036  
 
Favorable development in North American Excess-of-Loss Claims Made arose primarily from the 2003 and 2004 underwriting years.  Net favorable development in North American Excess-of-Loss Occurrence arose from improved loss experience in the 2003 and 2004 underwriting years where loss ratios had been increased from initial expected loss ratios in prior periods.  Favorable development in International Casualty arose primarily from the 2004 and prior underwriting years in motor excess-of-loss.  Favorable development in Financial Lines arose from our Surety, Credit and Political Risk businesses in various underwriting years.
 
The net favorable loss development and premium adjustments related to prior years’ losses decreased the net loss and LAE ratios in 2009 and 2008 by 13.9 and 14.0 points, respectively.  The net loss and LAE ratios were also affected by changes in the mix of business.
 
The decrease in net acquisition expenses in 2009 as compared with 2008 was due to the decrease in net premiums earned and a decrease in the net acquisition expense ratio.  The decrease in the net acquisition expense ratio in 2009 as compared with 2008 was due to differences in commission and premium adjustments relating to prior years’ losses.  Net acquisition expenses in 2009 included a decrease in commissions of $3,920,000 relating to prior years’ losses which, with related premiums adjustments, represented 4.1% of net premiums earned.  In 2008, commission increases relating to prior years’ losses were $1,994,000 which, with related premium adjustments, represented 1.7% of net premiums earned.  Exclusive of commissions and premium adjustments related to prior years’ losses, the net acquisition expense ratios decreased by 2.2% from 2008 to 2009.  Net acquisition expense ratios were also impacted by changes in the mix of business.
 
 
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Finite Risk
 
The Finite Risk segment generated 3.5% and 1.5% of our net premiums written for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Due to the often significant inverse relationship between losses and commissions for this segment, we believe it is important to evaluate the overall combined ratio, rather than its component parts of net loss and LAE ratio and net acquisition expense ratio.  The following table summarizes underwriting activity and ratios for the Finite Risk segment for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 ($ in thousands):

   
2009
   
2008
   
Increase (decrease)
 
                   
Net premiums written
  $ 7,253       3,379     $ 3,874  
                         
Net premiums earned
    4,985       3,021       1,964  
Net losses and LAE
    1,096       (6,758 )        
Net acquisition expenses
    4,406       9,149          
Net losses, LAE and acquisition expenses
    5,502       2,391       3,111  
Other underwriting expenses
    400       365       35  
Finite Risk segment underwriting (loss) gain
  $ (917 )     265     $ (1,182 )
                         
Ratios:
                       
Net loss and LAE
    22.0 %     (223.7 %)        
Net acquisition expense
    88.4 %     302.8 %        
Net loss, LAE and acquisition expense ratios
    110.4 %     79.1 %  
31.3 points
 
Other underwriting expense
    8.0 %     12.1 %  
(4.1) points
 
Combined
    118.4 %     91.2 %  
27.2 points
 
 
The Finite Risk portfolio consists of a small number of contracts that can be large in premium size and, consequently, premium volume may vary significantly from year to year.  Due to the reduction in the premium volume in the recent years, current year ratios may be significantly impacted by relatively insignificant adjustments of prior years’ business.  The increases in net premiums written and net premiums earned in 2009 as compared with 2008 were attributable to an increase in participation on one contract.
 
The increase in net losses, LAE and acquisition expenses in 2009 as compared with 2008 was primarily due to the increase in net premiums earned.  The increase in the net loss, LAE and acquisition expense ratio was primarily due to the decrease in net favorable development in 2009 as compared with 2008.  Net unfavorable development was $501,000 in 2009 as compared with net favorable development of $419,000 in 2008.  The net development in 2009 included commission adjustments that resulted from loss experience as well as interest income that we earned and included in net investment income.  Unfavorable net development that was offset by interest income was $721,000 and $851,000 in 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Exclusive of net development, the net loss, LAE and acquisition expense ratio increased by approximately 7.7 points in 2009 as compared with 2008 due to a higher loss ratio relating to the one contract remaining in the segment.
 
Non-Underwriting Results
 
Net investment income for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 was $44,077,000 and $46,932,000, respectively.  Net investment income decreased in 2009 as compared with 2008 due primarily to decreases in yields on invested assets and cash and cash equivalents.
 
 
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The following table sets forth our net realized investment gains and losses for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 ($ in thousands):
   
2009
   
2008
   
Favorable (unfavorable) change
 
                   
Net gains (losses) on the sale of investments
  $ 7,999       (184 )   $ 8,183  
Mark-to-market adjustments on trading securities
    2,795       (5,984 )     8,779  
Net realized investment gains (losses)
  $ 10,794       (6,168 )   $ 16,962  
 
We sold positions in U.S. Government agencies, corporate bonds, residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”) and asset-backed securities in 2009 that resulted in net gains on the sale of investments of $7,292,000.
 
Net impairment losses on securities for the three months ended June 30, 2009 were $3,256,000.  The net impairment losses relating to credit losses that we recorded during 2009 included $2,334,000 of non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities, $577,000 of sub-prime asset-backed securities and $345,000 of commercial mortgage-backed securities.
 
The net changes in fair value of derivatives for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 were $106,000 and $960,000, respectively.  The net changes in fair value of derivatives in 2009 was attributable to the commencement in August 2008 of a derivative contract with Topiary Capital Limited (“Topiary”) that provides us with second event catastrophe protection.  While the annual payment to Topiary is approximately $9,650,000, the seasonality of the subject perils and the second event nature of the contract results in significant fluctuation in the fair value of the derivative.  See “Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources” for additional discussion of Topiary.  We had two derivative contracts in 2008 that provided both second event catastrophe protection and an option to purchase reinsurance.  The decrease in expense in 2009 as compared with 2008 was primarily due the termination of the option to purchase reinsurance.
 
Other income for the three months ended June 30, 2009 was $5,212,000, substantially all of which related to profit related to a reinsurance contract that was accounted for as a deposit.
 
Operating expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 were $22,906,000 and $25,100,000, respectively.  Operating expenses include costs such as salaries, rent and like items.  The decrease was partially attributable to lower performance based compensation accruals in 2009 as compared with 2008.
 
Net foreign currency exchange gains for the three months ended June 30, 2009 were $537,000 as compared to net foreign currency exchange losses of $1,998,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008.  We routinely transact business in currencies other than the U.S. dollar.  The net foreign currency exchange losses in 2008 were the result of holding more non-U.S. dollar denominated assets than non-U.S. dollar denominated liabilities, primarily the Euro, as the U.S. dollar strengthened against the Euro.
 
