UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-Q

 

☒	QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2024

 

☐	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 001-37973

 

 

NI HOLDINGS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

NORTH DAKOTA		81-2683619
(State or other jurisdiction of		(IRS Employer
incorporation or organization)		Identification No.)
1101 First Avenue North Fargo, North Dakota		58102
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Zip Code)

 

(701) 298-4200

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code

 

Not applicable

Former name, former address, and former fiscal year, if changed since last report

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934:

 

Title of each class	Trading Symbol(s)	Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share	NODK	Nasdaq Capital Market

 

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    No  ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).   ☒  Yes    No  ☐

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer	☐	Accelerated filer	☒
Non-accelerated filer	☐	Smaller reporting company	☐
		Emerging growth company	☐

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

 

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

 

The number of shares of Registrant’s common stock outstanding on July 31, 2024 was 20,648,642. No preferred shares are issued or outstanding.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS	2
Part I. - FINANCIAL INFORMATION	3
Item 1. - Financial Statements	3
Consolidated Balance Sheet – June 30, 2024 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2023	3
Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) – Three Months and Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 and 2023	4
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) – Three Months and Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 and 2023	5
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (Unaudited) – Three Months and Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 and 2023	6
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) – Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 and 2023	8
Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements	9
Item 2. - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	43
Item 3. - Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	52
Item 4. - Controls and Procedures	52
Part II. - OTHER INFORMATION	53
Item 1. - Legal Proceedings	53
Item 1A. - Risk Factors	53
Item 2. - Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	54
Item 3. - Defaults upon Senior Securities	54
Item 4. - Mine Safety Disclosures	54
Item 5. - Other Information	55
Item 6. - Exhibits	55
Signatures	56

 

CERTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION

 

Unless the context otherwise requires, as used in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (“Form 10-Q”):

 

●

“NI Holdings”, “the Company”, “we”, “us”, and “our” refer to NI Holdings, Inc., together with Nodak Insurance Company and its subsidiaries, Direct Auto Insurance Company, and Westminster American Insurance Company (sold on June 30, 2024), for periods discussed after completion of the conversion, and for periods discussed prior to completion of the conversion refer to Nodak Mutual Insurance Company and all of its subsidiaries and Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company;

 

●

the “Nodak conversion” refers to the series of transactions consummated on March 13, 2017, by which Nodak Mutual Insurance Company converted from a mutual insurance company to a stock insurance company, as Nodak Insurance Company, and became a wholly-owned subsidiary of NI Holdings, an intermediate stock holding company formed on the date of conversion;

 

●

“Nodak Mutual Group” refers to Nodak Mutual Group, Inc., which is the majority shareholder of NI Holdings;

 

●

“Nodak Mutual” refers to Nodak Mutual Insurance Company, the predecessor company to Nodak Insurance Company prior to the conversion;

 

●

“Nodak Insurance” refers to Nodak Insurance Company or Nodak Mutual Insurance Company interchangeably;

 

●

“members” refers to the policyholders of Nodak Insurance, who are the named insureds under insurance policies issued by Nodak Insurance;

 

●

“Battle Creek” refers to Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company or Battle Creek Insurance Company interchangeably. Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company became affiliated with Nodak Insurance in 2011 and, prior to January 2, 2024, was controlled by Nodak Insurance via a surplus note. The terms of the surplus note allowed Nodak Insurance to appoint two-thirds of the Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company Board of Directors. As of January 2, 2024, the North Dakota Secretary of State approved the conversion of Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company from a mutual insurance company to a stock insurance company. In accordance with the approved plan of conversion, the name of Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company became Battle Creek Insurance Company, the surplus note was considered paid in full as of the conversion date, and Battle Creek became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance;

 

●

“Direct Auto” refers to Direct Auto Insurance Company. Direct Auto is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NI Holdings;

 

●

“American West” refers to American West Insurance Company. American West is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance;

 

●

“Primero” refers to Primero Insurance Company. Primero is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance;

 

●

“Westminster” refers to Westminster American Insurance Company. Westminster was a wholly-owned subsidiary of NI Holdings until it was sold to Scott Insurance Holdings, LLC (“Scott Insurance Holdings”) on June 30, 2024; and

 

●

“Nodak Agency” refers to Nodak Agency, Inc. Nodak Agency is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance.

 

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This report contains, and management may make, certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, may be forward-looking statements. Words such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “likely”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “intends”, “plans”, “projects”, “believes”, “views”, “estimates”, and similar expressions are used to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements include, among other things, the Company’s statements about:

 

●

our anticipated operating and financial performance, business plans, and prospects;

 

●

strategic reviews, capital allocation objectives, dividends, and share repurchases;

 

●

plans for and prospects of acquisitions, dispositions, and other business development activities, and our ability to successfully capitalize on these opportunities;

 

●

the impact of a future pandemic and related economic conditions, including the potential impact on the Company's investments;

 

●

our ability to enter new markets successfully and capitalize on growth opportunities either through acquisitions or the expansion of our distribution network;

 

●

cyclical changes in the insurance industry, competition, and innovation and emerging technologies;

 

●

expectations for impact of, or changes to, existing or new government regulations or laws;

 

●

our ability to anticipate and respond to macroeconomic, geopolitical, health and industry trends, pandemics, acts of war, and other large-scale crises;

 

●

developments in general economic conditions, domestic and global financial markets, interest rates, unemployment, or inflation, that could affect the performance of our insurance operations and/or investment portfolio; and

 

●

our ability to effectively manage future growth, including additional necessary capital, systems, and personnel.

 

Given their nature, we cannot assure that any outcome expressed in these or other forward-looking statements will be realized in whole or in part. Actual outcomes may vary materially from past results and those anticipated, estimated, implied, or projected. These forward-looking statements may be affected by underlying assumptions that may prove inaccurate or incomplete, or by known or unknown risks and uncertainties, including those described in Part II, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” of this Form 10-Q and in the Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” section in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 (“2023 Annual Report”). The occurrence of any of the risks identified in the Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” section of the 2023 Annual Report, or other risks currently unknown, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations, or we may be required to increase our accruals for contingencies. It is not possible to predict or identify all such factors. Consequently, you should not consider such discussion to be a complete discussion of all potential risks or uncertainties.

 

Therefore, you are cautioned not to unduly rely on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this Form 10-Q. We undertake no obligation to update forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities law. You are advised, however, to consult any further disclosures we make on related subjects.

 

PART I. - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. - Financial Statements

 

NI Holdings, Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(dollar amounts in thousands, except par value) 

 

		June 30, 2024				December 31, 2023
		(Unaudited)
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	51,390			$	41,037
Fixed income securities, at fair value (net of allowance for expected credit losses of $0 at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023)			303,415				289,399
Equity securities, at fair value			22,973				21,983
Other investments			2,006				2,006
Total cash and investments			379,784				354,425
Premiums and agents' balances receivable (net of allowance for expected credit losses of $348 at June 30, 2024 and $394 at December 31, 2023)			92,831				56,154
Deferred policy acquisition costs			31,157				26,790
Reinsurance premiums receivable (payable)			—				(1,403	)
Reinsurance recoverables on losses (net of allowance for expected credit losses of $0 at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023)			9,423				6,460
Income tax recoverable			8,069				—
Accrued investment income			2,473				2,325
Property and equipment, net			7,586				7,452
Deferred income taxes			10,236				9,228
Receivable from Federal Crop Insurance Corporation			13,793				17,404
Goodwill and other intangibles			2,728				2,728
Other assets			12,907				10,866
Assets of discontinued operations			—				162,457
Total assets		$	570,987			$	654,886
Liabilities:
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	148,527			$	119,185
Unearned premiums			157,730				126,100
Reinsurance premiums payable			912				—
Income tax payable			—				147
Accrued expenses and other liabilities			24,368				17,758
Liabilities of discontinued operations			—				141,297
Total liabilities			331,537				404,487
Shareholders’ equity:
Common stock, $0.01 par value, authorized: 25,000,000 shares; issued: 23,000,000 shares; and outstanding: 2024 – 20,648,642 shares, 2023 – 20,599,908 shares			230				230
Additional paid-in capital			96,581				96,294
Unearned employee stock ownership plan shares			(698	)			(698	)
Retained earnings			197,827				208,376
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes			(20,192	)			(21,384	)
Treasury stock, at cost, 2024 – 2,281,563 shares, 2023 – 2,330,297 shares			(34,298	)			(35,177	)
Non-controlling interest			—				2,758
Total shareholders’ equity			239,450				250,399
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity		$	570,987			$	654,886

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

 

NI Holdings, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)

(dollar amounts in thousands, except per share data) 

 

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Revenues:
Net premiums earned		$	85,169			$	78,835			$	155,053			$	141,706
Fee and other income			695				490				1,099				751
Net investment income			2,523				1,923				5,278				3,614
Net investment gains (losses)			(580	)			(173	)			876				1,230
Total revenues			87,807				81,075				162,306				147,301
Expenses:
Losses and loss adjustment expenses			69,358				60,077				109,502				101,202
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs			19,290				16,784				36,107				31,788
Other underwriting and general expenses			8,229				7,475				16,934				15,276
Total expenses			96,877				84,336				162,543				148,266
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes			(9,070	)			(3,261	)			(237	)			(965	)
Income tax expense (benefit)			(1,592	)			(685	)			306				(203	)
Net loss from continuing operations			(7,478	)			(2,576	)			(543	)			(762	)
Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest			—				(113	)			—				(403	)
Net loss from continuing operations attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.		$	(7,478	)		$	(2,463	)		$	(543	)		$	(359	)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes			(996	)			(5,659	)			(1,512	)			(11,973	)
Loss on sale of discontinued operations, net of taxes			(7,762	)			—				(7,762	)			—
Net loss		$	(16,236	)		$	(8,122	)		$	(9,817	)		$	(12,332	)
Loss per common share from continuing operations:
Basic		$	(0.36	)		$	(0.12	)		$	(0.03	)		$	(0.02	)
Diluted		$	(0.36	)		$	(0.12	)		$	(0.03	)		$	(0.02	)
Loss per common share:
Basic		$	(0.77	)		$	(0.38	)		$	(0.47	)		$	(0.58	)
Diluted		$	(0.77	)		$	(0.38	)		$	(0.47	)		$	(0.58	)
Share data:
Weighted average common shares outstanding used in basic per common share calculations			20,970,384				21,281,542				20,951,579				21,325,007
Dilutive securities			—				—				—				—
Weighted average common shares used in diluted per common share calculations			20,970,384				21,281,542				20,951,579				21,325,007

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

 

NI Holdings, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited)

(dollar amounts in thousands) 

 

		Three Months Ended June 30, 2024												Six Months Ended June 30, 2024
		Attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.				Attributable to Non- Controlling Interest				Total				Attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.				Attributable to Non- Controlling Interest				Total
Net loss		$	(16,236	)		$	—			$	(16,236	)		$	(9,817	)		$	—			$	(9,817	)
Other comprehensive loss, before income taxes:
Holding gains (losses) on investments			(953	)			—				(953	)			(2,770	)			—				(2,770	)
Reclassification adjustment for net realized losses included in net loss			30				—				30				40				—				40
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes			(923	)			—				(923	)			(2,730	)			—				(2,730	)
Income tax (expense) benefit related to items of other comprehensive loss			209				—				209				616				—				616
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes			(714	)			—				(714	)			(2,114	)			—				(2,114	)
Comprehensive loss		$	(16,950	)		$	—			$	(16,950	)		$	(11,931	)		$	—			$	(11,931	)

 

		Three Months Ended June 30, 2023												Six Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.				Attributable to Non- Controlling Interest				Total				Attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.				Attributable to Non- Controlling Interest				Total
Net loss		$	(8,122	)		$	(113	)		$	(8,235	)		$	(12,332	)		$	(403	)		$	(12,735	)
Other comprehensive loss, before income taxes:
Holding gains (losses) on investments			(2,954	)			(140	)			(3,094	)			2,490				138				2,628
Reclassification adjustment for net realized losses included in net loss			188				—				188				487				—				487
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes			(2,766	)			(140	)			(2,906	)			2,977				138				3,115
Income tax (expense) benefit related to items of other comprehensive loss			628				32				660				(677	)			(31	)			(708	)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes			(2,138	)			(108	)			(2,246	)			2,300				107				2,407
Comprehensive loss		$	(10,260	)		$	(221	)		$	(10,481	)		$	(10,032	)		$	(296	)		$	(10,328	)

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

 

NI Holdings, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (Unaudited)

(dollar amounts in thousands) 

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2024
		Common Stock				Additional Paid-in Capital				Unearned Employee Stock Ownership Plan Shares				Retained Earnings				Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Income Taxes				Treasury Stock				Non-Controlling Interest				Total Shareholders’ Equity
Balance, April 1, 2024		$	230			$	96,320			$	(698	)		$	218,451			$	(23,858	)		$	(34,599	)		$	—			$	255,846
Battle Creek demutualization			—				—				—				—				—				—				—				—
Net loss			—				—				—				(16,236	)			—				—				—				(16,236	)
Impact of Westminster unrealized investment gains/losses			—				—				—				(4,380	)			4,380				—				—				—
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes			—				—				—				—				(714	)			—				—				(714	)
Purchase of treasury stock			—				—				—				—				—				—				—				—
Share-based compensation			—				555				—				—				—				—				—				555
Issuance of vested award shares			—				(294	)			—				(8	)			—				301				—				(1	)
Balance, June 30, 2024		$	230			$	96,581			$	(698	)		$	197,827			$	(20,192	)		$	(34,298	)		$	—			$	239,450

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2024
		Common Stock				Additional Paid-in Capital				Unearned Employee Stock Ownership Plan Shares				Retained Earnings				Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Income Taxes				Treasury Stock				Non-Controlling Interest				Total Shareholders’ Equity
Balance, January 1, 2024		$	230			$	96,294			$	(698	)		$	208,376			$	(21,384	)		$	(35,177	)		$	2,758			$	250,399
Battle Creek demutualization			—				—				—				3,832				(1,074	)			—				(2,758	)			—
Net loss			—				—				—				(9,817	)			—				—				—				(9,817	)
Impact of Westminster unrealized investment gains/losses			—				—				—				(4,380	)			4,380				—				—				—
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes			—				—				—				—				(2,114	)			—				—				(2,114	)
Purchase of treasury stock			—				—				—				—				—				—				—				—
Share-based compensation			—				1,136				—				—				—				—				—				1,136
Issuance of vested award shares			—				(849	)			—				(184	)			—				879				—				(154	)
Balance, June 30, 2024		$	230			$	96,581			$	(698	)		$	197,827			$	(20,192	)		$	(34,298	)		$	—			$	239,450

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

 

NI Holdings, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (Unaudited)

(dollar amounts in thousands) 

