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EXCEL - IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT - GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.Financial_Report.xls
EX-31.1 - EXHIBIT 31.1 - GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.glre-20140930exhibit311.htm
EX-10.1 - EXHIBIT 10.1 - GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.caoemploymentagreementexhi.htm
EX-32.2 - EXHIBIT 32.2 - GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.glre-20140930exhibit322.htm
EX-12.1 - EXHIBIT 12.1 - GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.glre-20140930exhibit121.htm
EX-31.2 - EXHIBIT 31.2 - GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.glre-20140930exhibit312.htm
EX-32.1 - EXHIBIT 32.1 - GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.glre-20140930exhibit321.htm



UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549 
__________________________
FORM 10-Q 
__________________________
(Mark One)
 x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
 
 
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2014

or
¨
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 001-33493
____________________________________________________________________________________
GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
____________________________________________________________________________________
CAYMAN ISLANDS
N/A
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. employer identification no.)
 
65 MARKET STREET
SUITE 1207, CAMANA BAY
P.O. BOX 31110
GRAND CAYMAN
CAYMAN ISLANDS
 
 
 
 
KY1-1205
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip code)

(345) 943-4573
(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 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). 
Yes x 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. (Check one): 
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 x

Class A Ordinary Shares, $0.10 par value
31,086,062
Class B Ordinary Shares, $0.10 par value
6,254,895
(Class)                      
Outstanding as of October 31, 2014





GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
 
Page
 
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2014 (unaudited) and December 31, 2013
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (unaudited)
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (unaudited)
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (unaudited)
 
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk                                                                                                              
Controls and Procedures                                                                                                           
Legal Proceedings                                                                                                          
Risk Factors                                                                                                               
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds                                                      
Defaults Upon Senior Securities                                                                                                               
Other Information                                                                                                               
Exhibits                                                                                                               



 

2


PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013
(expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars, except per share and share amounts)
 
September 30, 2014
 
December 31, 2013
 
(unaudited)
 
(audited)
Assets
 
 
 
Investments
 
 
 
Debt instruments, trading, at fair value
$
23,648

 
$
4,312

Equity securities, trading, at fair value
1,214,510

 
1,282,156

Other investments, at fair value
149,926

 
107,211

Total investments
1,388,084

 
1,393,679

Cash and cash equivalents
8,802

 
3,722

Restricted cash and cash equivalents
1,367,168

 
1,334,074

Financial contracts receivable, at fair value
37,103

 
104,048

Reinsurance balances receivable
165,515

 
167,340

Loss and loss adjustment expenses recoverable
11,214

 
16,829

Deferred acquisition costs, net
38,245

 
51,797

Unearned premiums ceded
5,264

 
3,173

Notes receivable
2,046

 
16,049

Other assets
7,454

 
4,565

Total assets
$
3,030,895

 
$
3,095,276

Liabilities and equity
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value
$
1,113,300

 
$
1,111,690

Financial contracts payable, at fair value
30,133

 
18,857

Due to prime brokers
266,677

 
314,702

Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves
278,504

 
329,894

Unearned premium reserves
133,921

 
173,057

Reinsurance balances payable
43,051

 
38,789

Funds withheld
7,462

 
10,126

Other liabilities
12,234

 
11,857

Performance compensation payable to related party
10,852

 

Total liabilities
1,896,134

 
2,008,972

Equity
 
 
 
Preferred share capital (par value $0.10; authorized, 50,000,000; none issued)

 

Ordinary share capital (Class A: par value $0.10; authorized, 100,000,000; issued and outstanding, 31,078,295 (2013: 30,791,865): Class B: par value $0.10; authorized, 25,000,000; issued and outstanding, 6,254,895 (2013: 6,254,949))
3,733

 
3,705

Additional paid-in capital
499,638

 
496,622

Retained earnings
600,172

 
551,268

Shareholders’ equity attributable to shareholders
1,103,543

 
1,051,595

Non-controlling interest in joint venture
31,218

 
34,709

Total equity
1,134,761

 
1,086,304

Total liabilities and equity
$
3,030,895

 
$
3,095,276

 
  The accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an
integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

3


GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(UNAUDITED)
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013
(expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars, except per share and share amounts)
 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross premiums written
$
97,200

 
$
148,765

 
$
249,755

 
$
410,927

Gross premiums ceded
(2,706
)
 
(2,389
)
 
(11,405
)
 
(925
)
Net premiums written
94,494

 
146,376

 
238,350

 
410,002

Change in net unearned premium reserves
(15,003
)
 
17,515

 
40,685

 
(3,640
)
Net premiums earned
79,491

 
163,891

 
279,035

 
406,362

Net investment income (loss)
(54,027
)
 
49,448

 
49,755

 
134,834

Other income (expense), net
(22
)
 
(1
)
 
401

 
(100
)
Total revenues
25,442

 
213,338

 
329,191

 
541,096

Expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Loss and loss adjustment expenses incurred, net
53,028

 
94,366

 
177,035

 
238,989

Acquisition costs, net
22,478

 
53,521

 
85,844

 
137,753

General and administrative expenses
3,327

 
7,085

 
16,727

 
16,788

Total expenses
78,833

 
154,972

 
279,606

 
393,530

Income (loss) before income tax expense
(53,391
)
 
58,366

 
49,585

 
147,566

Income tax (expense) benefit
254

 
(90
)
 
828

 
(540
)
Net income (loss) including non-controlling interest
(53,137
)
 
58,276

 
50,413

 
147,026

Loss (income) attributable to non-controlling interest in joint venture
1,369

 
(1,740
)
 
(1,509
)
 
(5,257
)
Net income (loss)
$
(51,768
)
 
$
56,536

 
$
48,904

 
$
141,769

Earnings (loss) per share
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(1.40
)
 
$
1.53

 
$
1.31

 
$
3.85

Diluted
$
(1.40
)
 
$
1.50

 
$
1.29

 
$
3.78

Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in the determination of earnings and loss per share
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
36,984,650

 
36,875,716

 
37,214,809

 
36,820,199

Diluted
36,984,650

 
37,645,053

 
37,874,627

 
37,541,623

 

 
The accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an
integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. 


 
 

4


GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(UNAUDITED)
 
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013
(expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 
Ordinary share capital
 
Additional paid-in capital
 
Retained earnings
 
Shareholders' equity attributable to shareholders
 
Non-controlling
interest in joint venture
 
Total equity
Balance at December 31, 2012
$
3,670

 
$
492,469

 
$
325,569

 
$
821,708

 
$
38,702

 
$
860,410

Issue of Class A ordinary shares, net of forfeitures
18

 
509

 

 
527

 

 
527

Share-based compensation expense, net of forfeitures

 
2,632

 

 
2,632

 

 
2,632

Non-controlling interest withdrawal from joint venture, net

 

 

 

 
(10,000
)
 
(10,000
)
Income attributable to non-controlling interest in joint venture

 

 

 

 
5,257

 
5,257

Net income

 

 
141,769

 
141,769

 

 
141,769

Balance at September 30, 2013
$
3,688

 
$
495,610

 
$
467,338

 
$
966,636

 
$
33,959

 
$
1,000,595

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at December 31, 2013
$
3,705

 
$
496,622

 
$
551,268

 
$
1,051,595

 
$
34,709

 
$
1,086,304

Issue of Class A ordinary shares, net of forfeitures
28

 

 

 
28

 

 
28

Share-based compensation expense, net of forfeitures

 
3,016

 

 
3,016

 

 
3,016

Non-controlling interest withdrawal from joint venture, net

 

 

 

 
(5,000
)
 
(5,000
)
Income attributable to non-controlling interest in joint venture

 

 

 

 
1,509

 
1,509

Net income

 

 
48,904

 
48,904

 

 
48,904

Balance at September 30, 2014
$
3,733

 
$
499,638

 
$
600,172

 
$
1,103,543

 
$
31,218

 
$
1,134,761



The accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an
integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. 


 

5


GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013
(expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
 
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
2014
 
2013
Cash provided by (used in) operating activities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
$
48,904

 
$
141,769

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
 
 
 
Net change in unrealized gains and losses on investments and financial contracts
182,681

 
(69,660
)
Net realized gains on investments and financial contracts
(266,708
)
 
(117,271
)
Foreign exchange (gains) losses on restricted cash and cash equivalents, net
6,032

 
(15,205
)
Income attributable to non-controlling interest in joint venture
1,509

 
5,257

Share-based compensation expense, net of forfeitures
3,044

 
2,646

Depreciation expense
334

 
222

Net change in
 
 
 
Reinsurance balances receivable
1,825

 
(21,843
)
Loss and loss adjustment expenses recoverable
5,615

 
16,455

Deferred acquisition costs, net
13,552

 
(2,906
)
Unearned premiums ceded
(2,091
)
 
473

Other assets
(3,223
)
 
(27
)
Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves
(51,390
)
 
(30,818
)
Unearned premium reserves
(39,136
)
 
3,125

Reinsurance balances payable
4,262

 
3,630

Funds withheld
(2,664
)
 
(7,946
)
Other liabilities
377

 
1,530

Performance compensation payable to related party
10,852

 
33,818

Net cash used in operating activities
(86,225
)
 
(56,751
)
Investing activities
 
 
 
Purchases of investments, trading
(898,614
)
 
(540,222
)
Sales of investments, trading
1,059,145

 
790,513

Purchases of financial contracts
(16,697
)
 
(57,748
)
Dispositions of financial contracts
101,522

 
67,282

Securities sold, not yet purchased
710,954

 
700,299

Dispositions of securities sold, not yet purchased
(791,357
)
 
(652,999
)
Change in due to prime brokers
(48,025
)
 
(87,414
)
Change in restricted cash and cash equivalents, net
(39,126
)
 
(94,542
)
Change in notes receivable, net
18,503

 
3,546

Non-controlling interest withdrawal from joint venture
(5,000
)
 
(10,000
)
Fixed assets additions

 
(684
)
Net cash provided by investing activities
91,305

 
118,031

Financing activities
 
 
 
Net proceeds from exercise of stock options

 
513

Net cash provided by financing activities

 
513

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
5,080

 
61,793

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period
3,722

 
21,890

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period
$
8,802

 
$
83,683

Supplementary information
 
 
 
Interest paid in cash
$
17,302

 
$
19,907

Interest received in cash
419

 
793

Income tax paid in cash

 
260


The accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an
integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. 

6


GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
 
September 30, 2014
 
 
1.   ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
 
Greenlight Capital Re, Ltd. ("GLRE") was incorporated as an exempted company under the Companies Law of the Cayman Islands on July 13, 2004. GLRE’s principal wholly-owned subsidiary, Greenlight Reinsurance, Ltd. ("Greenlight Re"), provides global specialty property and casualty reinsurance. Greenlight Re has a Class D insurer license issued in accordance with the terms of The Insurance Law, 2010 and underlying regulations thereto (the "Law") and is subject to regulation by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority ("CIMA"), in terms of the Law. Greenlight Re commenced underwriting in April 2006. Effective May 30, 2007, GLRE completed an initial public offering of 11,787,500 Class A ordinary shares at $19.00 per share. Concurrently, 2,631,579 Class B ordinary shares of GLRE were sold at $19.00 per share in a private placement offering. During 2008, Verdant Holding Company, Ltd. ("Verdant"), a wholly owned subsidiary of GLRE, was incorporated in the state of Delaware. During 2010, GLRE established Greenlight Reinsurance Ireland, Ltd. ("GRIL"), a wholly-owned reinsurance subsidiary based in Dublin, Ireland. GRIL is authorized as a non-life reinsurance undertaking in accordance with the provisions of the European Communities (Reinsurance) Regulations 2006 ("Irish Regulations"). GRIL provides multi-line property and casualty reinsurance capacity to the European broker market and provides GLRE with an additional platform to serve clients located in Europe and North America.  As used herein, the "Company" refers collectively to GLRE and its consolidated subsidiaries.

The Class A ordinary shares of GLRE are listed on Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol "GLRE".

These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP") and in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. GAAP for complete consolidated financial statements. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013. In the opinion of management, these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all of the normal recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of the Company’s financial position and results of operations as of the dates and for the periods presented.

The results for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full calendar year.

Reclassifications
Certain prior period balances have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. The reclassifications resulted in no changes to net income or retained earnings for any of the periods presented.


2.   SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
Use of Estimates
 
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management 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 condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from these estimates. 
 
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
The Company is required to maintain certain cash in segregated accounts with prime brokers and derivative counterparties. The amount of restricted cash held by prime brokers is primarily used to support the liability created from securities sold, not yet purchased, and to collateralize the letters of credit issued under certain letter of credit facilities (see

7


Notes 4 and 8). The amount of cash encumbered varies depending on the market value of the securities sold, not yet purchased, and letters of credit issued. In addition, derivative counterparties require cash collateral to support the current value of any amounts that may be due to the counterparty based on the value of the underlying financial instrument.

Deferred Acquisition Costs
 
Policy acquisition costs, such as commission and brokerage costs, relate directly to, and vary with, the writing of reinsurance contracts. Acquisition costs relating solely to bound contracts are deferred subject to ultimate recoverability and are amortized over the related contract term. The Company evaluates the recoverability of deferred acquisition costs by determining if the sum of future earned premiums and anticipated investment income is greater than the expected future claims and expenses. If a loss is probable on the unexpired portion of policies in force, a premium deficiency loss is recognized. At September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the deferred acquisition costs were considered fully recoverable and no premium deficiency loss was recorded. 

Acquisition costs also include profit commissions, which are expensed when incurred. Profit commissions are calculated and accrued based on the expected loss experience for contracts and recorded when the current loss estimate indicates that a profit commission is probable under the contract terms. As of September 30, 2014, $12.1 million (December 31, 2013: $10.5 million) of profit commission reserves were included in reinsurance balances payable on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, $0.4 million and $1.8 million, respectively (2013: $0.9 million and $2.1 million, respectively), of net profit commission expense was included in acquisition costs on the condensed consolidated statements of income.
  
Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves and Recoverable
 
The Company establishes reserves for contracts based on estimates of the ultimate cost of all losses including losses incurred but not reported ("IBNR"). These estimated ultimate reserves are based on the Company’s own actuarial estimates derived from reports received from ceding companies, industry data and historical experience. These estimates are reviewed by the Company periodically on a contract by contract basis and adjusted as necessary. Since reserves are estimates, the final settlement of losses may vary from the reserves established and any adjustments to the estimates, which may be material, are recorded in the period they are determined.
 
Loss and loss adjustment expenses recoverable include the amounts due from retrocessionaires for unpaid loss and loss adjustment expenses on retrocession agreements. Ceded losses incurred but not reported are estimated based on the Company’s actuarial estimates. These estimates are reviewed periodically and adjusted when deemed necessary. The Company may not be able to ultimately recover the loss and loss adjustment expense recoverable amounts due to the retrocessionaires’ inability to pay. The Company regularly evaluates the financial condition of its retrocessionaires and records provisions for uncollectible reinsurance expenses recoverable when recovery is no longer probable.
 
Notes Receivable
 
Notes receivable include promissory notes receivable from third party entities. These notes are recorded at cost along with accrued interest, if any, which approximates the fair value. The Company regularly reviews all notes receivable individually for impairment and records provisions for uncollectible and non-performing notes. The Company places notes on non-accrual status when the value of the note is not considered impaired but there is uncertainty as to the collection of interest based on the terms of the note. The Company resumes accrual of interest on a note when none of the principal or interest remains past due, and the Company expects to collect the remaining contractual principal and interest. Interest collected on notes that are placed on non-accrual status is treated on a cash-basis and recorded as interest income when collected, provided that the recorded value of the note is deemed to be fully collectible. Where doubt exists as to the collectability of the remaining recorded value of the notes placed on non-accrual status, any payments received are applied to reduce the recorded value of the notes.

At September 30, 2014, there were no notes receivable placed on non-accrual status (December 31, 2013: $10.5 million). During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company had recorded an impairment charge of $6.0 million relating to the accrued interest and principal on a note placed on non-accrual status. During 2014, the Company sold this note receivable to a third party for a gain of $4.5 million. There were no other impairment charges for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013.

 

8


At September 30, 2014, the notes receivable earned interest at an annual interest rate of 13.5% and had a remaining maturity term of one year. Interest income and realized gains or losses on sale of notes receivable are included under net investment income in the condensed consolidated statements of income. Impairment charges are also included under net investment income in the condensed consolidated statements of income.

At September 30, 2014, included in the notes receivable balance was $0.0 million of accrued interest (December 31, 2013: $0.1 million). Based on management’s assessment, the recorded values of the notes receivable, net of valuation allowance, at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, were expected to be fully collectible and therefore no other provision for uncollectible amounts was deemed necessary at September 30, 2014 or December 31, 2013.

Deposit Assets and Liabilities
 
In accordance with U.S. GAAP, deposit accounting is used in the event that a reinsurance contract does not transfer sufficient insurance risk, or a contract provides retroactive reinsurance. Any losses on such contracts are charged to earnings immediately. Any gains relating to such contracts are deferred and amortized over the estimated remaining settlement period. All such deferred gains are included in reinsurance balances payable in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Amortized gains are recorded in the condensed consolidated statements of income as other income. At September 30, 2014, included in the condensed consolidated balance sheets under reinsurance balances receivable were $0.7 million (December 31, 2013: $1.6 million) of deposit assets. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, there was $0.0 million and $0.1 million, respectively, included in other income relating to losses on deposit accounted contracts (2013: $0.0 million and $0.5 million, respectively). For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, there was no gain on deposit accounted contracts recorded.

