News Releases

ZURICH, Jan. 26, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Chubb Limited (NYSE: CB) today reported net income for the quarter ended December 31, 2015, of $2.08 per share, compared with $1.66 per share for the same quarter last year.⁽³⁾ Operating income was $2.38 per share, compared with $2.47 per share for the same quarter last year. The property and casualty (P&C) combined ratio for the quarter was 87.7%.  Book value and tangible book value per share remained flat from September 30, 2015, and were adversely impacted by net unrealized losses in the company's investment portfolio (net of mark-to-market gains in the company's variable annuity reinsurance portfolios) of $356 million, after-tax. In addition, book value and tangible book value per share were impacted by unfavorable foreign currency movement of $138 million, after-tax, and $120 million, after-tax, respectively. Excluding these items, book value and tangible book value per share increased 1.6% and 2.0%, respectively. Book value and tangible book value per share now stand at $89.77 and $72.25, respectively. Operating return on equity for the quarter was 11.1%.

Chubb Limited (Legacy ACE)
Fourth Quarter Summary
(in millions, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

For the year ended December 31, 2015, net income was $8.62 per share, compared with $8.42 per share for 2014. Operating income was $9.76 per share, compared with $9.79 per share for 2014.  The P&C combined ratio for the year ended December 31, 2015, was 87.4% versus 87.7% for 2014.  Book value and tangible book value per share declined 0.3% and 0.5%, respectively, from December 31, 2014. Book value and tangible book value per share were negatively impacted by unrealized losses in the company's investment portfolio of $977 million, after-tax. In addition, book value and tangible book value per share were impacted by unfavorable foreign currency movement of $1.0 billion, after-tax, and $663 million, after-tax, respectively. Tangible book value per share was also negatively impacted by the addition of $474 million of goodwill and other intangibles related to the Fireman's Fund acquisition that closed during the year. Excluding these items, book value and tangible book value per share increased 6.6% and 8.5%, respectively. Operating return on equity for the year was 11.5%.

Chubb Limited (Legacy ACE)
Full Year Summary
(in millions, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

Evan G. Greenberg, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Chubb Limited, commented:  "For the fourth quarter, our last as ACE Limited, we produced very good operating results that capped an excellent year for the company both financially and strategically.  After-tax operating income of $780 million in the quarter contributed to full-year earnings of $9.76 per share, essentially flat with last year's record operating income and up 3.5% when adjusted for foreign exchange. 

"The year was highlighted by record underwriting results, 8% constant-dollar premium growth and an ROE of 11.5%.  From a long-term strategic perspective, the year was historic and transformational.  We completed the acquisition of the Fireman's Fund U.S. high net worth personal lines business, launched ABR Re, and then announced the largest insurance transaction in history with the $29.5 billion acquisition of The Chubb Corporation, which we closed on January 14, 2016.

"Our strong earnings were driven first and foremost by an exceptionally strong underwriting performance as illustrated by P&C combined ratios of 87.7% for the quarter and a record 87.4% for the year.  At almost $2 billion, full-year P&C underwriting income was also a record.  Full-year net investment income of $2.2 billion, down about 2.5%, stood up well, given foreign exchange rates and the low interest rate environment, and benefited from our strong cash flow of $3.9 billion.

"Foreign exchange headwinds, which have affected all dollar-based multinationals, impacted our revenue, income and book value growth throughout the year.  Global P&C net premiums, which exclude agriculture, were down 2% in the quarter but up 5% in constant currency, compared to full-year growth of 1% on a reported basis and nearly 8% adjusted for foreign exchange.  Per share book value growth was essentially flat for the year but was up over 3% in constant dollars.

"We are now the new Chubb, the largest publicly traded P&C insurer in the world.  We've hit the ground running and are executing the thorough integration plans we established in the six months leading up to the close of the acquisition.  The energy, morale and overall feeling of optimism are high throughout the ranks of the company.  We are focused on knitting ourselves together as one and achieving the ambitious targets we have set and expect of ourselves and the value creation we will generate for the benefit of our customers, business partners, employees and shareholders."