Interest expense for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 was comparable at $4,756,000 and $4,751,000, respectively, and related to our $250,000,000 of Series B 7.5% Notes due June 1, 2017.
 
Income tax expense for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 was $645,000 and $4,768,000, respectively.  The decrease in income tax expense in 2009 as compared with 2008 was due to the decrease in taxable income generated by our subsidiaries that operate in taxable jurisdictions.  The decrease in income tax expense was also partially attributable to an increase in the proportion of non-taxable investment income in Platinum US.
 
Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 as Compared with the Six Months Ended June 30, 2008
 
Net income and diluted earnings per share for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 was as follows ($ in thousands, except earnings per share):

   
2009
   
2008
   
Decrease
 
                   
Net income
  $ 183,052       207,528     $ 24,476  
Average shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per share
    52,744       58,021       5,277  
Diluted earnings per share
  $ 3.47       3.58     $ 0.11  
 
 
- 27 -

 
 
The decrease in net income in 2009 as compared with 2008 was primarily due to a decrease in net underwriting income, partially offset by an increase in net realized gains.  Diluted earnings per share was favorably impacted by the decrease in average shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per share.  The average shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per share decreased as a result of share repurchases.  We repurchased 11,498,580 common shares in the period from January 1, 2008 through June 30, 2009.  The effect of these share repurchases on the average shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per share in 2009 was greater than the effect in 2008 by 5,961,759 shares.  Consequently, as net income decreased by 11.8%, diluted earnings per share decreased by 3.1%.
 
Underwriting Results
 
Net underwriting income for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 was $102,830,000 and $146,867,000, respectively.  The decrease in net underwriting income in 2009 as compared with 2008 was due to less net favorable development in 2009 as well as a decrease in net premiums earned.  Net favorable development was $45,644,000 and $66,281,000 in 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Net premiums written decreased in 2009 as compared with 2008 primarily due to decreases in premiums written across most classes in the Casualty segment and decreases in the Property and Marine segment as we reduced our exposure to catastrophe events.
 
Property and Marine
 
The Property and Marine operating segment generated 56.3% and 55.2% of our net premiums written for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  The following table summarizes underwriting activity and ratios for the Property and Marine segment for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 ($ in thousands):
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
Increase
(decrease)
 
                   
Gross premiums written
  $ 265,933       300,922     $ (34,989 )
Ceded premiums written
    10,793       13,517       (2,724 )
Net premiums written
    255,140       287,405       (32,265 )
                         
Net premiums earned
    261,987       295,106       (33,119 )
Net losses and LAE
    140,258       95,406       44,852  
Net acquisition expenses
    30,890       45,428       (14,538 )
Other underwriting expenses
    17,282       18,231       ( 949 )
Property and Marine segment underwriting income
  $ 73,557       136,041     $ (62,484 )
                         
Ratios:
                       
Net loss and LAE
    53.5 %     32.3 %  
21.2 points
 
Net acquisition expense
    11.8 %     15.4 %  
(3.6) points
 
Other underwriting expense
    6.6 %     6.2 %  
0.4 points
 
Combined
    71.9 %     53.9 %  
18.0 points
 
 
The decrease in underwriting income in 2009 as compared with 2008 was due to the difference in the net development of prior years’ premiums and losses as well as the decline in net premiums earned and an increase in the net loss and LAE ratio.  Net favorable development was $6,130,000 and $43,340,000 in 2009 and 2008, respectively.
 
The decrease in gross premiums written in 2009 as compared with 2008 was primarily in the catastrophe excess, risk excess and ocean marine excess classes where we reduced our exposure to catastrophe events.  Net premiums earned in 2009 decreased as a result of the decrease in net premiums written.
 
 
- 28 -

 
 
The increases in net losses and LAE in 2009 as compared with 2008 were primarily due to the difference in net loss development.  Net unfavorable loss development was $2,531,000 in 2009 as compared with net favorable loss development of $38,088,000 in 2008.  Net development in 2009 and 2008 was primarily attributable to a level of cumulative losses reported by our ceding companies that was different from expected and that, in our judgment, resulted in sufficient credibility in the loss experience to change our previously selected loss ratios.  The following table sets forth the net favorable (unfavorable) development in 2009 of prior years’ unpaid losses and LAE and the related impact on premiums and commissions by reserving class ($ in thousands):
                         
Class of Business
 
Net Losses and LAE
   
Net Acquisition Expense
   
Net Premiums
   
Total
 
                         
Property Excess-of-Loss per Risk
  $ 7,699       (249 )     322     $ 7,772  
Catastrophe Excess-of-Loss (non-major events)
    8,055       912       252       9,219  
Major Catastrophes
    (3,528 )           1,698       (1,830 )
Crop
    (10,583 )     5,105             (5,478 )
Marine, Aviation & Satellite
    (5,730 )     214       690       (4,826 )
Other
    1,556       (283 )           1,273  
Total
  $ (2,531 )     5,699       2,962     $ 6,130  
 
Favorable development in Excess-of-Loss per Risk arose primarily from the 2006 and 2007 underwriting years.  Favorable development in the Catastrophe Excess-of-Loss (non-major events) arose primarily from the 2008 underwriting year.  Unfavorable development from Major Catastrophes arose primarily from Hurricanes Ike, Gustav and Katrina.  Unfavorable development in Crop was primarily due to an increase in losses from the 2008 underwriting year.  Unfavorable development in Marine arose primarily from the 2005 through 2008 underwriting years.
 
The following table sets forth the net favorable (unfavorable) development in 2008 of prior years’ unpaid losses and LAE and the related impact on premiums and commissions by reserving class ($ in thousands):
                         
Class of Business
 
Net Losses and LAE
   
Net Acquisition Expense
   
Net Premiums
   
Total
 
                         
Property Excess-of-Loss per Risk
  $ 3,170       892       1,739     $ 5,801  
Catastrophe Excess-of-Loss (non-major events)
    16,723       (1,223 )     1,326       16,826  
Major Catastrophes
    8,560             (319 )     8,241  
Crop
    10,630       (2,635 )           7,995  
Marine, Aviation & Satellite
    (2,561 )     33       5,551       3,023  
Other
    1,566       (112 )           1,454  
Total
  $ 38,088       (3,045 )     8,297     $ 43,340  
 
Favorable development in Property Excess-of-Loss per Risk arose primarily from the 2006 and 2007 underwriting years and included improved experience in regional business where loss ratios had been increased from initial expected loss ratios in prior periods.  Following a study of our historical experience and an updated exposure analysis, we decreased our initial expected loss ratio of our non-U.S. Catastrophe Excess-of-Loss (non-major events) in underwriting year 2007 which resulted in $8,600,000 of favorable loss development.  The remainder of the favorable loss development in this class in 2008 arose from less than expected reported losses.  Favorable development in Crop arose primarily from the 2007 underwriting year.  Unfavorable loss development in Marine arose from the 2004 through 2007 underwriting years.  An increase in reinstatement premiums resulted from the adverse loss experience of several years.  Favorable development from Major Catastrophes arose from the 2005 hurricanes and European floods and the 2007 U.K. Floods and windstorm Kyrill.
 