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Common Stock				Additional Paid-in Capital				Unearned Employee Stock Ownership Plan Shares				Retained Earnings				Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Income Taxes				Treasury Stock				Non-Controlling Interest				Total Shareholders’ Equity
Balance, April 1, 2023		$	230			$	95,568			$	(941	)		$	209,710			$	(24,848	)		$	(28,803	)		$	2,155			$	253,071
Battle Creek demutualization			—				—				—				—				—				—				—				—
Net loss			—				—				—				(8,122	)			—				—				(113	)			(8,235	)
Impact of Westminster unrealized investment gains/losses			—				—				—				—				—				—				—				—
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes			—				—				—				—				(2,138	)			—				(108	)			(2,246	)
Purchase of treasury stock			—				—				—				—				—				(2,602	)			—				(2,602	)
Share-based compensation			—				396				—				—				—				—				—				396
Issuance of vested award shares			—				(214	)			—				(70	)			—				283				—				(1	)
Balance, June 30, 2023		$	230			$	95,750			$	(941	)		$	201,518			$	(26,986	)		$	(31,122	)		$	1,934			$	240,383

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Common Stock				Additional Paid-in Capital				Unearned Employee Stock Ownership Plan Shares				Retained Earnings				Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Income Taxes				Treasury Stock				Non-Controlling Interest				Total Shareholders’ Equity
Balance, January 1, 2023		$	230			$	95,671			$	(941	)		$	214,121			$	(29,286	)		$	(28,818	)		$	2,230			$	253,207
Battle Creek demutualization			—				—				—				—				—				—				—				—
Net loss			—				—				—				(12,332	)			—				—				(403	)			(12,735	)
Impact of Westminster unrealized investment gains/losses			—				—				—				—				—				—				—				—
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes			—				—				—				—				2,300				—				107				2,407
Purchase of treasury stock			—				—				—				—				—				(3,223	)			—				(3,223	)
Share-based compensation			—				901				—				—				—				—				—				901
Issuance of vested award shares			—				(822	)			—				(271	)			—				919				—				(174	)
Balance, June 30, 2023		$	230			$	95,750			$	(941	)		$	201,518			$	(26,986	)		$	(31,122	)		$	1,934			$	240,383

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

 

NI Holdings, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)

(dollar amounts in thousands) 

		Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)		$	(9,817	)		$	(12,735	)
Less net income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes			(1,512	)			(11,973	)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating activities:
Net investment gains			(876	)			(1,230	)
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)			(491	)			(3,690	)
Depreciation of property and equipment			341				309
Amortization of intangibles			—				25
Share-based compensation			1,136				901
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs			36,107				31,788
Deferral of policy acquisition costs			(40,474	)			(35,585	)
Net amortization of premiums and discounts on investments			331				523
Gain on sale of property and equipment			(72	)			(44	)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable			(36,677	)			(43,904	)
Reinsurance premiums receivable / payable			(491	)			253
Reinsurance recoverables on losses			(2,963	)			(2,362	)
Accrued investment income			(148	)			(152	)
Federal Crop Insurance Corporation receivable / payable			3,611				1,430
Other assets			(2,041	)			(863	)
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses			29,342				23,238
Unearned premiums			31,630				34,754
Income tax recoverable / payable			(8,216	)			4,534
Accrued expenses and other liabilities			6,658				8,343
Net cash flows from operating activities – continuing operations			16,707				18,268
Net cash flows from operating activities – discontinued operations			10,493				2,381
Net cash flows from operating activities – loss on sale of discontinued operations			15,865				—
Total adjustments			43,065				20,649
Net cash flows from operating activities			34,760				19,887
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from maturities and sales of fixed income securities			15,596				17,213
Proceeds from sales of equity securities			3,827				32,682
Purchases of fixed income securities			(32,239	)			(32,365	)
Purchases of equity securities			(3,935	)			(3,244	)
Purchases of property and equipment			(630	)			(648	)
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment			227				129
Proceeds from disposition of Westminster			10,500				—
Net cash flows from investing activities – continuing operations			(6,654	)			13,767
Net cash flows from investing activities – discontinued operations			2,878				(12,650	)
Net cash flows from investing activities			(3,776	)			1,117
Cash flows from financing activities:
Purchases of treasury stock			—				(3,223	)
Pooling (payments) receipts			(7,058	)			(21,012	)
Principal repayments of finance leases			(48	)			—
Issuance of vested award shares			(154	)			(174	)
Net cash flows from financing activities – continuing operations			(7,260	)			(24,409	)
Net cash flows from financing activities – discontinued operations			7,058				21,012
Net cash flows from financing activities			(202	)			(3,397	)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents			30,782				17,607
(Increase) decrease in cash and cash equivalents – discontinued operations			(20,429	)			(10,743	)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents – continuing operations			10,353				6,864
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period – continuing operations			41,037				33,862
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period – continuing operations		$	51,390			$	40,726
Federal and state income taxes paid (net of refunds received)		$	2,848			$	(940	)

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

NI Holdings, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
(dollar amounts in thousands, except per share amounts) 

 

1.

Organization

 

NI Holdings is a North Dakota business corporation that is the stock holding company of Nodak Insurance and became such in connection with the Nodak conversion, whereby Nodak Mutual converted from a mutual to stock form of organization and the creation of a mutual holding company. The Nodak conversion was consummated on March 13, 2017. Immediately following the Nodak conversion, all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Nodak Insurance were issued to Nodak Mutual Group, which then contributed the shares to NI Holdings in exchange for 55% of the outstanding shares of common stock of NI Holdings. Nodak Insurance then became a wholly-owned stock subsidiary of NI Holdings. Prior to completion of the Nodak conversion, NI Holdings conducted no business and had no assets or liabilities. As a result of the Nodak conversion, NI Holdings became the holding company for Nodak Insurance and its existing subsidiaries.

 

These unaudited consolidated financial statements include the financial position and results of operations of NI Holdings and the following other entities:

 

Nodak Insurance Company

 

Nodak Insurance is the largest domestic property and casualty insurance company in North Dakota, offering private passenger auto, homeowners, farmowners, commercial multi-peril, crop hail, and Federal multi-peril crop insurance coverages through its captive agents in the state.

 

Nodak Agency, Inc.

 

Nodak Agency is an inactive shell corporation.

 

American West Insurance Company

 

American West is a property and casualty insurance company licensed in eight states in the Midwest and Western regions of the United States (“U.S.”). American West began writing policies in 2002 and primarily writes private passenger auto, homeowners, and farm coverages in South Dakota. American West also writes private passenger auto coverage in North Dakota, as well as crop hail and Federal multi-peril crop insurance coverages in Minnesota and South Dakota.

 

Primero Insurance Company

 

Primero is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tri-State, Ltd. Tri-State, Ltd. is an inactive shell corporation 100% owned by Nodak Insurance. Primero is a property and casualty insurance company writing non-standard auto coverage in the states of Nevada, Arizona, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Primero was acquired by Nodak Insurance in 2014.

 

Battle Creek Insurance Company

 

Battle Creek is a property and casualty insurance company writing private passenger auto, homeowners, and farm coverages solely in the state of Nebraska. Battle Creek became affiliated with Nodak Insurance in 2011 and, prior to January 2, 2024, was controlled by Nodak Insurance via a surplus note. On January 2, 2024, Battle Creek issued 300,000 shares of its common stock to Nodak Insurance at a $10.00 per share par value and became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance. Because we concluded that we controlled Battle Creek prior to January 2, 2024, we consolidated the financial statements of Battle Creek, and Battle Creek’s policyholders’ interest in Battle Creek was reflected as a non-controlling interest in shareholders’ equity in our Consolidated Balance Sheets for NI Holdings (“Consolidated Balance Sheets”) and its net income or loss was excluded from net income or loss attributed to NI Holdings in our Consolidated Statements of Operations for NI Holdings (“Consolidated Statements of Operations”). Subsequent to January 2, 2024, Battle Creek is fully consolidated in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations and, as such, no longer reflected as a non-controlling interest.

 

Direct Auto Insurance Company

 

Direct Auto is a property and casualty insurance company licensed in Illinois. Direct Auto began writing non-standard auto coverage in 2007, and was acquired by NI Holdings on August 31, 2018, via a stock purchase agreement.

 

Westminster American Insurance Company

 

Westminster is a property and casualty insurance company licensed in 18 states and the District of Columbia. Westminster is headquartered in Owings Mills, Maryland and underwrites commercial multi-peril insurance in the states of Delaware, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Westminster was sold to Scott Insurance Holdings on June 30, 2024. Subsequent to the date of sale, Westminster is reflected as discontinued operations within our Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations. For additional information see Part I, Item 1, Note 19 “Discontinued Operations” of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

Nodak Insurance markets and distributes its policies through its captive agents, while all other companies utilize the independent agent distribution channel. Additionally, all of the Company’s insurance subsidiary and affiliate companies, excluding Westminster, are rated “A” Excellent by A.M. Best Company, Inc. (“AM Best”), a global credit rating agency specializing in the insurance industry.

 

The same executive management team provides oversight and strategic direction for the entire organization. Nodak Insurance provides common product oversight, pricing practices, and underwriting standards, as well as underwriting and claims administration, to itself, American West, and Battle Creek. Primero and Direct Auto personnel manage the day-to-day operations of their respective companies. Westminster personnel managed the day-to-day operations of their company prior to the date of sale.

 

 

2.       Basis of Presentation and Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and 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 GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in our 2023 Annual Report.

 

The Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2023, has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements at that date but does not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements.

 

The preparation of the interim unaudited consolidated financial statements in conformity with 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 interim unaudited consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues, claims, and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Operating results for the interim periods ended June 30, 2024, are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ended December 31, 2024.

 

Our 2023 Annual Report describes the accounting policies and estimates that are critical to the understanding of our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. The accounting policies and estimation processes described in the 2023 Annual Report were consistently applied to the unaudited consolidated financial statements as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023.

 

Discontinued Operations

 

On May 7, 2024, NI Holdings entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement (“Purchase Agreement”) to sell its subsidiary, Westminster, to Scott Insurance Holdings, a privately owned Maryland limited liability company. Scott Insurance Holdings is affiliated with John Scott, Sr., the father of the president of Westminster, John Scott, Jr. The sale closed on June 30, 2024. The Purchase Agreement included a cash purchase price of $10,500, subject to certain post-closing adjustments, including a post-closing payment to NI Holdings for the amount by which the ending statutory surplus balance for Westminster exceeded $20,000. The expected post-closing payment from Scott Insurance Holdings, is $1,772 and has been included as an adjustment to the purchase price for the calculation of the loss on the sale of Westminster. The sale of Westminster, which represented the majority of our Commercial segment in prior periods, represents a strategic shift that will have a major effect on our operations and financial results. Therefore, Westminster will be reported as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, Consolidated Statements of Operations, and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for all periods presented in this Form 10-Q. All current and prior periods reflected in this Form 10-Q have been presented as continuing and discontinued operations, unless otherwise noted. For additional information see Part I, Item 1, Note 19 “Discontinued Operations” of this Form 10-Q.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

Adopted

 

For information regarding accounting pronouncements that the Company adopted during the periods presented, see Item II, Part 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting Pronouncements” section of the 2023 Annual Report.

 

Not Yet Adopted

 

Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures – In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued guidance related to improving disclosures for reportable segments primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses that are provided to the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”). This guidance also requires disclosure of the title and position of the CODM and an explanation of how the CODM uses the reported measures of segment profit or loss in assessing segment performance and deciding how to allocate resources. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. We are currently evaluating the impact of the new standard on our consolidated financial statements, which is expected to result in enhanced disclosures.

 

Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures – In December 2023, the FASB issued guidance related to improving income tax disclosures. This guidance requires that an entity, on an annual basis, disclose additional income tax information, primarily related to the rate reconciliation and income taxes paid. The guidance is intended to enhance the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures. The amendments in this update are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. We are currently evaluating the impact of the new standard on our consolidated financial statements, which is expected to result in enhanced disclosures.

 

3.       Investments

 

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed income securities, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, as of June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, were as follows:

 

		June 30, 2024
		Cost or Amortized Cost				Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Gross Unrealized Gains				Gross Unrealized Losses				Fair Value
Fixed income securities:
U.S. Government and agencies		$	12,075			$	—			$	21			$	(355	)		$	11,741
Obligations of states and political subdivisions			56,568				—				191				(4,897	)			51,862
Corporate securities			125,282				—				138				(8,980	)			116,440
Residential mortgage-backed securities			48,926				—				38				(5,061	)			43,903
Commercial mortgage-backed securities			28,301				—				61				(3,324	)			25,038
Asset-backed securities			54,596				—				236				(3,699	)			51,133
Redeemable preferred stocks			3,738				—				—				(440	)			3,298
Total fixed income securities		$	329,486			$	—			$	685			$	(26,756	)		$	303,415

 

		December 31, 2023
		Cost or Amortized Cost				Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Gross Unrealized Gains				Gross Unrealized Losses				Fair Value
Fixed income securities:
U.S. Government and agencies		$	10,998			$	—			$	—			$	(736	)		$	10,262
Obligations of states and political subdivisions			55,769				—				408				(4,716	)			51,461
Corporate securities			152,630				—				442				(10,856	)			142,216
Residential mortgage-backed securities			66,362				—				180				(5,379	)			61,163
Commercial mortgage-backed securities			33,532				—				148				(4,241	)			29,439
Asset-backed securities			52,692				—				142				(3,805	)			49,029
Redeemable preferred stocks			4,747				—				—				(586	)			4,161
Total fixed income securities		$	376,730			$	—			$	1,320			$	(30,319	)		$	347,731

  

The reconciliation of the amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed income securities for continuing and discontinued operations as of June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, were as follows:

 

		June 30, 2024
		Cost or Amortized Cost				Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Gross Unrealized Gains				Gross Unrealized Losses				Fair Value
Fixed income securities:
Continuing operations		$	329,486			$	—			$	685			$	(26,756	)		$	303,415
Discontinued operations			—				—				—				—				—
Total fixed income securities		$	329,486			$	—			$	685			$	(26,756	)		$	303,415

 

		December 31, 2023
		Cost or Amortized Cost				Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Gross Unrealized Gains				Gross Unrealized Losses				Fair Value
Fixed income securities:
Continuing operations		$	313,182			$	—			$	1,116			$	(24,899	)		$	289,399
Discontinued operations			63,548				—				204				(5,420	)			58,332
Total fixed income securities		$	376,730			$	—			$	1,320			$	(30,319	)		$	347,731

 

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed income securities by contractual maturity, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, are shown below. Actual maturities could differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay these securities.