Operating highlights for the quarter and full year ended December 31, 2015, were as follows:

Chubb Limited (Legacy ACE)

• P&C net premiums earned for the quarter decreased 4.4% (increased 1.6% in constant dollars) and Global P&C net premiums earned, which excludes Agriculture, decreased 2.4% (increased 4.3% in constant dollars). For the year, P&C net premiums earned decreased 1.3% (increased 4.4% in constant dollars) and Global P&C net premiums earned decreased 0.3% (increased 6.2% in constant dollars).
• The P&C expense ratio for the quarter was 29.7% compared with 29.9% last year. The Global P&C expense ratio was 31.6% compared with 32.2% last year. For the year, the P&C expense ratio was 29.2% compared with 29.4% last year. The Global P&C expense ratio for the year was 31.4% compared with 32.1% last year.
• Total pre-tax and after-tax catastrophe losses for the quarter, including reinstatement premiums, were $75 million (2.0 percentage points of the combined ratio) and $67 million, respectively, compared with $69 million (1.7 percentage points of the combined ratio) and $64 million, respectively, last year. For the year, total P&C pre-tax and after-tax catastrophe losses, including reinstatement premiums, were $322 million (2.1 percentage points of the combined ratio) and $272 million, respectively, compared with $288 million (1.8 percentage points of the combined ratio) and $249 million, respectively, last year.
• Total P&C favorable prior period development pre-tax and after-tax for the quarter were both $100 million (2.7 percentage points of the combined ratio), compared with $107 million pre-tax (2.7 percentage points of the combined ratio) and $117 million after-tax last year. For the year, total P&C favorable prior period development pre-tax and after-tax was $546 million (3.5 percentage points of the combined ratio) and $474 million, respectively, compared with $527 million (3.4 percentage points of the combined ratio) and $459 million, respectively, last year.
• Operating cash flow was $1.2 billion for the quarter and $3.9 billion for the year.
• Net loss reserves increased $275 million for the year after adjusting for foreign exchange.
• Net investment income was $532 million for the quarter compared with $577 million last year, down 7.7%, or 5.4% in constant dollars, primarily reflecting a decline in private equity distributions of $10 million and a decrease in call activity in the company's corporate bond portfolio. Net investment income for the year was $2.2 billion compared with $2.3 billion last year, down 2.6%, or 0.7% in constant dollars.
• Net realized and unrealized losses pre-tax totaled $618 million for the quarter. Net realized losses of $74 million included a loss on the investment portfolio of $119 million offset by a gain of $55 million from derivative accounting. Net unrealized pre-tax losses of $544 million were comprised primarily of unrealized losses of $450 million in the investment portfolio and unrealized foreign exchange losses of $98 million.

Details of financial results by business segment are available in the Chubb Limited Legacy ACE Financial Supplement. Key segment items for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2015, include:

• Insurance – North American P&C: For the quarter, net premiums written increased 7.4%, or 8.0% in constant dollars. For the year, net premiums written increased 10.3%, or 10.9% in constant dollars. Net premiums written, excluding the non-recurring transfer of Fireman's Fund in-force business in the second quarter of 2015, increased 6.3%, or 6.8% in constant dollars for the year. The combined ratio for the quarter was 87.2% compared with 90.2%. The combined ratio for the year was 88.1% compared with 88.4%. The current accident year combined ratio excluding catastrophe losses for the quarter was 86.7% compared with 89.1%. The current accident year combined ratio excluding catastrophe losses for the year was 86.4% compared with 88.0%. Favorable prior period development in the quarter of $19 million included $52 million of adverse development for legacy asbestos exposures.
• Insurance – North American Agriculture: Net premiums written decreased 41.9% for the quarter and 15.3% for the year primarily due to commodity prices and statutory risk-sharing adjustments with the government. The combined ratio for the quarter was 76.4% compared with 81.8%. The combined ratio for the year was 85.5% compared with 91.1%. The current accident year combined ratio excluding catastrophe losses for the quarter was 79.2% compared with 82.4%. The current accident year combined ratio excluding catastrophe losses for the year was 88.2% compared with 87.8%.
• Insurance – Overseas General: For the quarter, net premiums written decreased 9.3% (increased 3.6% in constant dollars). For the year, net premiums written decreased 5.2% (increased 7.1% in constant dollars). The combined ratio for the quarter was 87.6% compared with 86.3%. The combined ratio for the year was 87.0% compared with 85.8%. The current accident year combined ratio excluding catastrophe losses for the quarter was 89.7% compared with 89.4%. The current accident year combined ratio excluding catastrophe losses for the year was 90.1% compared with 89.9%.
• Global Reinsurance: For the quarter, net premiums written decreased 22.1% (decreased 20.2% in constant dollars). For the year, net premiums written decreased 11.4% (decreased 9.3% in constant dollars). The combined ratio for the quarter was 79.8% compared with 76.5%. The combined ratio for the year was 65.2% compared with 72.3%. The current accident year combined ratio excluding catastrophe losses for the quarter was 76.6% compared with 76.2%. The current accident year combined ratio excluding catastrophe losses for the year was 76.8% compared with 75.6%.
• Life: Operating income for the quarter was $54 million compared with $76 million. For the year, operating income was $244 million compared with $297 million. The decrease for the year was primarily due to unfavorable claims reserve development in Combined Insurance's U.S. operations of $15 million, after-tax, in 2015, compared with favorable claims reserve development of $5 million, after-tax, in 2014. The combined ratio for the year for this business was still in the low 90s following the reserve strengthening. Operating income was also impacted by unfavorable foreign currency movement. Life reinsurance operating income decreased $20 million reflecting the run-off of the company's variable annuity reinsurance business. International life insurance net premiums and deposits collected increased 0.8% for the year (increased 6.9% in constant dollars).