Net loss development and premium adjustments related to the net loss development increased the net loss and LAE ratio by 0.3 points in 2009 and decreased the net loss and LAE ratio by 14.2 points in 2008.  We also had net losses from major catastrophes of $12,406,000 and $7,320,000 in 2009 and 2008, respectively.  The net losses from major catastrophes, with related premium adjustments, increased the net loss and LAE ratio in 2009 and 2008 by 4.3 points and 2.6 points, respectively.  Exclusive of losses related to major catastrophes and net favorable loss development, the net loss and LAE ratio increased by approximately 5.0 points.  This increase was due to a decrease in property catastrophe premium in 2009 as compared with 2008, which, in the absence of catastrophes, has a lower net loss and LAE ratio than the remainder of the segment.  Also increasing the loss and LAE ratio in 2009 as compared with 2008 was an increase in crop premium which has a higher net loss and LAE ratio than the remainder of the segment.  The net loss and LAE ratios were also affected by changes in the mix of business.
 
 
- 29 -

 
 
The decrease in net acquisition expenses in 2009 as compared with 2008 was due to the decrease in net premiums earned and the difference in commissions relating to prior years.  Net acquisition expenses in 2009 included decreases in commissions of $5,699,000, relating to prior years’ losses which, with related premiums adjustments, decreased the net acquisition expense ratio in 2009 by 2.3 points.  In 2008, commission increases relating to prior years’ losses were $3,045,000, which, with related premium adjustments, increased the net acquisition expense ratio by 0.6 points.  Exclusive of commissions and premium adjustments related to prior years’ losses, the net acquisition expense ratios in 2009 and 2008 were comparable.  Net acquisition expense ratios were also impacted by changes in the mix of business.
 
Casualty
 
The Casualty operating segment generated 40.9% and 43.8% of our net premiums written for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  The following table summarizes underwriting activity and ratios for the Casualty segment for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 ($ in thousands):

   
2009
   
2008
   
Increase (decrease)
 
                   
Net premiums written
  $ 185,473       228,469     $ (42,996 )
                         
Net premiums earned
    209,121       260,740       (51,619 )
Net losses and LAE
    120,183       166,176       (45,993 )
Net acquisition expenses
    46,627       69,702       (23,075 )
Other underwriting expenses
    11,799       13,786       (1,987 )
Casualty segment underwriting income
  $ 30,512       11,076     $ 19,436  
                         
Ratios:
                       
Net loss and LAE
    57.5 %     63.7 %  
(6.2) points
 
Net acquisition expense
    22.3 %     26.7 %  
(4.4) points
 
Other underwriting expense
    5.6 %     5.3 %  
0.3 points
 
Combined
    85.4 %     95.7 %  
(10.3) points
 
 
The increase in underwriting income in 2009 as compared with 2008 was primarily due to the difference in the net development of prior years’ premiums and losses.  Net favorable development was $40,084,000 and $22,735,000 in 2009 and 2008, respectively.
 
The decrease in net premiums written in 2009 as compared with 2008 was primarily due to decreases in business underwritten in 2009 and 2008 across most North American casualty classes, with the most significant decreases in the claims made excess classes.  The decrease in net premiums earned was the result of the decreases in net premiums written in 2009 and 2008.  Net premiums written and earned were also affected by changes in the mix of business and the structure of the underlying reinsurance contracts.
 
 
- 30 -

 
 
The decreases in net losses and LAE and the related ratios in 2009 as compared with 2008 were due to a decrease in net premiums earned and an increase in net favorable loss development.  Net favorable loss development was $36,609,000 and $27,655,000 in 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Net favorable development in 2009 and 2008 was primarily attributable to a level of cumulative losses reported by our ceding companies that was different from expected and that, in our judgment, resulted in sufficient credibility in the loss experience to change our previously selected loss ratios.  The following table sets forth the net favorable (unfavorable) development in 2009 of prior years’ unpaid losses and LAE and the related impact on premiums and commissions by reserving class ($ in thousands):
                         
Class of Business
 
Net Losses and LAE
   
Net Acquisition Expense
   
Net Premiums
   
Total
 
                         
North American Excess-of-Loss Claims Made
  $ 15,343       434           $ 15,777  
North American Clash
    1,619       (29 )     227       1,817  
International Casualty
    1,525       (229 )     139       1,435  
North American Excess-of-Loss Occurrence
    13,764       (434 )     73       13,403  
North American Umbrella
    3,661       4,145             7,806  
Other
    697       (256 )     (595 )     ( 154 )
Total
  $ 36,609       3,631       ( 156 )   $ 40,084  
 
Favorable development in North American Excess-of-Loss Claims Made arose primarily from the 2003 underwriting year.  Favorable development in North American Clash arose primarily from a specific loss resulting from an explosion in 2005.  Favorable development in International Casualty resulted from favorable loss experience on motor excess-of-loss contracts in various underwriting years.  Favorable development in North American Excess-of-Loss Occurrence arose from the 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2007 underwriting years.  The 2007 underwriting year favorable development in this class resulted from improved loss experience in the current year after adverse experience led us to increase the selected loss ratio from initial expected loss ratios in prior years.  The favorable loss development in North American Umbrella arose from the 2003, 2004 and 2005 underwriting years and also included offsetting adjustments to both net losses and LAE and net acquisition costs in various underwriting years.
 