 

		June 30, 2024
		Amortized Cost				Fair Value
Due to mature:
One year or less		$	12,663			$	12,454
After one year through five years			64,545				61,560
After five years through ten years			72,035				65,882
After ten years			44,682				40,147
Mortgage / asset-backed securities			131,823				120,074
Redeemable preferred stocks			3,738				3,298
Total fixed income securities		$	329,486			$	303,415

 

		December 31, 2023
		Amortized Cost				Fair Value
Due to mature:
One year or less		$	9,612			$	9,436
After one year through five years			75,794				72,602
After five years through ten years			86,185				79,281
After ten years			47,806				42,620
Mortgage / asset-backed securities			152,586				139,631
Redeemable preferred stocks			4,747				4,161
Total fixed income securities		$	376,730			$	347,731

 

Fixed income securities with a fair value of $7,245 at June 30, 2024, and $6,403 at December 31, 2023, were deposited with various state regulatory agencies as required by law. The Company has not pledged any assets to secure any obligations.

 

The investment category and duration of the Company’s gross unrealized losses on fixed income securities, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, are shown below. Investments with unrealized losses are categorized with a duration of greater than 12 months when all positions of a security have continually been in a loss position for at least 12 months.

 

		June 30, 2024
		Less than 12 Months								Greater than 12 months								Total
		Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value				Unrealized Losses
Fixed income securities:
U.S. Government and agencies		$	3,212			$	(28	)		$	6,071			$	(327	)		$	9,283			$	(355	)
Obligations of states and political subdivisions			9,019				(112	)			36,207				(4,785	)			45,226				(4,897	)
Corporate securities			14,678				(240	)			91,589				(8,740	)			106,267				(8,980	)
Residential mortgage-backed securities			8,535				(121	)			30,354				(4,940	)			38,889				(5,061	)
Commercial mortgage-backed securities			1,928				(42	)			21,112				(3,282	)			23,040				(3,324	)
Asset-backed securities			6,526				(43	)			23,230				(3,656	)			29,756				(3,699	)
Redeemable preferred stocks			—				—				3,297				(440	)			3,297				(440	)
Total fixed income securities		$	43,898			$	(586	)		$	211,860			$	(26,170	)		$	255,758			$	(26,756	)

 

		December 31, 2023
		Less than 12 Months								Greater than 12 months								Total
		Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value				Unrealized Losses
Fixed income securities:
U.S. Government and agencies		$	—			$	—			$	9,018			$	(736	)		$	9,018			$	(736	)
Obligations of states and political subdivisions			5,239				(359	)			36,194				(4,357	)			41,433				(4,716	)
Corporate securities			8,018				(93	)			110,117				(10,763	)			118,135				(10,856	)
Residential mortgage-backed securities			12,054				(104	)			33,341				(5,275	)			45,395				(5,379	)
Commercial mortgage-backed securities			2,678				(5	)			23,713				(4,236	)			26,391				(4,241	)
Asset-backed securities			4,463				(18	)			30,200				(3,787	)			34,663				(3,805	)
Redeemable preferred stocks			—				—				4,161				(586	)			4,161				(586	)
Total fixed income securities		$	32,452			$	(579	)		$	246,744			$	(29,740	)		$	279,196			$	(30,319	)

 

The reconciliation for continuing and discontinued operations by duration of the Company’s gross unrealized losses on fixed income securities are shown below.

 

		June 30, 2024
		Less than 12 Months								Greater than 12 months								Total
		Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value				Unrealized Losses
Fixed income securities:
Continuing operations		$	43,898			$	(586	)		$	211,860			$	(26,170	)		$	255,758			$	(26,756	)
Discontinued operations			—				—				—				—				—				—
Total fixed income securities		$	43,898			$	(586	)		$	211,860			$	(26,170	)		$	255,758			$	(26,756	)

 

		December 31, 2023
		Less than 12 Months								Greater than 12 months								Total
		Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value				Unrealized Losses
Fixed income securities:
Continuing operations		$	24,049			$	(509	)		$	211,367			$	(24,390	)		$	235,416			$	(24,899	)
Discontinued operations			8,403				(70	)			35,377				(5,350	)			43,780				(5,420	)
Total fixed income securities		$	32,452			$	(579	)		$	246,744			$	(29,740	)		$	279,196			$	(30,319	)

 

We, along with our investment advisor, frequently review our investment portfolio for declines in fair value that could be indicative of credit losses. Beginning on December 31, 2022, credit losses are recognized through an allowance account. We consider a number of factors when determining if an allowance for credit losses is necessary, including payment and default history, credit spreads, credit ratings and rating actions, and probability of default. We determine the credit loss component of fixed income investments by utilizing discounted cash flow modeling to determine the present value of the security and comparing the present value with the amortized cost of the security. We did not recognize any credit losses for fixed income securities at the time of adoption of the new credit loss accounting standard and have not recognized any credit losses for fixed income securities since adoption of the credit loss standard. Therefore, there were no beginning or ending balances of credit losses as of the six months ended June 30, 2024 or the year ended December 31, 2023. See Item II, Part 8, Note 3 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” section of the 2023 Annual Report for additional information.

 

Net investment income for continuing and discontinued operations consisted of the following:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Continuing operations:
Fixed income securities		$	2,624			$	2,283			$	5,496			$	4,466
Equity securities			182				207				423				448
Real estate			92				97				189				195
Cash and cash equivalents			432				67				869				99
Total gross investment income			3,330				2,654				6,977				5,208
Investment expenses			807				731				1,699				1,594
Net investment income – continuing operations			2,523				1,923				5,278				3,614
Net investment income – discontinued operations			621				582				1,419				1,130
Net investment income		$	3,144			$	2,505			$	6,697			$	4,744

 

Net investment gains (losses) for continuing and discontinued operations consisted of the following:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Continuing operations:
Gross realized gains:
Fixed income securities		$	—			$	—			$	9			$	—
Equity securities			191				344				381				13,018
Total gross realized gains			191				344				390				13,018
Gross realized losses, excluding credit impairment losses:
Fixed income securities			—				(185	)			(15	)			(440	)
Equity securities			(182	)			(257	)			(457	)			(1,041	)
Total gross realized losses, excluding credit impairment losses			(182	)			(442	)			(472	)			(1,481	)
Net realized gains (losses)			9				(98	)			(82	)			11,537
Change in net unrealized gains on equity securities			(589	)			(75	)			958				(10,307	)
Net investment gains (losses) – continuing operations			(580	)			(173	)			876				1,230
Net investment gains (losses) – discontinued operations			(256	)			(1	)			116				12
Net investment gains (losses)		$	(836	)		$	(174	)		$	992			$	1,242

 

 

4.       Fair Value Measurements

 

The Company uses fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets to determine fair value disclosures. Investment securities available for sale are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. Additionally, from time to time, we may be required to record other assets or liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. These nonrecurring fair value adjustments typically involve application of lower-of-cost-or-market accounting or write-downs of individual assets. Accounting guidance on fair value measurements and disclosures establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation methods used to measure fair value. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

 

	Level 1:	Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.
	Level 2:	Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.  Level 2 includes fixed income securities with quoted prices that are traded less frequently than exchange traded instruments.  Valuation techniques include matrix pricing which is a mathematical technique used widely in the industry to value fixed income securities without relying exclusively on quoted market prices for the specific securities but rather by relying on the securities’ relationship to other benchmark quoted prices.
	Level 3:	Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported with little or no market activity).

The Company bases its fair values on the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. It is our policy to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when developing fair value measurements, in accordance with the fair value hierarchy. Fair value measurements for assets where there exists limited or no observable market data and, therefore, are based primarily upon the estimates of the Company or other third-parties, are often calculated based on the characteristics of the asset, the economic and competitive environment, and other such factors. Management uses its best judgment in estimating the fair value of the Company’s financial instruments; however, there are inherent limitations in any estimation technique. Therefore, for substantially all financial instruments, the fair value estimates herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts which could have been realized in a sale transaction on the dates indicated. The estimated fair value amounts have been measured as of their respective period-end and have not been re-evaluated or updated for purposes of our consolidated financial statements subsequent to those respective dates. As such, the estimated fair values of these financial instruments subsequent to the respective reporting dates may be different than the amounts reported at each period-end. Additionally, changes in the underlying assumptions used, including discount rates and estimates of future cash flows, could significantly affect the results of current or future valuations.

 

The Company uses quoted values and other data provided by an independent pricing service in its process for determining fair values of its investments. The evaluations of such pricing services represent an exit price and a good faith opinion as to what a buyer in the marketplace would pay for a security in a current sale. This pricing service provides us with one quote per instrument. For fixed income securities that have quoted prices in active markets, market quotations are provided. For fixed income securities that do not trade on a daily basis, the independent pricing service prepares estimates of fair value using a wide array of observable inputs including relevant market information, benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities, sector groupings, and matrix pricing. The observable market inputs that the Company’s independent pricing service utilizes may include benchmark yields, reported trades, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, market bids/offers, and other reference data on markets, industry, and the economy. Additionally, the independent pricing service uses an option-adjusted spread model to develop prepayment and interest rate scenarios.

 

Should the independent pricing service be unable to provide a fair value estimate, we would first attempt to obtain a fair value estimate from our third-party investment advisor who utilizes different independent pricing services. If unsuccessful, we would attempt to obtain a non-binding fair value estimate from a number of broker-dealers and would review this estimate in conjunction with a fair value estimate reported by an independent business news service or other sources. In instances where only one broker-dealer provides a fair value for a fixed income security, we would use that estimate. In instances where the Company would be able to obtain fair value estimates from more than one broker-dealer, we would review the range of estimates and select the most appropriate value based on the facts and circumstances. Should neither the independent pricing service nor a broker-dealer provide a fair value estimate, we would develop a fair value estimate based on cash flow analyses and other valuation techniques that utilize certain unobservable inputs. Accordingly, the Company classifies such a security as a Level 3 investment.

 

The fair value estimates of our investments provided by the independent pricing service at each period-end were utilized, among other resources, in reaching a conclusion as to the fair value of its investments.

 

Management reviews the reasonableness of the pricing provided by the independent pricing service by employing various analytical procedures. We also use information from our third-party investment advisor who utilizes different independent pricing services to further validate the reasonableness of the valuation of our fixed income portfolio. If, after this review, management does not believe the pricing for any security is a reasonable estimate of fair value, then it will seek to resolve the discrepancy through discussions with the independent pricing service. In its review, management did not identify any such discrepancies and no adjustments were made to the estimates provided by the independent pricing service for the three or six months ended June 30, 2024, or the year ended December 31, 2023. The classification within the fair value hierarchy is then confirmed based on the final conclusions from the pricing review.

 

The valuation of money market accounts and equity securities are generally based on Level 1 inputs, which use the market-approach valuation technique. The valuation of certain cash equivalents and our fixed income securities generally incorporates significant Level 2 inputs using the market and income approach techniques. We may assign a lower level to inputs typically considered to be Level 2 based on our assessment of liquidity and relative level of uncertainty surrounding inputs. There were no assets or liabilities classified at Level 3 at June 30, 2024, or December 31, 2023.

 

The following tables, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, set forth our assets which are measured on a recurring basis by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which fair value measurements fall:

 

		June 30, 2024
		Total				Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
Fixed income securities:
U.S. Government and agencies		$	11,741			$	—			$	11,741			$	—
Obligations of states and political subdivisions			51,862				—				51,862				—
Corporate securities			116,440				—				116,440				—
Residential mortgage-backed securities			43,903				—				43,903				—
Commercial mortgage-backed securities			25,038				—				25,038				—
Asset-backed securities			51,133				—				51,133				—
Redeemable preferred stock			3,298				—				3,298				—
Total fixed income securities			303,415				—				303,415				—
Equity securities:
Common stock			22,973				22,973				—				—
Non-redeemable preferred stock			—				—				—				—
Total equity securities			22,973				22,973				—				—
Money market accounts and cash equivalents			18,108				18,108				—				—
Total assets at fair value		$	344,496			$	41,081			$	303,415			$	—

 

		December 31, 2023
		Total				Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
Fixed income securities:
U.S. Government and agencies		$	10,262			$	—			$	10,262			$	—
Obligations of states and political subdivisions			51,461				—				51,461				—
Corporate securities			142,216				—				142,216				—
Residential mortgage-backed securities			61,163				—				61,163				—
Commercial mortgage-backed securities			29,439				—				29,439				—
Asset-backed securities			49,029				—				49,029				—
Redeemable preferred stock			4,161				—				4,161				—
Total fixed income securities			347,731				—				347,731				—
Equity securities:
Common stock			25,890				25,890				—				—
Non-redeemable preferred stock			1,877				1,877				—				—
Total equity securities			27,767				27,767				—				—
Money market accounts and cash equivalents			25,596				19,412				6,184				—
Total assets at fair value		$	401,094			$	47,179			$	353,915			$	—

 

The following tables are a reconciliation for both continuing and discontinued operations of the presentation of our assets which are measured on a recurring basis by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which fair value measurements fall:

 

		June 30, 2024
		Total				Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
Fixed income securities:
Continuing operations		$	303,415			$	—			$	303,415			$	—
Discontinued operations			—				—				—				—
Total fixed income securities			303,415				—				303,415				—
Equity securities:
Continuing operations			22,973				22,973				—				—
Discontinued operations			—				—				—				—
Total equity securities			22,973				22,973				—				—
Money market accounts and cash equivalents
Continuing operations			18,108				18,108				—				—
Discontinued operations			—				—				—				—
Total money market accounts and cash equivalents			18,108				18,108				—				—
Total assets at fair value		$	344,496			$	41,081			$	303,415			$	—

 

		December 31, 2023
		Total				Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
Fixed income securities:
Continuing operations		$	289,399			$	—			$	289,399			$	—
Discontinued operations			58,332				—				58,332				—
Total fixed income securities			347,731				—				347,731				—
Equity securities:
Continuing operations			21,983				21,983				—				—
Discontinued operations			5,784				5,784				—				—
Total equity securities			27,767				27,767				—				—
Money market accounts and cash equivalents
Continuing operations			16,239				16,239				—				—
Discontinued operations			9,357				3,173				6,184				—
Total money market accounts and cash equivalents			25,596				19,412				6,184				—
Total assets at fair value		$	401,094			$	47,179			$	353,915			$	—

 

There were no liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at June 30, 2024, or December 31, 2023.

 

 

5.       Reinsurance

 

External Reinsurance

 

The Company’s consolidated financial statements reflect the effects of assumed and ceded reinsurance transactions. Assumed reinsurance refers to the acceptance of certain insurance risks that other insurance companies have underwritten. Ceded reinsurance involves transferring certain insurance risks (along with the related written and earned premiums) the Company has underwritten to other insurance companies who agree to share these risks. The Company reinsures a portion of the risks it underwrites, through these ceded reinsurance agreements, in order to control its exposure to losses. Our ceded reinsurance is placed either on an automatic basis under general reinsurance contracts known as treaties or through facultative contracts placed on substantial individual risks. These contracts do not relieve the Company from its obligations to policyholders.