Please refer to the Chubb Limited (Legacy ACE) Financial Supplement, dated December 31, 2015, which is posted on the company's website at investors.chubb.com, and access Financial Reports for more detailed information on individual segment performance, together with additional disclosure on reinsurance recoverable, loss reserves, investment portfolio, and debt and capital.

Chubb Limited will hold its fourth quarter earnings conference call on Wednesday, January 27, 2016, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Eastern.  The earnings conference call will be available via live webcast at investors.chubb.com or by dialing 888-437-9357 (within the United States) or 719-325-2447 (international), passcode 7296194.  Please refer to investors.chubb.com under Events for details.  A replay of the call will be available until Wednesday, February 10, 2016, and the archived webcast will be available for approximately one month.  To listen to the replay, please dial 888-203-1112 (in the United States) or 719-457-0820 (international), passcode 7296194.

⁽¹⁾ Legacy ACE or ACE is formerly ACE Limited

⁽²⁾ Legacy Chubb or Chubb is formerly The Chubb Corporation

⁽³⁾ All comparisons are with the same period last year unless specifically stated.

Regulation G - Non-GAAP Financial Measures
In presenting our results, we included and discussed certain non-GAAP measures.  These non-GAAP measures, which may be defined differently by other companies, are important for an understanding of our overall results of operations and financial condition.  However, they should not be viewed as a substitute for measures determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).

Throughout this document there are various measures presented on a constant-dollar basis (i.e., excludes the impact of foreign exchange).  We believe it is useful to evaluate the trends in our results, exclusive of the effect of fluctuations in exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the currencies in which our international business is transacted, as these exchange rates could fluctuate significantly between periods and distort the analysis of trends.  The impact is determined by assuming constant foreign exchange rates between periods by translating prior period results using the same local currency exchange rates as the comparable current period.

Adjusted net realized gains (losses), net of tax, includes net realized gains (losses) and net realized gains (losses) recorded in other income (expense) related to unconsolidated subsidiaries, and excludes realized gains and losses on crop derivatives. These derivatives were purchased to provide economic benefit, in a manner similar to reinsurance protection, in the event that a significant decline in commodity pricing impacts underwriting results. We view gains and losses on these derivatives as part of the results of our underwriting operations, and therefore realized gains (losses) from these derivatives are reclassified to adjusted losses and loss expenses. The P&C combined ratio includes adjusted losses and loss expenses in the ratio numerator.

Underwriting income, P&C underwriting income, and Global P&C underwriting income are calculated by subtracting losses and loss expenses, policy benefits, policy acquisition costs and administrative expenses from net premiums earned. P&C underwriting income also includes gains (losses) on crop derivatives. We use underwriting income and operating ratios to monitor the results of our operations without the impact of certain factors, including net investment income, other income (expense), interest and income tax expense and adjusted net realized gains (losses).  Current accident year underwriting income excluding catastrophe losses is underwriting income adjusted to exclude catastrophe losses and prior period development (PPD). We believe it is useful to exclude catastrophe losses, as they are not predictable as to timing and amount, and PPD as these unexpected loss developments on historical reserves are not indicative of our current underwriting performance.  We believe the use of these measures enhances the understanding of our results of operations by highlighting the underlying profitability of our insurance business.

Operating income or income excluding adjusted net realized gains (losses), net of tax is a common performance measurement for insurance companies.  We believe this presentation enhances the understanding of our results of operations by highlighting the underlying profitability of our insurance business.  We exclude adjusted net realized gains (losses) because the amount of these gains (losses) is heavily influenced by the availability of market opportunities. We also exclude Chubb integration and related expenses related to the acquisition due to the size, complexity, and volume of this acquisition, which may not be indicative of such future costs.  We believe that excluding the Chubb integration and related expenses facilitates the comparison of our financial results to our historical operating results.  These costs include legal and professional fees and all costs directly related to the integration activities of the Chubb acquisition including pre-acquisition interest expense on the $5.3 billion senior notes issued in November 2015. Operating income or income excluding adjusted net realized gains (losses) should not be viewed as a substitute for net income determined in accordance with GAAP.  In addition, we disclose operating income excluding the impact of foreign exchange in order to adjust for the distortive effects of fluctuations in exchange rates.