Fixed Assets
 
Fixed assets are included in other assets on the condensed consolidated balance sheets and are recorded at cost when acquired. Fixed assets are comprised of computer software, furniture and fixtures and leasehold improvements and are depreciated, using the straight-line method, over their estimated useful lives, which are five years for both computer software, and furniture and fixtures.  Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of the estimated useful lives of the assets or remaining lease term. The Company periodically reviews fixed assets that have finite lives, and that are not held for sale, for impairment by comparing the carrying value of the assets to their estimated future undiscounted cash flows. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, there were no impairments in fixed assets.

At September 30, 2014, the cost, accumulated depreciation and net book values of the fixed assets were as follows:

 
Cost
 
Accumulated depreciation
 
 
Net book value
 
($ in thousands)
Computer software
$
556

 
$
(259
)
 
$
297

Furniture and fixtures
620

 
(424
)
 
196

Leasehold improvements
2,002

 
(900
)
 
1,102

Total
$
3,178

 
$
(1,583
)
 
$
1,595

 
At December 31, 2013, the cost, accumulated depreciation and net book values of the fixed assets were as follows:

 
Cost
 
Accumulated depreciation
 
 
Net book value
 
($ in thousands)
Computer software
$
556

 
$
(206
)
 
$
350

Furniture and fixtures
620

 
(340
)
 
280

Leasehold improvements
2,002

 
(703
)
 
1,299

Total
$
3,178

 
$
(1,249
)
 
$
1,929

 



9


Financial Instruments
 
Investments in Securities and Investments in Securities Sold, Not Yet Purchased
 
The Company’s investments in debt instruments and equity securities that are classified as "trading securities" are carried at fair value. The fair values of the listed equity investments are derived based on quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets (Level 1 inputs). The fair values of listed equities that have restrictions on sale or transfer which expire within one year, are determined by adjusting the observed market price of the equity using a liquidity discount based on observable market inputs. The fair values of debt instruments are derived based on inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as market maker or broker quotes reflecting recent transactions (Level 2 inputs), and are generally derived based on the average of multiple market maker or broker quotes which are considered to be binding. Where quotes are not available, debt instruments are valued using cash flow models using assumptions and estimates that may be subjective and non-observable (Level 3 inputs).

The Company’s "other investments" may include investments in private and unlisted equity securities, limited partnerships, and commodities, which are all carried at fair value. The fair values of commodities are determined based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1). The Company maximizes the use of observable direct or indirect inputs (Level 2 inputs) when deriving the fair values for "other investments". For limited partnerships and private and unlisted equity securities, where observable inputs are not available, the fair values are derived based on unobservable inputs (Level 3 inputs) such as management’s assumptions developed from available information using the services of the investment advisor, including the most recent net asset values obtained from the managers of those underlying investments.

For securities classified as "trading securities" and "other investments", any realized and unrealized gains or losses are determined on the basis of the specific identification method (by reference to cost or amortized cost, as appropriate) and included in net investment income (loss) in the condensed consolidated statements of income.

Dividend income and expense are recorded on the ex-dividend date. The ex-dividend date is the date as of when the underlying security must have been traded to be eligible for the dividend declared. Interest income and interest expense are recorded on an accrual basis.
 
Derivative Financial Instruments
 
U.S. GAAP requires that an entity recognize all derivatives in the balance sheet at fair value. It also requires that unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value be included in income or comprehensive income, depending on whether the instrument qualifies as a hedge transaction, and if so, the type of hedge transaction. The Company’s derivative financial instrument assets are included in financial contracts receivable. Derivative financial instrument liabilities are generally included in financial contracts payable. The Company's derivatives do not qualify as hedges for financial reporting purposes and are recorded in the condensed consolidated balance sheets on a gross basis and not offset against any collateral pledged or received. Pursuant to the International Swaps and Derivatives Association ("ISDA") master agreements, securities lending agreements and other derivatives agreements, the Company and its counterparties typically have the ability to net certain payments owed to each other in specified circumstances. In addition, in the event a party to one of the ISDA master agreements, securities lending agreements or other derivatives agreements defaults, or a transaction is otherwise subject to termination, the non-defaulting party generally has the right to set off against payments owed to the defaulting party or collateral held by the non-defaulting party.
 
Financial Contracts

The Company enters into financial contracts with counterparties as part of its investment strategy. Financial contracts which include total return swaps, credit default swaps ("CDS"), futures, options, currency forwards and other derivative instruments are recorded at their fair value with any unrealized gains and losses included in net investment income (loss) in the condensed consolidated statements of income. Financial contracts receivable represents derivative contracts whereby, based upon the contract's current fair value, the Company will be entitled to receive payments upon settlement of the contract. Financial contracts payable represents derivative contracts whereby, based upon the contract's current fair value, the Company will be obligated to make payments upon settlement of the contract.
 
Total return swap agreements, included on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as financial contracts receivable and financial contracts payable, are derivative financial instruments whereby the Company is either entitled to receive or obligated to pay the product of a notional amount multiplied by the movement in an underlying security, which the Company may not own, over a specified time frame. In addition, the Company may also be obligated to pay or receive other payments

10


based on interest rates, dividend payments and receipts, or foreign exchange movements during a specified period. The Company measures its rights or obligations to the counterparty based on the fair value movements of the underlying security together with any other payments due. These contracts are carried at fair value, based on observable inputs (Level 2 inputs) with the resultant unrealized gains and losses reflected in net investment income (loss) in the condensed consolidated statements of income. Additionally, any changes in the value of amounts received or paid on swap contracts are reported as a gain or loss in net investment income (loss) in the condensed consolidated statements of income.
 
Financial contracts may also include exchange traded futures or options contracts that are based on the movement of a particular index, equity security, commodity, currency or interest rate. Where such contracts are traded in an active market, the Company’s obligations or rights on these contracts are recorded at fair value based on the observable quoted prices of the same or similar financial contracts in an active market (Level 1) or on broker quotes which reflect market information based on actual transactions (Level 2). Amounts invested in exchange traded options and over the counter ("OTC") options are recorded either as an asset or liability at inception. Subsequent to initial recognition, unexpired exchange traded option contracts are recorded at fair value based on quoted prices in active markets (Level 1). For OTC options or exchange traded options where a quoted price in an active market is not available, fair values are derived based upon observable inputs (Level 2) such as multiple quotes from brokers and market makers, which are considered to be binding.
 
The Company purchases and sells CDS for strategic investment purposes. A CDS is a derivative instrument that provides protection against an investment loss due to specified credit or default events of a reference entity. The seller of a CDS guarantees to pay the buyer a specified amount if the reference entity defaults on its obligations or fails to perform. The buyer of a CDS pays a premium over time to the seller in exchange for obtaining this protection. A CDS trading in an active market is valued at fair value based on broker or market maker quotes for identical instruments in an active market (Level 2) or based on the current credit spreads on identical contracts (Level 2).

Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The Company has no other comprehensive income or loss, other than the net income or loss disclosed in the condensed consolidated statements of income.

Earnings (Loss) Per Share
 
Basic earnings per share are based on the weighted average number of common shares and participating securities outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share includes the dilutive effect of restricted stock units ("RSU") and additional potential common shares issuable when stock options are exercised and are determined using the treasury stock method. The Company treats its unvested restricted stock as participating securities in accordance with U.S. GAAP, which requires that unvested stock awards which contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents, whether paid or unpaid (referred to as "participating securities"), be included in the number of shares outstanding for both basic and diluted earnings per share calculations. In the event of a net loss, all RSUs, stock options outstanding and all participating securities are excluded from the calculation of both basic and diluted loss per share since their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.

 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic
36,984,650

 
36,875,716

 
37,214,809

 
36,820,199

Effect of dilutive service provider share-based awards

 
157,281

 
11,383

 
150,039

Effect of dilutive employee and director share-based awards

 
612,056

 
648,435

 
571,385

Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted
36,984,650

 
37,645,053

 
37,874,627

 
37,541,623

Anti-dilutive stock options outstanding

 
180,000

 

 
218,197

Participating securities excluded from calculation of loss per share 
334,090

 

 

 


Taxation
 
Under current Cayman Islands law, no corporate entity, including GLRE and Greenlight Re, is obligated to pay taxes in the Cayman Islands on either income or capital gains. The Company has an undertaking from the Governor-in-Cabinet of the Cayman Islands, pursuant to the provisions of the Tax Concessions Law, as amended, that, in the event that the Cayman Islands

11


enacts any legislation that imposes tax on profits, income, gains or appreciations, or any tax in the nature of estate duty or inheritance tax, such tax will not be applicable to GLRE, Greenlight Re nor their respective operations, or to the Class A or Class B ordinary shares or related obligations, until February 1, 2025.
 
Verdant is incorporated in Delaware and therefore is subject to taxes in accordance with the U.S. federal rates and regulations prescribed by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service ("IRS"). Verdant’s taxable income is generally expected to be taxed at a rate of 35%.

GRIL is incorporated in Ireland and therefore is subject to the Irish corporation tax rate of 12.5% on its trading income, and 25% on its non-trading income, if any.

Any deferred tax asset is evaluated for recovery and a valuation allowance is recorded when it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will not be realized in the future. The Company has not taken any income tax positions that are subject to significant uncertainty or that are reasonably likely to have a material impact on the Company.
 
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
        
None.


3.         FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS 
 
In the normal course of its business, the Company purchases and sells various financial instruments, which include listed and unlisted equities, corporate and sovereign debt, commodities, futures, put and call options, currency forwards, other derivatives and similar instruments sold, not yet purchased.

   Fair Value Hierarchy

The Company’s financial instruments are carried at fair value, and the net unrealized gains or losses are included in net investment income (loss) in the condensed consolidated statements of income.
 
The following table presents the Company’s investments, categorized by the level of the fair value hierarchy as of September 30, 2014:
 
 
Fair value measurements as of September 30, 2014
 
 
Description
 
Quoted prices in
active markets
(Level 1)
 
Significant other
observable
inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
unobservable
inputs
(Level 3)
 
Total
Assets: 
 
($ in thousands)
Debt instruments
 
$

 
$
23,026

 
$
622

 
$
23,648

Listed equity securities
 
1,210,244

 
4,266

 

 
1,214,510

Commodities
 
99,016

 

 

 
99,016

Private and unlisted equity securities
 

 

 
50,910

 
50,910

Financial contracts receivable
 
8,026

 
29,077

 

 
37,103

 
 
$
1,317,286

 
$
56,369

 
$
51,532

 
$
1,425,187

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Listed equity securities, sold not yet purchased
 
$
(848,950
)
 
$

 
$

 
$
(848,950
)
Debt instruments, sold not yet purchased
 

 
(264,350
)
 

 
(264,350
)
Financial contracts payable
 

 
(30,133
)
 

 
(30,133
)
 
 
$
(848,950
)
 
$
(294,483
)
 
$

 
$
(1,143,433
)
 

12


The following table presents the Company’s investments, categorized by the level of the fair value hierarchy as of December 31, 2013:
 
 
Fair value measurements as of December 31, 2013
 
 
Description
 
Quoted prices in
active markets
(Level 1)
 
Significant other
observable
inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
unobservable
inputs
(Level 3)
 
Total
Assets: 
 
($ in thousands)
Debt instruments
 
$

 
$
3,785

 
$
527

 
$
4,312

Listed equity securities
 
1,274,920

 
7,236

 

 
1,282,156

Commodities
 
60,888

 

 

 
60,888

Private and unlisted equity securities
 

 

 
46,323

 
46,323

Financial contracts receivable
 
4,500

 
99,548

 

 
104,048

 
 
$
1,340,308

 
$
110,569

 
$
46,850

 
$
1,497,727

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Listed equity securities, sold not yet purchased
 
$
(917,123
)
 
$

 
$

 
$
(917,123
)
Debt instruments, sold not yet purchased
 

 
(194,567
)
 

 
(194,567
)
Financial contracts payable
 

 
(18,857
)
 

 
(18,857
)
 
 
$
(917,123
)
 
$
(213,424
)
 
$

 
$
(1,130,547
)
 
The following table presents the reconciliation of the balances for all investments measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014
 
 
  Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
 
  Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
 
Three months ended September 30, 2014
 
Nine months ended September 30, 2014
 
 
Debt instruments
 
 Private and unlisted equity securities
 
 Total
 
Debt instruments
 
 Private and unlisted equity securities
 
 Total
 
 
 ($ in thousands)
 
 ($ in thousands)
Beginning balance
 
$
601

 
$
50,827

 
$
51,428

 
$
527

 
$
46,323

 
$
46,850

Purchases
 

 
961

 
961

 

 
3,032

 
3,032

Sales
 

 
(10
)
 
(10
)
 

 
(2,071
)
 
(2,071
)
Issuances
 

 

 

 

 

 

Settlements

 

 

 

 

 

Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings, net
 
21

 
3,176

 
3,197

 
95

 
7,670

 
7,765

Transfers into Level 3
 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers out of Level 3
 

 
(4,044
)
 
(4,044
)
 

 
(4,044
)
 
(4,044
)
Ending balance
 
$
622

 
$
50,910

 
$
51,532

 
$
622

 
$
50,910

 
$
51,532


During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, $4.0 million securities, at fair value based on the date of transfer, were transferred from Level 3 to Level 2 as these securities began actively trading on a listed exchange during the third quarter. However, due to lock-up restrictions on these securities, they were classified as Level 2 upon transfer until the lock-up period expires. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, $10.0 million of securities at fair value based on the date of transfer, were transferred from Level 2 to Level 1 as the lock-up period restrictions on those securities expired. There were no other transfers between Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014.


13


The following table presents the reconciliation of the balances for all investments measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013:
 
 
  Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
 
  Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
 
Three months ended September 30, 2013
 
Nine months ended September 30, 2013
 
 
Debt instruments
 
 Private and unlisted equity securities
 
 Total
 
Debt instruments
 
 Private and unlisted equity securities
 
Total
 
 
 ($ in thousands)
 
 ($ in thousands)
Beginning balance
 
$
4,838

 
$
43,257

 
$
48,095

 
$
260

 
$
38,801

 
$
39,061

Purchases
 
3,604

 
416

 
4,020

 
8,230

 
31,756

 
39,986

Sales
 

 
(829
)
 
(829
)
 
(28
)
 
(6,934
)
 
(6,962
)
Issuances
 

 

 

 

 

 

Settlements
 

 

 

 

 

 

Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings, net
 

 
2,198

 
2,198

 
(20
)
 
1,055

 
1,035

Transfers into Level 3
 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers out of Level 3
 

 
(4,945
)
 
(4,945
)
 

 
(24,581
)
 
(24,581
)
Ending balance
 
$
8,442

 
$
40,097

 
$
48,539

 
$
8,442

 
$
40,097

 
$
48,539


During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, $4.9 million of securities, at fair value based on the date of transfer, were transferred from Level 3 to Level 2, as these securities began actively trading on a listed exchange during the third quarter of 2013. However due to lock-up restrictions on these securities, they were classified as Level 2 upon transfer until the lock-up period expires. Additionally, during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, $19.6 million of securities at fair value based on the date of transfer, were transferred from Level 3 to Level 1 as these securities began actively trading on a listed exchange and there were no lock-up restrictions on these securities. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, $2.4 million of securities at fair value based on the date of transfer, were transferred from Level 2 to Level 1 as the lock-up period restrictions on those securities expired. There were no other transfers between Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, included in net investment income (loss) in the condensed consolidated statements of income were net realized gains relating to Level 3 securities of $0.0 million and $0.3 million, respectively (2013: net realized gains of $0.3 million and $0.6 million, respectively).

For Level 3 classified securities held as of the reporting date, net unrealized gains for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 of $2.4 million and $6.7 million, respectively (three and nine months ended September 30, 2013: net unrealized gain of $1.2 million and net unrealized loss of $1.5 million, respectively), were included in net investment income in the condensed consolidated statements of income.
  

14


Investments
 
Debt instruments, trading
 
At September 30, 2014, the following investments were included in debt instruments:
 
 
Cost/
 amortized
 cost
 
Unrealized
 gains
 
Unrealized
 losses
 
Fair
 value
 
 
($ in thousands)
Corporate debt – U.S.
 
$
2,116

 
$

 
$
(1,494
)
 
$
622

Corporate debt – Non U.S.
 
5,870

 
204

 
(666
)
 
5,408

Sovereign debt – Non U.S.
 
17,712

 
202

 
(296
)
 
17,618

Total debt instruments
 
$
25,698

 
$
406

 
$
(2,456
)
 
$
23,648

 
At December 31, 2013, the following investments were included in debt instruments:
 
 
Cost/
 amortized
 cost
 
Unrealized
 gains
 
Unrealized
 losses
 
Fair
 value
 
 
($ in thousands)
Corporate debt – U.S.
 
$
2,116

 
$

 
$
(1,589
)
 
$
527

Corporate debt – Non U.S.
 