 

During the six-month period ended June 30, 2024, the Company maintained property catastrophe reinsurance protection covering $133,000 in excess of a $20,000 retention. With the exception of Westminster, per risk excess of loss treaties provided coverage of $4,000 in excess of $1,000 for property risks and $11,000 in excess of $1,000 for casualty risks. For Westminster, per risk excess of loss treaties provided coverage of $3,000 in excess of $2,000 for property risks and $10,000 in excess of $2,000 for casualty risks. Additionally, facultative contracts are in place to provide coverage up to $20,000 in excess of $5,000 per property. Aggregate stop loss reinsurance agreements were placed for both crop hail and multi-peril crop coverage. The crop hail aggregate attached at a 100% net loss ratio providing 50 points of cover. The multi-peril crop aggregate attached at a 105% net loss ratio providing 45 points of cover. In addition to the aggregate covers, underlying multi-peril crop reinsurance was provided through the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (“FCIC”).

 

Effective July 1, 2024, the Company’s reinsurance contracts were modified to exclude any Westminster losses occurring on or after that date, while maintaining all other existing limits, retentions, and attachment points.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company’s catastrophe retention and retention limit were consistent with those for the six-month period ended June 30, 2024. In addition, limits, retentions, and attachment points in our other reinsurance contracts were also consistent with those for the six-month period ended June 30, 2024 (with the exception of Westminster for which per risk excess of loss treaties provided coverage of $4,000 in excess of $1,000 for property risks and $11,000 in excess of $1,000 for casualty risks).

 

The Company actively monitors and evaluates the financial condition of the reinsurers and develops estimates of the uncollectible amounts due from reinsurers. Beginning on December 31, 2022, credit losses are recognized through an allowance account developed using a new credit loss model (current expected credit losses or “CECL”). See the Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting Pronouncements” section of the 2023 Annual Report for additional information. Credit loss estimates are made based on periodic evaluation of balances due from reinsurers, changes in reinsurer credit standing, judgments regarding reinsurers’ solvency, known disputes, reporting characteristics of the underlying reinsured business, historical experience, current economic conditions, and the state of reinsurer relations in general. Collection risk is mitigated by entering into reinsurance arrangements only with reinsurers that have strong credit ratings and statutory surplus above certain levels. At June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, management has concluded that it is not necessary to record an allowance for expected credit losses related to reinsurance recoverables. All of our significant reinsurance partners are rated “A-” (Excellent) or better by AM Best, and there is no history of write-offs.

 

A reconciliation of direct to net premiums on both a written and an earned basis, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, is as follows:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30, 2024								Three Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Premiums Written				Premiums Earned				Premiums Written				Premiums Earned
Direct premium		$	140,488			$	111,082			$	144,250			$	106,162
Assumed premium			2,340				653				2,440				827
Ceded premium			(16,265	)			(11,183	)			(20,439	)			(12,843	)
Net premiums		$	126,563			$	100,552			$	126,251			$	94,146

 

		Six Months Ended June 30, 2024								Six Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Premiums Written				Premiums Earned				Premiums Written				Premiums Earned
Direct premium		$	243,145			$	205,982			$	234,806			$	191,636
Assumed premium			2,477				804				2,839				1,403
Ceded premium			(26,072	)			(20,677	)			(28,898	)			(21,266	)
Net premiums		$	219,550			$	186,109			$	208,747			$	171,773

 

The reconciliations for current quarter continuing and discontinued operations by duration of the Company’s direct to net premiums on both a written and an earned basis are shown below.

 

		Three Months Ended June 30, 2024								Three Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Premiums Written				Premiums Earned				Premiums Written				Premiums Earned
Continuing operations:
Direct premium		$	118,472			$	91,500			$	121,576			$	86,622
Assumed premium			2,340				653				2,440				827
Ceded premium			(11,663	)			(6,984	)			(15,984	)			(8,614	)
Net premiums		$	109,149			$	85,169			$	108,032			$	78,835

 

		Three Months Ended June 30, 2024								Three Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Premiums Written				Premiums Earned				Premiums Written				Premiums Earned
Discontinued operations:
Direct premium		$	22,016			$	19,582			$	22,674			$	19,540
Assumed premium			—				—				—				—
Ceded premium			(4,602	)			(4,199	)			(4,455	)			(4,229	)
Net premiums		$	17,414			$	15,383			$	18,219			$	15,311

 

The reconciliations for year-to-date continuing and discontinued operations by duration of the Company’s direct to net premiums on both a written and an earned basis are shown below.

 

		Six Months Ended June 30, 2024								Six Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Premiums Written				Premiums Earned				Premiums Written				Premiums Earned
Continuing operations:
Direct premium		$	201,513			$	166,899			$	193,948			$	153,292
Assumed premium			2,477				804				2,839				1,403
Ceded premium			(17,329	)			(12,650	)			(20,359	)			(12,989	)
Net premiums		$	186,661			$	155,053			$	176,428			$	141,706

 

		Six Months Ended June 30, 2024								Six Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Premiums Written				Premiums Earned				Premiums Written				Premiums Earned
Discontinued operations:
Direct premium		$	41,632			$	39,083			$	40,858			$	38,344
Assumed premium			—				—				—				—
Ceded premium			(8,743	)			(8,027	)			(8,539	)			(8,277	)
Net premiums		$	32,889			$	31,056			$	32,319			$	30,067

 

A reconciliation of direct to net losses and loss adjustment expenses, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, is as follows:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	88,568			$	95,149			$	143,222			$	166,010
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses			224				67				269				157
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses			(7,993	)			(17,710	)			(10,483	)			(29,836	)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	80,799			$	77,506			$	133,008			$	136,331

 

The reconciliations for current and prior year continuing and discontinued operations of direct to net losses and loss adjustment expenses is as follows:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Continuing operations:
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	73,350			$	66,211			$	114,869			$	108,164
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses			224				67				269				157
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses			(4,216	)			(6,201	)			(5,636	)			(7,119	)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	69,358			$	60,077			$	109,502			$	101,202

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Discontinued operations:
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	15,218			$	28,938			$	28,353			$	57,846
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses			—				—				—				—
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses			(3,777	)			(11,509	)			(4,847	)			(22,717	)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	11,441			$	17,429			$	23,506			$	35,129

 

If 100% of our ceded reinsurance was cancelled as of June 30, 2024, or December 31, 2023, no ceded commissions would need to be returned to the reinsurers. Reinsurance contracts are typically effective from January 1 through December 31 each year.

 

Intercompany Reinsurance Pooling Arrangement

 

Effective January 1, 2020, all of our insurance subsidiary and affiliate companies entered into an intercompany reinsurance pooling agreement. Nodak Insurance is the lead company of the pool, and assumes the net premiums, net losses, and underwriting expenses from each of the other five companies. Nodak Insurance then retrocedes balances back to each company, while retaining its own share of the pool’s net underwriting results, based on individual pool percentages established in the respective pooling agreement. This arrangement allows each insurance company to rely upon the capacity of the pool’s total statutory capital and surplus. As a result, they are evaluated by AM Best on a group basis and hold a single combined financial strength rating, long-term issuer credit rating, and financial size category. Subsequent to the June 30, 2024, date of sale, Westminster will cease to be a member of the pool.

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, and the year ended December 31, 2023, the pooling share percentages by insurance company were:

 

		Pool Percentage
Nodak Insurance Company			66.0%
American West Insurance Company			7.0%
Primero Insurance Company			3.0%
Battle Creek Insurance Company			2.0%
Direct Auto Insurance Company			13.0%
Westminster American Insurance Company			9.0%
Total			100.0%

 

6.

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs

 

Expenses directly related to successfully acquired insurance policies, primarily commissions, premium taxes and underwriting costs, are deferred and amortized over the terms of the policies. We update our acquisition cost assumptions periodically to reflect actual experience, and we evaluate the costs for recoverability. The table below, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, shows the deferred policy acquisition costs and asset reconciliation:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Balance, beginning of period		$	36,565			$	31,350			$	34,120			$	29,768
Deferral of policy acquisition costs			25,962				23,353				49,070				43,523
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs			(23,372	)			(20,579	)			(44,035	)			(39,167	)
Westminster balance disposed in sale			(7,998	)			—				(7,998	)			—
Balance, end of period		$	31,157			$	34,124			$	31,157			$	34,124

 

The tables for current and prior year continuing and discontinued operations showing the deferred policy acquisition costs and assets reconciliation are shown below:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Continuing operations:
Balance, beginning of period		$	28,948			$	24,210			$	26,790			$	22,675
Deferral of policy acquisition costs			21,499				19,046				40,474				35,585
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs			(19,290	)			(16,784	)			(36,107	)			(31,788	)
Balance, end of period		$	31,157			$	26,472			$	31,157			$	26,472

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Discontinued operations:
Balance, beginning of period		$	7,617			$	7,140			$	7,330			$	7,093
Deferral of policy acquisition costs			4,464				4,307				8,596				7,938
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs			(4,083	)			(3,795	)			(7,928	)			(7,379	)
Balance, end of period		$	7,998			$	7,652			$	7,998			$	7,652

 

 

7.       Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

 

Activity in the liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses is summarized as follows for both continuing and discontinued operations:

 

		Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023
Balance, beginning of period:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	217,119			$	190,459
Reinsurance recoverables on losses			48,969				37,575
Net balance, beginning of period			168,150				152,884
Incurred related to:
Current year			125,235				126,854
Prior years			7,773				9,477
Total incurred			133,008				136,331
Paid related to:
Current year			45,494				50,010
Prior years			54,372				60,675
Total paid			99,866				110,685
Westminster balances disposed in sale:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses			107,508				—
Reinsurance recoverables on losses			45,320				—
Net balance, end of period			62,188				—
Balance, end of period:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses			148,527				232,038
Reinsurance recoverables on losses			9,423				53,508
Net balance, end of period		$	139,104			$	178,530

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2024, the Company’s incurred reported losses and loss adjustment expenses included $7,773 of net unfavorable development on prior accident years, primarily attributable to Direct Auto. During the six months ended June 30, 2023, the Company’s incurred reported losses and loss adjustment expenses included $9,477 of net unfavorable development on prior accident years, primarily attributable to Direct Auto and Westminster.

 

Changes in unpaid losses and loss adjustment expense reserves are generally the result of ongoing analysis of recent loss development trends. As additional information becomes known regarding individual claims, original estimates are increased or decreased accordingly.

 

The tables for current and prior year continuing and discontinued operations showing the liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expense are shown below:

 

		Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023
Continuing operations:
Balance, beginning of period:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	119,185			$	114,296
Reinsurance recoverables on losses			6,460				8,586
Net balance, beginning of period			112,725				105,710
Incurred related to:
Current year			101,120				100,574
Prior years			8,382				628
Total incurred			109,502				101,202
Paid related to:
Current year			39,930				41,857
Prior years			43,193				38,468
Total paid			83,123				80,325
Balance, end of period:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses			148,527				137,535
Reinsurance recoverables on losses			9,423				10,948
Net balance, end of period		$	139,104			$	126,587

 

		Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023
Discontinued operations:
Balance, beginning of period:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	97,934			$	76,163
Reinsurance recoverables on losses			42,509				28,989
Net balance, beginning of period			55,425				47,174
Incurred related to:
Current year			24,115				26,280
Prior years			(609	)			8,849
Total incurred			23,506				35,129
Paid related to:
Current year			5,564				8,153
Prior years			11,179				22,207
Total paid			16,743				30,360
Balance, end of period:
Liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses			107,508				94,503
Reinsurance recoverables on losses			45,320				42,560
Net balance, end of period		$	62,188			$	51,943

 

 

8.       Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment, presented on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, consisted of the following:

 

		June 30, 2024				December 31, 2023				Estimated Useful Life
Cost:
Land		$	1,249			$	1,403			indefinite
Building and improvements			12,259				14,538			10 – 43 years
Electronic data processing equipment			1,441				1,441			5 – 7 years
Furniture and fixtures			2,733				2,953			5 – 7 years
Automobiles			1,265				1,319			2 – 3 years
Gross cost			18,947				21,654
Accumulated depreciation			(11,361	)			(11,757	)
Total property and equipment, net		$	7,586			$	9,897

 

Depreciation expense was $187 and $188 for the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $430 and $370 for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Depreciation expense for continuing operations was $187 and $156 for the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $341 and $309 for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The depreciation expense for discontinued operations for the three months ended June 30, 2024, was $0 due to the impact of an asset transfer from Westminster to Nodak Insurance during the quarter.

 

Property and equipment for current and prior year continuing and discontinued operations consisted of the following:

 

		June 30, 2024
Cost:
Continuing operations		$	18,947
Discontinued operations			—
Total cost			18,947
Accumulated depreciation
Continuing operations			(11,361	)
Discontinued operations			—
Total accumulated depreciation			(11,361	)
Total property and equipment, net		$	7,586

 

		December 31, 2023
Cost:
Continuing operations		$	18,756
Discontinued operations			2,898
Total cost			21,654
Accumulated depreciation
Continuing operations			(11,304	)
Discontinued operations			(453	)
Total accumulated depreciation			(11,757	)
Total property and equipment, net		$	9,897

 

 

9.       Goodwill and Other Intangibles

 

Goodwill

 

The following table presents, on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, the carrying amount of the Company’s goodwill and related impairment by segment:

 

		Six Months Ended June 30, 2024												Year Ended December 31, 2023
		Non-Standard Auto				Commercial				Total				Non-Standard Auto				Commercial				Total
Goodwill, original recorded value		$	2,628			$	6,756			$	9,384			$	2,628			$	6,756			$	9,384
Accumulated impairment losses at the beginning of the period			—				(6,756	)			(6,756	)			—				—				—
Goodwill, beginning of period			2,628				—				2,628				2,628				6,756				9,384
Impairment recognized during the period			—				—				—				—				(6,756	)			(6,756	)
Goodwill, end of period		$	2,628			$	—			$	2,628			$	2,628			$	—			$	2,628

 

Based on the qualitative analyses performed for the goodwill related to our Non-Standard Auto segment, we concluded that goodwill was not impaired as of June 30, 2024, or December 31, 2023.

 

During the fourth quarter of 2023, we performed a quantitative assessment of the goodwill related to the Westminster acquisition, which was allocated to our Commercial segment, and concluded that the goodwill was fully impaired as of December 31, 2023, resulting in a non-cash impairment charge of $6,756. See the Part II, Item 8, Note 10 “Goodwill and Other Intangibles” section of the 2023 Annual Report for additional information.