P&C combined ratio excluding catastrophe losses and PPD and current accident year P&C combined ratio excluding catastrophe losses exclude impacts of catastrophe losses and PPD. We believe this measure provides a better evaluation of our core underwriting performance and enhances the understanding of the trends in our property and casualty business that may be obscured by these items.

Global P&C performance metrics comprise consolidated operating results (including corporate) and exclude the operating results of the company's Life and Insurance – North American Agriculture segments. We believe that these measures are useful and meaningful to investors as they are used by management to assess the company's global P&C operations which are the most economically similar.  We exclude the Insurance – North American Agriculture and Life segments because the results of these businesses do not always correlate with the results of our global P&C operations.

International life net premiums written and deposits collected, is adjusted to include deposits collected on universal life and investment contracts (life deposits). Life deposits are not reflected as revenues in our consolidated statements of operations in accordance with GAAP.  However, we include life deposits in presenting growth in our life insurance business because new life deposits are an important component of production and key to our efforts to grow our business.

Operating return on equity (ROE) or ROE calculated using operating income is an annualized financial measure.  The ROE numerator includes income adjusted to exclude adjusted net realized gains (losses), net of tax and Chubb integration expenses, net of tax.  The ROE denominator includes the average shareholders' equity for the period adjusted to exclude unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax.  To annualize a quarterly rate, multiply by four.  Annualized ROE calculated using operating income is a useful measure as it enhances the understanding of the return on shareholders' equity by highlighting the underlying profitability relative to shareholders' equity excluding the effect of unrealized gains and losses on our investments.

Tangible book value per common share is shareholders' equity less goodwill and other intangible assets divided by the shares outstanding. We believe that goodwill and other intangible assets are not indicative of our underlying insurance results or trends and make book value comparisons to less acquisitive peer companies less meaningful. In addition, we disclose per share measures for book value and tangible book value that exclude the impact of foreign currency fluctuations during 2015 in order to adjust for the distortive effects of fluctuations in exchange rates.

Other income (expense) - operating excludes from consolidated Other income (expense) the portion of net realized gains and losses related to unconsolidated entities and gains and losses from fair value changes in separate account assets that do not qualify for separate account reporting under GAAP.  Net realized gains (losses) related to unconsolidated entities is excluded from operating income in order to enhance the understanding of our core results of operations as they are heavily influenced by, and fluctuate in part according to market conditions.

Chubb integration and related expenses include legal and professional fees and all costs directly related to the integration activities of the Chubb acquisition as well as the pre-acquisition interest expense related to the $5.3 billion senior notes issued in November 2015 to finance a portion of the Chubb acquisition. We exclude this pre-acquisition interest expense from operating income because the operations for which the debt was issued were not part of our operating activities prior to the completion of the acquisition. Effective with the close of the Chubb acquisition (January 14, 2016), this debt will be considered a cost of our operations and will then be included within operating income.

See reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures on pages 22-25 in the Chubb Limited (Legacy ACE) Financial Supplement.  These measures should not be viewed as a substitute for net income, return on equity, or effective tax rate determined in accordance with GAAP.

NM - not meaningful comparison

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

Forward-looking statements made in this press release, such as those related to company performance, including 2016 performance and growth opportunities, and statements about the benefits of the acquisition  and integration of  legacy Chubb, our plans, objectives, expectations and intentions and other statements that are not historical facts reflect our current views with respect to future events and financial performance and are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Such statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including without limitation, the following: competition, pricing and policy term trends, the levels of new and renewal business achieved, the frequency of unpredictable catastrophic events, actual loss experience, uncertainties in the reserving or settlement process, integration activities and performance of acquired companies, new theories of liability, judicial, legislative, regulatory and other governmental developments, litigation tactics and developments, investigation developments and actual settlement terms, the amount and timing of reinsurance recoverable, credit developments among reinsurers, rating agency action, possible terrorism or the outbreak and effects of war, economic, political, regulatory, insurance and reinsurance business conditions, potential strategic opportunities including acquisitions and our ability to achieve and integrate them, as well as management's response to these factors, and other factors identified in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