3,761

 
115

 
(91
)
 
3,785

Total debt instruments
 
$
5,877

 
$
115

 
$
(1,680
)
 
$
4,312


The maturity distribution for debt instruments held at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 was as follows:
 
 
September 30, 2014
 
December 31, 2013
 
 
Cost/
 amortized
 cost
 
Fair
 value
 
Cost/
 amortized
 cost
 
Fair
 value
 
 
($ in thousands)
Within one year
 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$

From one to five years
 

 

 

 

From five to ten years
 
2,109

 
1,568

 

 

More than ten years
 
23,589

 
22,080

 
5,877

 
4,312

 
 
$
25,698

 
$
23,648

 
$
5,877

 
$
4,312

 
Investment in Equity Securities, Trading

At September 30, 2014, the following long positions were included in equity securities, trading: 
 
 
Cost
 
Unrealized
gains
 
Unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
 
($ in thousands)
Equities – listed
 
$
991,691

 
$
243,728

 
$
(43,859
)
 
$
1,191,560

Exchange traded funds
 
42,126

 

 
(19,176
)
 
22,950

Total equity securities
 
$
1,033,817

 
$
243,728

 
$
(63,035
)
 
$
1,214,510



15


At December 31, 2013, the following long positions were included in equity securities, trading:
 
 
Cost
 
Unrealized
gains
 
Unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
 
($ in thousands)
Equities – listed
 
$
923,594

 
$
361,695

 
$
(28,712
)
 
$
1,256,577

Exchange traded funds
 
50,253

 

 
(24,674
)
 
25,579

Total equity securities
 
$
973,847

 
$
361,695

 
$
(53,386
)
 
$
1,282,156


Other Investments
 
"Other investments" include commodities and private and unlisted equity securities. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, commodities were comprised of gold bullion. 

At September 30, 2014, the following securities were included in other investments:
 
 
Cost
 
Unrealized
gains
 
Unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
 
($ in thousands)
Commodities
 
$
95,815

 
$
3,201

 
$

 
$
99,016

Private and unlisted equity securities
 
38,299

 
14,707

 
(2,096
)
 
50,910

 
 
$
134,114

 
$
17,908

 
$
(2,096
)
 
$
149,926


At December 31, 2013, the following securities were included in other investments: 
 
 
Cost
 
Unrealized
gains
 
Unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
 
 
($ in thousands)
Commodities
 
$
54,633

 
$
6,255

 
$

 
$
60,888

Private and unlisted equity securities
 
45,544

 
8,170

 
(7,391
)
 
46,323

 
 
$
100,177

 
$
14,425

 
$
(7,391
)
 
$
107,211


As of September 30, 2014, included in private and unlisted equity securities are investments in private equity funds with a fair value of $11.7 million (December 31, 2013: $41.6 million) determined based on unadjusted net asset values reported by the managers of these securities. Some of these values were reported from periods prior to September 30, 2014. Also included in private and unlisted equity securities are investments in private equity funds with a fair value of $32.8 million (December 31, 2013: nil) determined based on the price of a transaction agreement between a third party and the private equity funds. Since the closing of the transaction agreement is subject to various shareholder and regulatory approvals, the purchase price was discounted to allow for the risk of the transaction not closing. As of December 31, 2013, these private equity funds were valued at $26.3 million based on unadjusted net asset values reported by the fund managers.

The private equity funds have varying lock-up periods and as of September 30, 2014, all of the funds had redemption restrictions, and therefore have been categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The redemption restrictions have been in place since inception of the investments and are not expected to lapse. As of September 30, 2014, the Company had $9.4 million (December 31, 2013: $6.3 million) of unfunded commitments relating to private equity funds whose fair values are determined based on unadjusted net asset values reported by the managers of these securities. These commitments are included in the amounts presented in the schedule of commitments and contingencies in Note 8 of these condensed consolidated financial statements.    




16



Investments in Securities Sold, Not Yet Purchased 

At September 30, 2014, the following securities were included in investments in securities sold, not yet purchased:
 
 
Proceeds
 
Unrealized gains
 
Unrealized losses
 
 Fair value
 
 
($ in thousands)
Equities – listed
 
$
(763,551
)
 
$
64,963

 
$
(128,315
)
 
$
(826,903
)
Exchange traded funds
 
(21,297
)
 
25

 
(774
)
 
(22,046
)
Corporate debt – U.S.
 
(7,066
)
 
316

 
(11
)
 
(6,761
)
Sovereign debt – Non U.S.
 
(246,589
)
 
3,331

 
(14,332
)
 
(257,590
)
 
 
$
(1,038,503
)
 
$
68,635

 
$
(143,432
)
 
$
(1,113,300
)


At December 31, 2013, the following securities were included in investments in securities sold, not yet purchased: 
 
 
Proceeds
 
Unrealized gains
 
Unrealized losses
 
 Fair value
 
 
($ in thousands)
Equities – listed
 
$
(836,708
)
 
$
57,854

 
$
(130,621
)
 
$
(909,475
)
Exchange traded funds
 
(6,318
)
 

 
(1,330
)
 
(7,648
)
Corporate debt – U.S.
 
(8,135
)
 
2

 
(235
)
 
(8,368
)
Sovereign debt – Non U.S.
 
(170,375
)
 

 
(15,824
)
 
(186,199
)
 
 
$
(1,021,536
)
 
$
57,856

 
$
(148,010
)
 
$
(1,111,690
)
 

Financial Contracts
 
As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had entered into total return swaps, CDS, options, warrants, rights, futures, forwards and interest rate options contracts with various financial institutions to meet certain investment objectives. Under the terms of each of these financial contracts, the Company is either entitled to receive or is obligated to make payments which are based on the product of a formula contained within each contract that includes the change in the fair value of the underlying or reference security.
 

17


At September 30, 2014, the fair values of financial contracts outstanding were as follows: 
Financial Contracts
 
Listing
currency
(1)
 
Notional amount of
underlying instruments
 
Fair value of net assets
(obligations)
on financial
contracts
 
 
 
 
($ in thousands)
Financial contracts receivable
 
 
 
 
 
 
Forwards
 
KRW
 
30,202

 
$
1,167

Futures
 
USD
 
43,454

 
5,306

Interest rate options
 
USD
 
78,000

 

Put options
 
USD
 
272,799

 
11,873

Total return swaps – equities
 
GBP/HKD/RON/USD
 
155,717

 
16,037

Warrants and rights on listed equities
 
EUR/USD
 
4,874

 
2,720

Total financial contracts receivable, at fair value
 
 
 
 
 
$
37,103

Financial contracts payable
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit default swaps, purchased – corporate debt
 
USD
 
221,198

 
$
(1,681
)
Credit default swaps, purchased – sovereign debt
 
USD
 
251,467

 
(2,345
)
Total return swaps – equities
 
EUR/GBP/HKD/INR
 
116,899

 
(26,107
)
Total financial contracts payable, at fair value
 
 
 
 
 
$
(30,133
)
 (1) USD = US Dollar; JPY = Japanese Yen; EUR = Euro; GBP = British Pound; HKD = Hong Kong Dollar; KRW = Korean Won; RON = Romanian New Leu; INR = Indian Rupee.

At December 31, 2013, the fair values of financial contracts outstanding were as follows: 
Financial Contracts
 
Listing
currency
(1)
 
Notional amount of
underlying instruments
 
Fair value of net assets
(obligations)
on financial
contracts
 
 
 
 
($ in thousands)
Financial contracts receivable
 
 
 
 
 
 
Forwards
 
JPY
 
71,162

 
$
383

Futures
 
JPY/USD
 
117,494

 
4,500

Interest rate options
 
USD
 
391,559

 
26

Put options
 
USD
 
217,359

 
12,923

Total return swaps – equities
 
EUR/GBP/HKD/USD
 
178,988

 
83,325

Warrants and rights on listed equities
 
EUR
 
5,237

 
2,891

Total financial contracts receivable, at fair value
 
 
 
 
 
$
104,048

Financial contracts payable
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit default swaps, purchased – corporate debt
 
USD
 
273,877

 
$
(3,625
)
Credit default swaps, purchased – sovereign debt
 
USD
 
251,467

 
(3,980
)
Forwards
 
KRW
 
32,100

 
(58
)
Total return swaps – equities
 
EUR/GBP/HKD
 
36,983

 
(11,194
)
Total financial contracts payable, at fair value
 
 
 
 
 
$
(18,857
)
 (1) USD = US Dollar; JPY = Japanese Yen; EUR = Euro; GBP = British Pound; HKD = Hong Kong Dollar; KRW = Korean Won; RON = Romanian New Leu; INR = Indian Rupee.

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, included in interest rate options are contracts on U.S. and Japanese interest rates denominated in U.S. dollars. Included in put options (under financial contracts receivable) are options on foreign currencies, primarily the Japanese Yen and the Chinese Yuan, denominated in U.S. dollars.  

18



During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company reported gains and losses on derivatives as follows:
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
 
Location of gains and losses on derivatives recognized in income
 
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in income
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in income
 
 
 
 
Three months ended September 30
Nine months ended September 30
 
 
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
 
($ in thousands)
($ in thousands)
Credit default swaps, purchased – corporate debt
 
Net investment income (loss)
 
$
(11
)
 
$
(589
)
 
$
(157
)
 
$
(2,847
)
Credit default swaps, purchased – sovereign debt
 
Net investment income (loss)
 
(72
)
 
(942
)
 
(286
)
 
(957
)
Forwards
 
Net investment income (loss)
 
1,289

 
(1,282
)
 
(1,442
)
 
5,780

Futures
 
Net investment income (loss)
 
8,617

 
3,628

 
4,657

 
4,677

Interest rate options
 
Net investment income (loss)
 

 
(97
)
 
(26
)
 
(62
)
Options, warrants, and rights
 
Net investment income (loss)
 
240

 
(12,025
)
 
(17,868
)
 
20,681

Total return swaps – equities
 
Net investment income (loss)
 
(5,642
)
 
38,825

 
24,432

 
59,507

Total
 
 
 
$
4,421

 
$
27,518

 
$
9,310

 
$
86,779


The Company generally does not enter into derivatives for risk management or hedging purposes. The volume of derivative activities varies from period to period depending on potential investment opportunities.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company’s volume of derivative activities (based on notional amounts) was as follows:
2014
 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
 
  Entered
 
Exited
 
  Entered
 
Exited
 
 
($ in thousands)
 
($ in thousands)
Forwards
 
$

 
$
10,943

 
$

 
$
74,134

Futures
 

 
21,570

 
128,823

 
192,134

Options, warrants and rights (1)
 
230,132

 

 
757,232

 
128,147

Total return swaps
 
20,985

 
77,600

 
96,546

 
127,148

Total
 
$
251,117

 
$
110,113

 
$
982,601

 
$
521,563

(1) Exited amount excludes options which expired or were exercised during the period.


19


For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company’s volume of derivative activities (based on notional amounts) was as follows:
2013
 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
 
  Entered
 
Exited
 
  Entered
 
Exited
 
 
($ in thousands)
 
($ in thousands)
Forwards
 
$
30,817

 
$

 
$
417,754

 
$
115,884

Futures
 

 
12,778

 
218,519

 
180,027

Interest rate options (1)
 

 
95,400

 

 
376,385

Options, warrants and rights (1)
 
232,530

 
272,988

 
765,509

 
814,812

Total return swaps
 
16,606

 
6,736

 
187,862

 
54,846

Total
 
$
279,953

 
$
387,902

 
$
1,589,644

 
$
1,541,954

(1) Exited amount excludes options which expired or were exercised during the period.

The Company does not offset its derivative instruments and presents all amounts in the condensed consolidated balance sheets on a gross basis. The Company has pledged cash collateral to derivative counterparties to support the current value of amounts due to the counterparties based on the value of the underlying security.

As of September 30, 2014, the gross and net amounts of derivative instruments and the cash collateral applicable to derivative instruments were as follows:

September 30, 2014
 
(i)
 
(ii)
 
(iii) = (i) - (ii)
 
(iv) Gross amounts not offset in the balance sheet
 
(v) = (iii) + (iv)
Description
 
Gross amounts of recognized assets (liabilities)
 
Gross amounts offset in the balance sheet
 
Net amounts of assets (liabilities) presented in the balance sheet
 
Financial instruments available for offset
 
Cash collateral (received) pledged
 
Net amount of asset (liability)
 
 
($ in thousands)
Financial contracts receivable
 
$
37,103

 
$

 
$
37,103

 
$
(18,469
)
 
$
(1,929
)
 
$
16,705

Financial contracts payable
 
(30,133
)
 

 
(30,133
)
 
18,469

 
11,664

 


As of December 31, 2013, the gross and net amounts of derivative instruments and the cash collateral applicable to derivative instruments were as follows:

December 31, 2013
 
(i)
 
(ii)
 
(iii) = (i) - (ii)
 
(iv) Gross amounts not offset in the balance sheet
 
(v) = (iii) + (iv)
Description
 
Gross amounts of recognized assets (liabilities)
 
Gross amounts offset in the balance sheet
 
Net amounts of assets (liabilities) presented in the balance sheet
 
Financial instruments available for offset
 
Cash collateral (received) pledged
 
Net amount of asset (liability)
 
 
($ in thousands)
Financial contracts receivable
 
$
104,048

 
$

 
$
104,048

 
$
(18,857
)
 
$
(49,422
)
 
$
35,769

Financial contracts payable
 
(18,857
)
 

 
(18,857
)
 
18,857

 

 



4.        DUE TO PRIME BROKERS
 
As of September 30, 2014, the amount due to prime brokers is comprised of margin-borrowing from prime brokers relating to investments purchased on margin, as well as the margin-borrowing for providing collateral to support some of the Company’s outstanding letters of credit (see Note 8). Under term margin agreements and certain letter of credit facility agreements, the Company pledges certain investment securities to borrow cash from the prime brokers. The borrowed cash is placed in a custodial account in the name of the Company and this custodial account provides collateral for any letters of credit issued. Since there is no legal right of offset, the Company’s liability for the cash borrowed from the prime brokers is included on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as due to prime brokers while the cash held in the custodial account is included on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as restricted cash and cash equivalents. At September 30, 2014, the amounts due to prime brokers included $174.9 million (December 31, 2013: $202.2 million) of cash borrowed under the term margin agreements to provide collateral for letters of credit facilities and $91.8 million (December 31, 2013: $112.5 million) of borrowing relating to investment purchases.

Greenlight Re's investment guidelines, among other stipulations in the guidelines, allow for up to 15% (GRIL: 5%) net margin leverage for extended periods of time and up to 30% (GRIL: 20%) net margin leverage for periods of less than 30 days.


5.        RETROCESSION
 
The Company, from time to time, purchases retrocessional coverage for one or more of the following reasons: to manage its overall exposure, to reduce its net liability on individual risks, to obtain additional underwriting capacity and to balance its underwriting portfolio. Additionally, retrocession can be used as a mechanism to share the risks and rewards of business written and therefore can be used as a tool to align the Company's interests with those of its counterparties. The Company currently has coverages that provide for recovery of a portion of loss and loss expenses incurred on certain contracts. Loss and loss adjustment expense recoverable from the retrocessionaires are recorded as assets.

For the three months ended September 30, 2014, loss and loss adjustment expenses incurred of $53.0 million (2013: $94.4 million) reported on the condensed consolidated statements of income are net of loss and loss adjustment expenses recovered and recoverable of $0.5 million (2013: $0.3 million). For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, loss and loss adjustment expenses incurred of $177.0 million (2013: $239.0 million) reported on the condensed consolidated statements of income are net of loss and loss adjustment expenses recovered and recoverable of $1.6 million (2013: negative $10.5 million). The negative loss and loss adjustment expenses recovered for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 were due to reversal of loss reserves on retrocession contracts that were novated during 2013.

Retrocession contracts do not relieve the Company from its obligations to the insureds. Failure of retrocessionaires to honor their obligations could result in losses to the Company. At September 30, 2014, the Company had losses recoverable of $11.2 million (December 31, 2013: $16.8 million) with unrated retrocessionaires. At September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, $2.4 million and $4.0 million, respectively, of losses recoverable from unrated retrocessionaires were secured by cash collateral held by the Company, while $6.5 million and nil, respectively, were secured through a trust account and the remainder was secured by other collateral in the form of guarantees.

20



At September 30, 2014, an uncollateralized loss reserve recoverable of $2.3 million (December 31, 2013: $12.8 million) was related to an unrated retrocessionaire who is contractually obligated to post collateral for the entire balance but has failed to do so. During 2013, an arbitration panel ruled in favor of the Company. The retrocessionaire challenged the arbitration award, seeking to set it aside. A judge in the Grand Court in Grand Cayman subsequently ordered the retrocessionaire to post security in the amount of the arbitration award pending a hearing on the merits, whereupon the retrocessionaire challenged the posting of security. During 2014, the retrocession contract was novated to an affiliate of the retrocessionaire, which partially funded a trust account with collateral for the benefit of the Company.

Additionally, at September 30, 2014, the parent entity of the retrocessionaire was also delinquent in its payment to the Company of $11.0 million (December 31, 2013: $12.0 million) relating to ceding commission adjustments which are included in reinsurance balances receivable. The Company initiated legal proceedings in order to enforce its contractual rights. By Opinion and Order dated July 28, 2014, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York (the "Court") granted, in part, the Company's summary judgment motion. Subsequently, on October 15, 2014, the Court entered the judgment in the Company's favor.

The Company regularly evaluates the financial condition of all its retrocessionaires to assess the ability of the retrocessionaires to honor their obligations. At September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, no provision for uncollectible losses recoverable was considered necessary.

 
6.        SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
 
The Company has a stock incentive plan for directors, employees and consultants. Shares authorized for issuance are comprised of 300,000 (December 31, 2013: 300,000) Class A ordinary shares in relation to share purchase options granted to a service provider and 3,500,000 (December 31, 2013: 3,500,000) Class A ordinary shares authorized for the Company’s stock incentive plan for eligible employees, directors and consultants. As of September 30, 2014, no (December 31, 2013: 20,000) Class A ordinary shares remained available for future issuance relating to share purchase options granted to the service provider, and 799,555 (December 31, 2013: 961,587) Class A ordinary shares remained available for future issuance under the Company's stock incentive plan. The stock incentive plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. 
 