 

 

Other Intangible Assets

 

The following table presents on a consolidated basis, including both continuing and discontinued operations, the carrying amount of the Company’s other intangible assets:

 

June 30, 2024		Gross Carrying Amount				Accumulated Amortization				Net
Subject to amortization:
Trade names		$	248			$	248			$	—
Distribution network			—				—				—
Total subject to amortization			248				248				—
Not subject to amortization:
State insurance licenses			100				—				100
Total		$	348			$	248			$	100

 

December 31, 2023		Gross Carrying Amount				Accumulated Amortization				Net
Subject to amortization:
Trade names		$	748			$	448			$	300
Distribution network			6,700				1,489				5,211
Total subject to amortization			7,448				1,937				5,511
Not subject to amortization:
State insurance licenses			1,900				—				1,900
Total		$	9,348			$	1,937			$	7,411

 

The following table presents the current and prior year continuing and discontinued carrying amounts of the Company’s other intangible assets:

 

June 30, 2024		Gross Carrying Amount				Accumulated Amortization				Net
Subject to amortization:
Continuing operations		$	248			$	248			$	—
Discontinued operations			—				—				—
Total subject to amortization			248				248				—
Not subject to amortization
Continuing operations			100				—				100
Discontinued operations			—				—				—
Total property and equipment, net			348				248				100

 

December 31, 2023		Gross Carrying Amount				Accumulated Amortization				Net
Subject to amortization:
Continuing operations		$	248			$	248			$	—
Discontinued operations			7,200				1,689				5,511
Total subject to amortization			7,448				1,937				5,511
Not subject to amortization
Continuing operations			100				—				100
Discontinued operations			1,800				—				1,800
Total property and equipment, net			9,348				1,937				7,411

 

We determined during our reviews that other indefinite-lived intangible assets and finite-lived intangible assets were not impaired as of June 30, 2024, or December 31, 2023.

 

Amortization expense was $105 and $118 for the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $211 and $236 for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Amortization expense for continuing operations was $0 and $12 for the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $0 and $25 for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

 

 

10.       Royalties, Dividends, and Affiliations

 

North Dakota Farm Bureau

 

Nodak Insurance was organized by the North Dakota Farm Bureau (“NDFB”) to provide insurance protection for its members. We have a royalty agreement with the NDFB that recognizes the use of their trademark and provides royalties to the NDFB based on the premiums written on Nodak Insurance’s policies. Royalties paid to the NDFB were $480 and $442 during the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $883 and $799 for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Royalty amounts payable of $175 and $131 were accrued as a liability to the NDFB at June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively.

 

Dividends

 

State insurance laws require our insurance subsidiaries to maintain certain minimum capital and surplus amounts on a statutory basis. Our insurance subsidiaries are subject to regulations that restrict the payment of dividends from statutory surplus and may require prior approval from their domiciliary insurance regulatory authorities. Our insurance subsidiaries are also subject to risk-based capital requirements that may further affect their ability to pay dividends. Our insurance subsidiaries statutory capital and surplus at December 31, 2023, exceeded the amount of statutory capital and surplus necessary to satisfy risk-based capital requirements by a significant margin. For information regarding the availability of subsidiaries to pay dividends to NI Holdings during 2024, see Item II, Part 8, Note 12 “Related Party Transactions” section of the 2023 Annual Report.

 

Battle Creek

 

Prior to January 2, 2024, we consolidated the financial statements of Battle Creek, and Battle Creek’s policyholders’ interest in Battle Creek was reflected as a non-controlling interest in shareholders’ equity in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Subsequent to January 2, 2024, Battle Creek is fully consolidated in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The following table discloses the standalone balance sheet of Battle Creek, prior to intercompany eliminations, to illustrate the impact of including Battle Creek in our December 31, 2023, Consolidated Balance Sheet prior to demutualization:

 

		December 31, 2023
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	2,621
Investments			15,394
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable			5,953
Deferred policy acquisition costs			682
Reinsurance recoverables on losses (2)			6,918
Accrued investment income			85
Income tax recoverable			225
Deferred income taxes			706
Property and equipment			306
Other assets			97
Total assets		$	32,987
Liabilities:
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	4,276
Unearned premiums			3,269
Notes payable (1)			3,000
Pooling payable (1)			5,932
Reinsurance losses payable (2)			13,275
Accrued expenses and other liabilities			477
Total liabilities			30,229
Equity:
Non-controlling interest			2,758
Total equity			2,758
Total liabilities and equity		$	32,987

 

(1)        Amount fully eliminated in consolidation.

(2)        Amount partly eliminated in consolidation.        

 

 

11.       Benefit Plans

 

Nodak Insurance sponsors a 401(k) plan with an automatic and matching contribution for eligible employees at Nodak Insurance, Primero, and Direct Auto. Nodak Insurance also contributes an additional elective amount of employee compensation as a profit-sharing contribution for eligible employees. Westminster also sponsored a separate 401(k) plan until the company was sold on June 30, 2024. American West and Battle Creek have no employees. The Company reported expenses related to these plans totaling $210 and $189 during the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $420 and $378 during the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

 

All fees associated with the plans are deducted from the eligible employee accounts.

 

The Company also offers a non-qualified deferred compensation plan to key executives of the Company (as designated by the Board of Directors). The Company’s policy is to fund the plan by amounts that represent the excess of the maximum contribution allowed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act over the key executives’ allowable 401(k) contribution. The plan also allows employee-directed deferral of key executives’ compensation or incentive payments. The Company reported expenses related to this plan totaling $33 and $45 during the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $231 and $212 during the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

 

In connection with our initial public offering (“IPO”) in March 2017, the Company established its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (the “ESOP”) within the meaning of Internal Revenue Code Section 4975(e)(7) and invests solely in common stock of the Company.

 

Upon establishment of the ESOP, Nodak Insurance loaned $2,400 to the ESOP’s related trust (the “ESOP Trust”). The ESOP loan was for a period of ten years, bearing interest at the long-term Applicable Federal Rate effective on the closing date of the offering (2.79% annually). The ESOP Trust used the proceeds of the loan to purchase shares in our IPO, which resulted in the ESOP Trust owning approximately 1.0% of the Company’s authorized shares. The ESOP has purchased the shares for investment and not for resale.

 

The shares purchased by the ESOP Trust in the offering are held in a suspense account as collateral for the ESOP loan. Nodak Insurance makes semi-annual cash contributions to the ESOP in amounts no smaller than the amounts required for the ESOP Trust to make its loan payments to Nodak Insurance. While the ESOP makes two loan payments per year, a pre-determined portion of the shares are released from the suspense account and allocated to participant accounts at the end of the calendar year. This release and allocation occurs on an annual basis over the ten-year term of the ESOP loan. Nodak Insurance has a lien on the shares of common stock of the Company held by the ESOP to secure repayment of the loan from the ESOP to Nodak Insurance. If the ESOP is terminated as a result of a change in control of the Company, the ESOP may be required to pay the costs of terminating the plan.

 

It is anticipated that the only assets held by the ESOP will be shares of the Company’s common stock. Participants in the ESOP cannot direct the investment of any assets allocated to their accounts. The ESOP participants are employees of Nodak Insurance. The employees of Primero, Direct Auto, and Westminster do not participate in the ESOP.

 

Each employee of Nodak Insurance automatically becomes a participant in the ESOP if such employee is at least 21 years old, has completed a minimum of one thousand hours of service with Nodak Insurance, and has completed an Eligibility Computation Period. Employees are not permitted to make any contributions to the ESOP. Participants in the ESOP receive annual reports from the Company showing the number of shares of common stock of the Company allocated to the participants’ accounts and the market value of those shares. The shares are allocated to participants based on compensation as provided for in the ESOP.

 

In connection with the establishment of the ESOP, the Company created a contra-equity account on the Consolidated Balance Sheet equal to the ESOP’s basis in the shares. The basis of those shares was set at $10.00 per share as part of the IPO. As shares are released from the ESOP suspense account, the contra-equity account is credited, which reduces the impact of the contra-equity account on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets over time. The Company records compensation expense related to the shares released, equal to the number of shares released from the suspense account multiplied by the average market value of the Company’s stock during the period.

 

The Company recognized compensation expense related to the ESOP of $92 and $83 during the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $176 and $164 during the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

 

Through June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, the Company had released and allocated 170,205 ESOP shares to participants, with a remainder of 69,795 ESOP shares in suspense at June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023. Using the Company’s quarter-end market price of $15.30 per share, the fair value of the unearned ESOP shares was $1,068 at June 30, 2024.

 

 

12.       Line of Credit

 

NI Holdings has a $3,000 line of credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. The terms of the line of credit include a floating interest rate of 2.50% above the daily simple secured overnight financing rate. There were no outstanding amounts during the six months ended June 30, 2024, or the year ended December 31, 2023. This line of credit is scheduled to expire on December 13, 2024.

 

 

13.       Income Taxes

 

Due to the Battle Creek demutualization, the Company established a net valuation allowance of $346 against their net operating loss carryforwards deferred income tax asset.

 

At June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, we had no unrecognized income tax benefits, no accrued interest and penalties, and no significant uncertain income tax positions. No interest and penalties were recognized during the six-month period ended June 30, 2024, or the year ended December 31, 2023.

 

Federal income taxes for the six months ended June 30, 2024, were allocated to continuing and discontinued operations at a 21.1% effective tax rate, with continuing operations ending with a 42.0% effective tax rate due to the sale of Westminster and the establishment of the valuation allowance for Battle Creek described above.

 

 

14.       Leases

 

Primero leases a facility in Spearfish, South Dakota under a non-cancellable operating lease expiring in 2028, and leases a facility in Las Vegas, Nevada on a month-to-month basis. Direct Auto leases a facility in Chicago, Illinois under a non-cancellable operating lease expiring in 2029. Nodak Insurance leases a facility in Fargo, North Dakota under a non-cancellable operating lease expiring in 2029. In addition, Nodak Insurance leases server equipment under a non-cancellable finance lease expiring in 2026.

 

Effective for the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company adopted the updated guidance for leases. See Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting Pronouncements” section of the 2023 Annual Report for additional information. We determine whether a contract is or contains a lease at the inception of the contract. A contract will be deemed to be or contain a lease if the contract conveys the right to control and directs the use of identified property or equipment for a period of time in exchange for consideration. We generally must also have the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from the use of the property and equipment. Lease assets and liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. To determine the present value of lease payments not yet paid, we estimate incremental borrowing rates based on the floating interest rate on our Line of Credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. at the lease commencement date, as rates are not implicitly stated in most leases. Lease liabilities are included in accrued expenses and other liabilities and right-of-use assets are included in other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

There were expenses of $122 and $98 related to these leases during the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $244 and $196 during the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023.

 

Additional information regarding the Company’s leases are as follows:

 

		As of and For the Three Months Ended June 30,								As of and For the Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Operating lease expense		$	96			$	98			$	192			$	196
Finance lease cost															—
Amortization of right-of-use assets			20				—				40				—
Interest on lease liabilities			6				—				12				—
Finance lease cost			26				—				52				—
Total lease cost		$	122			$	98			$	244			$	196
Other information on leases:
Cash payments included in operating cash flows from operating leases		$	102			$	103			$	203			$	204
Cash payments included in operating cash flows from finance leases			6				—				12				—
Cash payments included in financing cash flows from finance leases			24				—				48				—
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities			185				247				185				247
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities			—				—				—				—
Weighted average discount rate – operating leases			4.46%				3.95%				4.46%				3.95%
Weighted average discount rate – finance leases			8.50%				—				8.50%				—
Weighted average remaining lease term in years – operating leases			4.9 years				5.8 years				4.9 years				5.8 years
Weighted average remaining lease term in years – finance leases			2.3 years				—				2.3 years				—

  

The following table presents the contractual maturities of the Company’s operating leases for each of the five years in the period ending December 31, 2028, and thereafter, reconciled to the Company’s operating lease liability at June 30, 2024.

 

Year ending December 31,		Operating Leases				Finance Leases				Total
2024 (six months remaining)		$	196			$	60			$	256
2025			393				120				512
2026			396				100				497
2027			401				—				401
2028			376				—				376
Thereafter			212				—				212
Total undiscounted lease payments			1,974				280				2,254
Less: present value adjustment			193				26				218
Lease liability at June 30, 2024		$	1,781			$	254			$	2,036

 

 

15.       Contingencies

 

We have been named as a defendant in various lawsuits relating to our insurance operations. Contingent liabilities arising from litigation, income taxes, and other matters are not considered to be material to our financial position.

 

 

16.

Common and Preferred Stock

 

Common Stock

 

Changes in the number of common stock shares outstanding were as follows:

 

		Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023
Shares outstanding, beginning of period			20,599,908				21,076,255
Treasury shares repurchased through stock repurchase authorization			—				(238,164	)
Issuance of treasury shares for vesting of restricted stock units			48,734				47,887
Shares outstanding, end of period			20,648,642				20,885,978

 

The changes in the number of common shares outstanding excludes certain non-forfeitable stock award shares that are included in the weighted average common shares outstanding used in basic earnings per common share calculations. The net loss per diluted common share for the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024, excluded the weighted average effects of 127,108 and 120,206 shares of stock awards since the impacts of these potential shares of common stock were anti-dilutive. The net loss per diluted common share for the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2023, excluded the weighted average effects of 61,935 and 61,614 shares of stock awards since the impacts of these potential shares of common stock were anti-dilutive.

 

On May 9, 2022, our Board of Directors approved an authorization for the repurchase of up to approximately $10,000 of the Company’s outstanding common stock. During the six months ended June 30, 2024, we did not repurchase any shares of our common stock. During the six months ended June 30, 2023, we repurchased 238,164 shares of our common stock for $3,223, under our share repurchase authorization. Included in the cost of treasury stock acquired pursuant to common share repurchases is the 1% excise tax imposed on common share repurchase activity, net of common share issuances, as part of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. At June 30, 2024, $2,052 remains available under this authorization.

 

The cost of this treasury stock is a reduction of shareholders’ equity within our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

Preferred Stock

 

The Company’s Articles of Incorporation provide authority to issue up to five million shares of preferred stock. No preferred shares are issued or outstanding.

 

 

17.

Share-Based Compensation

 

The NI Holdings, Inc. 2020 Stock and Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) is designed to promote the interests of the Company and its shareholders by aiding the Company in attracting and retaining employees, officers, consultants, independent contractors, advisors, and non-employee directors capable of assuring the future success of the Company, to offer such persons incentives to put forth maximum efforts for the success of the Company’s business and to afford such persons an opportunity to acquire an ownership interest in the Company, thereby aligning the interests of such persons with the Company’s shareholders.

 

The Plan provides for the grant of nonqualified stock options, incentive stock options, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), stock appreciation rights, dividend equivalents, and performance share units (“PSUs”) to employees, officers, consultants, advisors, non-employee directors, and independent contractors designated by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Compensation Committee”). Awards made under the Plan are based upon, among other things, a participant’s level of responsibility and performance within the Company.

 

The total aggregate number of shares of common stock that may be issued under the Plan shall not exceed 1,000,000 shares, subject to adjustments as provided in the Plan. No eligible participant may be granted any awards for more than 100,000 shares in the aggregate in any calendar year, subject to adjustment in accordance with the Plan. The aggregate amount payable pursuant to all performance awards denominated in cash to any eligible person in any calendar year is limited to $1,000 in value. Directors who are not also employees of the Company may not be granted awards denominated in shares that exceed $150 in any calendar year.