In addition, with regard to the Legacy Chubb, important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the following: the possibility that any of the anticipated benefits of the Chubb acquisition transaction will not be realized; the risk that integration of Legacy Chubb's operations with those of Legacy ACE will be materially delayed or will be more costly or difficult than expected; and diversion of management's attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities. In addition, you should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties and other factors that may affect future results of the combined company described in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the joint proxy statement/prospectus dated September 11, 2015 as filed with the SEC, and in Legacy ACE's and Legacy Chubb's respective filings with the SEC.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the dates on which they are made.  We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Chubb Limited (Legacy ACE)
Summary Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in millions of U.S. dollars, except per share data)
(Unaudited)

⁽¹⁾        Cumulative translation losses were $1.5 billion in 2015 and $582 million in 2014
⁽²⁾        Cumulative translation losses were $550 million in 2015 and $194 million in 2014

Chubb Limited (Legacy ACE)
Consolidated Supplemental Segment Information
(in millions of U.S. dollars)
(Unaudited)

The discussion of The Chubb Corporation represents Legacy Chubb results for fourth quarter and full year 2015 on a standalone basis and does not include the results of Legacy ACE.

Chubb Limited Reports Legacy Chubb Fourth Quarter Net Income per Share of $2.88; Operating Income per Share of $2.03; Combined Ratio of 86.3%

Net income for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2015 was $666 million compared to $558 million in the fourth quarter of 2014.  Net income per share increased 23% to $2.88 from $2.35.  Operating income, which the company defines as net income excluding after-tax realized investment gains and losses, was $469 million in the fourth quarter of 2015 compared to $544 million in the fourth quarter of 2014.  Operating income per share decreased 11% to $2.03 from $2.29. Operating income decreased due to both lower underwriting income and lower property and casualty investment income. Underwriting income was adversely affected by the impact of higher catastrophe losses of $0.14 per share and investment income decreased $0.03 per share due to a decline in the average yield on the portfolio in part due to the accumulation of short term invested assets in preparation for the merger and unfavorable foreign currency movement.   Operating income per share also reflected the impact of one-time expenses related to the merger with Legacy ACE of $0.09 per share and a decline in investment income.

Chubb Corporation (Legacy Chubb)
Fourth Quarter Summary
(in millions, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

For the year ended December 31, 2015, net income increased to $2.1 billion.  Net income per share for the year increased 7% to $9.21 from $8.62.  Operating income for 2015 was flat at $1.9 billion.  Operating income per share for 2015 increased 5% to $8.04 from $7.63. Operating income per share for the year reflected an increase in underwriting income, including a $0.22 per share negative impact from higher catastrophe losses, and a decrease in property and casualty investment income of $0.24 per share.  Underwriting results improved due to a lower current accident year loss ratio excluding catastrophes. Property and casualty investment income decreased due to a decline in the average yield of the investment portfolio and unfavorable foreign currency movement.  Operating income per share also reflected one-time merger-related expenses of $0.17 per share.

Chubb Corporation (Legacy Chubb)
Full Year Summary
(in millions, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

Operating highlights for the quarter and full year ended December 31, 2015, were as follows:

• Net written premiums for the fourth quarter of 2015 declined 3% (increased 1% in constant dollars) to $3.0 billion from $3.1 billion in the fourth quarter of 2014. Premiums were up 1% in the U.S. and down 14% outside the U.S. (flat in constant dollars). For the year, net written premiums for 2015 were flat at $12.6 billion, or up 3% in constant dollars. Premiums were up 4% in the U.S. and down 10% outside the U.S. (up 3% in constant dollars).
• The impact of catastrophes in the fourth quarter was $74 million before tax ($0.21 per share after-tax) in 2015 compared to $25 million before tax ($0.07 per share after-tax) in 2014. For the year, the impact of catastrophes in 2015 was $504 million before tax ($1.41 per share after-tax), compared to $444 million before tax ($1.19 per share after-tax) in 2014.
• The fourth quarter combined loss and expense ratio was 86.3% in 2015 compared to 84.3% in 2014. The impact of catastrophes accounted for 2.4 percentage points of the combined ratio in the fourth quarter of 2015 compared to 0.8 points in the fourth quarter of 2014. Excluding the impact of catastrophes, the fourth quarter combined ratio was 83.9% in 2015 compared to 83.5% in 2014. For the year, the combined ratio was 87.2% in 2015 compared to 88.3% in 2014. The impact of catastrophes accounted for 4.0 percentage points of the combined ratio in 2015 and 3.6 points in 2014. Excluding the impact of catastrophes, the combined ratio improved to 83.2% in 2015 from 84.7% in 2014.
• Fourth quarter favorable development before tax on prior-year reserves was approximately $150 million in 2015, compared to $155 million in 2014. The favorable impact of reserve development on the fourth quarter combined ratio was about 4.8 points in 2015 and 5.0 points in 2014. The fourth quarter impact on development from prior-year catastrophes was 0.2 points favorable in 2015 and 0.3 points adverse in 2014. For the year, favorable development before tax on prior year reserves for 2015 totaled about $625 million and had a favorable impact on the combined ratio of approximately 5.0 points, compared to $635 million in 2014 and a favorable impact on the combined ratio of approximately 5.2 points. The impact on development from prior-year catastrophes was 0.1 points favorable in 2015 and 0.1 points adverse in 2014.
• The expense ratio for the fourth quarter of 2015 was 31.7% compared to 30.5% in the corresponding year-earlier quarter. The expense ratio for the year was 31.5% in 2015 and 31.4% in 2014.
• Property and casualty investment income after taxes for the fourth quarter declined 6% to $252 million in 2015 from $267 million in 2014. For the year, property and casualty investment income after taxes declined 5% to $1.0 billion in 2015 from $1.1 billion in 2014. The decline in both the quarter and the year was due to a decline in the average yield of the investment portfolio compared to the average yield in the comparable period in the prior year and unfavorable foreign currency movement. The decrease in the average yield resulted primarily from lower reinvestment yields available on securities purchased during the year. The decline in investment income also reflected the accumulation of short term invested assets in preparation for the merger.
• Results for the fourth quarter of 2015 include approximately $20 million before tax ($0.09 per share after-tax) for professional services expenses related to the merger with Legacy ACE, which was completed on January 14, 2016. For the year, results include approximately $42 million before tax ($0.17 per share after-tax) for professional services expenses related to the merger with Legacy ACE. These expenses are included under Corporate and Other in the supplementary financial data.
• Book value per share at December 31, 2015 was $73.38, compared to $70.12 at year-end 2014 and $72.09 on September 30, 2015.
• Net income for the fourth quarter of 2015 reflected net realized investment gains of $302 million before tax ($0.85 per share after-tax), nearly all from the sale of equity securities, compared to gains of $18 million before tax ($0.06 per share after-tax) in the fourth quarter of 2014. Fourth quarter net realized investment gains included losses from alternative investments of $0.08 per share in 2015 and $0.01 per share in 2014. For the year, net realized investment gains were $415 million before tax ($1.17 per share after-tax). Net income for 2014 reflected net realized investment gains of $369 million before tax ($0.99 per share after-tax). Net realized investment gains included gains from alternative investments of $0.14 per share in 2015 and $0.40 per share in 2014.
• Average diluted shares outstanding for the fourth quarter were 231.2 million in 2015 and 237.8 million in 2014. For the year, average diluted shares outstanding were 231.9 million in 2015 and 243.5 million in 2014.

Operations Review

Chubb Personal Insurance (CPI) net written premiums declined 3% (increased 2% in constant dollars) in the quarter to $1.1 billion. Net written premiums were up 4% in the U.S.  and down 23% outside the U.S. (down 7% in constant dollars).  CPI's combined ratio was 85.1% compared to 83.9% in 2014.  The impact of catastrophes in the fourth quarter accounted for 1.5 percentage points of the combined ratio in 2015 and 0.1 points in 2014.  Excluding the impact of catastrophes, CPI's fourth quarter combined ratio was 83.6% in 2015 and 83.8% in 2014.  Fourth quarter development before tax on prior-year CPI reserves was insignificant in 2015, compared to approximately $15 million favorable in 2014.

For the year, net written premiums were flat (increased 4% in constant dollars) at $4.5 billion. Net written premiums were up 5% in the U.S. and down 15% outside the U.S. (down 1% in constant dollars). The CPI combined ratio was 91.1% compared to 90.9%. The impact of catastrophes accounted for 7.4 percentage points of the combined ratio in 2015 and 5.5 points in 2014.  Excluding the impact of catastrophes, CPI's combined ratio was 83.7% in 2015 and 85.4% in 2014.  Favorable development before tax on prior-year CPI reserves was approximately $20 million in 2015, compared to $45 million in 2014.