Service Provider Share Purchase Options
 
On September 20, 2004, the Company granted share purchase options to a service provider to purchase 400,000 Class A ordinary shares at an exercise price of $10.00 per share. During the third quarter of 2014, all of the remaining 20,000 share purchase options outstanding were exercised, resulting in the net issuance of 13,861 Class A ordinary shares (net of shares surrendered as a result of the cashless exercise of stock options).

Employee and Director Restricted Shares
 
As part of its stock incentive plan, the Company issues restricted shares for which the fair value is equal to the price of the Company’s Class A ordinary shares on the grant date. Compensation based on the grant date fair market value of the shares is expensed on a straight line basis over the vesting period.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, 119,566 (2013: 111,231) restricted Class A ordinary shares were issued to employees pursuant to the Company’s stock incentive plan. These shares contain certain restrictions relating to, among other things, vesting, forfeiture in the event of termination of employment and transferability. Each of these restricted shares will cliff vest after three years from the date of issuance, subject to the grantee’s continued service with the Company. During the vesting period, the holder of the restricted shares retains voting rights and is entitled to any dividends declared by the Company.
 For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company also issued to non-employee directors an aggregate of 28,060 (2013: 36,374) restricted Class A ordinary shares as part of their remuneration for services to the Company. Each of these restricted shares issued to non-employee directors contains similar restrictions to those issued to employees and will vest on the earlier of the first anniversary of the share issuance or the Company’s next annual general meeting, subject to the grantee’s continued service with the Company.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, 27,083 (2013: 16,826) restricted shares were forfeited by employees who left the Company prior to the expiration of the vesting period. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, in

21


accordance with U.S. GAAP, $0.2 million of stock compensation expense (2013: $0.2 million) relating to the forfeited restricted shares was reversed.

The restricted share award activity during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was as follows:
 
 
Number of
non-vested
restricted
 shares
 
Weighted
 average
grant date
fair value
Balance at December 31, 2013
 
328,991

 
$
24.74

Granted
 
147,626

 
32.57

Vested
 
(115,444
)
 
25.35

Forfeited
 
(27,083
)
 
27.32

Balance at September 30, 2014
 
334,090

 
$
27.78


 
Employee and Director Stock Options

For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, 31,821 Class A ordinary share purchase options were granted to the Company's Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to his employment contract (2013: 38,197). These options vest 25% on the date of the grant, and 25% each on the anniversary thereof in 2015, 2016 and 2017 and expire 10 years after the grant date. The grant date fair value of these options was $15.71 per share (2013: $13.09 per share), based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The estimate of expected volatility for options granted during 2014 was based on the daily historical trading data of the Company's Class A ordinary shares from the date that these shares commenced trading (May 24, 2007) to August 1, 2014. For options granted prior to 2014, the Company had determined the expected volatility based primarily on the historical volatility of a peer group of companies in the reinsurance industry while also considering the Company’s own historical volatility.
The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the valuation of its options and has applied the assumptions set forth in the following table.
 
 
2014
 
2013
Risk free rate
 
2.47
%
 
2.85
%
Estimated volatility
 
34
%
 
35
%
Expected term (in years)
 
10

 
10

Dividend yield
 
0.0
%
 
0.0
%
Forfeiture rate
 
0.0
%
 
0.0
%

For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, 232,500 (2013: 44,500) stock options were exercised by directors and employees resulting in 151,972 Class A ordinary shares issued, net of shares surrendered as a result of the cashless exercise of stock options (2013: 44,500). When stock options are granted, the Company reduces the corresponding number from the shares authorized for issuance as part of the Company’s stock incentive plan. The intrinsic value of options exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was $4.9 million (2013: $0.6 million).
Employee and director stock option activity during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was as follows: 
 
 
Number of
 options
 
Weighted
 average
 exercise
 price
 
Weighted
 average
 grant date
 fair value
Balance at December 31, 2013
 
1,402,987

 
$
15.82

 
$
7.08

Granted
 
31,821

 
32.37

 
15.71

Exercised
 
(232,500
)
 
11.24

 
5.65

Forfeited
 

 

 

Expired
 

 

 

Balance at September 30, 2014
 
1,202,308

 
$
17.14

 
$
7.59



22


 Employee Restricted Stock Units

The Company issues restricted stock units ("RSUs") to certain employees as part of the stock incentive plan. The grant date fair value of the RSUs is equal to the price of the Company’s Class A ordinary shares on the grant date. Compensation cost based on the grant date fair market value of the RSUs is expensed on a straight line basis over the vesting period.
 
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, 9,668 (2013: 5,347) RSUs were issued to employees pursuant to the Company’s stock incentive plan. These shares contain certain restrictions relating to, among other things, vesting, forfeiture in the event of termination of employment and transferability. Each of these RSUs will cliff vest after three years from the date of issuance, subject to the grantee’s continued service with the Company. On the vesting date, the Company converts each RSU into one Class A ordinary share and issues new Class A ordinary shares from the shares authorized for issuance as part of the Company’s stock incentive plan.

Employee RSU activity during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was as follows: 
 
 
Number of
non-vested
RSUs
 
Weighted
 average
grant date
fair value
Balance at December 31, 2013
 
5,941

 
$
24.41

Granted
 
9,668

 
32.60

Vested
 

 

Forfeited
 

 

Balance at September 30, 2014
 
15,609

 
$
29.72


For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the general and administrative expenses included stock compensation expense (net of forfeitures) of $3.0 million and $2.7 million, respectively, for the expensing of the fair value of stock options, restricted stocks and RSUs granted to employees and directors.


7.      RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS 
 
Investment Advisory Agreement
 
As of December 31, 2013, the Company and its reinsurance subsidiaries were party to an investment advisory agreement with DME Advisors (the "prior agreement") under which the Company, its reinsurance subsidiaries and DME Advisors created a joint venture for the purpose of managing certain jointly held assets. Effective January 1, 2014, the prior agreement was amended and restated to replace DME Advisors with DME Advisors, LLC ("DME") as the participant to the joint venture (the "venture agreement"). Simultaneously, the Company, its reinsurance subsidiaries and DME entered into a separate investment advisory agreement with DME Advisors (the "advisory agreement"). DME and DME Advisors are related to the Company and are an affiliate of David Einhorn, Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors.
 
Pursuant to the venture agreement, performance allocation equal to 20% of the net income of the Company’s share of the account managed by DME Advisors is allocated, subject to a loss carry forward provision, to DME’s account. The loss carry forward provision allows DME to earn a reduced performance allocation of 10% on net investment income in any year subsequent to the year in which the investment account incurs a loss, until all the losses are recouped and an additional amount equal to 150% of the aggregate investment loss is earned. DME is not entitled to earn a performance allocation in a year in which the investment portfolio incurs a loss. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, performance allocation of $(13.2) million and $10.9 million, respectively (2013: $11.9 million and $33.8 million, respectively), was included in net investment income. The negative performance allocation for the three months ended September 30, 2014 was due to the reversal of previously accrued performance allocation expense resulting from negative investment returns for the third quarter of 2014.
 
Pursuant to the advisory agreement, a monthly management fee, equal to 0.125% (1.5% on an annual basis) of the Company’s investment account managed by DME Advisors, is paid to DME Advisors. Included in the net investment income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 were management fees of $5.3 million and $15.4 million, respectively (2013: $4.6 million and $13.4 million, respectively). The management fees have been fully paid as of September 30, 2014.

23


 
Pursuant to the venture and advisory agreements, the Company has agreed to indemnify DME and DME Advisors for any expense, loss, liability, or damage arising out of any claim asserted or threatened in connection with DME Advisors serving as the Company’s investment advisor. The Company will reimburse DME and DME Advisors for reasonable costs and expenses of investigating and/or defending such claims provided such claims were not caused due to gross negligence, breach of contract or misrepresentation by DME or DME Advisors. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, there were no indemnification payments made by the Company.
 
Service Agreement
 
The Company has entered into a service agreement with DME Advisors, pursuant to which DME Advisors provides investor relations services to the Company for compensation of five thousand dollars per month (plus expenses). The agreement is automatically renewed annually until terminated by either the Company or DME Advisors for any reason with 30 days prior written notice to the other party. 
 

8.      COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES 
 
Letters of Credit
 
At September 30, 2014, the Company had the following letter of credit facilities, which automatically renew each year unless terminated by either party in accordance with the required notice period:
 
 
Facility
 
Termination Date
 
Notice period required for termination
 
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
 
 
Bank of America, N.A.
 
$
200,000

 
July 20, 2015
 
90 days prior to termination date
Butterfield Bank (Cayman) Limited
 
60,000

 
June 30, 2015
 
90 days prior to termination date
Citibank Europe plc
 
400,000

 
October 11, 2015
 
120 days prior to termination date
JP Morgan Chase Bank N.A.
 
100,000

 
January 27, 2016
 
120 days prior to termination date
 
 
$
760,000

 
 
 
 

As of September 30, 2014, an aggregate amount of $321.4 million (December 31, 2013: $379.1 million) in letters of credit were issued under the above facilities. Under the facilities, the Company provides collateral that may consist of equity securities, restricted cash, and cash and cash equivalents. As of September 30, 2014, total equity securities, restricted cash, and cash and cash equivalents with a fair value in the aggregate of $356.4 million (December 31, 2013: $410.3 million) were pledged as security against the letters of credit issued (also see Note 4). Each of the facilities contain customary events of default and restrictive covenants, including but not limited to, limitations on liens on collateral, transactions with affiliates, mergers and sales of assets, as well as solvency and maintenance of certain minimum pledged equity requirements, and restricts issuance of any debt without the consent of the letter of credit provider. Additionally, if an event of default exists, as defined in the letter of credit facilities, Greenlight Re will be prohibited from paying dividends to its parent company. The Company was in compliance with all the covenants of each of these facilities as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

  Operating Lease Obligations
 
Greenlight Re has entered into lease agreements for office space in the Cayman Islands. Under the terms of the lease agreements, Greenlight Re is committed to annual rent payments ranging from $0.3 million at inception to $0.5 million at lease termination. The leases expire on June 30, 2018 and Greenlight Re has the option to renew the leases for a further five-year term. Included in the schedule below are the minimum lease payment obligations relating to these leases as of September 30, 2014.

GRIL has entered into a lease agreement for office space in Dublin, Ireland. Under the terms of this lease agreement, GRIL is committed to average annual rent payments denominated in Euros approximating €0.1 million until May 2016 (net of rent inducements), adjusted to the prevailing market rates for each of three subsequent five-year terms. GRIL has the option to terminate the lease agreement in 2016 and 2021. Included in the schedule below are the net minimum lease payment obligations relating to this lease as of September 30, 2014.


24


The total rent expense related to leased office space for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 was $0.1 million and $0.4 million, respectively (2013: $0.1 million and $0.3 million, respectively). 

Specialist Service Agreement

The Company has entered into a service agreement with a specialist service provider for the provision of administration and support in developing and maintaining business relationships, reviewing and recommending programs and managing risks relating to certain specialty lines of business. The specialist service provider does not have any authority to bind the Company to any reinsurance contracts. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company has committed to quarterly payments to the specialist service provider. If the agreement is terminated, the Company is obligated to make minimum payments for twelve months starting on September 1 of the year in which the agreement is terminated, to ensure contracts to which the Company is bound are adequately administered by the specialist service provider. Included in the schedule below are the minimum payment obligations relating to the agreement as of September 30, 2014.
 
Private Equity and Limited Partnerships
 
From time to time, the Company makes investments in private equity vehicles. As part of the Company's participation in such private equity investments, the Company may make funding commitments. As of September 30, 2014, the Company had commitments to invest an additional $9.4 million (December 31, 2013: $6.3 million) in private equity investments. Included in the schedule below are the minimum payment obligations relating to these investments as of September 30, 2014.
 
Schedule of Commitments and Contingencies
 
The following is a schedule of future minimum payments required under the above commitments: 
 
2014
 
2015
 
2016
 
2017
 
2018
 
Thereafter
 
Total
 
($ in thousands)
Operating lease obligations
$
139

 
$
557

 
$
500

 
$
466

 
$
233

 
$

 
$
1,895

Specialist service agreement
225

 
750

 
300

 

 

 

 
1,275

Private equity and limited partnerships (1)
9,395

 

 

 

 

 

 
9,395

 
$
9,759

 
$
1,307

 
$
800

 
$
466

 
$
233

 
$

 
$
12,565


(1) Given the nature of these investments, the Company is unable to determine with any degree of accuracy when these commitments will be called. Therefore, for purposes of the above table, the Company has assumed that all commitments with no fixed payment schedules will be called during the year ended December 31, 2014.
 
Litigation
 
From time to time, in the normal course of business, the Company may be involved in formal and informal dispute resolution procedures, which may include arbitration or litigation, the outcomes of which determine the rights and obligations under the Company's reinsurance contracts and other contractual agreements. In some disputes, the Company may seek to enforce its rights under an agreement or to collect funds owing to it. In other matters, the Company may resist attempts by others to collect funds or enforce alleged rights. While the final outcome of legal disputes cannot be predicted with certainty, the Company does not believe that any existing dispute, when finally resolved, will have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition or operating results.

 

25


9.      SEGMENT REPORTING
 
The Company manages its business on the basis of one operating segment, Property & Casualty Reinsurance.
 
The following tables provide a breakdown of the Company's gross premiums written by line of business and by geographic area of risks insured for the periods indicated:
 
Gross Premiums Written by Line of Business 
 
 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
($ in thousands)
 
($ in thousands)
Property
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Aviation
 
$

 
%
 
$

 
%
 
$
290

 
0.1
%
 
$
96

 
 %
Commercial
 
1,953

 
2.0

 
789

 
0.5

 
9,183

 
3.7

 
10,523

 
2.6

Energy
 

 

 

 

 
2,131

 
0.9

 
1,553

 
0.4

Motor physical damage
 
7,405

 
7.6

 
21,557

 
14.5

 
19,759

 
7.9

 
48,895

 
11.9

Personal
 
23,728

 
24.4

 
34,521

 
23.2

 
49,236

 
19.7

 
108,181

 
26.3

Total Property
 
33,086

 
34.0

 
56,867

 
38.2

 
80,599

 
32.3

 
169,248

 
41.2

Casualty
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
General liability (1)
 
4,260

 
4.4

 
1,668

 
1.1

 
7,176

 
2.9

 
(544
)
 
(0.1
)
Marine liability
 
20

 

 

 

 
3,867

 
1.6

 
603

 
0.1

Motor liability
 
41,177

 
42.4

 
81,474

 
54.8

 
108,631

 
43.5

 
212,174

 
51.6

Professional liability
 
4,378

 
4.5

 
459

 
0.3

 
4,786

 
1.9

 
1,583

 
0.4

Total Casualty
 
49,835

 
51.3

 
83,601

 
56.2

 
124,460

 
49.9

 
213,816

 
52.0

Specialty
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial
 
812

 
0.8

 
806

 
0.6

 
3,830

 
1.5

 
2,103

 
0.5

Health
 
13,113

 
13.5

 
7,491

 
5.0

 
40,512

 
16.2

 
29,975

 
7.3

Workers’ compensation (1)
 
354

 
0.4

 

 

 
354

 
0.1

 
(4,215
)
 
(1.0
)
Total Specialty
 
14,279

 
14.7

 
8,297

 
5.6

 
44,696

 
17.8

 
27,863

 
6.8

 
 
$
97,200

 
100.0
%
 
$
148,765

 
100.0
%
 
$
249,755

 
100.0
%
 
$
410,927

 
100.0
 %

(1)  The negative balance represents reversal of premiums due to premium adjustments, termination of contracts or premiums returned upon novation or commutation of contracts.
Gross Premiums Written by Geographic Area of Risks Insured
 
 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
($ in thousands)
 
($ in thousands)
U.S.
 
$
89,641

 
92.2
%
 
$
148,249

 
99.7
%
 
$
227,753

 
91.2
%
 
$
400,594

 
97.5
%
Worldwide (1)
 
7,426

 
7.7

 
379

 
0.2

 
21,491

 
8.6

 
9,814

 
2.4

Caribbean (2)
 

 

 

 

 
(30
)
 

 
(95
)
 

Europe
 
133

 
0.1

 
137

 
0.1

 
541

 
0.2

 
614

 
0.1

 
 
$
97,200

 
100.0
%
 
$
148,765

 
100.0
%
 
$
249,755

 
100.0
%
 
$
410,927

 
100.0
%

(1)
"Worldwide" is comprised of contracts that reinsure risks in more than one geographic area and do not specifically exclude the U.S.
(2)
The negative balance represents reversal of premiums due to premium adjustments, termination of contracts or premiums returned upon novation or commutation of contracts.

 

26


Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
References to "we," "us," "our," "our company,"  or "the Company" refer to Greenlight Capital Re, Ltd. ("GLRE") and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Greenlight Reinsurance, Ltd, ("Greenlight Re"), Greenlight Reinsurance Ireland, Ltd. ("GRIL") and Verdant Holding Company, Ltd. ("Verdant"), unless the context dictates otherwise. References to our "Ordinary Shares" refers collectively to our Class A Ordinary Shares and Class B Ordinary Shares.

 
The following is a discussion and analysis of our results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 and financial condition as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013. The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes, which appear in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013.
 
Special Note About Forward-Looking Statements
 
Certain statements in Management’s Discussion and Analysis, other than purely historical information, including estimates, projections, statements relating to our business plans, objectives and expected operating results, and the assumptions upon which those statements are based, are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words "believe," "project," "predict," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "may," "should," "will," "would," "will be," "will continue," "will likely result," and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties which may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. A detailed discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from such forward-looking statements is included in the section entitled "Risk Factors" (refer to Part I, Item 1A) contained in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward looking statements which speak only to the dates on which they were made.
 