 

Restricted Stock Units

 

The Compensation Committee has awarded RSUs to non-employee directors and select executives. RSUs are promises to issue actual shares of common stock at the end of a vesting period. The RSUs granted to executives under the Plan are based on salary. RSUs granted prior to 2024 vest equally over a five-year period. Effective for executive grants in 2024, the RSUs vest equally over a three-year period. The RSUs granted to non-employee directors vest 100% on the date of the next annual meeting of shareholders following the grant date. Dividend equivalents on RSUs are accrued during the vesting period and paid in cash at the end of the vesting period but are subject to forfeiture until the underlying shares become vested. Participants do not have voting rights with respect to RSUs.

 

The Company recognizes stock-based compensation costs for RSUs based on the grant date fair value. The compensation costs are normally expensed over the vesting periods to each vesting date; however, the cost of RSUs granted to executives are expensed immediately if the executive has met certain retirement criteria and the RSUs become non-forfeitable. Estimated forfeitures are included in the determination of compensation costs. No forfeitures are currently estimated.

 

A summary of the Company’s outstanding and unearned RSUs is presented below:

 

		RSUs				Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share
Units outstanding and unearned at January 1, 2023			115,360			$	17.00
RSUs granted during 2023			85,000				13.76
RSUs earned during 2023			(53,780	)			16.32
Units outstanding and unearned at December 31, 2023			146,580				15.37
RSUs granted during 2024			103,600				14.45
RSUs earned during 2024			(69,420	)			14.82
Units outstanding and unearned at June 30, 2024			180,760				15.06

 

The following table shows the impact of RSU activity to the Company’s financial results:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
RSU compensation expense		$	371			$	257			$	767			$	559
Income tax benefit			(84	)			(58	)			(174	)			(127	)
RSU compensation expense, net of income taxes		$	287			$	199			$	593			$	432

 

At June 30, 2024, there was $1,620 of unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding RSUs. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.36 years.

 

Performance Share Units

 

The Compensation Committee has awarded PSUs to select executives. PSUs are promises to issue actual shares of common stock at the end of a vesting period, if certain performance conditions are met. The PSUs granted to employees under the Plan are based on salary and, prior to 2024, include a three-year adjusted book value cumulative growth target with threshold and stretch goals. Effective for grants made in 2024, the performance metric is calculated based on an adjusted return on equity over a three-year period, with annual resets. They will vest on the third anniversary of the grant date, subject to the participant’s continuous employment through the vesting date and the level of performance achieved. Dividend equivalents on PSUs are accrued and paid in cash at the end of the performance period in accordance with the level of performance achieved but are subject to forfeiture until the underlying shares become vested. Participants do not have voting rights with respect to PSUs.

 

The Company recognizes stock-based compensation costs for PSUs based on the grant date fair value over the performance period of the awards. Estimated forfeitures are included in the determination of compensation costs. The current cost estimates represent the Company’s forecasted performance against cumulative growth targets.

 

A summary of the Company’s outstanding PSUs is presented below:

 

		PSUs				Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share
Units outstanding at January 1, 2023			190,000			$	17.00
PSUs granted during 2023 (at target)			87,400				13.85
PSUs earned during 2023			—				—
Performance adjustment (1)			(63,600	)			14.26
Forfeitures			—				—
Units outstanding at December 31, 2023			213,800				16.53
PSUs granted during 2024 (at target)			79,800				14.19
PSUs earned during 2024			—				—
Performance adjustment (1)			(64,600	)			18.64
Forfeitures			—				—
Units outstanding at June 30, 2024			229,000				15.12

 

(1)  Represents the change in PSUs issued based upon the attainment of performance goals established by the Company.

 

The following table shows the impact of PSU activity to the Company’s financial results:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
PSU compensation expense		$	184			$	139			$	369			$	277
Income tax benefit			(42	)			(32	)			(84	)			(63	)
PSU compensation expense, net of income taxes		$	142			$	107			$	285			$	214

 

The cost estimates for PSU grants represent initial target awards until we can reasonably forecast the financial performance of each PSU award grant. At the end of the performance period, we will reflect a performance adjustment, which may be either an increase or decrease from the initial target awards. The actual number of shares to be issued at the end of the performance period will range from 0% to 150% of the initial target awards. As of December 31, 2023, the previously recognized compensation expense related to the PSU awards granted during 2022 and 2021 was eliminated due to the Company's expectation that the threshold performance goal will not be met.

 

At June 30, 2024, there was $1,591 of unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding PSUs. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.26 years.

 

 

18.       Allowance for Expected Credit Losses

 

Premiums Receivable

 

The following table presents the balances of premiums and agents’ balances receivable, net of the allowance for expected credit losses as of June 30, 2024, and the changes in the allowance for expected credit losses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 for continuing and discontinued operations.

 

		As of and For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2024								As of and For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Premiums and Agents’ Balances Receivable, Net of Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Premiums and Agents’ Balances Receivable, Net of Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Allowance for Expected Credit Losses
Continuing operations:
Balance, beginning of period		$	59,979			$	216			$	49,587			$	437
Current period charge for expected credit losses							251								187
Write-offs of uncollectible premiums receivable							(119	)							(198	)
Balance, end of period		$	92,831			$	348			$	91,249			$	426

 

		As of and For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2024								As of and For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Premiums and Agents’ Balances Receivable, Net of Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Premiums and Agents’ Balances Receivable, Net of Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Allowance for Expected Credit Losses
Continuing operations:
Balance, beginning of period		$	56,154			$	394			$	47,346			$	417
Current period charge for expected credit losses							132								274
Write-offs of uncollectible premiums receivable							(178	)							(265	)
Balance, end of period		$	92,831			$	348			$	91,249			$	426

 

		As of and For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2024								As of and For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Premiums and Agents’ Balances Receivable, Net of Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Premiums and Agents’ Balances Receivable, Net of Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Allowance for Expected Credit Losses
Discontinued operations:
Balance, beginning of period		$	19,727			$	8			$	14,915			$	8
Current period charge for expected credit losses							2								2
Write-offs of uncollectible premiums receivable							(2	)							(2	)
Balance, end of period		$	16,030			$	8			$	15,697			$	8

 

 

		As of and For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2024								As of and For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Premiums and Agents’ Balances Receivable, Net of Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Premiums and Agents’ Balances Receivable, Net of Allowance for Expected Credit Losses				Allowance for Expected Credit Losses
Discontinued operations:
Balance, beginning of period		$	17,904			$	8			$	14,827			$	8
Current period charge for expected credit losses							4								4
Write-offs of uncollectible premiums receivable							(4	)							(4	)
Balance, end of period		$	16,030			$	8			$	15,697			$	8

 

 

19.

Discontinued Operations

 

On May 7, 2024, we entered into a definitive agreement to sell our subsidiary, Westminster, to Scott Insurance Holdings, for a cash purchase price of $10,500, as well as a $1,772 post-closing adjustment pursuant to the purchase agreement, for a net amount of $12,272. The sale closed on June 30, 2024, and we reported an after-tax loss on the sale of discontinued operations of $7,762. For additional information see Part I, Item 1, Note 2 “Basis of Presentation and Accounting Policies” of this Form 10-Q.

 

The assets and liabilities associated with discontinued operations prior to the closing of the sale have been presented separately in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company’s Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows presents operating, investing, and financing cash flows of the discontinued operations separately. The major assets and liability categories were as follows as of the dates indicated:

 

		June 30, 2024				December 31, 2023
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	—			$	15,656
Fixed income securities, at fair value			—				58,332
Equity securities, at fair value			—				5,784
Total cash and investments			—				79,772
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable			—				17,904
Deferred policy acquisition costs			—				7,330
Reinsurance premiums receivable			—				5,464
Reinsurance recoverables on losses			—				42,509
Accrued investment income			—				438
Property and equipment, net			—				2,445
Deferred income taxes			—				(815	)
Goodwill and other intangibles			—				7,311
Other assets			—				99
Total assets of discontinued operations		$	—			$	162,457
Liabilities:
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	—			$	97,934
Unearned premiums			—				38,000
Income tax payable (receivable)			—				(59	)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities			—				5,422
Total liabilities of discontinued operations		$	—			$	141,297

 

Summary operating results of discontinued operations were as follows for the periods indicated:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Revenues:
Net premiums earned		$	15,383			$	15,311			$	31,056			$	30,067
Fee and other income			7				9				14				22
Net investment income			621				582				1,419				1,130
Net investment gains (losses)			(256	)			(1	)			116				12
Total revenues			15,755				15,901				32,605				31,231
Expenses:
Losses and loss adjustment expenses			11,441				17,429				23,506				35,129
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs			4,083				3,795				7,928				7,379
Other underwriting and general expenses			1,495				1,820				3,088				3,675
Total expenses			17,019				23,044				34,522				46,183
Loss before income taxes			(1,264	)			(7,143	)			(1,917	)			(14,952	)
Income tax benefit			(268	)			(1,484	)			(405	)			(2,979	)
Net loss		$	(996	)		$	(5,659	)		$	(1,512	)		$	(11,973	)
Loss per common share from discontinued operations:
Basic		$	(0.41	)		$	(0.26	)		$	(0.44	)		$	(0.56	)
Diluted		$	(0.41	)		$	(0.26	)		$	(0.44	)		$	(0.56	)

 

20.

Segment Information

 

We have five reportable operating segments of our continuing operations, which consist of Private Passenger Auto, Non-Standard Auto, Home and Farm, Crop, and All Other (which primarily consists of commercial, assumed reinsurance, and our excess liability business). Prior to the sale of Westminster on June 30, 2024, we also reported a Commercial segment that consisted primarily of Westminster’s balances and results. Subsequent to the sale, Westminster is reported as part of discontinued operations, which is not included in our segment information. The commercial business that remains a part of our continuing operations has been included in the All Other segment for the current and prior periods presented. We operate only in the U.S., and no single customer or agent provides 10 percent or more of our revenues. The following tables provide available information of these segments for the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024 and 2023.

 

For purposes of evaluating profitability of the Non-Standard Auto segment, we combine the policy fees paid by the insured with the underwriting gain or loss as its primary measure. As a result, these fees are allocated to the Non-Standard Auto segment (included in fee and other income) in the tables below. The remaining fee and other income amounts are not allocated to any segment.

 

We do not assign or allocate all line items in our Consolidated Statement of Operations or Consolidated Balance Sheets to our operating segments. Those line items include net investment income, net investment gains, fee and other income excluding Non-Standard Auto, and income tax expense (benefit) within the Unaudited Consolidated Statement of Operations. For the Consolidated Balance Sheets, those items include cash and investments, property and equipment, other assets, accrued expenses and other liabilities, income taxes recoverable or payable, and shareholders’ equity.

 

		Three Months Ended June 30, 2024
		Private Passenger Auto				Non-Standard Auto				Home and Farm				Crop				All Other				Total
Direct premiums earned		$	23,395			$	26,820			$	24,999			$	13,118			$	3,168			$	91,500
Assumed premiums earned			—				—				—				503				150				653
Ceded premiums earned			(924	)			(77	)			(3,075	)			(2,643	)			(265	)			(6,984	)
Net premiums earned			22,471				26,743				21,924				10,978				3,053				85,169
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses			20,899				19,313				22,574				8,916				1,648				73,350
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses			—				—				—				247				(23	)			224
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses			(970	)			—				(548	)			(1,852	)			(846	)			(4,216	)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses			19,929				19,313				22,026				7,311				779				69,358
Gross margin			2,542				7,430				(102	)			3,667				2,274				15,811
Underwriting and general expenses			6,836				10,261				7,246				1,712				1,464				27,519
Underwriting gain (loss)			(4,294	)			(2,831	)			(7,348	)			1,955				810				(11,708	)
Fee and other income							340																695
							(2,491	)
Net investment income																							2,523
Net investment gains (losses)																							(580	)
Loss before income taxes																							(9,070	)
Income tax expense (benefit)																							(1,592	)
Net loss																							(7,478	)
Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest																							—
Net loss attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.																						$	(7,478	)
Operating Ratios:
Loss and loss adjustment expense ratio			88.7%				72.2%				100.5%				66.6%				25.5%				81.4%
Expense ratio			30.4%				38.4%				33.1%				15.6%				48.0%				32.3%
Combined ratio			119.1%				110.6%				133.6%				82.2%				73.5%				113.7%
Balances at June 30, 2024:
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable		$	26,393			$	15,357			$	11,927			$	36,382			$	2,772			$	92,831
Deferred policy acquisition costs			6,719				11,533				9,598				2,120				1,187				31,157
Reinsurance recoverables on losses			930				—				2,726				1,685				4,082				9,423
Receivable from Federal Crop Insurance Corporation			—				—				—				13,793				—				13,793
Goodwill and other intangibles			—				2,728				—				—				—				2,728
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses			33,643				69,951				26,336				8,770				9,827				148,527
Unearned premiums			38,682				36,170				54,147				21,695				7,036				157,730

 

		Three Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Private Passenger Auto				Non-Standard Auto				Home and Farm				Crop				All Other				Total
Direct premiums earned		$	21,508			$	21,744			$	22,994			$	17,526			$	2,850			$	86,622
Assumed premiums earned			—				—				—				501				326				827
Ceded premiums earned			(965	)			(99	)			(2,580	)			(4,691	)			(279	)			(8,614	)
Net premiums earned			20,543				21,645				20,414				13,336				2,897				78,835
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses			18,456				14,139				18,414				12,702				2,500				66,211
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses			—				—				—				—				67				67
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses			411				—				(499	)			(4,492	)			(1,621	)			(6,201	)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses			18,867				14,139				17,915				8,210				946				60,077
Gross margin			1,676				7,506				2,499				5,126				1,951				18,758
Underwriting and general expenses			5,796				8,730				6,194				2,683				856				24,259
Underwriting gain (loss)			(4,120	)			(1,224	)			(3,695	)			2,443				1,095				(5,501	)
Fee and other income							239																490
							(985	)
Net investment income																							1,923
Net investment gains (losses)																							(173	)
Loss before income taxes																							(3,261	)
Income tax expense (benefit)																							(685	)
Net loss																							(2,576	)
Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest																							(113	)
Net loss attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.																						$	(2,463	)
Operating Ratios:
Loss and loss adjustment expense ratio			91.8%				65.3%				87.8%				61.6%				32.7%				76.2%
Expense ratio			28.3%				40.3%				30.3%				20.0%				29.5%				30.9%
Combined ratio			120.1%				105.6%				118.1%				81.6%				62.2%				107.1%
Balances at June 30, 2023:
Premiums and agents’ balances receivable		$	23,840			$	10,322			$	9,793			$	44,950			$	2,344			$	91,249
Deferred policy acquisition costs			5,785				8,870				7,974				2,832				1,009				26,470
Reinsurance recoverables on losses			727				—				4,691				3,114				2,416				10,948
Receivable from Federal Crop Insurance Corporation			—				—				—				14,032				—				14,032
Goodwill and other intangibles			—				2,736				—				—				—				2,736
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses			31,935				52,866				30,503				11,603				10,628				137,535
Unearned premiums			35,317				28,067				48,690				27,193				6,412				145,679