• Homeowners net written premiums increased 1% (increased 4% in constant dollars) in the quarter. Net written premiums were up 4% in the U.S. and down 13% outside the U.S. (flat in constant dollars). The combined ratio was 77.4% for the quarter. Excluding a 2.3 percentage point impact of catastrophes, the Homeowners combined ratio was 75.1%. For the year, Homeowners net written premiums increased 2% (increased 4% in constant dollars). Net written premiums were up 4 % in the U.S. and down 10% outside the U.S. (up 2% in constant dollars). The combined ratio was 88.1% (76.4% excluding the impact of catastrophes).
• Personal Automobile net written premiums declined 11% (down 2% in constant dollars) in the quarter. Net written premiums were up 5 % in the U.S. and down 37% outside the U.S. (down 17% in constant dollars). Automobile net written premiums outside the U.S. were negatively impacted by our decision to re-underwrite the Brazil personal automobile business, which principally accounted for the entire decline in constant dollars. The combined ratio was 99.7% for the quarter. For the year, net written premiums were down 5% (increased 2% in constant dollars). Net written premiums were up 4% in the U.S. for the year and down 20% outside the U.S. (down 3% in constant dollars). The combined ratio was 98.5%.
• Other Personal lines net written premiums were down 8% (down 1% in constant dollars) in the quarter. Net written premiums were up 3% in the U.S. and down 24% outside the U.S. (down 8% in constant dollars). The combined ratio was 96.9% for the quarter. For the year, net written premiums were down 1% (increased 4% in constant dollars). Net written premiums were up 8% in the U.S. and down 16% outside the U.S. (down 2% in constant dollars). The combined ratio was 94.3%.

Chubb Commercial Insurance (CCI) net written premiums declined 4% (down 1% in constant dollars) in the quarter to $1.3 billion.  Net written premiums were down 2% in the U.S.  and down 10% outside the U.S. (up 3% in constant dollars). The combined ratio for the fourth quarter was 91.9% in 2015 compared to 88.5% in 2014.  The impact of catastrophes in the fourth quarter accounted for 4.2 percentage points of the combined ratio in 2015 and 1.8 points in 2014.  Excluding the impact of catastrophes, CCI's fourth quarter combined ratio was 87.7% in 2015 and 86.7% in 2014.  Fourth quarter favorable development before tax on prior-year CCI reserves was approximately $80 million in 2015, compared to $50 million in 2014. Average fourth quarter renewal rates in the U.S. were flat for CCI, which retained 88% of the U.S. premiums that came up for renewal.  In the U.S., the ratio of new to lost business was 1.0 to 1.

For the year, net written premiums increased 1% (up 4% in constant dollars) to $5.5 billion. Net written premiums were up 4% in the U.S. and down 7% outside the U.S. (up 5% in constant dollars).  The CCI combined ratio was 89.0% in 2015 and 89.9% in 2014.  The impact of catastrophes accounted for 3.2 percentage points of the combined ratio in 2015 and 3.8 points in 2014.  Excluding the impact of catastrophes, CCI's combined ratio was 85.8% in 2015 and 86.1% in 2014.  Favorable development before tax on prior-year CCI reserves was approximately $275 million in 2015, compared to $265 million in 2014. In the U.S., average 2015 CCI renewal rates were flat, renewal premium retention was 88% and the ratio of new to lost business was 1.2 to 1.

Chubb Specialty Insurance (CSI) net written premiums declined 1% (increased 2% in constant dollars)  in the quarter to $691 million. Net written premiums were flat in the U.S. and down 6% outside the U.S. (up 6% in constant dollars). The combined ratio was 77.6% in 2015 compared to 76.7% in 2014.  Fourth quarter favorable development before tax on prior-year CSI reserves was approximately $70 million in 2015, compared to $90 million in 2014.

For the year, net written premiums declined 1% (increased 2% in constant dollars) to $2.6 billion. Net written premiums were up 2% in the U.S. and down 8% outside the U.S. (up 4% in constant dollars).  The combined ratio was 77.3% in 2015 and 80.5% in 2014.  Favorable development before tax on prior-year CSI reserves was approximately $320 million in 2015, compared to $325 million in 2014.

• Professional Liability (PL) net written premiums were down 2% in the quarter (up 1% in constant dollars). Net written premiums were down 1% in the U.S. and down 5% outside the U.S. (up 7% in constant dollars). For the year, net written premiums were down 2% (up 2% in constant dollars). Net written premiums were up 1% in the U.S. and down 9% outside the U.S. (up 3% in constant dollars). The combined ratio was 82.1% for the quarter and 81.5% for the year. In the U.S., average fourth quarter PL renewal rates were flat, premium renewal retention was 90% and the ratio of new to lost business was 1.2 to 1. For the year, in the U.S., average 2015 renewal rates for PL were up 2%, renewal premium retention was 89% and the ratio of new to lost business was 1.3 to 1.
• Surety net written premiums were up 3% (up 7% in constant dollars) in both the quarter and year. Net written premiums were up 10% in the U.S. for the quarter and down 12% outside the U.S. (flat in constant dollars). For the year, net written premiums were up 5% in the U.S. and down 2% outside the U.S. (up 13% in constant dollars). The combined ratio was 43.2% for the quarter and 45.9% for the year.