We intend to communicate certain events that we believe may have a material adverse impact on our operations or financial position, including property and casualty catastrophic events and material losses in our investment portfolio, in a timely manner through a public announcement. Other than as required by the Exchange Act, we do not intend to make public announcements regarding reinsurance or investments events that we do not believe, based on management's estimates and current information, will have a material adverse impact on our operations or financial position.

General
 
We are a Cayman Islands headquartered global specialty property and casualty reinsurer with a reinsurance and investment strategy that we believe differentiates us from most of our competitors. Our goal is to build long-term shareholder value by selectively offering customized reinsurance solutions, in markets where capacity and alternatives are limited, which we believe will yield favorable long-term returns on equity.
 
We aim to complement our underwriting results with a non-traditional investment approach in order to achieve higher rates of return over the long term than reinsurance companies that employ more traditional, fixed-income investment strategies. We manage our investment portfolio according to a value-oriented philosophy, in which we take long positions in perceived undervalued securities and short positions in perceived overvalued securities.
 
Because we employ an opportunistic underwriting philosophy, period-to-period comparisons of our underwriting results may not be meaningful. In addition, our historical investment results may not necessarily be indicative of future performance. Due to the nature of our reinsurance and investment strategies, our operating results will likely fluctuate from period to period.



27


Segments
 
We manage our business on the basis of one operating segment, property and casualty reinsurance, in accordance with the qualitative and quantitative criteria established by U.S. GAAP. Within the property and casualty reinsurance segment, we analyze our underwriting operations using two categories:

●    frequency business; and 
●    severity business.

Frequency business is generally characterized as contracts containing a potentially large number of small losses emanating from multiple events. Clients generally buy this protection to increase their own underwriting capacity and typically select a reinsurer based upon the reinsurer’s financial strength, service and expertise. We expect the results of frequency business to be less volatile than those of severity business from period to period due to greater predictability. We also expect that over time the profit margins and return on equity of our frequency business will be lower than those of our severity business.
 
Severity business is generally characterized as contracts with the potential for significant losses emanating from one event or multiple events. Clients generally buy this protection to remove volatility from their balance sheets, and accordingly, we expect the results of severity business to be volatile from period to period. However, over the long term, we also expect that our severity business will generate higher profit margins and return on equity than those of our frequency business.

Outlook and Trends

We believe the reinsurance industry in general has been, and for the foreseeable future will remain, over-capitalized. Over the past year, there has been an influx of new capital for peak zone catastrophe risk from alternative capital market participants such as hedge funds, pension funds and other fixed income bond managers. Additionally, we believe that the slowdown in worldwide economic activity continues to weaken the overall demand for property and casualty insurance and, accordingly, reinsurance. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the over-capitalization of the reinsurance industry may be countered by the introduction of more stringent capital requirements in the industry (particularly in Europe) and a sustained low interest rate environment. We believe that we are well positioned to compete for frequency business due to our increasing market recognition, the continuing development of strategic relationships and both Greenlight Re's and GRIL's "A (Excellent)" rating by A.M. Best.
We believe we are currently in a gradually hardening insurance market, but due to poor economic conditions and industry over-capitalization, we do not expect rate increases to significantly exceed loss trends. Meanwhile, the reinsurance industry remains over-capitalized and competitive with many sectors continuing to operate at levels that we believe are economically irrational. The over-capitalization of the market is not uniform across all insurers and reinsurers. There are a number of insurers and reinsurers that have suffered and continue to suffer from capacity issues. We continue to assess the possibility of partnering with companies with this profile. If the reinsurance market continues to soften, our strategy is to reduce premium writings rather than accept mispriced risk, and conserve our capital for a more opportune environment. Significant price increases could occur if financial and credit markets experience adverse shocks that result in the loss of capital of insurers and reinsurers, or if there are major catastrophic events, especially in North America. The persistent low interest rate environment has reduced the earnings of many insurance and reinsurance companies and we believe that the continuation of low interest rates, coupled with the reduction of prior years' reserve redundancies, could cause the industry to adopt overall higher pricing.
As of September 30, 2014, our reinsurance portfolio was principally concentrated in four areas: Florida homeowners; U.S. employer health stop loss; catastrophe retrocession and non-standard private passenger automobile. While each of these areas is competitive, we believe we are supporting programs with good risk adjusted returns. We believe that the Florida homeowners, U.S. employer health stop loss and non-standard private passenger automobile sectors are stable at what we believe are profitable levels. While we believe the property catastrophe retrocession contracts on which we participate are attractively priced, we have observed significant flexible capital from non-traditional sources being deployed mainly in peak zone catastrophe excess of loss business, which is putting downward pressure on rates.     
While the competitive market conditions are making it challenging to find new business that meets our return hurdles, we have a pipeline of attractive opportunities that we hope to underwrite over the medium term. We intend to continue to monitor market conditions to position ourselves to participate in future under-served or capacity-constrained markets as they arise and intend to offer products that we believe will generate favorable returns on equity over the long term. Accordingly, our

28


underlying results and product line concentrations in any given period may vary, perhaps significantly, and are not necessarily indicative of our future results of operations.
Our investment portfolio had a net long exposure of 40.0% as of September 30, 2014. Market volatility has increased, and our goal for the remainder of 2014 is to protect capital in an uncertain environment and to find investment opportunities on both our long and short portfolios that will generate positive returns. Given the current investment environment, we anticipate, for the foreseeable future, to continue holding a combination of a significant position in gold, macro positions in the form of options on foreign exchange rates, short positions in sovereign debt and sovereign credit default swaps.

Critical Accounting Policies
 
Our condensed consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, which requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported and disclosed amounts of assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. We believe that the critical accounting policies set forth in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013 continue to describe the more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our condensed consolidated financial statements. These accounting policies pertain to premium revenues and risk transfer, valuation of investments, loss and loss adjustment expense reserves, acquisition costs, bonus accruals and share-based payments. If actual events differ significantly from the underlying judgments or estimates used by management in the application of these accounting policies, there could be a material effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
 
Recently issued accounting standards and their impact to the Company, if any, are presented under "Recently Adopted Accounting Standards" in Note 2 of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements. 

Results of Operations
 
Three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013
 
For the three months ended September 30, 2014, we reported net loss of $51.8 million, compared to net income of $56.5 million reported for the same period in 2013. Our net investment loss for the three months ended September 30, 2014 was $54.0 million, compared to a net investment income of $49.4 million reported for the same period in 2013. Our investment portfolio managed by DME Advisors, LP reported a loss of 3.7% for the three months ended September 30, 2014, compared to a gain of 4.0% for the same period in 2013. The underwriting income before general and administrative expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2014 was $4.0 million, compared to $16.0 million for the same period in 2013. The decrease in underwriting income for the three months ended September 30, 2014 was primarily due to an increase in the composite ratio for the period. For the three months ended September 30, 2014, our composite ratio was 95.0%, compared to 90.3% during the same period in 2013. General and administrative expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2014 decreased by $3.8 million, to $3.3 million, compared to $7.1 million for the comparative period in 2013, primarily due to fluctuations in non-investment related foreign exchange gains and losses which are included in general and administrative expenses.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, we reported net income of $48.9 million, compared to net income of $141.8 million reported for the same period in 2013. Our net investment income for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was $49.8 million, compared to a net investment income of $134.8 million reported for the same period in 2013. Our investment portfolio managed by DME Advisors, LP reported a gain of 3.2% for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, compared to a gain of 12.2% for the same period in 2013. The underwriting income before general and administrative expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was $16.2 million, compared to underwriting income of $29.6 million reported for the same period in 2013. The decrease in underwriting income for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was primarily due to an increase in the composite ratio for the period. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, our composite ratio was 94.2%, compared to 92.7% during the same period in 2013. General and administrative expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 decreased slightly to $16.7 million from $16.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013. Included in the general and administrative expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was a non-investment related foreign exchange gain of $1.0 million compared to a foreign exchange loss of $0.2 million for the same period in 2013.
 
Our primary financial goal is to increase the long-term value in fully diluted adjusted book value per share. For the three months ended September 30, 2014, the fully diluted adjusted book value per share decreased by $1.31 per share, or 4.3%, to $29.16 per share from $30.47 per share at June 30, 2014. For the three months ended September 30, 2014, the basic adjusted book value per share decreased by $1.39 per share, or 4.5%, to $29.56 per share from $30.95 per share at June 30, 2014.

29



For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the fully diluted adjusted book value per share increased by $1.25 per share, or 4.5%, to $29.16 per share from $27.91 per share at December 31, 2013. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the basic adjusted book value per share increased by $1.17 per share, or 4.1%, to $29.56 per share from $28.39 per share at December 31, 2013.

Basic adjusted book value per share is a non-GAAP measure as it excludes the non-controlling interest in a joint venture from total equity. In addition, fully diluted adjusted book value per share is also a non-GAAP measure and represents basic adjusted book value per share combined with the impact from dilution of all in-the-money stock options and RSUs issued and outstanding as of any period end. We believe that long-term growth in fully diluted adjusted book value per share is the most relevant measure of our financial performance. In addition, fully diluted adjusted book value per share may be of benefit to our investors, shareholders and other interested parties to form a basis of comparison with other companies within the property and casualty reinsurance industry.
 
The following table presents a reconciliation of the non-GAAP basic adjusted and fully diluted adjusted book value per share to the most comparable GAAP measure.
 
September 30, 2014
 
June 30, 2014
 
March 31, 2014
 
December 31, 2013
 
September 30, 2013
 
  ($ in thousands, except per share and share amounts)
Basic adjusted and fully diluted adjusted book value per share numerator:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total equity (U.S. GAAP)
$
1,134,761

 
$
1,185,195

 
$
1,073,194

 
$
1,086,304

 
$
1,000,595

Less: Non-controlling interest in joint venture
(31,218
)
 
(31,087
)
 
(29,512
)
 
(34,709
)
 
(33,959
)
Basic adjusted book value per share numerator
1,103,543

 
1,154,108

 
1,043,682

 
1,051,595

 
966,636

Add: Proceeds from in-the-money stock options issued and outstanding
20,609

 
18,881

 
20,297

 
16,028

 
18,462

Fully diluted adjusted book value per share numerator
$
1,124,152

 
$
1,172,989

 
$
1,063,979

 
$
1,067,623

 
$
985,098

Basic adjusted and fully diluted adjusted book value per share denominator:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ordinary shares issued and outstanding for basic adjusted book value per share denominator
37,333,190

 
37,295,312

 
37,213,693

 
37,046,814

 
36,877,407

Add: In-the-money stock options and RSUs issued and outstanding
1,217,917

 
1,202,096

 
1,326,596

 
1,210,731

 
1,451,408

Fully diluted adjusted book value per share denominator
38,551,107

 
38,497,408

 
38,540,289

 
38,257,545

 
38,328,815

Basic adjusted book value per share
$
29.56

 
$
30.95

 
$
28.05

 
$
28.39

 
$
26.21

Fully diluted adjusted book value per share
29.16

 
30.47

 
27.61

 
27.91

 
25.70


 Gross Premiums Written
 
Details of gross premiums written are provided in the following table: 
 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
($ in thousands)
 
($ in thousands)
Frequency
$
91,967

 
94.6
%
 
$
146,414

 
98.4
%
 
$
225,230

 
90.2
%
 
$
387,328

 
94.3
%
Severity
5,233

 
5.4

 
2,351

 
1.6

 
24,525

 
9.8

 
23,599

 
5.7

Total
$
97,200

 
100.0
%
 
$
148,765

 
100.0
%
 
$
249,755

 
100.0
%
 
$
410,927

 
100.0
%


30


As a result of our opportunistic underwriting philosophy, our reported quarterly premiums written may be volatile. Additionally, the composition of premiums written between frequency and severity business may vary from period to period depending on the specific market opportunities that we pursue.

For the three months ended September 30, 2014, our frequency gross premiums written decreased by $54.4 million, or 37.2%, compared to the same period in 2013. The decrease was primarily the result of a private passenger motor contract terminated at the end of 2013 which accounted for $57.7 million of the decrease in frequency gross premiums written during the quarter ended September 30, 2014 compared to the same period in 2013. Additionally, some of our Florida homeowners' contracts (personal lines) renewed during 2014 at a smaller share ceded to us, with the cedants retaining a larger share compared to the expiring contracts. As a result, the personal lines gross premiums written decreased by $12.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014, compared to the same period in 2013. These decreases were partially offset by increases in all other lines of business driven by new and renewal contracts entered into during the current fiscal year.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, our frequency gross premiums written decreased by $162.1 million, or 41.9%, compared to the same period in 2013. The decrease primarily related to the motor (liability and physical damage) and personal lines of business. The terminated private passenger motor contract as discussed in the preceding paragraph accounted for $129.3 million of the decrease in gross premiums written during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to the same period in 2013. The personal lines gross premiums written decreased by $57.5 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to the same period in 2013 due to the decrease in our share of the Florida homeowners' contracts renewed during the period as discussed in the preceding paragraph. These decreases were partially offset by increases in all other lines of business driven by new and renewal contracts entered into during the nine months ended September 30, 2014.
 
For the three months ended September 30, 2014, our severity gross premiums written increased by $2.9 million, or 122.6%, compared to the same period in 2013, primarily due to a quota share catastrophe contract that had higher underlying premiums written during the third quarter of 2014, accounting for $2.5 million of the increase in severity gross premiums.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, our severity gross premiums written increased by $0.9 million, or 3.9%, compared to the same period in 2013. The increase was primarily due to new and renewed catastrophe retrocession contracts bound during 2014, partially offset by catastrophe contracts not renewed due to inadequate pricing.

Premiums Ceded
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, premiums ceded were $2.7 million and $11.4 million, respectively, compared to $2.4 million and $0.9 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the increases in ceded premiums compared to the same periods in 2013 were partially due to a new retroceded contract entered into in order to reduce our net exposure to natural peril catastrophe events, and partially due to an increase in premium volumes on certain assumed contracts which we proportionally retrocede to entities affiliated with the ceding insurers.
 
Net Premiums Written

Details of net premiums written are provided in the following table: 
 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
($ in thousands)
 
($ in thousands)
Frequency
$
89,261

 
94.5
%
 
$
144,025

 
98.4
%
 
$
217,578

 
91.3
%
 
$
386,403

 
94.2
%
Severity
5,233

 
5.5

 
2,351

 
1.6

 
20,772

 
8.7

 
23,599

 
5.8

Total
$
94,494

 
100.0
%
 
$
146,376

 
100.0
%
 
$
238,350

 
100.0
%
 
$
410,002

 
100.0
%

The change in net premiums written is the net result of the changes in gross premiums written and premiums ceded as explained in the preceding paragraphs.

31



 Net Premiums Earned
 
Net premiums earned reflect the pro-rata inclusion into income of net premiums written over the term of the reinsurance contracts. Details of net premiums earned are provided in the following table: 
 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
($ in thousands)
 
($ in thousands)
Frequency
$
73,387

 
92.3
%
 
$
156,724

 
95.6
%
 
$
261,247

 
93.6
%
 
$
392,527

 
96.6
%
Severity
6,104

 
7.7

 
7,167

 
4.4

 
17,788

 
6.4

 
13,835

 
3.4

Total
$
79,491

 
100.0
%
 
$
163,891

 
100.0
%
 
$
279,035

 
100.0
%
 
$
406,362

 
100.0
%

Premiums relating to quota share contracts and excess of loss contracts are earned over the contract period in proportion to the period of protection. Similarly, incoming unearned premiums are earned in proportion to the remaining period of protection.

For the three months ended September 30, 2014, the frequency premiums earned decreased by $83.3 million, or 53.2%, compared to the same period in 2013. The decrease was primarily as a result of a private passenger motor contract terminated at the end of 2013 which accounted for $58.5 million of the decrease in net premiums earned during the quarter ended September 30, 2014. Additionally, the volume of premiums earned on other private passenger motor contracts decreased by $15.1 million compared to the same period in 2013. This decrease was due to a reduction in earned premiums reported for the third quarter of 2014 resulting from lower quota share participation on certain contracts renewed during 2014. The personal lines premiums earned also decreased by $13.2 million compared to the same period in 2013. The decrease was a net result of our Florida homeowners' contracts renewals, some of which renewed at a smaller share ceded to us and the cedants retaining a larger share compared to the expiring contracts. The decreases in frequency net premiums earned were partially offset by a $4.7 million increase in professional liability premiums earned due to an increase in the volume of underlying business relating to solicitors' professional indemnity contracts.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the frequency net premiums earned decreased by $131.3 million, or 33.4%, compared to the same period in 2013. The decrease was primarily attributed to a private passenger motor contract terminated at the end of 2013 which accounted for $101.6 million of the decrease. Additionally, the volume of premiums earned on other private passenger motor contracts decreased by $6.8 million compared to the same period in 2013. This decrease was due to a reduction in earned premiums reported for the first nine months of 2014 resulting from lower quota share participation on certain contracts renewed during 2014. The personal line premiums earned decreased by $24.8 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to the same period in 2013 primarily due to the reason explained in the preceding paragraph. Other decreases in net premiums earned related to the workers' compensation line and the general liability line which decreased by $11.2 million and $3.9 million, respectively, primarily as a result of a multi-line contract commuted during 2013. The decreases in frequency net premiums earned were partially offset by increases in the volume of underlying business in other lines including $13.4 million relating to solicitors' professional indemnity contracts and $4.0 million relating to employer health stop-loss contracts.