 

		Six Months Ended June 30, 2024
		Private Passenger Auto				Non-Standard Auto				Home and Farm				Crop				All Other				Total
Direct premiums earned		$	46,619			$	51,878			$	49,244			$	12,915			$	6,243			$	166,899
Assumed premiums earned			—				—				—				503				301				804
Ceded premiums earned			(2,046	)			(147	)			(5,905	)			(3,989	)			(563	)			(12,650	)
Net premiums earned			44,573				51,731				43,339				9,429				5,981				155,053
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses			32,308				36,182				35,356				6,955				4,068				114,869
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses			—				—				—				247				22				269
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses			(1,086	)			—				(1,149	)			(1,448	)			(1,953	)			(5,636	)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses			31,222				36,182				34,207				5,754				2,137				109,502
Gross margin			13,351				15,549				9,132				3,675				3,844				45,551
Underwriting and general expenses			13,857				20,565				13,943				1,711				2,965				53,041
Underwriting gain (loss)			(506	)			(5,016	)			(4,811	)			1,964				879				(7,490	)
Fee and other income							690																1,099
							(4,326	)
Net investment income																							5,278
Net investment gains (losses)																							876
Loss before income taxes																							(237	)
Income tax expense (benefit)																							306
Net loss																							(543	)
Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest																							—
Net loss attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.																						$	(543	)
Operating Ratios:
Loss and loss adjustment expense ratio			70.0%				69.9%				78.9%				61.0%				35.7%				70.6%
Expense ratio			31.1%				39.8%				32.2%				18.1%				49.6%				34.2%
Combined ratio			101.1%				109.7%				111.1%				79.1%				85.3%				104.8%

 

		Six Months Ended June 30, 2023
		Private Passenger Auto				Non-Standard Auto				Home and Farm				Crop				All Other				Total
Direct premiums earned		$	42,050			$	42,716			$	45,426			$	17,516			$	5,584			$	153,292
Assumed premiums earned			—				—				—				501				902				1,403
Ceded premiums earned			(1,853	)			(192	)			(5,021	)			(5,405	)			(518	)			(12,989	)
Net premiums earned			40,197				42,524				40,405				12,612				5,968				141,706
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses			34,081				31,177				27,937				12,032				2,937				108,164
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses			—				—				—				—				157				157
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses			412				—				(1,303	)			(4,597	)			(1,631	)			(7,119	)
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses			34,493				31,177				26,634				7,435				1,463				101,202
Gross margin			5,704				11,347				13,771				5,177				4,505				40,504
Underwriting and general expenses			12,279				17,791				12,464				2,715				1,815				47,064
Underwriting gain (loss)			(6,575	)			(6,444	)			1,307				2,462				2,690				(6,560	)
Fee and other income							471																751
							(5,973	)
Net investment income																							3,614
Net investment gains (losses)																							1,230
Loss before income taxes																							(965	)
Income tax expense (benefit)																							(203	)
Net loss																							(762	)
Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest																							(403	)
Net loss attributable to NI Holdings, Inc.																						$	(359	)
Operating Ratios:
Loss and loss adjustment expense ratio			85.8%				73.3%				65.9%				59.0%				24.5%				71.4%
Expense ratio			30.5%				41.8%				30.8%				21.5%				30.4%				33.2%
Combined ratio			116.3%				115.1%				96.7%				80.5%				54.9%				104.6%

 

Item 2. - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

The following discussion is intended to provide a more comprehensive review of our operating results and financial condition than can be obtained from reading the unaudited consolidated financial statements alone. Unless otherwise noted, the information in the following discussion is being presented for our continuing operations. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the unaudited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in Part I, Item 1, “Financial Statements.” Some of the information contained in this discussion and analysis or set forth elsewhere in this Form 10-Q constitutes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Please see “Forward-Looking Statements” included elsewhere in this Form 10-Q. Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” included in our 2023 Annual Report should also be reviewed for a discussion of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results described, or implied by, the forward-looking statements contained herein.

 

All dollar amounts included in Item 2 herein, except per share data, are in thousands.

 

 

Financial Highlights

 

2024 Second Quarter Consolidated Results of Continuing Operations

 

	●	Net loss of $7,478, or $0.36 per share basic and diluted
	●	Net premiums earned of $85,169
	●	Net investment income of $2,523
	●	Net unfavorable prior year reserve development of $8,382
	●	Underwriting loss of $11,708
	●	Combined ratio of 113.7%
	●	Operating cash flows of $16,707

 

2024 Second Quarter Consolidated Financial Condition

 

	●	Total cash and investments of $379,784
	●	Total assets of $570,987
	●	Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses of $148,527
	●	Total liabilities of $331,537
	●	Shareholders’ equity of $239,450

 

Results of Continuing Operations

 

Our consolidated net loss from continuing operations was $7,478 for the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared to net loss from continuing operations of $2,576 for the three months ended June 30, 2023. Our consolidated net loss from continuing operations was $543 for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared to net loss from continuing operations of $762 for the six months ended June 30, 2023.

 

The major components of revenues and net loss are shown below:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Revenues:
Net premiums earned		$	85,169			$	78,835			$	155,053			$	141,706
Fee and other income			695				490				1,099				751
Net investment income			2,523				1,923				5,278				3,614
Net investment gains (losses)			(580	)			(173	)			876				1,230
Total revenues			87,807				81,075				162,306				147,301
Components of net income (loss):
Net premiums earned			85,169				78,835				155,053				141,706
Losses and loss adjustment expenses			69,358				60,077				109,502				101,202
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and other underwriting and general expenses			27,519				24,259				53,041				47,064
Underwriting loss			(11,708	)			(5,501	)			(7,490	)			(6,560	)
Fee and other income			695				490				1,099				751
Net investment income			2,523				1,923				5,278				3,614
Net investment gains (losses)			(580	)			(173	)			876				1,230
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes			(9,070	)			(3,261	)			(237	)			(965	)
Income tax expense (benefit)			(1,592	)			(685	)			306				(203	)
Net loss from continuing operations		$	(7,478	)		$	(2,576	)		$	(543	)		$	(762	)

 

Net Premiums Earned

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Net premiums earned:
Direct premium		$	91,500			$	86,622			$	166,899			$	153,292
Assumed premium			653				827				804				1,403
Ceded premium			(6,984	)			(8,614	)			(12,650	)			(12,989	)
Total net premiums earned		$	85,169			$	78,835			$	155,053			$	141,706

 

Our net premiums earned for the three months ended June 30, 2024, increased $6,334, or 8.0%, compared to the three months ended June 30, 2023. Net premiums earned for the six months ended June 30, 2024, increased $13,347, or 9.4%, compared to the six months ended June 30, 2023.

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Net premiums earned:
Private Passenger Auto		$	22,471			$	20,543			$	44,573			$	40,197
Non-Standard Auto			26,743				21,645				51,731				42,524
Home and Farm			21,924				20,414				43,339				40,405
Crop			10,978				13,336				9,429				12,612
All Other			3,053				2,897				5,981				5,968
Total net premiums earned		$	85,169			$	78,835			$	155,053			$	141,706

 

Below are comments regarding net premiums earned by business segment:

 

Private Passenger Auto – Net premiums earned for the second quarter of 2024 increased $1,928, or 9.4%, compared to the same period in 2023. Net premiums earned for the first six months of 2024 increased $4,376, or 10.9% from the first six months of 2023. Results were driven by new business growth in North Dakota as well as significant rate increases in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska, partially offset by lower new business and retention levels in South Dakota and Nebraska as a result of underwriting actions taken to improve profitability.

 

Non-Standard Auto – Net premiums earned for the second quarter of 2024 increased $5,098, or 23.6%, compared to the same period in 2023. Net premiums earned for the first six months of 2024 increased $9,207, or 21.7% from the first six months of 2023. Results were driven by new business growth in Illinois and Arizona as well as significant rate increases in the Chicago market where our non-standard auto business is concentrated, partially offset by lower retention compared to prior year periods.

 

Home and Farm – Net premiums earned for the second quarter of 2024 increased $1,510, or 7.4%, compared to the same period in 2023. Net premiums earned for the first six months of 2024 increased $2,934, or 7.3% from the first six months of 2023. Results were driven by new business growth in North Dakota, rate increases, and increased insured property values, which were primarily the result of higher inflationary factors. These increases were partially offset by lower retention rates and new business levels in Nebraska and South Dakota as a result of underwriting actions taken to improve profitability.

 

Crop – Net premiums earned for the second quarter of 2024, decreased $2,358, or 17.7%, compared to the same period in 2023. Net premiums earned for the first six months of 2024 decreased $3,183, or 25.2% from the first six months of 2023. The year-to-date decrease was driven by lower commodity prices in the current year.

 

All Other – Net premiums earned for the second quarter of 2024, increased $156, or 5.4%, compared to the same period in 2023. Net premiums earned for the first six months of 2024 increased $13, or 0.2%, from the first six months of 2023. Results were drive by rate and insured value increases for the commercial and excess lines of business, partially offset by the continued run-off of our participation in an assumed domestic and international reinsurance pool of business.

 

Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses:
Direct losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	73,350			$	66,211			$	114,869			$	108,164
Assumed losses and loss adjustment expenses			224				67				269				157
Ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses			(4,216	)			(6,201	)			(5,636	)			(7,119	)
Total net losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	69,358			$	60,077			$	109,502			$	101,202

 

Our net losses and loss adjustment expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2024, increased $9,281, or 15.4%, compared to the three months ended June 30, 2023. Our net losses and loss adjustment expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2024, increased $8,300, or 8.2%, compared to the six months ended June 30, 2023.

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Net losses and loss adjustment expenses:
Private Passenger Auto		$	19,929			$	18,867			$	31,222			$	34,493
Non-Standard Auto			19,313				14,139				36,182				31,177
Home and Farm			22,026				17,915				34,207				26,634
Crop			7,311				8,210				5,754				7,435
All Other			779				946				2,137				1,463
Total net losses and loss adjustment expenses		$	69,358			$	60,077			$	109,502			$	101,202

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio:
Private Passenger Auto			88.7%				91.8%				70.0%				85.8%
Non-Standard Auto			72.2%				65.3%				69.9%				73.3%
Home and Farm			100.5%				87.8%				78.9%				65.9%
Crop			66.6%				61.6%				61.0%				59.0%
All Other			25.5%				32.7%				35.7%				24.5%
Total loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio			81.4%				76.2%				70.6%				71.4%

 

Below are comments regarding significant changes in the net losses and loss adjustment expenses, and the net loss and loss adjustment expense ratios, by business segment:

 

Private Passenger Auto – The net loss and loss adjustment expense ratio decreased 3.1 percentage points and 15.8 percentage points in the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2023. These decreases were driven by the earned premium growth as well as lower levels of weather-related losses in the current year due to the mild winter in the Midwest compared to elevated winter weather-related losses in the prior year. Both periods were affected by elevated loss costs due to continued high levels of inflation.

 

Non-Standard Auto – The net loss and loss adjustment expense ratio increased 6.9 percentage points in the three-month period ended June 30, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. This increase was driven by elevated loss severity as a result of inflationary factors as well as unfavorable prior year loss reserve development. The net loss and loss adjustment expense ratio decreased 3.4 percentage points in the six-month period ended June 30, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. This decrease was primarily driven by earned premium growth resulting from new business growth and significant rate increases.

 

Home and Farm – The net loss and loss adjustment expense ratio increased 12.7 percentage points and 13.0 percentage points in the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2023. These increases in net loss and loss adjustment expense ratios were driven by higher non-catastrophe weather-related losses in South Dakota and Nebraska during 2024 compared to the prior year.

 

Crop – The net loss and loss adjustment expense ratio increased 5.0 percentage points and 2.0 percentage points in the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2023. These increases were driven by slightly less favorable crop growing conditions compared to the prior year.

 

All Other – The net loss and loss adjustment expense ratio decreased 7.2 percentage points in the three-month period ended June 30, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. This decrease was driven by improved loss experience related to the commercial business. The net loss and loss adjustment expense ratio increased 11.2 percentage points in the six-month period ended June 30, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. This increase was driven by slightly elevated large loss experience compared to the prior year.

 

Underwriting and General Expenses and Expense Ratio

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Underwriting and general expenses:
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs		$	19,290			$	16,784			$	36,107			$	31,788
Other underwriting and general expenses			8,229				7,475				16,934				15,276
Total underwriting and general expenses			27,519				24,259				53,041				47,064
Expense Ratio			32.3%				30.9%				34.2%				33.2%

 

The expense ratio is calculated by dividing other underwriting and general expenses and amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs by net premiums earned. The expense ratio measures a company’s operational efficiency in producing, underwriting, and administering its insurance business. The overall expense ratio increased 1.4 percentage points and 1.0 percentage points in the three-and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2023. The increase in the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs is due to higher deferrable costs resulting from significant premium growth compared to the prior year, including significant growth in the Non-Standard Auto segment which generally pays higher agent commissions than our other segments.

 

Underwriting Gain (Loss) and Combined Ratio

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Underwriting gain (loss):
Private Passenger Auto		$	(4,294	)		$	(4,120	)		$	(506	)		$	(6,575	)
Non-Standard Auto			(2,831	)			(1,224	)			(5,016	)			(6,444	)
Home and Farm			(7,348	)			(3,695	)			(4,811	)			1,307
Crop			1,955				2,443				1,964				2,462
All Other			810				1,095				879				2,690
Total underwriting loss		$	(11,708	)		$	(5,501	)		$	(7,490	)		$	(6,560	)

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Combined ratio:
Private Passenger Auto			119.1%				120.1%				101.1%				116.3%
Non-Standard Auto			110.6%				105.6%				109.7%				115.1%
Home and Farm			133.6%				118.1%				111.1%				96.7%
Crop			82.2%				81.6%				79.1%				80.5%
All Other			73.5%				62.2%				85.3%				54.9%
Combined ratio			113.7%				107.1%				104.8%				104.6%

 

Underwriting gain (loss) measures the pre-tax profitability of our insurance operations. It is derived by subtracting losses and loss adjustment expenses, amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, and other underwriting and general expenses from net premiums earned. The combined ratio represents the sum of these losses and expenses as a percentage of net premiums earned and measures our overall underwriting profit.

 

The total underwriting loss increased $6,207, or 112.8%, for the three-month period ended June 30, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. The total underwriting loss increased $930, or 14.2%, for the six-month period ended June 30, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. These results were driven by the factors discussed in the Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses as well as the Underwriting and General Expenses and Expense Ratio sections above.

 

The overall combined ratio increased 6.6 percentage points in the three-month period ended June 30, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. The overall combined ratio increased 0.2 percentage points in the six-month period ended June 30, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. These results were driven by the factors discussed in the Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses as well as the Underwriting and General Expenses and Expense Ratio sections above.