Reinsurance Assumed, which is in runoff, had insignificant development on its prior-year reserves in the fourth quarters of both 2015 and 2014.  For the year, Reinsurance Assumed had favorable development before tax on its prior-year reserves of approximately $10 million in 2015, compared to an insignificant amount in 2014.

Please refer to the Chubb Limited (Legacy Chubb Corporation) Financial Supplement, dated December 31, 2015, which is posted on the company's website at investors.chubb.com, and access Financial Reports for more detailed information on individual segment performance.

Chubb Corporation (Legacy Chubb)
Supplementary Financial Data
(in millions)
(Unaudited)

Chubb Corporation (Legacy Chubb)
Property and Casualty Product Mix
(in millions)
(Unaudited)

*The change in net premiums written and the combined loss and expense ratios are no longer presented for the Reinsurance Assumed business since it is in runoff.

C$ = constant dollars (excluding the effect of foreign currency translation)
Definitions of Key Terms
Operating Income: 
Operating income, a non-GAAP financial measure, is net income excluding after-tax realized investment gains and losses.  Management uses operating income, among other measures, to evaluate its performance because the realization of investment gains and losses in any given period is largely discretionary as to timing and can fluctuate significantly, which could distort the analysis of trends.

Underwriting Income (Loss): 
Management evaluates underwriting results separately from investment results.  The underwriting operations consist of four separate business units: personal insurance, commercial insurance, specialty insurance and reinsurance assumed.  Performance of the business units is measured based on statutory underwriting results.  Statutory accounting principles applicable to property and casualty insurance companies differ in certain respects from GAAP.  Under statutory accounting principles, policy acquisition and other underwriting expenses are recognized immediately, not at the time premiums are earned.  Statutory underwriting income (loss) is arrived at by reducing premiums earned by losses and loss expenses incurred and statutory underwriting expenses incurred.

Management uses underwriting results determined in accordance with GAAP, among other measures, to assess the overall performance of the underwriting operations.  To convert statutory underwriting results to a GAAP basis, certain policy acquisition expenses are deferred and amortized over the period in which the related premiums are earned.  Underwriting income (loss) determined in accordance with GAAP is defined as premiums earned less losses and loss expenses incurred and GAAP underwriting expenses incurred.

Property and Casualty Investment Income After Income Tax: 
Management uses property and casualty investment income after income tax, a non-GAAP financial measure, to evaluate its investment results because it reflects the impact of any change in the proportion of tax exempt investment income to total investment income and is therefore more meaningful for analysis purposes than investment income before income tax.

Combined Loss and Expense Ratio or Combined Ratio: 
The combined loss and expense ratio, expressed as a percentage, is the key measure of underwriting profitability.  Management uses the combined loss and expense ratio calculated in accordance with statutory accounting principles applicable to property and casualty insurance companies to evaluate the performance of the underwriting operations.  It is the sum of the ratio of losses and loss expenses to premiums earned (loss ratio) and the ratio of statutory underwriting expenses to premiums written (expense ratio) after reducing both premium amounts by dividends to policyholders.

Net Written Premiums Growth (Decrease) in Constant Dollars:
Management uses growth in net premiums written in constant dollars, a non-GAAP financial measure, to evaluate the trends in net premiums written, exclusive of the effect of fluctuations in exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the foreign currencies in which business is transacted.  The impact of foreign currency translation is excluded as exchange rates may fluctuate significantly and the effect of fluctuations could distort the analysis of trends.  When excluding the effect of foreign currency translation on growth, management uses the current period average exchange rates to translate both the current period and the prior period foreign currency denominated net premiums written amounts.  

About the new Chubb
Chubb is the world's largest publicly traded property and casualty insurance company. With operations in 54 countries, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. The company is distinguished by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength, underwriting excellence, superior claims handling expertise and local operations globally.  Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index.  Chubb maintains executive offices in Zurich, New York, London and other locations, and employs approximately 30,000 people worldwide. Additional information can be found at: new.chubb.com.

Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160113/321965LOGO

SOURCE Chubb Limited