The following table sets forth the net favorable (unfavorable) development in 2008 of prior years’ unpaid losses and LAE and the related impact on premiums and commissions by reserving class ($ in thousands):
                         
Class of Business
 
Net Losses and LAE
   
Net Acquisition Expense
   
Net Premiums
   
Total
 
                         
North American Excess-of-Loss Claims Made
  $ 16,957       (4,983 )         $ 11,974  
North American Excess-of-Loss Occurrence
    2,796       (863 )     79       2,012  
International Casualty
    4,934       269             5,203  
Financial Lines
    3,689       258       306       4,253  
Other
    (721 )     (93 )     107       ( 707 )
Total
  $ 27,655       (5,412 )     492     $ 22,735  
 
Favorable development in North American Excess-of-Loss Claims Made arose primarily from the 2003 and 2004 underwriting years.  Favorable development in North American Excess-of-Loss Occurrence related to various underwriting years.  Favorable development in International Casualty arose primarily from the 2003 underwriting year in the motor excess-of-loss and claims made excess classes.  Favorable development in Financial Lines arose from our Surety, Credit and Political Risk businesses in various underwriting years.
 
Net favorable loss development and premium adjustments related to prior years’ losses decreased the net loss and LAE ratios in 2009 and 2008 by 17.5 and 10.7 points, respectively.  Exclusive of net favorable loss development, the net loss and LAE ratios in 2009 and 2008 were comparable.  The net loss and LAE ratios were also affected by changes in the mix of business.
 
The decrease in net acquisition expenses in 2009 as compared with 2008 was due to the decrease in net premiums earned and a decrease in the net acquisition expense ratio.  The decrease in the net acquisition expense ratio in 2009 as compared with 2008 was due to differences in commission and premium adjustments relating to prior years’ losses.  Net acquisition expenses in 2009 included decreases in commissions relating to prior years’ losses of $3,631,000 which, with related premium adjustments, decreased the net acquisition expense ratio in 2009 by 1.7 points.  In 2008, commission increases relating to prior years’ losses were $5,412,000, which, with related premium adjustments, increased the net acquisition expense ratio by 2.0 points. Exclusive of commissions and premium adjustments related to prior years’ losses, the net acquisition expense ratios in 2009 and 2008 were comparable.  Net acquisition expense ratios were also impacted by changes in the mix of business.
 
 
- 31 -

 
 
Finite Risk
 
The Finite Risk segment generated 2.8% and 1.0% of our net premiums written for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  The following table summarizes underwriting activity and ratios for the Finite Risk segment for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 ($ in thousands):

   
2009
   
2008
   
Increase (decrease)
 
                   
Net premiums written
  $ 12,776       5,257     $ 7,519  
                         
Net premiums earned
    9,106       3,987       5,119  
Net losses and LAE
    8,668       (7,987 )        
Net acquisition expenses
    977       11,549          
Net losses, LAE and acquisition expenses
    9,645       3,562       6,083  
Other underwriting expenses
    700       675       25  
Finite Risk segment underwriting loss
  $ (1,239 )     (250 )   $ ( 989 )
                         
Ratios:
                       
Net loss and LAE
    95.2 %     (200.3 %)        
Net acquisition expense
    10.7 %     289.7 %        
Net loss, LAE and acquisition expense ratios
    105.9 %     89.4 %  
16.5 points
 
Other underwriting expense
    7.7 %     16.9 %  
(9.2) points
 
Combined
    113.6 %     106.3 %  
7.3 points
 
 
The increases in net premiums written and net premiums earned in 2009 as compared with 2008 were attributable to an increase in participation on one contract.  The decrease in underwriting income is due to the increase in the net loss, LAE and acquisition expense ratio in 2009 as compared with 2008.
 
The increase in net losses, LAE and acquisition expenses in 2009 as compared with 2008 was due to the increase in net premiums earned.  The increase in the net loss, LAE and acquisition expense ratio was primarily due to the change in net favorable development in 2009 as compared with 2008.  Net unfavorable development was $570,000 in 2009 as compared with net favorable development of $206,000 in 2008.  Net unfavorable development increased the net loss, LAE and acquisition expense ratio by 6.2 points in 2009 and decreased the net loss, LAE and acquisition expense ratio by 5.2 points in 2008.  The net development in 2009 included commission adjustments that resulted from loss experience as well as interest income that we earned and included in net investment income.  Unfavorable net development that was offset by interest income was $1,595,000 and $1,254,000 in 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Exclusive of net development, the net loss, LAE and acquisition expense ratio increased by approximately 5.3 points in 2009 as compared with 2008 due to a higher loss ratio relating to the one contract remaining in the segment.
 
Non-Underwriting Results
 
Net investment income for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 was $78,323,000 and $95,994,000, respectively.  Net investment income decreased in 2009 as compared with 2008 due primarily to decreases in yields on invested assets and cash and cash equivalents.  Included in net investment income in 2009 was an adjustment of $5,916,000 related to our U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (“TIPS”) as a result of changes in the consumer price index.  We did not own any TIPS in the comparable 2008 period.
 
 
- 32 -

 
 
The following table sets forth our net realized investment gains and losses for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 ($ in thousands):

   
2009
   
2008
   
Favorable (Unfavorable) change
 
                   
Net gains on the sale of investments
  $ 29,768       (139 )   $ 29,907  
Mark-to-market adjustments on trading securities
    1,596       (3,057 )     4,653  
Net realized investment gains
  $ 31,364       (3,196 )   $ 34,560  
 
We sold positions in TIPS, U.S. Government agencies, corporate bonds, RMBS and asset-backed securities in 2009 that resulted in net gains on the sale of investments of $28,837,000.
 
Net impairment losses on securities for the six months ended June 30, 2009 were $6,664,000.  There were no net impairment losses on securities for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  The net impairment losses relating to credit losses that we recorded during 2009 included $3,759,000 of non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities, $980,000 of commercial mortgage-backed securities, and $717,000 of sub-prime asset-backed securities.  We also recorded other-than-temporary impairments of $1,208,000 on our holdings of perpetual preferred stocks for the six months ended June 30, 2009.
 
The net changes in fair value of derivatives for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 were $2,523,000 and $1,770,000, respectively.  The increase in net changes in fair value of derivatives is attributable to the commencement of the derivative contract with Topiary.  We also entered into other less significant derivative contracts in 2008 prior to the Topiary contract, which also provided catastrophe event protection.
 
Operating expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 were $43,774,000 and $46,790,000, respectively.  The decrease was partially attributable to lower performance based compensation accruals in 2009 as compared with 2008.
 
Net foreign currency exchange losses for the six months ended June 30, 2009 were $459,000 as compared with net foreign currency exchange gains of $2,871,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  We routinely transact business in currencies other than the U.S. dollar.  The net foreign currency exchange gain in 2008 was the result of holding more non-U.S. dollar denominated assets than non-U.S. dollar denominated liabilities, primarily the Euro, while the U.S. dollar declined in value against the Euro.
 