For the three months ended September 30, 2014, the severity premiums earned decreased by $1.1 million, or 14.8%, compared to the same period in 2013. The decrease was a net impact of severity contracts not renewed during 2014 due to inadequate pricing partially offset by new and renewed severity contracts entered into during 2014.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, severity net premiums earned increased by $4.0 million, or 28.6%, compared to the same period in 2013. The increase is partially a function of the reversal of reinstatement premiums reflected in the comparative period and partially due to the new and renewed severity contracts entered into during 2014. The increases were partially offset by decreases due to catastrophe contracts expired but not renewed during 2014 due to inadequate pricing.
    

32


Net Losses Incurred
 
Net losses incurred include losses paid and changes in loss reserves, including reserves for IBNR, net of actual and estimated loss recoverables. Details of net losses incurred are provided in the following table:

 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
($ in thousands)
 
($ in thousands)
Frequency
$
51,666

 
97.4
%
 
$
93,194

 
98.8
%
 
$
174,447

 
98.5
%
 
$
247,474

 
103.6
 %
Severity
1,362

 
2.6

 
1,172

 
1.2

 
2,588

 
1.5

 
(8,485
)
 
(3.6
)
Total
$
53,028

 
100.0
%
 
$
94,366

 
100.0
%
 
$
177,035

 
100.0
%
 
$
238,989

 
100.0
 %

We establish reserves for each contract based on estimates of the ultimate cost of all losses, including losses incurred but not reported. These estimated ultimate reserves are based on reports received from ceding companies, industry data and historical experience as well as our own actuarial estimates. Quarterly, we review these estimates on a contract by contract basis and adjust them as we deem appropriate to reflect our best estimates based on updated information and our internal actuarial estimates. We expect losses incurred on our severity business to be volatile depending on the frequency and magnitude of catastrophic events from year to year.

For the three months ended September 30, 2014, the net losses incurred on frequency contracts decreased by $41.5 million, or 44.6%, compared to the same period in 2013, primarily as a result of a private passenger motor contract terminated at the end of 2013 and to a lesser extent as a net result of our renewed Florida homeowners' contracts, some of which renewed at a smaller share ceded to us and the cedants retaining a larger share compared to the expiring contracts.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the total net losses incurred on frequency contracts decreased by $73.0 million, or 29.5%, compared to the same period in 2013, primarily as a result of a private passenger motor contract terminated at the end of 2013 ($65.8 million impact). The general liability line reported a decrease in losses incurred of $21.6 million primarily related to adverse loss development included in the comparative 2013 period, whereas during the nine months ended September 30, 2014, there was no adverse loss development on this contract. The personal lines losses incurred decreased by $12.9 million as a result of our Florida homeowners' contracts renewals as explained in the preceding paragraph. The workers' compensation line reported a decrease in losses incurred of $7.5 million relating to a multi-line contract being commuted during 2013. The decrease in net losses incurred was partially offset by increases in net losses incurred relating to the specialty health line ($12.3 million) and the professional line ($13.5 million) due to increases in earned premiums as well as adverse loss development on prior year contracts. Additionally, the comparative period in 2013 included a reduction of $11.2 million in losses incurred due to favorable loss development on commercial motor contracts, whereas there was no further loss development on these contracts during the nine months ended September 30, 2014.

Losses incurred as a percentage of premiums earned (referred to as the loss ratio) fluctuates based on the mix of business, and any favorable or adverse loss development on our larger contracts. For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the loss ratios for our frequency business were 70.4% and 59.5%, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the loss ratios for our frequency business were 66.8% and 63.0%, respectively. The higher loss ratio for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 related to adverse loss development on a prior year employer medical stop-loss contract and a solicitors' indemnity contract. Additionally, the loss ratio on the motor line was also higher primarily due to a current year private passenger motor contract which has a higher expected loss ratio compared to the prior year contract. Additionally, the loss ratio for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 included significant favorable loss development on a commercial motor contract which caused the 2013 loss ratio to be lower than the loss ratio for the nine months ended September 30, 2014. The increases in the loss ratio for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 were partially offset by a lower loss ratio on the general liability line due to no adverse loss development on general liability contracts compared to the same period in 2013.

For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the loss ratios for our severity business were 22.3% and 16.4%, respectively. The increase in severity loss ratio was due to the change in mix of severity business compared to the same period in 2013. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014 we opted not to renew some of our expiring natural peril catastrophe contracts due to inadequate pricing. Instead, we added aggregate excess of loss severity contracts on which attritional loss reserves are recorded as premiums are earned.


33


For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the loss ratios for our severity business were 14.5% and (61.3%), respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, $15.0 million of loss reserves relating to super-storm Sandy were reversed which resulted in negative losses incurred and a negative loss ratio. Excluding the effect of that loss reserve reversal (and the corresponding reversal of reinstatement premiums), the severity loss ratio for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was 38.9% which included a $4.0 million increase in loss reserves on a casualty clash contract. By comparison, during the nine months ended September 30, 2014, our severity business was not impacted by any catastrophe losses and a favorable loss development on an excess of loss catastrophe contract contributed to a lower severity loss ratio of 14.5%.

Losses incurred can be further broken down into losses paid (recovered) and changes in loss and loss adjustment expense reserves as follows:
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
 
 
2014
 
 
 
 
 
2013
 
 
 
Gross
 
Ceded
 
Net
 
Gross
 
Ceded
 
Net
 
($ in thousands)
Losses paid (recovered)
$
229,430

 
$
(7,260
)
 
$
222,170

 
$
259,281

 
$
(5,995
)
 
$
253,286

Change in loss and loss adjustment expense reserves
(50,749
)
 
5,614

 
(45,135
)
 
(30,753
)
 
16,456

 
(14,297
)
Total
$
178,681

 
$
(1,646
)
 
$
177,035

 
$
228,528

 
$
10,461

 
$
238,989


For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, our net losses incurred on prior period contracts increased by $3.8 million, which primarily related to the following:

$3.0 million of adverse loss development relating to the employer medical stop-loss business. Loss reserves were increased on these contracts after a detailed review of existing claims data received from the clients, audits of claim files at the third party claims administrators and actuarial analysis based on all available information;

$3.2 million of adverse loss development relating to a solicitors' professional indemnity contract as a result of a combination of large claims reported and increases in case reserves on several smaller claims. Loss reserves were increased on this contract after a detailed review of existing claims data received from the client, audits of claim files at the third party claims administrator and actuarial analysis based on all available information. The contract terms included sliding scale ceding commission rates and profit commissions. As a result, the increase in loss reserves was offset by a $0.6 million decrease in ceding commissions and profit commissions which were recorded as decreases to acquisition costs;

$2.2 million of adverse loss development relating to general liability business. Loss reserves were increased on this business after a detailed review of existing claims data received from the client, audits of claim files at the third party claims administrator and actuarial analysis based on all available information;

$3.8 million of favorable loss development relating to private passenger automobile business, primarily as a result of better than expected loss development noted on our private passenger automobile contracts after a detailed review of existing claims data received from the clients, audits of claim files and actuarial analysis based on all available information. Since these contracts included sliding scale ceding commission rates, the decrease in loss reserves was offset by a $1.5 million increase in ceding commissions recorded as acquisition costs; and

$0.9 million of favorable loss development relating to an excess of loss catastrophe contract based on updated loss information received from the cedant indicating better than expected loss experience. The contract terms included a profit commission payable to the cedant. As a result, the favorable loss development was offset by a $0.1 million increase in profit commissions recorded as acquisition costs.
    
There were no other significant developments of prior period reserves during the nine months ended September 30, 2014.
 
For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, our net losses incurred on prior period contracts decreased by $4.1 million, which primarily related to the following:


34


$17.7 million of adverse loss development, net of retrocesssion recoveries, relating to general liability business. Loss reserves were increased on these contracts after a detailed review of existing claims data received from the clients, audits of claim files at the third party claims administrators and actuarial analysis based on all available information;

Elimination of $15.0 million of reserves relating to super-storm Sandy based on additional information received from our client which indicated that the losses would not exceed the threshold of coverage provided under our contract. As a result of the reversal of loss reserves, we also reversed reinstatement premiums of $2.6 million;
  
$4.0 million of adverse loss development on a 2007 casualty clash contract based on updated claims and loss information received from the client. The new information indicated that ground up losses under the contract estimated by the client had increased resulting in additional losses attaching to our layer. As a result of this increase in loss reserves, we recorded reinstatement premiums of $1.2 million;

$4.2 million favorable loss development relating to non-standard automobile business, primarily as a result of final settlement of losses upon commutation of a contract at an amount lower than originally reserved. To a lesser extent the favorable loss development was a result of better than expected loss development noted on other non-standard automobile contracts after a detailed review of existing claims data received from the clients, audits of claim files and actuarial analysis based on all available information. However, because these contracts included sliding scale ceding commission rates, the decrease in loss reserves was offset by a $3.4 million increase in ceding commissions recorded as acquisition costs; and

$3.9 million of favorable loss development, relating to commercial automobile business due to better than expected loss development on open claims and settling of claims at lower amounts than expected. Loss reserves were decreased on these contracts after a detailed review of existing claims data received from the clients, audits of claim files at the third party claims administrators and actuarial analysis based on all available information.

There were no other significant developments of prior period reserves during the nine months ended September 30, 2013.

Acquisition Costs, Net
 
Acquisition costs represent the amortization of commission and brokerage expenses incurred on contracts written as well as profit commissions and other underwriting expenses which are expensed when incurred. Deferred acquisition costs are limited to the amount of commission and brokerage expenses that are expected to be recovered from future earned premiums and anticipated investment income. Details of acquisition costs are provided in the following table:
 
 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
($ in thousands)
 
($ in thousands)
Frequency
$
21,243

 
94.5
%
 
$
52,361

 
97.8
%
 
$
82,416

 
96.0
%
 
$
135,281

 
98.2
%
Severity
1,235

 
5.5

 
1,160

 
2.2

 
3,428

 
4.0

 
2,472

 
1.8

Total
$
22,478

 
100.0
%
 
$
53,521

 
100.0
%
 
$
85,844

 
100.0
%
 
$
137,753

 
100.0
%

We expect acquisition costs to be higher for frequency business than for severity business. For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the acquisition cost ratios for frequency business were 28.9% and 33.4%, respectively, primarily due to the private passenger motor contracts currently in force having lower ceding commissions compared to the contracts in force during the same period in 2013.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the acquisition cost ratios for frequency business were 31.5% and 34.5%, respectively, for the same reasons explained in the preceding paragraph. Additionally, the lower acquisition cost ratio was also attributed to solicitors' professional indemnity contracts driven by lower commissions due to adverse loss development.


35


For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the acquisition cost ratios for severity business were 20.2% and 16.2%, respectively. The higher acquisition cost ratio during the 2014 period was primarily due to higher commissions on a new excess of loss catastrophe contract bound during the third quarter of 2014.

The acquisition cost ratios for severity business were 19.3% and 17.9% for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Overall, our total acquisition cost ratios were 30.8% and 33.9% for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

General and Administrative Expenses

Details of general and administrative expenses are provided in the following table:
 
 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
($ in thousands)
 
($ in thousands)
Internal expenses
$
5,287

 
$
4,316

 
$
15,376

 
$
14,151

Corporate expenses
(1,960
)
 
2,769

 
1,351

 
2,637

General and administrative expenses
$
3,327

 
$
7,085

 
$
16,727

 
$
16,788


For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, general and administrative expenses included $1.2 million and $1.1 million, respectively, of expenses related to stock compensation granted to employees and directors. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, general and administrative expenses included $3.0 million and $2.7 million, respectively, of expenses related to stock compensation granted to employees and directors.

Corporate expenses included those expenses directly related to being a publicly listed entity and certain non-core operating expenses as well as non-investment related foreign exchange gains and losses. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, corporate expenses included non-investment related foreign exchange gain of $2.7 million and $1.0 million, respectively, compared to foreign exchange loss of $2.1 million and $0.2 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively. The increase in non-investment related foreign exchange gain during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 was due to the weakening of the British pound resulting in a decrease in the loss reserves denominated in British pound. For further details please refer to foreign currency risk disclosed in "Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk". Excluding the foreign exchange gains and losses, the general and administrative expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 increased by $1.0 million and $1.2 million, respectively. The increase was primarily related to personnel costs including stock compensation expenses.

Net Investment Income (Loss)
 
A summary of our net investment income (loss) is as follows:
 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
($ in thousands)
 
($ in thousands)
Realized gains
$
91,355

 
$
25,292

 
$
266,708

 
$
117,271

Change in unrealized gains
(146,024
)
 
50,225

 
(182,681
)
 
69,660

Investment related foreign exchange gains
(1,904
)
 
(3,692
)
 
(6,032
)
 
15,205

Interest and dividend income
3,704

 
6,037

 
27,670

 
17,677

Interest, dividend and other expenses
(9,076
)
 
(11,890
)
 
(29,646
)
 
(37,756
)
Investment advisor compensation
7,918

 
(16,524
)
 
(26,264
)
 
(47,223
)
Net investment income (loss)
$
(54,027
)
 
$
49,448

 
$
49,755

 
$
134,834


Included in the above table under realized gains for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, was a gain of $4.5 million on the sale of a note receivable. For the comparative nine months ended September 30, 2013, included in the above table under interest, dividend and other expenses, was an impairment charge of $6.0 million related to the same note receivable that was subsequently sold in 2014.

36



Investment returns relating to our investment portfolio managed by DME Advisors are calculated monthly and compounded to calculate the quarterly and annual returns. The resulting actual investment income may vary depending on cash flows into or out of the investment account.

For the three months ended September 30, 2014, investment income, net of fees and expenses, resulted in a loss of 3.7% on our investments managed by DME Advisors, compared to a gain of 4.0% reported for the same period in 2013. The investment loss was primarily driven by an increase in unrealized losses on our equity-based investments (listed equities and total return swaps) due to fluctuations in the market values of these securities.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, investment income, net of fees and expenses, resulted in a gain of 3.2% on our investments managed by DME Advisors, compared to a gain of 12.2% reported for the nine months ended September 30, 2013. The lower investment gain was primarily driven by an increase in unrealized losses on our equity-based investments (listed equities and total return swaps) due to fluctuations in the market values of these securities.

We expect our investment income, including realized and unrealized gains (or losses), to fluctuate from period to period. Fluctuations in realized and unrealized gains (or losses) are a function of both the market performance of the securities held in our investment portfolio, and the timing of additions to and dispositions of securities in our investment portfolio. Our investment advisor uses its discretion over when a gain (or loss) is realized on a particular investment. We believe that net investment income, which includes both realized and unrealized gains (or losses), is the best way to assess our investment performance, rather than analyzing the realized gains (or losses) and unrealized gains (or losses) separately.

For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the gross investment returns on our investment portfolio managed by DME Advisors (excluding investment advisor performance allocation) were (4.7)% and 5.4%, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the gross investment returns on our investment portfolio managed by DME Advisors (excluding investment advisor performance allocation) were 4.1% and 15.3%, respectively. These were comprised of the following:
 
Three months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Long portfolio gains (losses)
(2.3
)%
 
14.6
 %
 
15.3
 %
 
28.0
 %
Short portfolio gains (losses)
(1.2
)
 
(7.4
)
 
(6.8
)
 
(12.3
)
Macro gains (losses)
(0.8
)
 
(1.4
)
 
(3.1
)
 
1.0

Other income and expenses
(0.4
)
 
(0.4
)
 
(1.3
)
 
(1.4
)
Gross investment return
(4.7
)%
 
5.4
 %
 
4.1
 %
 
15.3
 %
Net investment return
(3.7
)%
 
4.0
 %
 
3.2
 %
 
12.2
 %

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, included in investment advisor compensation were $5.3 million and $15.4 million, respectively (2013: $4.6 million and $13.4 million, respectively) relating to management fees paid to DME Advisors in accordance with the advisory agreement with DME Advisors. Additionally, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, included in investment advisor compensation were $(13.2) million and $10.9 million, respectively (2013: $11.9 million and $33.8 million, respectively) relating to performance allocation in accordance with the venture agreement with DME (see Item 1. Financial Statements, "Note 7. Related Party Transactions"). The negative performance allocation for the three months ended September 30, 2014 was due to the reversal of previously accrued performance allocation expense resulting from negative investment returns for the third quarter of 2014.

Our investment advisor, DME Advisors, and its affiliates manage and expect to manage other client accounts besides ours, some of which have investment objectives similar to ours. To comply with Regulation FD, our investment returns are posted on our website on a monthly basis. Additionally, our website (www.greenlightre.ky) provides the names of the largest disclosed long positions in our investment portfolio as of the last business day of the month of the relevant posting, as well as information on our long and short exposures. Although DME Advisors discloses all investment positions to us, it may choose not to disclose certain positions to its clients in order to protect its investment strategy. Therefore, we present on our website the largest long positions and exposure information as disclosed by DME Advisors or its affiliates to their other clients.  
       

37


 Income Taxes
 
We are not obligated to pay taxes in the Cayman Islands on either income or capital gains. We have been granted an exemption by the Governor-In-Cabinet from any income taxes that may be imposed in the Cayman Islands for a period of 20 years, expiring on February 1, 2025.
 
GRIL is incorporated in Ireland and, therefore, is subject to the Irish corporation tax. GRIL is expected to be taxed at a rate of 12.5% on its taxable trading income, and 25% on its non-trading income, if any.
 
Verdant is incorporated in Delaware and, therefore, is subject to taxes in accordance with the U.S. federal rates and regulations prescribed by the Internal Revenue Service. Verdant’s taxable income is expected to be taxed at a rate of 35%.