 

Fee and Other Income

 

We had fee and other income of $695 and $1,099 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, respectively, compared to $490 and $751 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2023, respectively. Fee income is largely attributable to the Non-Standard Auto segment and is a key component in measuring its profitability. Fee and other income on this business increased to $340 and $690 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, respectively, from $239 and $471 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2023, respectively, driven by growth in this segment.

 

Net Investment Income

 

The following table shows our average cash and invested assets, net investment income, and return on average cash and invested assets for the reported periods for continuing operations:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Average cash and invested assets		$	371,313			$	337,611			$	365,684			$	339,050
Net investment income		$	2,523			$	1,923			$	5,278			$	3,614
Gross return on average cash and invested assets			3.6%				3.1%				3.8%				3.1%
Net return on average cash and invested assets			2.7%				2.3%				2.9%				2.1%

 

Net investment income increased $600 for the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared to the three months ended June 30, 2023. Net investment income increased $1,664 for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared to the six months ended June 30, 2023. These increases were primarily driven by the higher interest rate environment which resulted in higher reinvestment rates in our fixed income portfolio.

 

 

Gross and net return on average cash and invested assets increased year-over-year, primarily driven by the favorable interest rate environment that resulted in significantly higher net investment income on a slightly increased average fixed income securities balance (measured at fair value). In addition, the increase in investments in high dividend yield equities resulted in relatively consistent year-over-year net investment income despite a reduction in the average equities balance (measured at fair value). The increase in average cash and invested assets was driven by higher operating cash flows during 2023 and the first six months of 2024.

 

Net Investment Gains (Losses)

 

Net investment gains (losses) consisted of the following:

 

		Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023				2024				2023
Gross realized gains		$	191			$	344			$	390			$	13,018
Gross realized losses, excluding credit impairment losses			(182	)			(442	)			(472	)			(1,481	)
Net realized gains (losses)			9				(98	)			(82	)			11,537
Change in net unrealized gains on equity securities			(589	)			(75	)			958				(10,307	)
Net investment gains (losses)		$	(580	)		$	(173	)		$	876			$	1,230

 

We had net realized gains of $9 and losses of $82 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, respectively, compared to net unrealized losses of $98 and gains of $11,537 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2023, respectively. The elevated net realized gains in the six months ended June 30, 2023, were the result of a strategic liquidation of a portfolio of equity securities. The gross realized gains from the sale of these securities were largely offset by the elimination of the unrealized gain position of these securities. No credit impairment losses were reported during any of the periods presented.

 

We experienced a decrease of $589 and an increase of $958 in net unrealized gains on equity securities during the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, respectively, attributable to overall favorable equity markets during the current year partially offset by unfavorable equity markets during the current quarter. We experienced a decrease in net unrealized gains on equity securities of $75 and $10,307 during the three and six months ended June 30, 2023, respectively. The decrease in unrealized gains on equity securities during the six months ended June 30, 2023, was driven by the equity portfolio liquidation noted above, offset by the impact of changes in fair value attributable to favorable equity markets during the quarter.

 

Our fixed income securities are classified as available for sale because we will, from time to time, make sales of securities that are not impaired, consistent with our investment goals and policies. The fixed income portion of the portfolio experienced net unrealized losses of $923 and net unrealized losses of $2,730 during the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, respectively, compared to net unrealized losses of $2,766 and net unrealized gains of $2,977 during the three and six months ended June 30, 2023, respectively. The changes were primarily the result of changes in U.S. interest rates. The change in the fair value of fixed income securities is not reflected in net income; rather it is reflected as a separate component (net of income taxes) of other comprehensive income.

 

Income (Loss) before Income Taxes

 

For the three months ended June 30, 2024, we had a pre-tax loss of $9,070 compared to a pre-tax loss of $3,261 for the three months ended June 30, 2023. The year-over-year change was largely attributable to higher non-catastrophe weather-related losses for Home and Farm in the states of South Dakota and Nebraska as well as unfavorable prior year loss reserve development for Non-Standard Auto, partially offset by higher net investment income.

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, we had a pre-tax loss of $237 compared to pre-tax loss of $965 for the six months ended June 30, 2023. The year-over-year improvement was largely attributable to higher levels of net investment income as well as lower levels of winter weather-related losses for Private Passenger Auto in the current year, partially offset by higher non-catastrophe weather-related losses for Home and Farm in the states of South Dakota and Nebraska.

 

Income Tax Expense (Benefit)

 

We recorded an income tax benefit of $1,592 for the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared to an income tax benefit of $685 for the three months ended June 30, 2023. Our effective tax rate for the second quarter of 2024 was 17.6% compared to an effective tax rate of 21.0% for the second quarter of 2023.

 

We recorded an income tax expense of $306 for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared to income tax benefit of $203 for the six months ended June 30, 2023. Our effective tax rate for the first six months of 2024 was 42.0% compared to an effective tax rate of 21.0% for the first six months of 2023. The effective tax rate for the first six months of 2024 was impacted by a $346 current quarter valuation allowance on net operating loss carryforwards established as a result of the Battle Creek demutualization.

 

Net Income (Loss)

 

For the three months ended June 30, 2024, we had a net loss before non-controlling interest of $7,478 compared to a net loss of $2,576 for the three months ended June 30, 2023. The year-over-year change was largely attributable to higher non-catastrophe weather-related losses for Home and Farm in the states of South Dakota and Nebraska as well as unfavorable prior year loss reserve development for Non-Standard Auto, partially offset by higher net investment income.

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, we had a net loss before non-controlling interest of $543 compared to net loss of $762 for the six months ended June 30, 2023. The year-over-year improvement was largely attributable to higher levels of net investment income as well as lower levels of winter weather-related losses for Private Passenger Auto in the current year, partially offset by higher non-catastrophe weather-related losses for Home and Farm in the states of South Dakota and Nebraska.

 

Return on Average Equity

 

For the three months ended June 30, 2024, we had annualized return on average equity, after non-controlling interest, of (12.7)% compared to annualized return on average equity, after non-controlling interest, of (4.5)% for the three months ended June 30, 2023.

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, we had annualized return on average equity, after non-controlling interest, of (0.5)% compared to annualized return on average equity, after non-controlling interest, of (0.3)% for the six months ended June 30, 2023.

 

Average equity is calculated as the average between beginning and ending equity, excluding non-controlling interest, for the period.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires both the use of estimates and judgment relative to the application of appropriate accounting policies. We are required to make estimates and assumptions in certain circumstances that affect amounts reported in the unaudited consolidated financial statements and related footnotes. We evaluate these estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis based on historical developments, market conditions, industry trends, and other information that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. There can be no assurance that actual results will conform to these estimates and assumptions or that reported results of operations will not be materially and adversely affected by the need to make accounting adjustments to reflect changes in these estimates and assumptions from time to time. Our critical accounting policies are more fully described in Part II, Item 7, “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” presented in our 2023 Annual Report. There have been no changes in our critical accounting policies from December 31, 2023.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

We expect to generate sufficient funds from our operations and maintain a high degree of liquidity in our investment portfolio to meet the demands of claim settlements and operating expenses for the foreseeable future. Our primary sources of funds are premium collections, investment earnings, and fixed income maturities.

 

The change in cash and cash equivalents for continuing and discontinued operations for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, were as follows:

 

		Six Months Ended June 30,
		2024				2023
Net cash flows from operating activities		$	34,760			$	19,887
Net cash flows from investing activities			(3,776	)			1,117
Net cash flows from financing activities			(202	)			(3,397	)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents		$	30,782			$	17,607

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, net cash provided by operating activities totaled $34,760 compared to $19,887 a year ago. This change was primarily driven by lower levels of loss and loss adjustment payments in the current year.

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, net cash used by investing activities totaled $3,776 compared to net cash provided of $1,117 a year ago. This change was primarily attributable to a decrease in sales of equity securities compared to the prior year partially offset by the proceeds from the sale of Westminster in the current year.

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, net cash used by financing activities totaled $202 compared to $3,397 a year ago. This decrease in cash used was attributable to a reduction in share repurchases in the current year.

 

As a holding company, a principal source of long-term liquidity will be dividend payments from our directly-owned subsidiaries.

 

Nodak Insurance is restricted by the insurance laws of North Dakota as to the amount of dividends or other distributions it may pay to NI Holdings. North Dakota law sets the maximum amount of dividends that may be paid by Nodak Insurance during any twelve-month period after notice to, but without prior approval of, the North Dakota Insurance Department. This amount cannot exceed the lesser of (i) 10% of the Company’s surplus as regards policyholders as of the preceding December 31, or (ii) the Company’s statutory net income for the preceding calendar year (excluding realized investment gains), less any prior dividends paid during such twelve-month period. In addition, any insurance company other than a life insurance company may carry forward net income from the preceding two calendar years, not including realized investment gains, less any dividends actually paid during those two calendar years. Dividends in excess of this amount are considered “extraordinary” and are subject to the approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department.

 

There is no amount available for payment of dividends from Nodak Insurance to NI Holdings during 2024 without the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department. Prior to its payment of any dividend, Nodak Insurance will be required to provide notice of the dividend to the North Dakota Insurance Department. This notice must be provided to the North Dakota Insurance Department 30 days prior to the payment of an extraordinary dividend and 10 days prior to the payment of an ordinary dividend. The North Dakota Insurance Department has the power to limit or prohibit dividend payments if an insurance company is in violation of any law or regulation. These restrictions or any subsequently imposed restrictions may affect our future liquidity. No dividends were declared or paid by Nodak Insurance during the six months ended June 30, 2024, or the year ended December 31, 2023.

 

Direct Auto re-domesticated from Illinois to North Dakota during 2021 and is now subject to the same dividend restrictions as Nodak Insurance. The amount available for payment of dividends from Direct Auto to NI Holdings during 2024 without the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department is approximately $90 as of December 31, 2023. No dividends were declared or paid by Direct Auto during the six months ended June 30, 2024, or the year ended December 31, 2023.

 

Westminster re-domesticated from Maryland to North Dakota during 2021 and was subject to the same dividend restrictions as Nodak Insurance. The amount available for payment of dividends from Westminster to NI Holdings during 2024 without the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department was approximately $1,200 as of December 31, 2023. No dividends were declared or paid by Westminster during the six months ended June 30, 2024, or the year ended December 31, 2023. Westminster was sold on June 30, 2024. For additional information see Part I, Item 1, Note 19 “Discontinued Operations” of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

Item 3. - Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

The Company’s assessment of market risk as of June 30, 2024, indicates there have been no material changes in the quantitative and qualitative disclosures from those in Part II, Item 7A, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” in our 2023 Annual Report.

 

 

Item 4. - Controls and Procedures

 

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

The Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as required by Rules 13a-15(b) and 15d-15(b) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report, were designed and functioning effectively to provide reasonable assurance that the information required to be disclosed in our periodic reports filed under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), and that such material information is accumulated and communicated to the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. We believe that a control system, no matter how well designed and operated, cannot provide absolute assurance that the objectives of the control system are met, and no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within a company have been detected.

 

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

In the ordinary course of business, we periodically review our system of internal control over financial reporting to identify opportunities to improve our controls and increase efficiency, while ensuring that we maintain an effective internal control environment. There have not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the fiscal quarter to which this report relates that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

PART II. - OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. - Legal Proceedings

 

We are, from time to time, party to routine litigation incidental to the normal course of our business. Based upon information presently available to us, we do not consider any litigation to be material. However, given the uncertainties attendant to litigation, we cannot assure you that our results of operations and financial condition will not be materially adversely affected by any litigation.

 

Item 1A. - Risk Factors

 

There have been no material changes in our assessment of our risk factors from those set forth in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in our 2023 Annual Report.

 

 

Item 2. - Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

All dollar amounts included in Item 2 herein, except per share data, are in thousands.

 

The Company has not sold any unregistered securities within the past three years.

 

On January 17, 2017, our registration statement on Form S-1 registering our common stock was declared effective by the SEC. On March 13, 2017, the Company completed the IPO of 10,350,000 shares of common stock at a price of $10.00 per share. The Company received net proceeds of $93,145 from the offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and offering expenses.

 

From time to time, the Company may also repurchase its own stock. To date, the Company has used the net proceeds from the IPO to fund these share repurchases.

 

There has been no material change in the planned use of proceeds from our IPO as described in our final prospectus filed with the SEC on January 17, 2017.

 

On May 9, 2022, our Board of Directors approved an authorization for the repurchase of up to approximately $10,000 of the Company’s outstanding common stock. During the year ended December 31, 2022, we completed the repurchase of 54,223 shares of our common stock for $734 under this authorization. During the year ended December 31, 2023, we repurchased an additional 548,549 shares of our common stock for $7,278, including the effect from applicable excise taxes. During the six months ended June 30, 2024, we did not repurchase any shares of our common stock. At June 30, 2024, $2,052 remains available under this authorization.

 

Share repurchase activity during the three months ended June 30, 2024, is presented below:

 

Period in 2024		Total Number of Shares Purchased				Average Price Paid Per Share (3)				Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (1)				Maximum Approximate Dollar Value of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (2) (in thousands)
April 1-30, 2024			—			$	—				—			$	2,052
May 1-31, 2024			—				—				—				2,052
June 1-30, 2024			—				—				—				2,052
Total			—			$	—				—			$	2,052

 

(1)

Shares purchased pursuant to the May 9, 2022, publicly announced share repurchase authorization of up to approximately $10,000 of the Company’s outstanding common stock.

(2)

Maximum dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased consist of up to approximately $2,052 under the May 9, 2022, publicly announced share repurchase authorization.

(3)

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 imposed a 1% excise tax on the net value of certain share repurchases made after December 31, 2022. All dollar amounts presented exclude such excise taxes, as applicable.

 

 

Item 3. - Defaults upon Senior Securities

 

Not Applicable

 

 

Item 4. - Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable

 

 

Item 5. - Other Information

 

10b5-1 Trading Plans

 

During the second quarter of 2024, none of our directors or executive officers (as defined in Rule 16a-1(f) under the Exchange Act) adopted or terminated any “Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” or “non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” (as each term is defined in Item 408(a) of Regulation S-K).

 

Item 6. - Exhibits

 

 

Exhibit Number		Description
2.1*		Stock Purchase Agreement, dated May 7, 2024 (1)
31.1		Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2		Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32		Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS		XBRL Instance Document – the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document
101.SCH		Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Linkbase Document
101.CAL		Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF		Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB		Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE		Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104		Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)

* Certain schedules and exhibits have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(a)(5) of Regulation S-K. A copy of the omitted exhibit or schedule will be furnished supplementally to the SEC or its staff upon request.

 

(1)

Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K (File No. 001-37973) filed with the SEC on May 8, 2024, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

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 on August 8, 2024.

 

	NI HOLDINGS, INC.
	/s/ Michael J. Alexander
	Michael J. Alexander
	President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
	/s/ Seth C. Daggett
	Seth C. Daggett
	Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)