Interest expense for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 was comparable at $9,511,000 and $9,501,000, respectively, and related to our $250,000,000 of Series B 7.5% Notes due June 1, 2017.
 
Income tax expense for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 was $1,759,000 and $10,260,000, respectively.  The decrease in income tax expense in 2009 as compared with 2008 was due to the decrease in taxable income generated by our subsidiaries that operate in taxable jurisdictions.  The decrease in income tax expense was also partially attributable to an increase in the proportion of non-taxable investment income in Platinum US.
 
 Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
On a consolidated basis, our aggregate cash and invested assets totaled $4,399,258,000 at June 30, 2009 as compared with $4,259,939,000 at December 31, 2008.  Our fixed maturity securities are primarily composed of diversified, high quality, predominantly publicly-traded securities.  The investment portfolio, excluding cash and cash equivalents and short term investments, had a duration of 3.68 years as of June 30, 2009.
 
The primary objective of our investment strategy is to generate investment income by maintaining a portfolio that consists primarily of diversified, high quality, predominantly publicly-traded fixed maturity securities.  We maintain investment guidelines that contain limits on the portion of the portfolio that may be invested in the securities of any single issue or issuer, with the exception of U.S. government securities, and provide that financial futures and options and foreign exchange contracts may not be used in a speculative manner but may be used only as part of a defensive hedging strategy.  We do not invest in instruments such as credit default swaps or collateralized debt obligations.  As of June 30, 2009, we did not hold any common equities in our investment portfolio.  Our investment guidelines allow for investments in common equities up to a maximum of 10% of the investment portfolio.
 
As part of our investment strategy, we seek to establish a level of cash and liquid fixed maturity securities which, combined with expected cash flow from our subsidiaries, we believe to be adequate to meet our foreseeable payment obligations.  Our reinsurance subsidiaries have liquidity from premiums, which are generally received in advance of the time losses are paid.  The period of time from the occurrence of a claim through the settlement of the liability may extend many years into the future.  However, due to the nature of our reinsurance operations, cash flows are affected by claim payments that can fluctuate from year to year.  The amount and timing of actual claim payments can vary based on many factors, including the severity of individual losses, changes in the legal environment, and general market conditions.  The ultimate amount and timing of the claim payments could differ materially from our estimates and create significant variations in cash flows from operations between periods, which may cause us to make payments from other sources of liquidity, such as sales of investments, borrowings from credit facilities or proceeds from capital market transactions.  If we need to sell investments to meet liquidity requirements, the sale of such investments may be at a material loss.
 
 
- 33 -

 
 
As of June 30, 2009, the fair value of our available-for-sale securities was $3,798,947,000, with a net unrealized loss of $151,908,000.  The following table sets forth the fair values, net unrealized gains and losses and average credit quality of our fixed maturity securities as of June 30, 2009 ($ in thousands):

   
Fair Value
   
Net Unrealized Gain (Loss)
   
Average Credit Quality
 
                   
Available-for-sale securities:
                 
U.S. Government
  $ 4,379     $ 283    
Aaa
 
U.S. Government agencies
    685,493       19,103    
Aaa
 
Corporate:
                     
Industrial
    463,993       12,373       A2  
Finance
    114,538       (7,758 )     A1  
Utilities
    50,551       309       A2  
Insurance
    39,464       (604 )     A1  
Preferreds with maturity date
    25,884       (6,936 )  
Baa1
 
Hybrid trust preferreds
    12,945       (4,495 )     A1  
Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities:
                       
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
    396,959       (75,503 )  
Aaa
 
U.S. Government agency residential mortgage-backed securities
    899,504       5,769    
Aaa
 
Non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities
    87,405       (60,496 )     A1  
Alt-A residential mortgage-backed securities
    7,935       (10,299 )     B1  
Sub-prime asset-backed securities
    9,724       (30,188 )  
Baa3
 
Asset-backed securities
    48,643       (2,498 )  
Aaa
 
Municipal bonds
    649,587       2,455    
Aa2
 
Non-U.S. governments
    298,392       4,905    
Aa1
 
Total fixed maturity available-for-sale securities
    3,795,396       (153,580 )  
Aa2
 
Preferred stocks
    3,551       1,672       B3  
Total available-for-sale securities
    3,798,947       (151,908 )  
Aa2
 
                         
Trading securities:
                       
U.S. Government
    104,734       n/a    
Aaa
 
Insurance-linked securities
    19,531       n/a    
Ba2
 
Corporate bonds
    2,321       n/a       A1  
Non-U.S. governments
    123,939       n/a    
Aa1
 
Total trading securities
    250,525       n/a    
Aa1
 
                         
Total fixed maturity securities
  $ 4,049,472     $ (151,908 )  
Aa2
 
 
During the six months ended June 30, 2009, net unrealized losses on our available-for-sale investment portfolio improved by approximately $52,101,000.  This increase included the cumulative effect of applying FSP 115-2, which resulted in an increase in net unrealized loss of $15,103,000.
 
The net unrealized loss position of our portfolio of commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) was $75,503,000 as of June 30, 2009.  We believe that this net unrealized loss is primarily attributable to a widening of interest rate spreads since the securities were acquired and to the loss of liquidity in the financial markets.  Our CMBS are evaluated on a periodic basis using analytical techniques and various metrics including the level of subordination, debt-service-coverage ratios, loan-to-value ratios, delinquencies, defaults and foreclosures.  Our portfolio consists primarily of senior tranches of CMBS with high credit ratings, strong subordination and low loan-to-value ratios.
 
 
- 34 -

 
 
The net unrealized loss position of our RMBS portfolio was $65,026,000 as of June 30, 2009.  Approximately 90% of the RMBS in our investment portfolio were issued or guaranteed by the Government National Mortgage Association, the Federal National Mortgage Association, or the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation and are referred to as U.S. Government agency RMBS.  The remaining 10% of our RMBS were issued by non-agency institutions and included securities with underlying Alt-A mortgages.  The net unrealized loss position of our portfolio of sub-prime asset-backed securities was $30,188,000 as of June 30, 2009.  We analyze our RMBS and sub-prime asset-backed securities on a periodic basis using default loss models based on the performance of the underlying loans.  Performance metrics include, but are not limited to, delinquencies, defaults, foreclosures, prepayment speeds and cumulative losses incurred.  The expected losses for a mortgage pool are compared to the break-even loss, which represents the point at which our tranche would experience losses.  We evaluate projected cash flows as well as other factors in order to determine if credit impairment has occurred.
 