As of September 30, 2014, an accrual for current taxes payable of $0.1 million (December 31, 2013: $0.3 million) was recorded in other liabilities on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Based on the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences and likelihood of generating sufficient taxable income to realize the future tax benefit, management believes it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will be fully realized in the future and therefore no valuation allowance has been recorded. The Company has not taken any tax positions that management believes are subject to uncertainty or that are reasonably likely to have a material impact to the Company, GRIL or Verdant.
 
  Ratio Analysis
 
Due to the opportunistic and customized nature of our underwriting operations, we expect to report different loss and expense ratios in both our frequency and severity businesses from period to period.

The following table provides the ratios: 
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
Nine months ended September 30
 
 
 
2014
 
 
 
 
 
2013
 
 
 
Frequency
 
Severity
 
Total
 
Frequency
 
Severity
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Loss ratio
66.8
%
 
14.5
%
 
63.4
%
 
63.0
%
 
(61.3
)%
 
58.8
%
Acquisition cost ratio
31.5
%
 
19.3
%
 
30.8
%
 
34.5
%
 
17.9
 %
 
33.9
%
Composite ratio
98.3
%
 
33.8
%
 
94.2
%
 
97.5
%
 
(43.4
)%
 
92.7
%
Internal expense ratio
 
 
 
 
5.5
%
 
 
 
 
 
3.5
%
Corporate expense ratio
 
 
 
 
0.5
%
 
 
 
 
 
0.6
%
Combined ratio
 
 
 
 
100.2
%
 
 
 
 
 
96.8
%
                
  The loss ratio is calculated by dividing loss and loss adjustment expenses incurred by net premiums earned. We expect that the loss ratio will be volatile for our severity business and may exceed that of our frequency business in certain periods. Given that we opportunistically underwrite a concentrated portfolio across several lines of business that have varying expected loss ratios, we can expect there to be significant annual variations in the loss ratios reported from our frequency business. In addition, the loss ratios for both frequency and severity business can vary depending on the mix of the lines of business written. 

The acquisition cost ratio is calculated by dividing acquisition costs by net premiums earned. We expect that this ratio will generally be higher for our frequency business than for our severity business.
 
The composite ratio is the ratio of underwriting losses incurred, loss adjustment expenses and acquisition costs, excluding general and administrative expenses, to net premiums earned. Similar to the loss ratio, we expect that this ratio will be more volatile for our severity business depending on loss activity in any particular period.
  
The internal expense ratio is the ratio of general and administrative expenses, excluding any corporate expenses, to net premiums earned.

The corporate expense ratio is the ratio of corporate expenses to net premiums earned. Corporate expenses include expenses relating to GLRE being a publicly listed entity and certain non-core operating expenses as well as non-investment related foreign exchange gains or losses.
 

38


The combined ratio is the sum of the composite ratio, the internal expense ratio and the corporate expense ratio. The combined ratio measures the total profitability of our underwriting operations and does not take net investment income or loss into account. Given the nature of our opportunistic underwriting strategy, we expect that our combined ratio may also be volatile from period to period.

Financial Condition
 
Investments, Financial Contracts Receivable, Due to Prime Brokers
 
Our long investments and financial contracts receivable reported in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2014, were $1,425.2 million, compared to $1,497.7 million as of December 31, 2013, a decrease of $72.5 million, or 4.8%, primarily due to the net decrease in fair market values of our equity-based long investments resulting in unrealized losses during the period, partially offset by the purchase of gold bullion and equity securities during the period. As of September 30, 2014, our exposure to long investments decreased to 107.6%, compared to 123.7% as of December 31, 2013. This exposure analysis is conducted on a delta-adjusted basis and excludes macro positions which consist of CDS, interest rate swaps, sovereign debt, currencies, commodities and derivatives on any of these instruments.
 
Financial contracts receivable as of September 30, 2014 decreased by $66.9 million, or 64.3%, compared to December 31, 2013, primarily due to a decrease in total return equity swaps resulting from a decrease in the market values of the underlying equities and to a lesser extent due to futures contracts exited during the nine months ended September 30, 2014.

From time to time, we incur indebtedness to our prime brokers to implement our investment strategy in accordance with our investment guidelines. As of September 30, 2014, we had borrowed $91.8 million (December 31, 2013: $112.5 million) from our prime brokers in order to purchase investment securities. In accordance with Greenlight Re's investment guidelines, DME Advisors is allowed to use up to 15% (GRIL: 5%) net margin leverage for extended periods of time and up to 30% (GRIL: 20%) net margin leverage for periods of less than 30 days. The decrease in amounts borrowed from prime brokers for investing during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was related to the decrease in the exposure to long investments.

Additionally, as of September 30, 2014, we had borrowed $174.9 million (December 31, 2013: $202.2 million) under term margin agreements from prime brokers to provide collateral for some of our letters of credit outstanding whereby we pledge certain investment securities to borrow cash from the prime brokers. The decrease was a result of a decrease in letters of credit issued mainly relating to a reinsurance contract terminated at the end of 2013.
 
Our investment portfolio, including any derivatives, is valued at fair value and any unrealized gains or losses are reflected in net investment income in the condensed consolidated statements of income. As of September 30, 201484.3% (December 31, 2013: 85.9%) of our investment portfolio (excluding restricted and unrestricted cash and cash equivalents) was comprised of investments valued based on quoted prices in actively traded markets (Level 1), 13.7% (December 31, 2013: 12.3%) was comprised of securities valued based on observable inputs other than quoted prices (Level 2) and 2.0%  (December 31, 2013: 1.8%) was comprised of securities valued based on non-observable inputs (Level 3).
 
In determining whether a market for a financial instrument is active or inactive, we obtain information from DME Advisors, based on feedback it receives from executing brokers, market makers, analysts and traders to assess the level of market activity and available liquidity for any given financial instrument. Where a financial instrument is valued based on broker quotes, DME Advisors requests multiple quotes. The ultimate value is based on an average of the quotes obtained. Broker quoted prices are generally not adjusted in determining the ultimate values and are obtained with the expectation of the quotes being binding. As of September 30, 2014, $303.9 million (December 31, 2013: $222.6 million) of our investments (longs, shorts and derivatives) were valued based on broker quotes, of which $303.3 million (December 31, 2013: $218.8 million) were based on broker quotes that utilized observable market information and classified as Level 2 fair value measurements, and $0.6 million (December 31, 2013: $3.8 million) were based on broker quotes that utilized non-observable inputs and classified as Level 3 fair value measurements.
 
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, $4.0 million of securities at fair value based on the date of transfer, were transferred from Level 3 to Level 2 as these securities began actively trading on a listed exchange during the third quarter. However, due to certain lock-up restrictions on these securities, they were classified as Level 2 upon transfer until the lock-up period expires. A detailed reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented in Note 3 of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements. No other transfers into or out of Level 3 took place during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, $10.0 million of securities at fair value based on the date of transfer, were transferred from Level 2 to Level 1 as the lock-up periods on certain securities expired and a discount factor was no longer applied in determining the fair value of the securities. Transfers between Level 1, Level 2 and

39


Level 3 fair value measurements during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 are disclosed in Note 3 of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
Non-observable inputs used by our investment advisor include discounted cash flow models for valuing certain corporate debt instruments. In addition, other non-observable inputs include the use of investment manager statements and management estimates based on third party appraisals of underlying assets for valuing private equity investments. 

Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents; Securities Sold, Not Yet Purchased
 
As of September 30, 2014, our securities sold, not yet purchased were $1,113.3 million compared to $1,111.7 million at December 31, 2013, and our short exposure was 67.6% as of September 30, 2014 compared to 69.8% at December 31, 2013. Unlike long investments, short sales theoretically involve unlimited loss potential since there is no limit as to how high the market price of a security may rise. While it is not possible to list all of the reasons why a loss on a short sale may occur, a loss on a short sale may be caused by one or more of the following factors:

Fluctuations in the share price due to an overall positive investment market;
Sudden unexpected changes in the underlying business model of the issuer;
Changes in laws and regulations relating to short sales;
Press releases and earnings guidance issued by the issuer;
A merger or acquisition of the issuer at a price in excess of the current share price;
The shares of the issuer becoming difficult to borrow; or
A short squeeze.

Given the various scenarios under which a loss may occur on a short sale, it is not possible to quantify the risk and uncertainty of loss relating to short sales. However, DME Advisors typically performs a detailed analysis prior to entering into a short sale. Thereafter, the investment is routinely monitored by DME Advisors. As of September 30, 2014, Greenlight Re's investment guidelines limit any single investment from constituting more than 20% of the portfolio (10% for GRIL's portfolio) at any given time, hence limiting the potential adverse impact on our results of operations and financial position.

As of September 30, 2014, the restricted cash included $1,113.3 million relating to collateral for securities sold, not yet purchased, compared to $1,111.7 million as of December 31, 2013.

Overall, our restricted cash increased by $33.1 million, or 2.5%, from $1,334.1 million to $1,367.2 million. The cash collateral held by derivative counterparties increased by $58.9 million to $79.0 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 as a result of an increase in the collateral requirements relating to new and existing total return equity swaps. Additionally, as of September 30, 2014, included in restricted cash and cash equivalents was $174.9 million (December 31, 2013: $202.2 million) of cash borrowed under term margin agreements from prime brokers to provide collateral for some of our letters of credit outstanding.

Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves
 
Reserves for loss and loss adjustment expenses were comprised of the following table: 
 
September 30, 2014
 
December 31, 2013
 
Case
Reserves
 
IBNR
 
Total
 
Case
Reserves
 
IBNR
 
Total
 
($ in thousands)
Frequency
$
111,659

 
$
127,364

 
$
239,023

 
$
122,042

 
$
167,986

 
$
290,028

Severity
16,256

 
23,225

 
39,481

 
15,783

 
24,083

 
39,866

Total
$
127,915

 
$
150,589

 
$
278,504

 
$
137,825

 
$
192,069

 
$
329,894

 
During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the frequency loss reserves decreased by $51.0 million, or 17.6%, while the severity loss reserves decreased by $0.4 million, or 1.0%. The decrease is primarily due to losses paid during 2014 on our frequency contracts that are in run-off and the Florida homeowners' insurance contracts that were cut-off and renewed at lower shares ceded to us during 2014. For most of our contracts written as of September 30, 2014, our risk exposure is limited by defined limits of liability. Once the loss limit for a contract has been reached, we have no further exposure to additional

40


losses from that contract. However, certain contracts, particularly quota share contracts that relate to first dollar exposure, may not contain aggregate limits.
 
Our severity business, and to a lesser extent our frequency business, include certain contracts that contain or may contain natural peril loss exposure. As of October 1, 2014, our maximum aggregate loss exposure to any series of natural peril events was $102.7 million. For purposes of the preceding sentence, aggregate loss exposure is net of any retrocession and is equal to the difference between the aggregate limits available in the contracts that contain natural peril exposure minus reinstatement premiums, if any, for the same contracts. We categorize peak zones as: United States, Canada and the Caribbean; Europe; Japan; and the rest of the world. The following table provides single event loss exposure and aggregate loss exposure information for the peak zones of our natural peril coverage as of the date of this filing: 

Zone
 
Single Event Loss
 
Aggregate Loss
 
 
($ in thousands)
United States, Canada and the Caribbean
 
$
81,994

 
$
102,696

Europe
 
36,369

 
43,869

Japan
 
36,369

 
43,869

Rest of the world
 
36,369

 
43,869

Maximum Aggregate
 
81,994

 
102,696

 
 Shareholders’ Equity
 
Total equity reported on the balance sheet, which includes non-controlling interest, increased by $48.5 million to $1,134.8 million as of September 30, 2014, compared to $1,086.3 million as of December 31, 2013. Retained earnings increased due to net income of $48.9 million reported for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, while the non-controlling interest decreased by $3.5 million primarily due to withdrawal of funds by DME from the joint venture during the nine months ended September 30, 2014. The increase in additional paid-in capital of $3.0 million related to stock based compensation for the nine months ended September 30, 2014.


Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
General
 
Greenlight Capital Re is organized as a holding company with no operations of its own. As a holding company, Greenlight Capital Re has minimal continuing cash needs, most of which are related to the payment of administrative expenses. All of our underwriting operations are conducted through our wholly-owned reinsurance subsidiaries, Greenlight Re and GRIL, which underwrite risks associated with our property and casualty reinsurance programs. There are restrictions on each of Greenlight Re’s and GRIL’s ability to pay dividends which are described in more detail below. It is our current policy to retain earnings to support the growth of our business. We currently do not expect to pay dividends on our ordinary shares.

As of October 31, 2014, Greenlight Re and GRIL were each rated "A (Excellent)" with a stable outlook by A.M. Best. The ratings reflect A.M. Best’s opinion of our reinsurance subsidiaries’ financial strength, operating performance and ability to meet obligations and it is not an evaluation directed toward the protection of investors or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold our Class A ordinary shares. If an independent rating agency downgrades our ratings below "A- (Excellent)" or withdraws our rating, we could be severely limited or prevented from writing any new reinsurance contracts, which would significantly and negatively affect our business. Insurer financial strength ratings are based upon factors relevant to policyholders and are not directed toward the protection of investors. Our A.M. Best ratings may be revised or revoked at the sole discretion of the rating agency. 


Sources and Uses of Funds
 
Our sources of funds consist primarily of premium receipts (net of brokerage and ceding commissions), investment income (net of advisory compensation and investment expenses), including realized gains, and other income. We use cash from our operations to pay losses and loss adjustment expenses, profit commissions and general and administrative expenses. Substantially all of our funds, including shareholders’ capital, net of funds required for cash liquidity purposes, are invested

41


by DME Advisors in accordance with our investment guidelines. As of September 30, 2014, approximately 92% (December 31, 2013: 89%) of our long investments were comprised of publicly-traded equity securities and gold bullion which can be readily liquidated to meet current and future liabilities. As of September 30, 2014, the majority of our investments were valued based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1). Given our value-oriented long and short investment strategy, if markets are distressed we would expect the liability of the short portfolio to decline. Any reduction in the liability would cause our need for restricted cash to decrease and thereby free up cash to be used for any purpose. Additionally, since the majority of our invested assets are liquid, even in distressed markets, we believe securities can be sold or covered to generate cash to pay claims. Since we classify our investments as "trading," we book all gains and losses (including unrealized gains and losses) on all our investments (including derivatives) as net investment income in our condensed consolidated statements of income for each reporting period.    
   
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the net cash used in operating activities was $86.2 million and $56.8 million, respectively. Included in the net cash used in operating activities were investment related expenses, such as investment advisor compensation, and net interest and dividend expenses, of $28.2 million and $67.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Excluding the investment related expenses from the net cash used in our operating activities results in net cash primarily used in our underwriting activities which was $58.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, and net cash primarily provided by our underwriting activities which was $10.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013. The use of cash from underwriting activities was primarily a result of the losses paid exceeding the premiums collected (net of acquisition costs) during the nine months ended September 30, 2014. Generally, in a given period if the premiums collected are sufficient to cover claim payments, we would generate cash from our underwriting activities. Due to the inherent nature of our underwriting portfolio, claims are often paid several months or even years after the premiums are collected. The cash generated from underwriting activities, however, may be volatile from period to period depending on the underwriting opportunities available.

We generated $91.3 million (2013: $118.0 million) from investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, mainly from the net sale of investments, partially offset by a decrease in funds borrowed from prime brokers as we reduced our margin leverage. There were no significant cash flows related to financing activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013.
   
As of September 30, 2014, we believe we have sufficient cash flow from operating and investing activities to meet our foreseeable liquidity requirements. We expect that our operational needs for liquidity will be met by cash, funds generated from underwriting activities and investment income, including realized gains. As of September 30, 2014, we had no plans to issue debt and expect to fund our operations for the next twelve months from operating cash flow. However, we cannot provide assurances that in the future we will not incur indebtedness to implement our business strategy, pay claims or make acquisitions.
 
Although GLRE is not subject to any significant legal prohibitions on the payment of dividends, Greenlight Re and GRIL are each subject to regulatory minimum capital requirements and regulatory constraints that affect their ability to pay dividends to us. In addition, any dividend payment would have to be approved by the relevant regulatory authorities prior to payment. As of September 30, 2014, Greenlight Re and GRIL both exceeded the regulatory minimum capital requirements.  
  

Letters of Credit
 
As of September 30, 2014, neither Greenlight Re nor GRIL was licensed or admitted as a reinsurer in any jurisdiction other than the Cayman Islands and the European Economic Area, respectively. Because many jurisdictions do not permit domestic insurance companies to take credit on their statutory financial statements for loss recoveries or ceded unearned premiums unless appropriate measures are in place for reinsurance obtained from unlicensed or non-admitted insurers, we anticipate that all of our U.S. clients and some of our non-U.S. clients will require us to provide collateral through funds withheld, trust arrangements, letters of credit or a combination thereof.

As of September 30, 2014, we had four letter of credit facilities with an aggregate capacity of $760.0 million (December 31, 2013: $760.0 million) with various financial institutions. See Note 8 of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for details on each of these facilities. As of September 30, 2014, an aggregate amount of $321.4 million (December 31, 2013: $379.1 million) in letters of credit was issued under these facilities. Under these facilities, we provide collateral that may consist of equity securities or cash and cash equivalents. At September 30, 2014, total equity securities and cash and cash equivalents with a fair value in the aggregate of $356.4 million (December 31, 2013: $410.3 million) were pledged as security against the letters of credit issued.


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Each of the facilities contain customary events of default and restrictive covenants, including but not limited to, limitations on liens on collateral, transactions with affiliates, mergers and sales of assets, as well as solvency and maintenance of certain minimum pledged equity requirements, and restricts issuance of any debt without the consent of the letter of credit provider. Additionally, if an event of default exists, as defined in the letter of credit facilities, Greenlight Re would be prohibited from paying dividends to its parent company. The Company was in compliance with all the covenants of each of these facilities as of September 30, 2014.