Overall, we believe that the gross unrealized loss in our available-for-sale portfolio represents temporary declines in fair value, is not necessarily predictive of ultimate performance and that the provisions we have made for net impairment losses are adequate.  However, economic conditions may deteriorate more than expected and may adversely affect the expected cash flows of our securities, which in turn may lead to impairment losses recorded in future periods.
 
We expect that our operational liquidity needs, including our anticipated reinsurance obligations and operating and capital expenditures for the next twelve months will be met by our cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, positive cash flow from operations, investment income and proceeds on the sale or maturity of our investments.
 
 Derivative Instruments
 
In August 2008, we entered into a derivative agreement with Topiary that provides us with the ability to recover up to $200,000,000 should two catastrophic events involving U.S. wind, U.S. earthquake, European wind or Japanese earthquake occur that meet specified loss criteria during any of three annual periods commencing August 1, 2008.  Any recovery we make under this contract is based on insured property industry loss estimates for the U.S. perils and European wind and a parametric index for Japanese earthquake events.  Recovery is based on both a physical and a financial variable and is not based on actual losses we may incur.  Under the terms of this derivative agreement, we pay Topiary approximately $9,650,000 during each of the three annual periods.
 
 Capital Resources
 
At June 30, 2009, our capital resources of $2.2 billion consisted of $250,000,000 of Series B Notes and common shareholders’ equity of $2.0 billion.  On February 17, 2009, our 5,750,000 outstanding 6% Series A Mandatory Convertible Preferred Shares automatically converted into 5,750,000 common shares at a ratio of one to one, which was based on the volume-weighted average price of $29.90 of our common shares from January 14, 2009 through February 11, 2009.  At December 31, 2008, our capital resources of $2.1 billion consisted of $250,000,000 of Series B Notes, $167,509,000 of preferred share equity, and common shareholders’ equity of $1.6 billion.  The increase in capital during 2009 was primarily attributable to net income, and the increase in fair value of our investment portfolio, partially offset by share repurchase activity.
 
We monitor our capital adequacy on a regular basis and seek to adjust our capital according to the needs of our business.  In particular, we require capital sufficient to meet or exceed:  (1) the surplus requirements established by our ceding companies, (2) the capital adequacy ratios established by rating agencies for maintenance of appropriate financial strength ratings, and (3) the capital adequacy tests performed by regulatory authorities.  We actively manage our capital and may seek to raise additional capital or return capital to our shareholders through common share repurchases and cash dividends (or a combination of such methods).  We may also seek to manage our capital through repurchases of our outstanding debt in open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise.  Such repurchases, if any, will depend on prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions or other factors.
 
To the extent that our existing capital is insufficient to fund our future operating requirements or maintain our financial strength or debt ratings, we may need to raise additional capital through financings which may be in the form of debt securities, preference shares, common equity, bank credit facilities providing loans and/or letters of credit, or any combination of these sources.  Any equity or debt financing, if available at all, may be on terms that are unfavorable to us.  In the case of equity financings, dilution to our shareholders could result, and, in any case, such securities may have rights, preferences and privileges that are senior to those of our outstanding securities.  If we are not able to obtain adequate capital, our business, results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected, which could include, among other things, the following possible outcomes:  (1) potential downgrades in the financial strength ratings assigned by ratings agencies to our operating subsidiaries, which could place those operating subsidiaries at a competitive disadvantage compared to higher-rated competitors; (2) reductions in the amount of business that our operating subsidiaries are able to write in order to meet capital adequacy-based tests enforced by regulatory authorities; and (3) increases in the cost of bank credit and letters of credit.  We can provide no assurance that, if needed, we would be able to obtain additional funds through financing on satisfactory terms or at all.
 
Our board of directors has authorized the repurchase of up to $250,000,000 of our common shares through a share repurchase program.  Since the program was established, our board of directors has monitored the level of share repurchase activity and periodically restored the repurchase authority under the program to $250,000,000, most recently on July 23, 2009.  During the six months ended June 30, 2009, we repurchased 3,735,288 of our common shares in the open market at an aggregate cost, including commissions, of $101,384,000 and a weighted average cost, including commissions, of $27.14 per share.  Our board of directors has also authorized the repurchase of up to $250,000,000 of our outstanding Series B 7.5% Notes issued by Platinum Finance, due June 1, 2017, in open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise.  The timing and amount of the repurchase transactions under these programs depends on a variety of factors, including market conditions and corporate and regulatory considerations.
 
 
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 Sources of Liquidity
 
Our consolidated sources of funds consist primarily of net cash flows provided by operations, proceeds from sales, redemption and maturity of investments, issuance of securities and cash and cash equivalents held by us.  Net cash flows provided by operations excluding trading security activities for the six months ended June 30, 2009 were $124,856,000.
 
We have a $400,000,000 credit facility with a syndicate of lenders that consists of a $150,000,000 senior unsecured credit facility available for revolving borrowings and letters of credit and a $250,000,000 senior secured credit facility available for letters of credit.  As of June 30, 2009, $150,000,000 was available for borrowing and letters of credit on an unsecured basis and $69,473,000 was available for letters of credit on a secured basis under the credit facility.
 
 Liquidity Requirements
 
Our principal consolidated cash requirements are the payment of losses and LAE, commissions, brokerage, operating expenses, dividends to our common shareholders, the servicing of debt, capital expenditures, purchase of retrocessional contracts and payment of taxes.
 
Platinum Finance has outstanding $250,000,000 aggregate principal amount of Series B Notes due June 1, 2017, unconditionally guaranteed by Platinum Holdings.  Platinum Finance pays interest at a rate of 7.5% per annum on the Series B Notes on each June 1 and December 1.
 
Platinum Bermuda is not licensed, approved or accredited as a reinsurer anywhere in the United States and, therefore, under the terms of most of its contracts with U.S. ceding companies, it is required to provide collateral to its ceding companies for unpaid ceded liabilities in a form acceptable to state insurance commissioners.  Typically, this type of collateral takes the form of letters of credit issued by a bank, the establishment of a trust, or funds withheld.  Platinum Bermuda provides letters of credit through our credit facility and routinely provides the banks with a security interest in certain investments of Platinum Bermuda.
 
 Capital Expenditures
 
We do not have any material commitments for capital expenditures as of June 30, 2009.
 
 Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements, as defined for purposes of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) rules, which are not accounted for or disclosed in our consolidated financial statements as of June 30, 2009.
 
 Contractual Obligations
 
There have been no material changes to our contractual obligations as disclosed under Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition – Contractual Obligations in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.
 
 Recently Issued Accounting Standards
 
See Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements in this Form 10-Q for a discussion of recently issued accounting standards.
 
 Note On Forward-Looking Statements
 
This Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”).  Forward-looking statements are based on our current plans or expectations that are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies.  These uncertainties and contingencies can affect actual results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, us.  In particular, statements using words such as “may,” “should,” “estimate,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “believe,” “predict,” “potential,” or words of similar import generally involve forward-looking statements.
 
 
- 36 -

 
 
The inclusion of forward-looking statements in this Form 10-Q should not be considered as a representation by us or any other person that our current plans or expectations will be achieved.  Numerous factors could cause our actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements, including the following:
 
 
severe catastrophic events over which we have no control;
 
 
the effectiveness of our loss limitation methods and pricing models;
 
 
the adequacy of our liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses;
 
 
our ability to maintain our A.M. Best Company, Inc. (“A.M. Best”) rating;
 
 
the cyclicality of the property and casualty reinsurance business;
 
 
the competitive environment in which we conduct operations;
 
 
our ability to maintain our business relationships with reinsurance brokers;
 
 
the availability of retrocessional reinsurance on acceptable terms;
 
 
market volatility and interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuation;
 
 
tax, regulatory or legal restrictions or limitations applicable to us or the property and casualty reinsurance business generally;
 
 
general political and economic conditions, including the effects of civil unrest, acts of terrorism, war or a prolonged United States or global economic downturn or recession; and
 
 
changes in our plans, strategies, objectives, expectations or intentions, which may happen at any time at our discretion.
 
As a consequence, our future financial condition and results may differ from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of us.  The foregoing factors, which are discussed in more detail in Part II, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in this Form 10-Q and in our Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2009 and in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, should not be construed as exhaustive.  Additionally, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to revise or update forward-looking statements to reflect new information or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of future events.
 
ITEM 3.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
 Interest Rate, Credit and Liquidity Risks
 
Our principal invested assets are fixed maturity securities which are carried at fair value.  The principal risks that influence the fair value of our investment portfolio are interest rate risk, credit risk and liquidity risk.
 
Changes in overall interest rates, generally measured by changes in the yield on risk free investments such as U.S. Treasury securities, will influence the fair values of our fixed maturity securities portfolio.  Rising interest rates generally result in a decrease in the fair value of our fixed maturity securities portfolio; conversely, a decline in interest rates will generally result in an increase in the fair value of our fixed maturity securities portfolio.  Interest rate changes can also impact the timing of receipt of principal payments from mortgage-backed securities.
 
Credit risk is often measured by interest rate spreads representing the difference between the yield of a debt instrument and that of a U.S. Treasury security of similar maturity.  As the credit worthiness of a debt issuer declines, the interest rate spreads increase, which has the same effect on fair value as an increase in overall interest rates.  An increase or widening of interest rate spreads generally results in a decrease in the fair value of our fixed maturity securities portfolio.
 
The fair values of our investment portfolio are also influenced by liquidity in the financial markets.  When financial markets experience a reduction in liquidity, the ability to conduct orderly transactions is limited and may result in declines in fair values.
 
 
- 37 -

 
 
The following table shows an aggregate hypothetical impact on the fair value of our fixed maturity securities portfolio as of June 30, 2009, resulting from an immediate parallel shift in the treasury yield curve ($ in thousands):

   
Interest Rate Shift in Basis Points
 
      - 100bp       - 50bp    
Current
      + 50bp       + 100bp  
                                       
Total market value
  $ 4,189,346       4,119,914       4,045,921       3,965,900     $ 3,886,076  
Percent change in market value
    3.5 %     1.8 %           (2.0 %)     (4.0 %)
Resulting unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
  $ 828       (68,604 )     (142,597 )     (222,618 )   $ (302,442 )
 
We have other receivable amounts subject to credit risk.  The most significant of these are reinsurance premiums receivable from ceding companies.  We also have reinsurance recoverable amounts from our retrocessionaires.  To mitigate credit risk related to reinsurance premiums receivable, we have established standards for ceding companies and, in most cases, have a contractual right of offset, thereby allowing us to settle claims net of any such reinsurance premiums receivable.  To mitigate credit risk related to our reinsurance recoverable amounts, we consider the financial strength of our retrocessionaires when determining whether to purchase coverage from them.  Retrocessional coverage is obtained from companies with a financial strength rating of “A-” or better by A.M. Best or from retrocessionaires whose obligations are fully collateralized for exposures where losses become known and are paid in a relatively short period of time.  The financial performance and rating status of all material retrocessionnaires are routinely monitored.
 
In accordance with industry practice, we frequently pay amounts in respect of claims under contracts to reinsurance brokers for payment over to the ceding companies.  In the event that a broker fails to make such a payment, depending on the jurisdiction, we may remain liable to the ceding company for the payment.  Conversely, in certain jurisdictions, when ceding companies remit premiums to reinsurance brokers, such premiums are deemed to have been paid to us and the ceding company is no longer liable to us for those amounts whether or not the funds are actually received by us.  Consequently, we assume a degree of credit risk associated with our brokers during the premium and loss settlement process.  To mitigate credit risk related to reinsurance brokers, we have established guidelines for brokers and intermediaries.
 
 Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
 
We operate on a worldwide basis and routinely transact business in various currencies other than the U.S. dollar.  Consequently, our principal exposure to foreign currency exchange rate risk is the transaction of business in foreign currencies.  Changes in foreign currency exchange rates can impact revenues, costs, receivables and liabilities, as measured in the U.S. dollar, our financial reporting currency.  We manage our exposure to large foreign currency risks by holding invested assets denominated in non-U.S. dollar currencies in amounts that generally offset liabilities denominated in the same foreign currencies.  We may, from time to time, hold more non-U.S. dollar denominated assets than non-U.S. dollar liabilities.
 
 Sources of Fair Value
 
The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of our financial instruments as of June 30, 2009 ($ in thousands):

   
Carrying
Amount
   
Fair Value
 
             
Financial assets:
           
Fixed maturity securities
  $ 4,045,921     $ 4,045,921  
Preferred stocks
    3,551       3,551  
Short-term investments
    13,849       13,849  
                 
Financial liabilities:
               
Debt obligations
  $ 250,000     $ 205,000  
Derivative instruments
    2,447       2,447  
 
 
- 38 -

 
 
We obtain prices for all of our fixed maturity securities, preferred stocks and short-term investments from pricing services, which include index providers, pricing vendors and broker-dealers.  We valued approximately 67% of our investment securities using prices obtained from index providers, 26% using prices obtained from pricing vendors, and 7% using prices obtained from broker-dealers.  The number of prices we obtain per instrument varies based on the type of asset class and particular reporting period.  Prices are generally obtained from multiple sources when a new security is purchased and a pricing source is assigned to the particular security.  A hierarchy is maintained that prioritizes pricing sources based on availability and reliability of information, with preference given to prices provided by independent pricing vendors and index providers.  Pricing providers may be assigned to a particular security based upon the provider’s expertise.  Generally, the initial pricing source selected is consistently used for each reporting period.  We have not adjusted any prices we have obtained from pricing services.  However, if we determine a price appears unreasonable we investigate and assess whether the price should be adjusted.
 
We periodically receive pricing documentation that describes the methodologies used by various pricing services.  The prices we obtain from pricing providers are validated by: conducting price comparisons against multiple pricing sources for certain securities as may be available; performing an in-depth review of specific securities when evaluating potential other-than-temporary impairments; periodic back-testing of sales to the previously reported fair value; and continuous monitoring of market data including specific data that relates to our investment portfolio.
 
Pricing services determine prices by maximizing the use of observable inputs and we do not believe there are any unobservable inputs significant to the fair value measurement.  The inputs used in index pricing may include, but are not limited to, benchmark yields, transactional data, broker-dealer quotes, security cash flows and structures, credit ratings, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates.  Standard inputs used by pricing vendors may include, but are not limited to, benchmark yields, reported trades, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads, bids, offers and industry and economic events.  Broker-dealers value securities through trading desks primarily based on observable inputs.  Our derivative instruments, which are included in other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets, are priced at fair value, primarily using unobservable inputs through the application of our own assumptions and internal valuation pricing models.  Our debt obligations are priced at fair value from independent sources for those or similar securities.
 
ITEM 4.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
 Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
Our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based on that evaluation, our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and timely reported as specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.
 
 Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
No changes occurred during the three months ended June 30, 2009 in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1A.
RISK FACTORS
 
The following are material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.
 
Risks Related to Our Investments
 
Fluctuations in the mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities markets could result in decreases in the fair value of our commercial mortgage-backed, non-agency residential mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities.
 
The commercial mortgage-backed, non-agency residential mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities markets have experienced reductions in liquidity during the current financial crisis.  When financial markets experience a reduction in liquidity, the ability to conduct orderly transactions may be limited and may result in declines in fair values.  We have significant investments in these asset classes.  As of June 30, 2009, approximately 10.9% of our total assets were invested in commercial mortgage-backed, non-agency residential mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities.  The fair value, unrealized gain or loss and average rating of our investments in commercial mortgage-backed, non-agency residential mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities is set forth in Item 2, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations under “Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources” in this Form 10-Q.  Decreases in the fair value of our commercial mortgage-backed, non-agency residential mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
 
 
- 39 -

 
 
ITEM 2.
UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
 
(c)           Following is a summary of purchases by us of our common shares during the three month period ended June 30, 2009:

Period
 
(a)
Total Number of Shares Purchased
   
(b)
Average Price paid per Share
   
(c)
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs*
   
(d)
Maximum Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plan or Programs
 
                         
April 1, 2009 – April 30, 2009
        $           $ 250,000,000  
May 1, 2009 – May 31, 2009
    1,111,269       27.82       30,912,837       219,087,163  
June 1, 2009 – June 30, 2009
    372,215       27.89       10,380,401       208,706,762  
Total
    1,483,484     $ 27.84       41,293,238     $ 208,706,762  
 
* On August 4, 2004, our board of directors established a program authorizing the repurchase of our common shares.  Since that date, our board of directors has approved increases in the repurchase program from time to time, most recently on July 23, 2009, to result in authority as of such date to repurchase up to a total of $250,000,000 of our common shares.
 
ITEM 4.
SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
 
The Company’s 2009 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (the “Annual Meeting”) was held on April 29, 2009.  Proxies for the Annual Meeting were solicited pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Exchange Act.  There was no solicitation in opposition to management’s nominees as listed in the Company’s proxy statement dated March 30, 2009.  The Company’s shareholders (1) elected seven directors to the Company’s Board of Directors to serve until the 2010 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders and (2) approved the nomination of KPMG, a Bermuda partnership, as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the 2009 fiscal year and authorized the Company’s Audit Committee to set the remuneration of such independent registered public accounting firm.  Set forth below are the voting results for these proposals:

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS OF THE COMPANY

   
For
   
Withheld
 
             
H. Furlong Baldwin
    45,306,847       1,078,978  
Dan R. Carmichael
    45,139,568       1,246,257  
A. John Hass
    45,089,618       1,296,207  
Edmund R. Megna
    45,141,689       1,244,136  
Michael D. Price
    45,432,690       953,135  
Peter T. Pruitt
    40,298,440       6,087,385  
James P. Slattery
    45,432,597       953,228  

APPROVAL OF NOMINATION OF KPMG, A BERMUDA PARTNERSHIP, AS INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM FOR THE 2009 FISCAL YEAR AND AUTHORIZATION OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE TO SET THE REMUNERATION OF SUCH INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

For
 
Against
 
Abstain
 
Broker Non-Votes
             
45,994,052
 
383,346
 
8,427
 
0

 
ITEM 6.
EXHIBITS

Exhibit Number
 
Description
     
31.1
 
Certification of Michael D. Price, Chief Executive Officer of Platinum Holdings, pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act.
 
31.2
 
Certification of James A. Krantz, Chief Financial Officer of Platinum Holdings, pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act.
 
32.1
 
Certification of Michael D. Price, Chief Executive Officer of Platinum Holdings, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
32.2
 
Certification of James A. Krantz, Chief Financial Officer of Platinum Holdings, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 

 
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SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
Platinum Underwriters Holdings, Ltd.
 
       
Date: July 28, 2009
By:
/s/ Michael D. Price  
    Michael D. Price  
   
President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
 
       
 
     
       
Date: July 28, 2009
By:
/s/ James A. Krantz  
    James A. Krantz  
   
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial
and Accounting Officer)
 
       
 
 
 
- 41 -