  
Capital
 
Our capital structure currently consists entirely of equity issued in two separate classes of ordinary shares. We expect that the existing capital base and internally generated funds will be sufficient to implement our business strategy for the foreseeable future. Consequently, we do not presently anticipate that we will incur any material indebtedness in the ordinary course of our business other than temporary borrowing directly related to the management of our investment portfolio. However, in order to provide us with flexibility and timely access to public capital markets should we require additional capital for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions or other general corporate purposes, we have filed a Form S-3 registration statement, which expires in June 2015 unless renewed. We did not make any significant commitments for capital expenditures during the nine months ended September 30, 2014.

Our Board of Directors has adopted a share repurchase plan authorizing the Company to repurchase up to 2.0 million Class A ordinary shares or securities convertible into Class A ordinary shares in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions. The current share repurchase plan expires on June 30, 2015 unless renewed by the Board of Directors. The Company is not required to repurchase any of the Class A ordinary shares and the repurchase plan may be modified, suspended or terminated at the election of our Board of Directors at any time without prior notice. No Class A ordinary shares were repurchased by the Company during the nine months ended September 30, 2014.

On April 28, 2010, our shareholders approved an amendment to our stock incentive plan to increase the number of Class A ordinary shares available for issuance from 2.0 million to 3.5 million. As of September 30, 2014, there were 799,555 Class A ordinary shares available for future issuance. 
 

Contractual Obligations and Commitments
 
The following table shows our aggregate contractual obligations as of September 30, 2014 by time period remaining: 
 
Less than
 1 year
 
1-3 years
 
3-5 years
 
More than
 5 years
 
Total
 
  ($ in thousands)
Operating lease obligations (1)
$
557

 
$
989

 
$
349

 
$

 
$
1,895

Specialist service agreement
825

 
450

 

 

 
1,275

Private equity and limited partnerships (2)
9,395

 

 

 

 
9,395

Loss and loss adjustment expense reserves (3)
118,643

 
85,951

 
59,040

 
14,870

 
278,504

 
$
129,420

 
$
87,390

 
$
59,389

 
$
14,870

 
$
291,069

(1)    Reflects our contractual obligations pursuant to the lease agreements as described below. 
 
(2)    As of September 30, 2014, we had made total commitments of $24.6 million in private investments of which we had invested $15.2 million, and our remaining commitments to these investments total $9.4 million. Given the nature of the private equity investments, we are unable to determine with any degree of accuracy as to when the commitments will be called. As such, for the purposes of the above table, we have assumed that all commitments with no fixed payment schedule will be made within one year. Under our investment guidelines, in effect as of the date hereof, no more than 10% of the assets in the investment portfolio may be held in private equity securities without specific approval from the Board of Directors. 
 
(3)    Due to the nature of our reinsurance operations, the amount and timing of the cash flows associated with our reinsurance contractual liabilities will fluctuate, perhaps materially, and, therefore, are highly uncertain.



43


As of September 30, 2014, $1,113.3 million of securities sold, not yet purchased, were secured by $1,113.3 million of restricted cash held by prime brokers to cover obligations relating to securities sold, not yet purchased. These amounts are not included in the contractual obligations table above because there is no maturity date for securities sold, not yet purchased, and their maturities are not set by any contract and as such their due dates cannot be estimated.
 
Greenlight Re has entered into lease agreements for office space in the Cayman Islands. The leases expire on June 30, 2018 and Greenlight Re has the option to renew the leases for a further five year term. Under the terms of the lease agreements, Greenlight Re is committed to annual rent payments ranging from $0.3 million at inception to $0.5 million at expiry. The minimum lease payment obligations are included in the above table under operating lease obligations and in Note 8 to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
GRIL has entered into a lease agreement for office space in Dublin, Ireland. Under the terms of this lease agreement, GRIL is committed to average annual rent payments denominated in Euros approximating €0.1 million until May 2016 (net of rent inducements), and adjusted to the prevailing market rates for each of the three subsequent five-year terms. GRIL has the option to terminate the lease agreement in 2016 and 2021. The minimum lease payment obligations are included in the above table under operating lease obligations and in Note 8 to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
The Company has entered into a service agreement with a specialist service provider for the provision of administration and support in developing and maintaining business relationships, reviewing and recommending programs and managing risks relating to certain specialty lines of business. The specialist service provider does not have any authority to bind the Company to any reinsurance contracts. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company has committed to quarterly payments to the specialist service provider. If the agreement is terminated, the Company is obligated to make minimum payments for twelve months starting on September 1 of the year in which the agreement is terminated, to ensure contracts to which the Company is bound are adequately administered by the specialist service provider. The minimum payments are included in the above table under specialist service agreement and in Note 8 to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.

On January 1, 2008, we entered into an agreement wherein the Company and DME Advisors agreed to create a joint venture for the purposes of managing certain jointly-held assets. This agreement was amended effective August 31, 2010 to include GRIL as a participant to the agreement. Effective January 1, 2014, the agreement was amended and restated to replace DME Advisors with DME Advisors, LLC ("DME") as the participant to the joint venture (the "venture agreement"). Simultaneously, the Company, its reinsurance subsidiaries and DME entered into a separate investment advisory agreement with DME Advisors (the "advisory agreement"). The term of the venture agreement and the advisory agreement is January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2016, with automatic three-year renewals unless 90 days prior to the end of the then current term, either DME notifies the other participants of its desire to terminate the venture agreement or any other participant notifies DME of its desire to withdraw from the venture agreement.

Pursuant to the venture agreement, we pay DME Advisors a monthly management fee of 0.125% on our share of the assets managed by DME Advisors and we provide DME a performance allocation equal to 20% of the net profit, calculated per annum, of the Company’s share of the capital account managed by DME Advisors, subject to a loss carry forward provision. The loss carry forward provision allows DME to earn a reduced performance allocation of 10% of profits in any year subsequent to the year in which the investment account incurs a loss, until all the losses are recouped and an additional amount equal to 150% of the aggregate investment loss is earned. DME is not entitled to earn a performance allocation in a year in which the investment portfolio incurs a loss. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, performance allocation of $(13.2) million and $10.9 million, respectively, was recorded in net investment income. The negative performance allocation for the three months ended September 30, 2014 was due to the reversal of previously accrued performance allocation expense resulting from negative investment returns for the third quarter of 2014. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, management fees of $5.3 million and $15.4 million, respectively, were recorded in net investment income.
 
In February 2007, we entered into a service agreement with DME Advisors pursuant to which DME Advisors will provide investor relations services to us for compensation of $5,000 per month plus expenses. The service agreement had an initial term of one year, and continues for sequential one-year periods until terminated by us or DME Advisors. Either party may terminate the service agreement for any reason with 30 days prior written notice to the other party.


Off-Balance Sheet Financing Arrangements
 
We have no obligations, assets or liabilities, other than those derivatives in our investment portfolio that are disclosed in the condensed consolidated financial statements, which would be considered off-balance sheet arrangements. We do not

44


participate in transactions that create relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, often referred to as variable interest entities, which would have been established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements. 


Item 3.    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
We believe we are principally exposed to the following types of market risk:
 
•    equity price risk;

commodity price risk:

•    foreign currency risk;

•    interest rate risk;

•    credit risk; and

•    political risk.
 

Equity Price Risk

As of September 30, 2014, our investment portfolio consisted of long and short equity securities, along with certain equity-based derivative instruments, the carrying values of which are primarily based on quoted market prices. Generally, market prices of common equity securities are subject to fluctuation, which could cause the amount to be realized upon the closing of the position to differ significantly from their current reported value. This risk is partly mitigated by the presence of both long and short equity securities. As of September 30, 2014, a 10% decline in the price of each of these listed equity securities and equity-based derivative instruments would result in a $50.2 million, or 3.6%, decline in the fair value of our total investment portfolio.
 
Computations of the prospective effects of hypothetical equity price changes are based on numerous assumptions, including the maintenance of the existing level and composition of investment securities and should not be relied on as indicative of future results.

Commodity Price Risk
Generally, market prices of commodities are subject to fluctuation. Our investment portfolio periodically includes long or short investments in commodities or in derivative securities directly impacted by fluctuations in the prices of commodities. As of September 30, 2014, our investment portfolio included exposure to changes in gold prices, through ownership of physical gold. As of September 30, 2014, a 10% decline in the price of gold would have resulted in a $9.9 million, or 0.7%, decline in the fair value of our total investment portfolio. We, along with our investment advisor, periodically monitor our exposure to any other commodity price fluctuations and generally do not expect changes in commodity prices to have a materially adverse impact on our operations.
 
Foreign Currency Risk

Certain of our reinsurance contracts provide that ultimate losses may be payable or calculated in foreign currencies depending on the country of original loss. Foreign currency exchange rate risk exists to the extent that there is an increase in the exchange rate of the foreign currency in which losses are ultimately owed. As of September 30, 2014, we had loss reserves (case reserves and IBNR) reported in foreign currencies of £27.6 million. As of September 30, 2014, a 10% decrease in the U.S. dollar against the GBP (all else being constant) would result in additional estimated loss reserves of $4.5 million and a corresponding foreign exchange loss. Alternatively, a 10% increase in the U.S dollar against the GBP, would result in a reduction of $4.5 million in our recorded loss reserves and a corresponding foreign exchange gain.
 
While we do not seek to specifically match our liabilities under reinsurance policies that are payable in foreign currencies with investments denominated in such currencies, we continually monitor our exposure to potential foreign currency

45


losses and would consider the use of forward foreign currency exchange contracts in an effort to mitigate against adverse foreign currency movements.
 
We are also exposed to foreign currency risk through cash, forwards, options and investments in securities denominated in foreign currencies. Foreign currency exchange rate risk is the potential for adverse changes in the U.S. dollar value of investments (long and short), speculative foreign currency options and cash positions due to a change in the exchange rate of the foreign currency in which cash and financial instruments are denominated. As of September 30, 2014, some of our currency exposure resulting from foreign denominated securities (longs and shorts) was reduced by offsetting cash balances denominated in the corresponding foreign currencies. 

The following table summarizes the net impact that a 10% increase and decrease in the value of the U.S. dollar against select foreign currencies would have on the value of our investment portfolio as of September 30, 2014
 
  10% increase in U.S. dollar
 
10% decrease in U.S. dollar
Foreign Currency
Change in
fair value
 
Change in fair value as % of investment portfolio
 
Change in
fair value
 
Change in fair value as % of investment portfolio
 
  ($ in thousands)
Argentine Peso
$
(1,762
)
 
(0.1
)%
 
$
1,762

 
0.1
 %
Brazilian Real
2,187

 
0.2

 
(2,187
)
 
(0.2
)
British Pound
(1,837
)
 
(0.1
)
 
1,837

 
0.1

Chinese Yuan
18,421

 
1.3

 
(1,989
)
 
(0.1
)
Japanese Yen
29,133

 
2.1

 
(8,307
)
 
(0.6
)
Other
127

 

 
(127
)
 

Total 
$
46,269

 
3.4
 %
 
$
(9,011
)
 
(0.7
)%
 
Computations of the prospective effects of hypothetical currency price changes are based on numerous assumptions, including the maintenance of the existing level and composition of investment securities denominated in foreign currencies and related foreign currency instruments, and should not be relied on as indicative of future results.
 
Interest Rate Risk

Our investment portfolio includes interest rate sensitive securities, such as corporate and sovereign debt instruments, CDS, interest rate options and futures. The primary market risk exposure for any debt instrument is interest rate risk. As interest rates rise, the market value of our long fixed-income portfolio falls, and the opposite is also true as interest rates fall. Additionally, some of our derivative investments may also be credit sensitive and their value may indirectly fluctuate with changes in interest rates. 

The following table summarizes the impact that a 100 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates would have on the value of our investment portfolio as of September 30, 2014:
 
100 basis point increase
in interest rates
 
100 basis point decrease
in interest rates
 
Change in
fair value
 
Change in fair value as % of investment portfolio
 
Change in
fair value
 
Change in fair value as % of investment portfolio
 
  ($ in thousands)
Debt instruments
$
16,462

 
1.19
%
 
$
(17,809
)
 
(1.29
)%
Credit default swaps
(25
)
 

 
25

 

Net exposure to interest rate risk
$
16,437

 
1.19
%
 
$
(17,784
)
 
(1.29
)%
 
For the purposes of the above table, the hypothetical impact of changes in interest rates on debt instruments, CDS, interest rate options and futures was determined based on the interest rates applicable to each instrument individually. We

46


periodically monitor our net exposure to interest rate risk and generally do not expect changes in interest rates to have a materially adverse impact on our operations.
 
Credit Risk

We are exposed to credit risk primarily from the possibility that counterparties may default on their obligations to us. The amount of the maximum exposure to credit risk is indicated by the carrying value of our financial assets including notes receivable. Our notes receivable are due from parties whom we consider our strategic partners and we evaluate their financial condition and monitor our exposure to them on a regular basis. We are also exposed to credit risk from our business partners and clients relating to balances receivable under the reinsurance contracts, including premiums receivable, losses recoverable and commission adjustments recoverable. We monitor the collectability of these balances on a regular basis.

In addition, the securities, commodities, and cash in our investment portfolio are held with several prime brokers, subjecting us to the related credit risk from the possibility that one or more of them may default on their obligations to us. We closely and regularly monitor our concentration of credit risk with each prime broker and if necessary, transfer cash or securities between prime brokers to diversify and mitigate our credit risk. Other than our investment in derivative contracts and corporate debt, if any, and the fact that our investments and majority of cash balances are held by prime brokers on our behalf, we have no other significant concentrations of credit risk. 

Political Risk

We are exposed to political risk to the extent that we underwrite business from entities located in foreign markets and to the extent that DME Advisors, on our behalf and subject to our investment guidelines, trades securities that are listed on various U.S. and foreign exchanges and markets. The governments in any of these jurisdictions could impose restrictions, regulations or other measures, which may have a material adverse impact on our underwriting operations and investment strategy. We currently do not write political risk coverage on our insurance contracts; however, changes in government laws and regulations may impact our underwriting operations. 

 
Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
As required by Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 of the Exchange Act, the Company has evaluated, with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, the effectiveness of its disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in such rules) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on such evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports prepared in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the issuer’s management, including its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
Our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures will prevent all errors and all frauds. A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake.
 
Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the control. The design of any system of controls also is based, in part, upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions; over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.  

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Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
 
There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2014 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. The Company continues to review its disclosure controls and procedures, including its internal controls over financial reporting, and may from time to time make changes aimed at enhancing their effectiveness and to ensure that the Company’s systems evolve with its business.


  
PART II — OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
From time to time, in the normal course of business, we may be involved in formal and informal dispute resolution procedures, which may include arbitration or litigation, the outcomes of which determine our rights and obligations under our reinsurance contracts and other contractual agreements. In some disputes, we may seek to enforce our rights under an agreement or to collect funds owing to us. In other matters, we may resist attempts by others to collect funds or enforce alleged rights. While the final outcome of legal disputes cannot be predicted with certainty, we do not believe that any of our existing contractual disputes, when finally resolved, will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or operating results.
 
Item 1A. RISK FACTORS
 
Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those in this report are any of the risks described in Item 1A "Risk Factors" included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013, as filed with the SEC. Any of these factors could result in a significant or material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition. Additional risk factors not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business or results of operations.
 
As of September 30, 2014, there have been no material changes to the risk factors disclosed in Item 1A "Risk Factors" included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013, as filed with the SEC. We may disclose changes to such factors or disclose additional factors from time to time in our future filings with the SEC.
 
Item 2.    UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS 
 
On August 5, 2008, our board of directors adopted a share repurchase plan authorizing the Company to repurchase Class A ordinary shares. From time to time, the repurchase plan has been modified at the election of our Board of Directors. On April 30, 2014, our Board of Directors amended the share repurchase plan to extend the duration of the repurchase plan to June 30, 2015 and reinstated the authorization for the Company to purchase up to 2.0 million Class A ordinary shares or securities convertible into Class A ordinary shares in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions. As of September 30, 2014, 2.0 million Class A ordinary shares remained authorized for repurchase under the repurchase plan. The Company is not required to make any repurchase of Class A ordinary shares and the repurchase plan may be modified, suspended or terminated at any time without prior notice. No Class A ordinary shares were repurchased by the Company during the nine months ended September 30, 2014.
 
Item 3.    DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES 
 
Not applicable.
 
Item 4.    MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable
 
Item 5.    OTHER INFORMATION
 
None.
 

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Item 6.    EXHIBITS

10.1
Employment Agreement, dated July 31, 2014, by and among Greenlight Reinsurance, Ltd. and James McNichols.
12.1
Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Preferred Share Dividends
31.1
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer filed hereunder pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002
31.2
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer filed hereunder pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002
32.1
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer filed hereunder pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 (*)
32.2
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer filed hereunder pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 (*)
101
The following materials from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets; (ii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income; (iii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity; (iv) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows; and (v) the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
*
Furnished herewith.

 
 

49




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.
 
 
GREENLIGHT CAPITAL RE, LTD.
 
 
(Registrant)
 
 
By:
/s/ BARTON HEDGES                    
 
 
 
Barton Hedges
Director & Chief Executive Officer
(principal executive officer)
 
 
 
November 3, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ TIM COURTIS                           
 
 
 
Tim Courtis
Chief Financial Officer
(principal financial and accounting officer)
 
 
 
November 3, 2014
 
 
 
 
 

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